Desmond Tutu Center A Lush Oasis

Right in the heart of bustling Chelsea, the Desmond Tutu Center evokes a castle-like setting complete with lush grounds surrounded by recently renovated 19th-century Gothic buildings.  Made of stone and outfitted with wrought iron banisters, this South African-inspired retreat offers a startling juxtaposition of modern conference center alongside the General Theological Seminary.

Desmond Tutu Conference Center

The hotel’s 60 historic guest rooms are fully equipped with wi-fi, flat screen TVs, and are only a few blocks away from the subway on 23rd St. but also accommodate those who want to tune out the modern world. Original architectural highlights include a refectory dating back to the late 1800s, ornate working fireplaces, tall stained-glass windows, and beautifully painted barrel-vaulted ceiling.

The facilities are also eco-friendly with geothermal heating and air conditioning throughout eliminating the need for roof-level cooling towers and window air conditioners helping to preserve architectural integrity. Even though complimentary continental breakfast and daily newspaper are included in the hotel’s room rates, accommodations are certainly reasonable for the venue starting at $285 per night. Availability is often slim but if you want to have all of Chelsea’s gallery viewing opportunities at your doorstep, book early because this is the place!

By subway: Take the C or E train to the 23rd St. Station.  Walk 2 blocks down to 10th Ave. and then 2 blocks down to 180 10th Ave..

photo courtesy of the Desmond Tutu Center