New York Gay District: Chelsea

The city that never sleeps is also known as the city of opportunity. New York is a magnet for gays, with the LGBT community representing an estimated 500,000 people.

With such a robust community, it's clear that New York's population is one of the most gay-friendly in the world. Indeed, there are plenty of gay places throughout the city, from Brooklyn to Hell's Kitchen to Greenwich Village and the popular West Village, where the famous Stonewall Bar is located. It's here where the gay civil rights movement started after the riot in 1969. Despite this history, Chelsea holds the torch as the gayest neighborhood in New York.

Chelsea comprises brownstones, luxury apartments, and plenty of famous art galleries. There are always art openings; more often than not, entrance is free, as is the wine! Regarding shopping, Chelsea is home to Macy's (Herald Square, 34th and Broadway). Macy's is the largest store in the world, with an area of more than two million square feet, so devote a good couple of hours here.  

Gay bars in Chelsea

It's time to hit the nightlife once you've found the perfect outfit. Start at Boxers NYC, a famous sports bar with a great happy hour. If leather is more your thing, head to The Eagle (554 West 28th/11th Ave). Afterward, go to Barracuda (275 West 22nd/8th Ave), known for its long bar and American movies. If you fancy venturing outside of Chelsea, don't despair; there are many more gay bars in New York. 

Now it's time for a bit of culture. Discover the Metropolitan Community Church of New York (446 West 36th St), which serves as the church for the LGBT community and where gays can get married. New Yorkers say that if you don't find what you're looking for in New York, then what you are looking for doesn't exist! You can decide, but we certainly think New York has it all!