17 Memorable Things to Do in Chelsea (Local's List) (2026 Guide)

Chelsea is known as Manhattan’s art district, so it comes as no surprise that the charming neighborhood is chock-full of beautiful and unique things to do. With an endless amount of bars, restaurants and art galleries to choose from, you could spend days exploring Chelsea and still barely scratch the surface.

A once very industrial part of New York City is now vibrant and full of life and with so many things to do in Chelsea, it can get overwhelming trying to create the perfect itinerary. That’s where I step in! I’ve created a list of the best things to do in Chelsea including (free) art galleries, restaurants and historical spots that can’t be missed and I’m confident there is something for everyone in this guide.

Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The best neighborhoods for first timers +3 to avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s my favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.

Best Things to Do in Chelsea

Table of Contents. Fun Things to Do in Chelsea, NYC

Table of Contents. Chelsea Things to Do

Best Things to Do in Chelsea
Chelsea Things to Do (Post Summary)
- Further Reading for Chelsea
- Neighborhoods Near Chelsea Worth Checking Out
Map of the Best Things to Do in Chelsea

Check Out the Chelsea Market

Website— Chelsea Market
Address. 75 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011

Pro tip. most people rush through here. Take your time. It’s worth it.

Chelsea Market is a renowned food hall with unique shops, restaurants, spice markets, and cafes. Featuring 35 vendors offering delicious treats, it’s don’t skip this in Chelsea. Ideal for hosting out-of-town guests with options for sit-down meals, quick bites, or souvenir shopping, Chelsea Market always offers something to do or showcase.

Highlights at the Chelsea Market include.

Matcha from Chalait (so good)
Warm donuts from the Doughnuttery (what’s better than a warm donut?)
Tacos from Los Tacos No. 1
Spices from Spices and Tease
Souvenirs from Pearl River Mart

Fun fact — The Chelsea Market is housed in the old Nabisco factory building – this building is the birthplace of the Oreo cookie!

Grab a Beer at Peter McManus Cafe

Website— Peter McManus Cafe
Address. 152 Seventh Avenue New York, NY 10011

One of the best it is to grab a beer at Peter McManus Cafe, the longest running family-owned bar in NYC. A classic Irish pub establishment that’s been around since 1936 serving fantastic food and drinks. The pub has been a popular neighborhood staple for years, so grab a burger and ale and enjoy a slow afternoon in the neighborhood.

Walk the High Line

Address— 456 High Line, New York, NY 10011

If you only do one thing on this list, make it this one.

The High Line, one of NYC’s most captivating parks, is a top attraction in Chelsea. Originally an abandoned train track, the area was transformed into a park in 2009 under Mayor Bloomberg’s initiative. Stretching 1.5 miles, it draws 8 million visitors yearly, quickly earning its place as a must-do in Chelsea.

Explore Little Island

Little Island is a redesigned pier that extends over the Hudson River with a beautiful design meant to be an oasis in the concrete jungle. Access won’t cost you a penny making this one of the best it. The views are spectacular and the experience feels like being on an adult playground. Green grass compliments gorgeous landscape design with ample seating and views to enjoy from.

Bonus — Neighboring Pier 57 is also home to a park, only this one is on a rooftop! It’s a popular spot for locals to sprawl out and try to get some sun. It’s not uncommon to see bathing suits and sun hats up there. Like hanging out at Little Island, this one of the best it.

it, The Vessel outside of The Shops at Hudson Yards

Shop at Hudson Yards

Website— Hudson Yards
Address. 30 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001

The Shops at Hudson Yards is an impressive mall that spans 720,000 square feet. Covering four floors, this mall houses some of the biggest name stores in New York City. There’s more than 100 stores in this shopping mall and you can find everything from luxury brands like Cartier to more affordable stores like Uniqlo. So if you’re in need of it, spend a few hours exploring the shops (even if it’s just window shopping).

When you’re done shopping, head to the basement level to check out the Spanish food hall called Little Spain. The sangria is worth writing home about! Also, if you’re visiting NYC at Christmas time, make sure to swing by Hudson Yards to experience the breathtaking display of lights, it’s a sight to behold!

PS. While you’re in the area, if you’re in need of more it –grab a photo in front of the impressive Vessel structure.

