Chelsea

The basics

Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood is known for having the highest concentration of art galleries in the city. Spend a day hopping galleries and see the public art exhibited among the High Line’s well-tended gardens. Most neighborhood walking tours include visits to the public park and bustling Chelsea Market, an indoor food hall located at the southern end of the neighborhood. Chelsea is a stop on most New York City food tours and is a good way to satisfy a sweet tooth, as tastings are typically included.

Things to know before you go

• Many of the neighborhood’s galleries are clustered between 20th and 29th streets and between 9th and 10th avenues.

• Chelsea Market offers myriad options for shopping, snacking, and drinking.

• Elevator and ramp access at some designated entrances make the High Line accessible to wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and strollers.

How to get there

Chelsea is located on Manhattan’s West Side, between 14th and 29th streets. It’s bordered to the east by Broadway, and to the west by the Hudson River. The best way to get there (and around most of New York City) is by public transit. To arrive in Chelsea, take the A, C, E, 2, or 3 trains to the 23rd Street Station, or take the 7 train crosstown to 34th Street-Hudson Yards, and walk south.

When to get there

Arrive during the day to check out the area’s art galleries since most hold traditional business hours and close on Sunday and Monday. To walk the High Line, visit when the sun is shining, and be ready for wind and cold during winter. Otherwise, there’s really no bad time to hang out in Chelsea.

Visiting the Whitney Museum of American Art

A short walk from Chelsea is the Whitney Museum of American Art (typically just “the Whitney” to locals). Known for its collection of 20th-century and contemporary art, the museum hosts numerous rotating exhibits annually and offers daily tours. The museum’s Studio Cafe on the eighth floor is a prime location to recharge with coffee, pastries, and unparalleled views of the city. The museum is closed on Tuesdays.

Ways to explore

Home to more than 200 art galleries, Chelsea is a top pick for art lovers. Guided gallery tours, often led by professional art critics, provide deeper insight into the local creative scene. Other popular options include neighborhood walking tours that include landmarks such as the High Line and Chelsea Market, with its indoor food hall. Chelsea is also a stop on New York City food tours, such as pizza crawls, while those interested in fashion or design can explore the area on vintage shopping tours with a personal stylist, or on architecture-themed walks.

Accessibility

Many public areas have accessible entrances; the High Line has elevators at 14th Street, 23rd Street, and other entry points.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Small bag, portable charger, refillable water bottle

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, layers, hat for sunny days

Not allowed

Smoking in certain areas (such as on the High Line), littering, drinking alcohol in unauthorized public areas

Amenities

Cafés, restaurants, art galleries

Address

Chelsea is on Manhattan’s West Side, between 14th and 29th Streets, bordered by Sixth Avenue and the Hudson River. The easiest way to get there—and around NYC—is by public transit, or with the convenience of a guided tour.

Driving

Driving in New York can be stressful due to traffic and limited parking. Taking a taxi or rideshare is a better option if you prefer going by car, so you won’t have to worry about finding parking.

Public transportation

Take the A, C, E, or L train to 14th Street–8th Avenue; the 1, 2, or 3 to 14th Street (at 7th Avenue), or the C, E, or 1 to 23rd Street. You can also take the 7 train to 34th Street–Hudson Yards, then walk south.

Best times to visit

Visit during daytime hours—ideally in the morning—to see the area’s art galleries, as most close at the end of the business day. If a show is opening in the evening, that’s a great time to visit, too.

Best days to visit

Many galleries are closed on Sundays and Mondays, so it’s best to check each gallery’s hours before planning your visit.

Best months to visit

For walking the High Line, the best months are April to June and September to October, when the weather is mild and sunny.

Special events

Pride Month in June features lively street celebrations and art events around Chelsea’s LGBTQ+ landmarks. The High Line hosts regular art installations and seasonal events throughout the year.