7 Best Things To Do In Hell’s Kitchen, NYC
One of New York City’s most popular neighborhoods on the West side of town (just blocks away from Times Square, Hell’s Kitchen, is a lovely area. Just steps away from the waterfront and the West Side Highway, the area’s culture is rich in both history and current things to do. It’s a hub for entertainment, popular nightlife (including a number of LGBTQ+ bars and clubs), its location near Broadway, and thriving culinary options.
If you’re in the area, we put together a starter list of some of the best things to check out if you’re strolling the neighborhood (and some FAQ)!
Where is Hell’s Kitchen in NYC?
Hell’s Kitchen is located on the west side of Manhattan, spanning from the Hudson River to 8th Avenue, and between W 34th and W 59th Streets.
Why is it called Hell’s Kitchen?
There a few theories as to why this neighborhood is called this, but one major one is that its name came from the Hell’s Kitchen Gang, a group known for their criminal activities in the late 19th century.
Years ago, the neighborhood used to be a bit “gritty” … becoming synonymous with notorious violence and chaos. However now, Hell’s Kitchen has revamped into one of the most bustling neighborhoods in Midtown Manhattan!
1. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
By far one of the coolest museums in NYC, this destination is literally a floating museum! The Intrepid is quite literally located on top of an aircraft carrier in the water of Pier 86, and features all kinds of cool exhibits about space exploration, military history, and aviation. You can get up close and personal with the space shuttle Enterprise, marvel at nuclear-weapons-carrying submarines, and so much more.
It’s particularly awesome for kids because it’s super educational, but it’s really fascinating for all ages to see military aircraft and artifacts up close. They even host free movie nights during the summer.
Where: Pier 86, W 46th St
2. Circle Line Cruises
There’s nothing quite like a boat cruise around NYC, and Circle Line Cruises headquarters in Hell’s Kitchen makes for ~smooth sailing! The iconic boat company invites New Yorkers from all across the city to climb aboard and embark on a sightseeing tour of our beloved city. They breeze through the rivers, offering breathtaking views of Manhattan’s skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island…making for the ultimate main character moment!
Plus, they occasionally host special events like fall foliage cruises, New Year’s Eve excursions, July 4th firework routes, and much more!
Where: Pier 83, W 43rd St
3. Jazz at Lincoln Center
One of the best jazz insitutions operates out of Hell’s Kitchen at the world-famous Lincoln Center! The Jazz at Lincoln Center program is home to a wide range of concerts, educational programs, and international tours that play a crucial role in promoting and growing jazz in America. Its main headquarters is Frederick P. Rose Hall, which includes performance spaces like the Rose Theater, The Appel Room, and Dizzy’s Club, all designed specifically for jazz (from seating to acoustics!).
Performances are happening basically every night and showcase the premier talent in the jazz industry today.
Where: 10 Columbus Cir
4. Hudson River Park
If you’re looking for some green space in Hell’s Kitchen, venture westward to Hudson River Park that runs along the water and is perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling! This NYC park technically runs from Chambers Street to 59th Street, so the end of it basically right in the neighborhood! All year round it’s great to get some views, fresh air, and even check out events that happen there!
Where: West side waterfront from Chambers Street to 59th Street
5. Al Hirschfeld Theatre
Hell’s Kitchen sits right on the borderline of The Theater District, so it’s naturale that a Broadway play or two should be on your Hell’s Kitchen bucket list. We highly recommend checking out Al Hirschfeld Theatre, which is currently running Moulin Rouge! The theater itself is full of beautiful architecture and history, dating all the way back to 1924 and hosting iconic shows like Kinky Boots and Into the Woods through the years.
Now, it’s hosting one of Broadway’s hottest tickets right now, with tickets starting at $98!
Where: 302 W 45th St
Grab your tickets to Moulin Rouge here!
6. Rudy’s Bar & Grill
Rudy’s Bar & Grill is by far one of our favorite dive bars in NYC, and it’s been a staple in Hell’s Kitchen since 1933! The local spot is well known for some of the cheapest beers in the city (we’re talking $3 pints) and complimentary hot dogs with every beer purchase. It’s a great spot to meet up with friends, watch some sports in their backroom area, or just grab a cheap drink!
If there’s one bar you should bookmark in the area it’s definitely this!
Where: 627 9th Ave
7. Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
The Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater dates back to 1958, and continues to be one of NYC’s most prestigious dance companies exploring African-American cultural themes! They’re based in Hell’s Kitchen and host hundreds of modern dance performances per year.
They’re most known for their blend of modern dance, ballet, jazz, and African dance styles…as well as their signature piece Revelations.
Where: 405 W 55th St
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