Visit the Whitney Museum of American Art

Website— Whitney Museum of American Art
Address. 99 Gansevoort St, New York, NY 10014

I brought my mom here on her first visit. She still talks about it.

The Whitney Museum has been a beloved NYC institution for modern and contemporary American art since being founded in 1930. The recently relocated museum now spans 50,000 impressive square feet (not including the 13,000 square feet of outdoor space) in the Meatpacking District.

Founded by a prominent America socialite, Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, this museum is an ode to her dedication and love for art. Featuring art by Basquiat, Georgia O’Keeffe and Richard Avedon. There’s a handful of terraces where you can soak in an epic view of the NYC skyline. Visitors are encouraged to explore the art both indoors and out.

Must see— Georgia O’Keeffe’s work, Edward Hopper’s A Woman in the Sun, Robert Bechtle’s ’61 Pontiac and Alexander Calder’s Circus.

Local tip. Pro tip that most travel blogs won’t tell you. visit on a weekday afternoon for the most authentic experience.

Get an Espresso Martini Flight at Starbucks Reserve

Website— Starbucks Reserve
Address. 61 9th Ave, New York, NY 10011

I understand you might be wondering, ‘What is Starbucks Reserve?’ and believe me, before I moved to New York City, I, too, had no idea such a place existed. It’s a chic, upscale take on the classic coffee shop, offering cocktails, food, and souvenirs in a spacious setting.

Starbucks Reserve aims to immerse visitors in the world of coffee, with opportunities to chat with roasters and witness the bean-roasting process firsthand. With only six locations worldwide, visiting Starbucks Reserve in Chelsea is one of the most unique and unforgettable things to do.

Don’t miss the espresso martini flight, featuring three cocktails for $27—a steal in this pricey city—available in flavors like Orange Cacao, Molé Spice, and Cherry Limone.

Check Out ARTECHOUSE NYC

Website— ARTECHOUSE
Address. 439 W 15th St, New York, NY 10011

Explore the interactive exhibit at ARTECHOUSE for a beautiful activity in Chelsea. This unique art installation transforms an entire room into a canvas, projecting colorful lights and video onto all surfaces—walls, ceiling, and floor—in a mesmerizing 360° experience.

The museum keeps things fresh by frequently changing its theme, providing locals with plenty of reasons to make return visits. The current cutting-edge theme, “World of AI·magination,” offers an immersive journey blending both human ingenuity and AI.

Grab Drinks at LOULOU

Website. Loulou
Address. 176 8th Ave, New York, NY 10011

Named after owner Mathias Van Leyden’s rescue dog, LOULOU is a French restaurant that’s just as adorable as his pup. Colorful flowers adorn the outside of the restaurant, stopping folks in their tracks to take pictures. Serving classic French fare, making reservations at this popular bistro is one of the best it.

Beyond its exceptional food, what distinguishes this restaurant is its lower-level speakeasy, where creative cocktails are crafted nightly. The drinks, not only innovative and clever, are served in some of the most adorable glasses imaginable. A glance at the menu will reveal why a visit is considered one of the best it.

I can’t recommend the croissant French toast (yes it’s a real thing!) and the “world is yours” cocktail (Gin, Sake, creme de peache & edible flowers served in an orb) enough. Both are delicious and warrant a visit alone.

Shop at Artists & Fleas

Website— Artists & Fleas
Address. 88 10th Ave, New York, NY 10011

Attached to Chelsea Market is Artists & Fleas, a market brimming with local vendors and small shops offering a variety of goods, from art and vintage clothing to handmade jewelry and crafts. Shopping here is a top Chelsea activity, allowing you to support small businesses and find great souvenirs.

I once brought my brother-in-law here, and he had a custom sweater made to his exact measurements, choosing the colors and stitching pattern himself, all for less than $100. It’s a truly unique experience and he still raves about it.

Rubin Museum of Art

Website— Rubin Museum of Art
Address. 150 W 17th St, New York, NY 10011

The Rubin Museum of Art is all about the Himalayan culture and emphases exploring your mind, body and spirit through art. The museum is made up of four different floors with interactive pieces to encourage folks to find their zen. Visiting is one of the best it, especially on a Friday after 6:00PM when admission is free.

You can expect to see religious artwork from different eras, cultures and countries. The peaceful energy can be felt the moment you step foot into the Rubin Museum of Art. Make sure to purchase tickets (or reserve tickets for free Fridays) in advance since this one of the best it, tickets can go quickly.

