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The Desmond Tutu Center is located in New York's vibrant Chelsea neighborhood, yet its peaceful setting feels worlds apart. Occupying a handsomely restored 19th-century building, this hotel and conference center shares its park-like campus with the General Theological Seminary. Gothic Revival buildings are arrayed around a courtyard with pathways, gardens, and mature trees. With just 60 guestrooms on 5 floors, The Desmond Tutu Center has an intimate feel, and the serene setting is an attractive alternative to bustling Times Square and other Midtown neighborhoods. But this quiet hotel is anything but isolated: Chelsea restaurants, galleries, shops, and other attractions are just steps away.
A block from the hotel, you'll find steps leading up to the High Line, an elevated rail line transformed into a popular park with rotating art installations and special events. A 5-minute walk west of The Desmond Tutu Center, the Chelsea Piers sports and entertainment complex offers a golf club, bowling, ice-skating, and other sports. After working up an appetite, head to the Chelsea Market, less than a 10-minute stroll from the hotel. A destination for gourmet food lovers, the former Nabisco factory houses more than 2 dozen specialty food shops. When night falls, take in a show at Madison Square Garden or a Broadway hit in Times Square--both are a short taxi or subway ride from The Desmond Tutu Center.
If a conference or wedding brings you to the Big Apple, the hotel provides unique venues, from the 19th-century refectory to the garden-like courtyard. More than 8,000 square feet of meeting and event space combine Gothic Revival architecture with such high-tech updates as complimentary wireless Internet access and extensive audiovisual capabilities. An innovative, energy-efficient geothermal system heats and cools the entire property.
The Desmond Tutu Center's setting may be charmingly historical, but the guestrooms feature thoroughly modern comforts. No two are exactly alike, but all include LCD TVs, premium bedding, and complimentary wireless Internet access. Windows open to views of the courtyard or the street. Bathrooms are stocked with eco-friendly toiletries in biodegradable containers. The hotel also uses environmentally friendly cleaning products. And you can breathe easy: This property is entirely smoke-free.
"Times Square Nugget"Reviewed by a Hotels.com guest on May 6, 2012
We really enjoyed our stay. We stayed for a week and were glad to find a hotel right in the heart of Times Square. The service was definitely top notch! The front desk was courteous and the concierge was very helpful, recommending great shows and restaurants. Our room was nice. It could've been a little larger. But the bathroom was a good size and the size of the TV's and the fact that they played HD was a bonus. Also, the bed was quite comfortable. The cleaning staff did a fine job of keeping up the room. I'll definitely recommend this hotel to others.
"Consistency. You can depend on it."Reviewed by a Hotels.com guest on May 5, 2012
Finding a "GOOD THING" these days can get harder and harder. For this reason when you come across a 'good thing" it is priceless. One of the most recent "good things " that I have come across is the PARAMOUNT hotel in Times Square. The first thing that I leave the hotel impressed by is the professionalism and commitment that is demonstrated by the staff. Starting with the front desk where I was checked in by Catherine and continuing until the driver which I received at the hotel hands me my luggage at the airport. Catherine followed the details of my visit until the moment I checked out. The only dislike that I had which eventually i got over was the view of the alley where the boiler or some loud machine was placed. I know that from now on I will request a room that faces anywhere but there. If you are going to New York and plan on taking in Broadway there could not be a more perfect location. I love this hotel so much I find myself wanting to travel to NYC more. I cannot wait until my next visit to the PARAMOUNT which I hope will be in the next few weeks.
"Affordable Quickie in NY"Reviewed by a Hotels.com guest on May 5, 2012
We had a very good time and the hotel was close to work.
""Reviewed by a Hotels.com guest on May 5, 2012
Very nice hotel, within walking distance to subway for access to Manhattan (take the 7 or E and you can get to grand central, times square, penn station). Just a few blocks to local restaraunts. The room was very clean, excellent staff, free shuttle to subway. Overall an excellent place to stay if your touring new york city. One note, if you are considering a "view room" save your money, the view is obstructed by a number of taller buildings (the hotel is only 7 floors). Overall an excellent experience and I would definitely stay again, especially at the rate because of the new hotel discount. If you plan to take a cab from the hotel call one yourself because the service the hotel uses charges a flat rate to specific areas and you can get a cab on your own for cheaper generally.
