REVIEW

The Desmond Tutu Center

This picturesque Gothic building makes room not only for a conference center, but for 60 modern guest rooms with South African art.

By , Thursday, Jun 10, 2010, 12:54 PM

The Desmond Tutu Center

• 180 10th Ave.
  Chelsea, New York City, United States 10011
  212/929-3888
  
• The Desmond Tutu Center website

About this Hotel

Price From $179

'Hood On the western edge of Chelsea, a prime location for exploring the art galleries along 10th and 11th avenues. The High Line is across the street, and Chelsea Piers, a sports complex with a bowling alley, ice rink, and driving range, is just a five-minute walk away.

The Gist The Desmond Tutu Center—a newfangled conference center with 60 guest rooms—shares its grounds and castle-like buildings with the General Theological Seminary. (South African archbishop and activist Desmond Tutu served as an adjunct professor at the seminary in 1984.) The modern rooms reveal a pleasing attention to detail, from the wood moldings to the South African artwork, and are outfitted with both fireplaces and flat-screen TVs. Online reviews highlight the hotel's ability to let guests tune out and enjoy the gardens, flower-filled hallways, and charming Gothic decor.

Free Wi-Fi? Yes.

Credit Cards Accepted AmEx, Discover, MC, Visa.

Details Doubles from $179, suites from $370.

Thanks for Sharing "The Desmond Tutu Center offers a great Chelsea hotel experience: modern rooms, a big grassy courtyard, and friendly staff," writes Jessie, who also compliments the hotel for its energy-efficient geothermal system that heats and cools the property.