Neighborhood Guide: Chelsea

As the city's first theater district and major fashion district, Chelsea has remained in the spotlight since its founding in 1750. Some examples of Chelsea's past that still remain are the Chelsea Hotel, 1800's architecture of affluent Cushman Row or the Otis elevator building.

From old to new, Chelsea has retained its sense of artistry and high culture.
Fashion stores such as Balenciaga, Camouflage and that of the late, great Alexander McQueen line the streets within beaux art and classical revival style buildings. Outside of mainstream fashion and stores, Chelsea is home to many unique and one of a kind items as well. Buon Italia, a shop for imported goods, food, bags and canning jars from Italy is just one example of Chelsea exclusive finds.

The neighborhood is perhaps the most well known for its social scene at nightclubs and restaurants. Francisco's is an area favorite for its fresh lobster and strong sangria. If its nice outside, travel to the Chelsea Brewing Company for fresh brews and social outdoor seating. To skip the food and cut right to the chase, some of Chelsea's most notable clubs are Marquee, Bungalow 8 and Serena at the Chelsea Hotel. Coming dressed to impress is key if you plan to gain entrance. Name dropping is a popular tactic as well.

While Chelsea is full of entertainment and art from the Chelsea Piers to any of its 200+ art galleries, it has its downs. Like most of New York, Chelsea has had crime problems especially in the 1980's. Much of the area is safe but smaller petty crimes occasionally occur in the Hudson Yards area. Simple awareness of your surroundings is the best deterrent. 

As the city and private developers have major plans for Hudson Yards with luxury buildings, commercial space and green space, moving to the area will be a solid investment into the last open space of Manhattan. Avante garde design and amenities for event hosting are offered in many buildings including the brand new Beatrice. Whether you plan to invest or just visit the are for a night out, Chelsea has many cultural and unique options to choose between.

Boundaries:

15th Street to 34rd Street, Hudson River to 6th Avenue

Transportation:

 1/2 to 18th Street, 23rd Street, 28th Street and 34th Street and 7th Avenue
3 to 34th Street-Penn Station
A/C/E to 8th Avenue & 14th Street, 23rd Street and 34th Street-Penn Station