"Nice hotel in the theatre district"Reviewed by a Hotels.com guest on May 5, 2012
Very nice hotel in the theatre district. Friendly and helpful staff. Basic room accomodations but very clean. Would recommend.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on hotel policy.
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card or cash deposit are required at check-in for incidental charges.
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges. Special requests cannot be guaranteed.
**These amenities may be available only in some rooms or units. Some amenities may incur additional fees.
A Green / Sustainable Property - Third Party Certified
This property participates in NYS Green Hotel Certification, a third-party certification program that has been independently certified. Third-party certification measures the property's impact on one or more of the following: environment, community, cultural-heritage, the local economy. An objective assessment of a company's sustainable tourism practices has been performed at this property by an auditor who is independent of the third-party certification program.
The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.
The following fees and deposits are charged by the property at time of service, check-in, or check-out.
The above list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits may not include tax and are subject to change.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on hotel policy.
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card or cash deposit are required at check-in for incidental charges.
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges. Special requests cannot be guaranteed.
"Fantastic!!!"
We had an excellent stay. The staff was very helpful. We got in a litte early and they let us going into our room without having to wait. We we able to secure a late check-out without all the fuss that one can often experience. The room was great! We were expecting the tiny NYC type room with no space and small bathroom, but we had a great size room. […] It could not have been better! Read more
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"I felt right at home!"
We enjoyed the lovely sunny patio and grounds! A very home-like setting with a courteous and attentive staff! We'll be back!
"Great Spot"
Rooms vary in size but are all very nicely appointed and clean. The staff are exceptionally nice and helpful. When reading reviews of other more expensive hotels I was amazed how many people commented on rude staff...not here. They were all looking out for you. Was going out for a walk and they ran to get me a cold bottle of water to take with me without […] me asking. This was typical of the stay. Great location near the water, Chelsea Market and the amazing High Line. Lots of galleries and spots to eat. Read more
"Desmond Tutu Center - pleasant surprise"
My husband and I were in NY for two nights but had only made reservations here for the 2nd night. For the first night we last-minute-crashed with family in a brand new hotel in a small, cramped room at twice the cost of this one, and were pleasantly surprised when we arrived here for our 2nd night. Front desk personnel were incredibly friendly and the […] guy there even helped us find a good (free!) parking spot on the street. He was extremely concerned as to whether we parked in a good spot that would not get us towed the next morning. This was in stark contrast to the previous hotel where we were nickeled and dimed (well, five- and ten-dollared) to death and tips expected at every turn for the smallest of services. We tipped the man who helped us with parking, and we could tell he felt awkward taking it but really appreciated it. The room was huge, clean, nicely decorated and the bed actually comfortable. Lots of space to move around, big windows, sitting area with couch (which probably was a fold out), and if I recall even a fireplace (but not sure if that was functional or decorative). Bathroom was also big. This place had none of the industrial look and feel of a commercial hotel - more of an apartment. All the shampoos/lotions/etc were eco-friendly and it was interesting to see what other eco-minded changes they are making. It also has an interesting history as it used to be part of the seminary. We typically never go to NYC, but I might be going again within the year for a girls' weekend, and if so I plan to come back to this hotel. I was so disappointed we could only be there one night. Read more
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"Cozy von Tutu"
I stayed here because I am an alum of GTS. The room was clean, and overall the hotel was quiet. That said, the room was like a monk's cell--very small. It was difficult to get around the bed. Also the room was very warm, so I had to open the window which allowed all the constant noise from 10th Ave.
"Beautiful building right next to High Line"
Completely modern rooms in a beautiful Gothic Revival building (part of the Episcopal Seminary). Access to the seminary's green and quiet courtyard. No restaurants, which is fine because there are lots of good places in the neighborhood. My room was on the top floor, in a dormer, with a view over the High Line. It was cozy -- by US chain hotel standards, […] it would be considered tiny, but who needs a huge room? Read more
"no air conditioning"
The air conditioning in the room was not working. Very Hot. Had to change the keys 3 times still did not work. Even the guy from Housekeeping had a hard time opening the door. THis was the 3rd time I stayed here, would try it one more time.
"Desmond Tutu center in NY"
Great hotel. Comfortable, clean, convenient, polite staff.
