Where New York City came to party...

The Roxy opened in 1978 at 515 West 18th Street in Chelsea. It wasn’t just another nightclub, it was a wild, anything-goes roller disco that pulled in skaters, artists, and night owls from all over the city. The place pulsed with energy, neon lights, and non-stop music, capturing the chaotic scene of late 70s New York.

Photographer Steve Eichner said “Roller skaters would whiz around while Madonna blasted from the sound system and a drag queen soared high above the dance floor in a swing wearing a formal gown and pink roller skates.”

In 1982 the space was revamped into a dance club by Ruza “Kool Lady” Blue.

The Roxy became one of the city’s first major hip-hop clubs, and it exploded. Breakdancers battled, and now legendary acts like Afrika Bambaataa, Grandmaster Flash, and Run-D.M.C. performed.

*Afrika Bambaataa - Photo: NYPL Digital Archives*

*Grandmaster Flash - Photo: NYPL Digital Archives*

Kool Lady Blue sponsored breaking or b-boy/b-girl competitions featuring the Rock Steady Crew, and Graffiti Artists, with Emcees like Fab 5 Freddy hosting.

*Rocksteady Crew - Photo: ROXY FB Group*

It transformed again - this time into a megaclub for NYC’s gay nightlife scene. Saturday nights were legendary, with epic parties fueled by superstar DJs like Junior Vasquez and Frankie Knuckles. Packed dance floors, and a no-rules, no-judgment vibe made everyone feel like they belonged.

The Roxy finally shut down in 2007, another casualty of Chelsea’s fast-changing landscape.

Today, the site is home to Lantern House, a distinctive condominium development designed by architect Thomas Heatherwick. It has two towers that straddle the High Line and 181 units. I've been inside many times and it's an impressive structure. Quite a departure from its days as a roller disco, then a breakdancing hotspot, and eventually a legendary mega nightclub!

The Roxy

The Singer Building

Danceteria