NEIGHBORHOOD INFO: CHELSEA

Chelsea has a reputation for peace and tranquility, but, extending from 14th Street to 29th Street, west of Sixth Avenue (Avenue of the Americas) to the Hudson River, its way too big a neighborhood to paint in such broad strokes. While it does boast some of the prettiest, most peaceful stretches of brownstones to be found anywhere in Manhattan, Chelsea has its bustling shopping zones, its grungy zones and its party zones, too. Like the East Village, Chelsea has a notorious, dangerous past (look up the history of the Chelsea Hotel sometime), but it’s converted all that to bohemian charm.

Housing

Lofts, prewar’s, tenements, high rises: you name it, it’s here. It’s not the cheapest neighborhood in Manhattan, but if you’re looking for a share between some friends, it’s hard to find a better value for multi-bedroom places than in Chelsea.

Restaurants

Eighth Avenue is the heart of Chelsea’s dining district, lined as it is by chic eateries with plenty of sidewalk seating, but there are gems scattered throughout the neighborhood. From steakhouses to delicate cuisine, this big neighborhood has something for everyone.

Arts/Entertainment

With its west side warehouse space and bohemian pedigree, Chelsea has quietly become one of the city’s art gallery epicenters. Sixth Avenue, meanwhile, remains a commercial wonderland, from big, national chain stores in the teens to bargain basement clothing in the twenties. Maybe best of all, you’re never too far from a supermarket in Chelsea, including the gigantic, mall-like Chelsea Market.

Great Outdoors

Wandering the brown stoned streets between Eighth and Tenth Avenues is a relaxing way to spend an afternoon, but if it’s a park vibe you’re after, try the General Theological Seminary on Ninth Avenue. For exercise, the cavernous Chelsea Piers gym has indoor & outdoor facilities to accommodate your every desire!

Subways