"Desmond TuTu Cneter-Chelsea!"
cozy, clean, convenient! loved every minute of our two night stay at the Desmond Tutu Center.
"Great choice for Chelsea"
Very clean -- well-priced -- no food service, but plenty of places in the neighborhood. I will return.
"Great Neighborood"
Perfect for a single and older woman navigating the subway, seeing the sights in Chelsea, and the many wonderful little restaurants in the area. Perfectly safe. I felt well cared for, the in-room coffee was just the right thing to wake up to, and I loved the view of the park. Not to be missed is the nearby High Line which was full of people just walking […] and taking in the plantings and scenery, in spite of the drizzle. I'll be back. Read more
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"not your standard hotel!"
There are 60 hotel rooms in this big 19th century building that seems to serve also as a conference center and residential complex. Room was basic, but comfortable and had everything we needed. A block from the High Line, close to Chelsea Market, galleries, lots of colorful little restaurants.
"Desmond Tutu Center"
This was a very clean, quiet and friendly hotel. I enjoyed the location. There are great restaurants in Chelsea. Very near some really cool places too. The Hudson River Park is walking distance.
"Great find!"
We needed a place to stay that was near Moran's where my cousin was getting married. The Desmond Tutu Center was literally a half-block away, and turned out to be an excellent find. Very affordable room-- ours was a bit on the small side, but it was still charming and clean. Definitely recommend it if you're staying in the neighborhood.
"Desmond Tutu Center in New York -- great value"
The Desmond Tutu Center, on 10th Avenue between 20th and 21st Streets, is former dormitory space of the General Theological Seminary, as evidenced in part by the lovely interior courtyard, complete with chapel, and a Refectory that resembles the dining hall at Hogwarts. Rooms are comfortable if not spacious, and although 10th Avenue is a bit west of […] the New York City action, there are a number of excellent bars and restaurants within easy walking distance. Best of all, rates are significantly lower than those of most New York hotels, particularly if booked through one of the popular websites rather than directly through the Center. Read more
"Desmond Tutu Center NYC - thumbs up all around"
Friendly staff, clean rooms, comfy bed, great neighborhood. Will stay again.
"Desmond Tutu - all you really need"
A very good experience. Clean, comfortable accommodations done in an effiicient, no-nonsense manner. Especially good for those who know New York and can thrive even if slightly off the beaten path.
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"Desmond Tutu Center Surprise."
we were surprised and happy using this hotel for the first time. location is convenient for having a car with a garage right across the street. Location is off a bit, though my wife & I are native New Yorkers and are used to walking around (urban hiking) a lot. Close to the Highline is an attraction for a return visit in the spring. Rates were reasonable; […] especially given the fact this was around the X-mas-New Years holidy. Read more
"Desmond Tutu Center a wonderful surprise"
This was an unexpected surprise. Very good location in Chelsea area, friendly staff, good room size (definitely not your typical NYC postage stamp room), good amenities and internet service, clean and well maintained. Even with the plaster walls, street traffic be a little noisy depending on the location of your room. More like a home than a hotel, […] it is a hotel I will go back to again whenever I am in the area. Read more
"Nice Hotel in nice neighborhood"
Find the Hotel in the cool Chelsea/Meatpacking area, where there is a great atmosphere, and a lot of nice restaurants etc. near by. A very nice hotel - good service, very clean and comfortable. The room and bed was a bit smaller than we have tried in other hotels in the US, but was more than enough for us, the three days/nights we stayed there in January […] 2012. I would fully recomend it for couples, who are on vacation in New York and who need a place to stay/sleep/relax in a quiet and nice neighborhood. Read more
"Chelsea Locaton"
This hotel is a good value for NYC. The subway location is several blocks walking distance away which may be a deterrant for some guests. The room was very clean and the "green" toiletries were a nice touch. Mainly quiet, but I could hear another guest bathing her child through the vent in the bedroom. My only complaint is that the front desk volunteered […] to get me a taxi for transfer to the airport and told me it was "about the same price". In reality, it was a car service that was unmetered and this costs about 20.00 more (with tips and toll) than a yellow taxi that is metered. So beware that It is cheaper to hail a taxi on your own in front of hotel for airport transfers. Read more
"very small, very clean room--excellent service"
The bathroom was almost as big as the room itself (quite small), but it was all immaculately clean and well furnished. The service was excellent. I had left my camera in the room and they held it for me and required photo id to return it. I would have liked a slightly larger room, but would happily return.
