From fashion museums to waterside parks, there’s never a dull moment when you’re living in Chelsea! Looking for some of the best things to do in Chelsea, NYC? Roomi’s got you covered. Find out how you can make your stay in Chelsea exciting by checking out these unmissable places to visit in Chelsea, NYC.
Related: Find Rooms for Rent in Chelsea NYC
Outdoors in Chelsea NYC
1. Take a stroll through Madison Square Park
From hollies to art sculptures, Madison Square Park is one of the best places to visit in Chelsea, NYC, if you’re looking for some greenery and fresh air. The picturesque view will make you forget that you’re still in the middle of the so-called concrete jungle.
Timings: 10am – 9pm, daily
2. Head to the century-old Chelsea Park
One of the mainstays of the city, and arguably one of its most popular parks, Chelsea Park features a World War I memorial known as the Chelsea Doughboy. It is an amazing recreational space for children and adults, giving you access to everything from basketball courts to fitness equipment.
3. Cool off at the Chelsea Waterside Park
What could be better than heading to a water park on a hot summer’s day? The Chelsea Waterside Park not only has a playground with water features, but this 2.5 acre public park also features a dog park and a basketball court for visitors.
Sports in Chelsea NYC
1. Don’t miss out on visiting the iconic Madison Square Garden!
From football and hockey to sold-out concerts, Madison Square Garden is a multi-purpose arena where exciting events take place all year round. From the New York Rangers to the Knicks, legendary teams have played thrilling games at this arena. With capacity for 20,000 guests, any event that you attend here is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Visiting the MSG is surely one of the best things to do in Chelsea, NYC.
2. Explore your love for golfing at Chelsea Piers Golf Club
Located by the pier and overlooking the scenic Hudson River, the Chelsea Piers Golf Club is one of the best places to visit in Chelsea, NYC, for sports enthusiasts. With memberships available for frequent visitors, you can enjoy their four-tiered gold course, which has a hitting fairway of 200 yards. The golf course has a teaching academy for beginners, with high-tech simulators for those who want to take their skills to the next level.
Timings: Daily 8am – 10pm
3. Head to the exciting Chelsea Piers Sports & Entertainment Complex
This 28-acre waterfront sports and entertainment complex is a dream come true for sports and fitness enthusiasts. With over 25 sports options for kids and adults alike, Chelsea Piers will inspire a love for sports and activity that’s sure to last a lifetime.
Museums in Chelsea NYC
1. Learn all about the Rubin Museum
Almost as exciting as the displays inside the museum is the story of how the Rubin’s Museum, which has a massive collection of art and photography works from the Himalayas, came to be. Shelley and Donald Rubin, the founders of the Rubin Museum, began collecting art in the 1970s when they fell in love with a Himalayan art piece they had seen in the window of a gallery. As their collection grew, the museum was born, purely out of their love for the art produced by Himalayan artists.
2. Learn more about 9/11 at the Ground Zero Museum Workshop
Hearing about the tragic 9/11 is very different when you hear about it through the experiences of the victims and their families. The museum has a collection of times, photographs, videos and artifacts recovered from the site, along with audio tapes from families recalling the incident recorded in four languages. At the Ground Zero Museum Workshop, you get a whole new perspective on the terrorist attack, the recovery period, and what exactly happened at Ground Zero on September 11th, 2001. It is one of the must visit places in Chelsea, NYC.
Timings: Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday: 12:30pm – 2pm; Friday: 1pm – 3pm
3. The museum at FIT lets you explore the world of fashion
You don’t have to be a fashionista to take a trip to the Museum at FIT and be inspired by the exhibition. Whether you’re a fashion fanatic or you have no idea what the hype is about, the Museum at FIT can provide you with a whole new perspective on the world of fashion. This makes it one of the best things to do in Chelsea, NYC, when you’re in the mood to learn something new.
Costs: Admission is free
Timings: Wednesday to Friday: 12pm – 8pm; Saturday and Sunday: 10am to 5pm
Culture in Chelsea NYC
1. Grab some unique finds at the Chelsea Flea Market!
Retaining the original charm and vintage ambiance of the Annex Antiques Fair & Flea the Chelsea Flea Market evolved out of, you will have the time of your life here, exploring antiques and collectibles from over 135 vendors. Be sure to keep your bags light when you walk in, because you surely won’t be leaving empty handed!
Costs: Free to enter
Timings: Saturday and Sunday: 8am – 5pm
2. Catch a play at the Atlantic Theatre Company
The Atlantic Theatre Company has produced over 120 plays and runs two theatres, the 199-seater Linda Gross Theatre, and the 99-seater Stage 2 Theatre. As a part of New York University, the Atlantic Theatre Company also delivers an undergraduate program to aspiring thespians.
3. Grab some fresh produce at the Down to Earth Farmer’s Market
Bringing local farmers together, the Down to Earth Farmer’s Market is filled with fresh produce you won’t be able to get enough of. And it’s not just for farmers, either – food makers who source their ingredients locally also join the farmer’s market to showcase their delicacies. So, grab your bags and some bread, because exploring Down to Earth is one of the best things to do in Chelsea, NYC!
Restaurants in Chelsea, NYC
1. Head to the Empire Diner
A mix of vintage and modern, the Empire Diner has now been restored to its former glory. What looks like a vintage diner from the outside transforms into an elegant train dining car with charming interiors when you walk in. With freshly pressed juice options and mac and cheese on the menu, you’ll have no problem luring kids into this diner!
2. Say cheers at the Gallow Green Rooftop Garden Bar
What better way to experience the nightlife in Chelsea than to head to the best rooftop bar in the city? Gallow Green Rooftop Garden Bar is aptly named, as the décor makes you feel like you’re taking a walk in the park!
3. Try out the spots at the Chelsea Market
We can’t name just one eatery at the Chelsea Market! Being the culinary center of the city, the Chelsea food market cannot be missed by any foodie out there. Every restaurant is a new love affair that you won’t be able to get enough of.