In the heart of Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood, the new Vanderbilt University - New York City location at the historic General Theological Seminary campus offers visitors a window into almost two centuries of architectural history and thoughtful preservation. Founded in 1817, the campus is home to some of the most intricate and historically significant architectural features of any higher education campus in New York, characterized by handsome stonework, vaulted ceilings, stained glass, and high windows.

Vanderbilt University will host guided tours of its newest home, featuring the Chapel of the Good Shepherd, the Close (a rare stretch of green space in New York City), the Refectory, which was once a dining hall and is now a stunning multipurpose space that has served as a filming location and hosted visiting dignitaries, and other elements of the one-block campus. Guided by architects from Beyer Blinder Belle, discussion will not only highlight the original architectural features and work to retain them in past renovations, but also Vanderbilt’s early plans to update the campus for future use while ensuring thoughtful preservation befitting of its legacy.

Already, Vanderbilt has utilized these areas, including the Refectory, to host community programming such as the inaugural lecture series Vanderbilt in the City. With the guided tours, Vanderbilt University is welcoming New Yorkers to visit one of the most special blocks in all of Manhattan and share its excitement for the facility’s history and next chapter.

Some historic buildings on the guided tour are not ADA accessible.

Please no pets, except for service animals.

Children are welcome accompanied by an adult. All participants, including children, must have a ticket.