Adventure Collective
Architectural & Art Journey with Build Tours in Chelsea, NY - New York

Architectural & Art Journey with Build Tours in Chelsea, NY

New Yorkeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; comfortable walking shoes recommended.

Overview

Discover the architectural marvels and art installations of Chelsea on this guided walk with Build Tours. Led by an expert architect, this 2-hour journey uncovers the stories behind iconic landmarks and urban design mastery in the city’s vibrant neighborhood. Dive into the creative heart of Manhattan and gain new insights into its evolving urban landscape.

Walking Tour
New York, New York

Chelsea & the High Line NYC Architecture Walking Tour

Public • 2 Hours

Select participants and date

About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating 2-hour walking tour through Chelsea, the High Line, and Hudson Yards, led by architect Dr. Ivan Shumkov. Discover the rich history and stunning designs of iconic landmarks like the Whitney Museum and The Vessel, while gaining unique insights into New York's vibrant art and architecture scene.

Duration

2 Hours

About

Come join us for a fascinating exploration of Chelsea, the High Line and Hudson Yard's Art and Architecture! This in-person walking tour will take you on a journey through the history and design of some of the iconic New York City landmarks. Discover the stories behind the art installations and architectural marvels that make the High Line a must-see destination. Don't miss out on this unique opportunity to delve into the creative world of art, architecture and urban design!

In a city renowned as an international art hub, Chelsea stand out as one of New York’s most architecturally and culturally vibrant communities. Directly north of the West Village, the converted industrial warehouses and factories of Chelsea are now home to one of the world’s densest concentrations of galleries making this area a driving force in the art world. Specific examples that will be discussed include Whitney Museum, the Standard Hotel, the High Line, Hudson Yards, Javits Center, Penn Station, and more.

Famous building featured on this walking tour:

  • Whitney Museum of American Art, Renzo Piano, 2015
  • High Line, Diller Scofidio & Renfro, James Corner, 2008-2015
  • Standard Hotel, Polshek Partnership Architects, 2009
  • One High Line, BIG – Bjarke Ingels Group, 2023
  • Diane Von Fustenberg HQ, Work AC,
  • Little Island, IAC building, Frank Gehry, 2007
  • 100 11th Avenue, Jean Nouvel,
  • HL23, Niel Denari
  • Porter House, Shop Architects
  • 520 West 28th Street, Zaha Hadid Architects,
  • Maritime Hotel, Albert C. Ledner, 1960s
  • Hudson Yards, Kohn Pederson Fox, 2018
  • The Vessel, Thomas Hetherwick, 15 Hudson Yards, Diller Scoffidio + Renfro,
  • 35 Hudson Yards, SOM, 2018
  • The Spiral, BIG Bjarke Ingels Group, 2020
  • 1 Manhattan West, SOM, 2021
  • The Javits Center, Pei Cobb Freed & Partners, 1986
  • Penn Station, McKim, Mead & White, FX Collaborative, ASTM, 2023

Your Architect Guide: Dr. Ivan Shumkov is a New York based licensed architect, urban planner, entrepreneur, and professor with more than 20 years of experience across the private, public, and academic sectors. He combines his experience of practicing and teaching architecture with his passion for discovering and sharing the history and secrets of New York. His tours provoke curiosity, show hidden urban gems, and give opportunities for experiencing and understanding art and architecture in a unique way. He helps his guests to see and connect the city through the eyes of an architect. They are activated and transformed by these immersive experiences and view the city in a new way.

Adventure Tips

Wear comfortable shoes

This is a walking tour, so make sure to wear shoes suitable for pavement and uneven surfaces.

Bring a camera or smartphone

You'll want to capture the modern skyscrapers, public art, and scenic views along the High Line.

Check the weather forecast

The tour is outdoors; plan accordingly for rain or intense sun.

Arrive early to find a good meeting spot

Arriving a few minutes before start time ensures you won’t miss the beginning of the tour.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Pigeons
  • City-dwelling squirrels

History

Chelsea has historically been a hub for art studios and warehouses, transformed into a premier cultural district over past decades.

Conservation

The tour emphasizes sustainable urban design, showcasing efforts to incorporate green spaces in dense city environments.

Select participants and date

Adventure Hotspots in New York

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Necessary for navigating urban streets and maintaining comfort over the walking route.

Sun protection

Bring sunglasses, hat, or sunscreen if visiting during sunny months.

summer specific

Light rain jacket

Useful for sudden weather changes, especially in shoulder seasons.

spring, fall, winter specific

Camera or smartphone

Essential

Capture the striking architecture and public art during the tour.