Enjoy Breakfast at Empire Diner

Website— Empire Diner
Address. 210 10^th Avenue New York, NY 10011

If you’re feeling nostalgic, one of the best things to do in Chelsea is grabbing a bite at Empire Diner. It’s a modern take on the old-school, classic diner look. The best part? Empire Diner has been serving tradition American food since 1976!

You can expect typical diner fare, from the traditional eggs & bacon breakfast to a juicy burger with fries. Regardless if you’re stopping by for breakfast or a late lunch, the freshly baked buttermilk biscuits are non-negotiable and must be ordered. Since having a meal at Empire Diner is one of the best things to do in Chelsea, I recommend starting your day here to avoid having to wait in any lines.

Visit the Art Galleries

If you’re looking for budget-friendly activities in Chelsea then I suggest explore the free art galleries in the neighborhood. There’s so many of them to choose from! Located primarily between 18th-28th streets and 10th-11th avenues, you’re sure to find galleries that match your preferences.

If at all helpful, these are some of my favorite exhibits to check out when in the area.

Pace Gallery for contemporary art | 540 W 25th St, New York, NY 10001
Sundaram Tagore for contemporary art with an emphasis on Western culture & global influences. | 542 W 26th St, New York, NY 10001
Lehmann Maurine. Represents diverse contemporary artists from around the world. | 501 W 24th St, New York, NY 10011
David Zwirner. Contemporary art | 525 W 19th St, New York, NY 10011
303 Gallery. Contemporary art by American artists | 555 W 21st St, New York, NY 10011

Swing by The Museum at Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)

Website— FIT NYC
Address. 227 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001

If you have even the slightest interest in fashion, one of the best things to do in Chelsea is to check out the Museum at Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). The museum is full of unique garments, accessories and shoes along with constant rotating exhibits. I love coming here to check out vintage pieces and realizing how much clothing has changed over the years.

You’ll find displays of pieces from different points of history and some of the most outlandish clothes known to man. The best part about the museum? Admission is free! Spend some time wandering through the exhibits and who knows, it may even inspire you to switch up your own wardrobe.

Manhattan West Ice Rink Best Ice skating NYC

Eat Your Way Through Manhattan West

Website— Manhattan West
Address. Manhattan West Plaza, 385 9th Ave, New York, NY 10001

Consider this next spot on our list of things to do in Chelseaspot most people miss – it’s relatively new and often overlooked. Manhattan West, a recently opened plaza, features shops, restaurants, and office buildings.

Tucked away across from Penn Station, this charming spot offers a variety of dining options. Whether you opt for the numerous restaurants, Whole Foods, or the Citizens food market, you’ll find a diverse selection. Citizens, a food hall with 14 different vendors offering various cuisines, serves everything from fried chicken to sushi, ensuring you’ll discover a satisfying meal (or two).

Chelsea Things to Do (Post Summary)

Explore Chelsea Market
Walk the Highline
Check out the views from Little Island
Shop at Hudson Yards + the Vessel
Wander the Whitney Museum
Grab a beer at Peter McManus Cafe
Eat your way through Manhattan West
Shop at Artists & Fleas
Enjoy the Rubin Museum of Art
Swing by The Museum at Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)
Check out ARTECHOUSE NYC
Get an espresso martini flight at Starbucks Reserve
Go gallery hopping
Enjoy a traditional breakfast at Empire Diner
Grab drinks at LOULOU

Neighborhoods Near Chelsea Worth Checking Out

Restaurants in Greenwich Village. 12 Charming Restaurants in Greenwich Village
Happy Hour in the West Village. 10+ Wonderful West Village Happy Hour Spots
Coffee Shops in Greenwich Village. 12 Gorgeous Greenwich Village Coffee Shops
Best Bars in the Greenwich Village. 15 Boozy Bars in Greenwich Village

Map of the Best Things to Do in Chelsea

What are the must-do activities in Chelsea?

We highlight the top activities and attractions in Chelsea in this comprehensive guide, from popular landmarks to hidden local favorites.

Is Chelsea worth visiting?

Absolutely! Chelsea offers a unique mix of experiences that we detail in this guide.

Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments below.

Cheers!

For more on visiting chelsea market, see our guide to Visiting the Chelsea Market Guide. Everything You Need to Know.

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