"Nice rooms but bad infrastructure"
I've stayed at this hotel multiple times. The rooms are charming, the building is unique, the location is great but the plumbing is terrible. This is the second time I have stayed there when my bathtub did not drain while in the shower. The first time, I figured it was a fluke. This time - in a different room - I was standing in my own shower water […] - up to my ankles, when some dark grey sludge came up from the drain. When I complained at the desk I was met with blank stares. They promised to call housekeeping. That's just what they said the last time. I'm guessing they are used to this complaint! Read more
"Cozy quiet comfort"
I wasn't expecting anything but the place was very civilized and clean and my room was roomy. There were some minor things - the pillows were very stiff. No luggage stand. The automatic motion sensored faucet at the vanity wasn't a good idea. Couldn't control the temperature and kept turning off when rinsing soap off my face. The internet was an iffy […] connection but FREE! I didn't stay long enough to fully look around. The grounds look like a museum and beautiful. Lobby is clean and had coffee in the afternoon with cookies. Little things like that can make a tired business woman feel soooo much better. Nice staff. A terry robe in the closet. Wish I had more time there. Much prefer this location to hectic Time Sq. Only a block away from the high line access. But a long walk to the subway stop. Read more
"Get a room at the front facing highline!"
Great hotel, 3rd time I've stayed here. Really friendly & helpful staff. Get a room in the front facing the highline for views of people walking by. Also facing west you have nice sunsets since there are no tall buildings...
"Great Location near Chelsea"
Great location near Chelsea with many excellent restaurants and shops within walking distance. Only one bock from the Highline, and a couple of blocks from the waterfront walkway. We walked to Chelsea Market via the Highline, then to Ground Zero via the waterfront walkway. Discovered several excellent restaurants within a few blocks of the hotel. The […] staff was friendly and helpful, and a it took less that two minutes to hail a taxi. Read more
"Desmond TuTu Conf Ctr/Hotel"
Great location in West Chelsea. Convenient to Mid-town/Theater Distr, Village, and downtown. Great restaurants nearby plus the new Highline Park. The only thing I wished the rooms had was a small frig, but we got by OK. We'd stay again!
"SMALL BUT NICE"
The room was small and in the front of the Hotel, some noise from the street. The A/C was not cooling enough, but had a nice experience.
"Desmond Tutu Center - We found a gem!"
The Desmond Tutu Center is now our hotel of choice when visiting our daughter in Manhattan. What a wonderful place! It is on the grounds of an active seminary with beautiful surroundings and a lovely chapel. I must admit that when we arrived, the woman at the desk informed me that we only had a double bed in our room. When I asked if they had anything […] else, she promptly made a call and we were given a corner room with 2 queen beds, a sitting area with a large window seat, table and 2 chairs surrounded by large windows. It was gorgeous! I later found out that the hotel opened only 4 years ago and had been completely restored at that time. It is convenient to the new High Line, Chelsea Market, and Chelsea Piers. Parking is an issue unless you don't mind NYC parking lot prices. There are parking lots directly across the street from the hotel. We were fortunate to find a free spot on the street within view of our window. You just need to read the signs to avoid a ticket. I would definitely recommend this hotel. Read more
"Love this hotel"
This place is just right, if you're looking for an excellent, reasonably priced hotel in this part of town. It's a former seminary remade - and it still is peaceful. Comfy beds, stylish rooms, snuggly robes, in-room coffee/tea, complimentary papers, cider, cookies and fruit. Great shopping nearby. The Food Network is in nearby Chelsea Market (along […] with some GREAT foodie shopping). There's a fantastic breakfast/lunch place across the street in Cookshop. This is my FAVE hotel downtown. highly recommended. Read more
"Desmond Tutu - great affordable place to stay"
The hotel is a beautiful old building, the rooms are clean, modern, and comfortable. The hotel is on 10th ave so its quiet and accesible. The concierge was so nice and friendly and i love the neighborhood. I was shocked this place was so nice for such an affordable price. I plan to stay here all the time.
"Desmond Tutu Center - Worth it!"
Pricey, but what isn't in NYC? The Center is in a beautiful building in a nice neighborhood. We had our largest room yet in a New York hotel, and the staff was extremely courteous and helpful. An excellent choice.
