Hey there... I’m Aria, and I am so thrilled to be your guide for New York City Audio Tour: Chelsea Gems. Chelsea is one of those neighborhoods that feels like a whole mixtape of New York City... glassy new towers, old brick townhouses, church bells, gallery hush, the rumble of traffic, and the smell of coffee, bread, and something amazing on the grill drifting down the block.
We’ve got twenty stops ahead, and they’re a wonderful mix. We’ll begin at Manhattan West, slip past the creative pulse near the School of Visual Arts, taste a little old-school city spirit at Empire Diner, and end with the deep calm and beauty of the Rubin Museum of Himalayan Art. Along the way, I’ll start talking as you approach each landmark, but if the audio does not begin on its own, just tap play. If you feel turned around, open the map in the app. At every stop, you can ask me questions in the chat below.
A few stops are churches and other sensitive places, so dress respectfully if you plan to step inside or spend time there. While walking, stay alert at crosswalks, watch for bikes, cars, delivery carts, and uneven sidewalks, and keep your phone and bag close in busy spots.
If you haven’t already, head to the first stop, Manhattan West... and let’s get started.