"The Desmond Tutu Center in Chelsea, NYC"
We were delighted with everything about the place. The room was newer, and in perfect condition. The price was very reasonable, and the staff was extremely friendly and helpful. It is not a typical NYC hotel experience. It is in the meat packing district, which is a little off the beaten path. But it served our needs on this trip to the city. The […] building itself is only five floors high, and there seemed to be very few rooms, which made for a quiet, inn-like experience. There is no valet parking, but it was not necessary, as there is a public garage directly across the street. The overnight parking rate was $31.00. We're used to paying $45 - $55 in Manhattan. Overall, a very nice experience, and we are looking forward to staying there again. Read more
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"No Housekeeping"
Disappointed with the service that I received from the hotel. Stayed for two nights but housekeeping never came to make beds or replace linens. Contacted front desk when returned to room for second night and they stated that they would send up housekeeping -- housekeeping never showed up. When leaving later that night for dinner, I once again told the […] front desk that housekeeping had not come and they immediately asked me if I left the do not distrub sign on the door, which I did not. However, when I did return from dinner, there were towels in a bag on the door. When I checked out, I once again stated that housekeeping never came and the woman write down my name and room number for the manager. I am very disappointed that management did not make any accomodations or contact me. Read more
"Desmond Tutu Hotel"
Great place to stay in Chealsea. 1 block from the High Line, 1 block from Chealsea market. The staff was very friendly and even though we were on the first floor it was very quiet. The room furnishings (bedding etc...) were very comfortable, although the carpet and wall were showing their age with scuffs and marks. Would deff stay here again.
"Excellent!"
the staff was wonderful, our room was terrific. I will stay there again and again!!!
"Beautiful hotel, great Sunday price!"
This guest did not leave a comment.
"Fantastic stay at the Desmond Tutu Center"
What a find! I would have never thought to stay here but for finding it on this website and all the great reviews. The inside has been completely renovated. Rooms are large and new. Plus, it's in a great location -- safe and close to the happening restaurant and bar areas.
"Great hotel"
Very friendly & helpful staff. Nice quiet hotel. Good location although its about a 10 minute walk to the closest subway. Even after I checked out they still looked after my bags for the day. Highline is across the street. Definitely recommend.
"Suprised"
I was skeptical about going to an off name Hotel. However I was very pleased with the whole experience and they even upgraded my room at no extra cost. I would definitely stay at this hotel again.
"Desmond Tutu- my new favorite"
Loved this place! The rooms are a bit small if you're used to airport hotels, but was perfect for my needs which was to visit the city, not lounge in my room for my whole vacation. The bed was super comfy and the bathroom was spacious and clean and the charm of this hotel was outstanding. Located ont he grounds of a seminary, it provided the calmness […] sought after a day of sight-seeing. The High Line park is right across the street and is mere blocks from the subway stations and the Chelsea we've all come to love Read more
"Desmund tutu"
It was a great location and very comfortable. Would definately stay there again
"Great Midtown Manhattan Hotel"
Comfortable walk to 111 8th datacenter, quiet location, and close to some great restuarants. Staff was very helpful, and professional. I did enjoy this hotel because it is an oasis of tranquility in the bustling city. Definite future stays and recommendations to anyone who (like myself) wanted a hotel as a refuge after work.
"Tutu Center"
Having lived in the NY-NJ_CO area for 7 years, I returned this labor day to NYC for the first time as a tourist and staying at the Tutu center was a real pleasure. They had ax excellent location, wlkable to Chelsea Market and Chelsea Piers and Metro was not to far away. They had large rooms and fantastic toiletries. The front desk staff was the friendliest. The […] only downside would be that the bath-tub is not what you would get in a hotel of this price. The beautiful buildings are old and charming and they did not have jacuzzi tubs then! But overall extremely satisfied and will stay there again if I visit NYC! Read more
"A real gem in New York"
Previously accomodations of General Theological Seminary, the Tutu Center is a real gem of a hotel. The room was huge -- particularly by Manhattan standards. Our room had a beautiful original fireplace mantel. The add-ons were excellent, particularly the inclusion of bathrobes. And the hotel comes with access to the lovely tranquil courtyard of the […] Seminary, an escape from frenetic New York. Highly recommended. Read more
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