Many people want to see New York City from a new angle. The Roosevelt Island Tramway offers just that, with stunning views across the East River. This article will guide you on how to make the most of your trip, including riding the tram and exploring Roosevelt Island.
Ready for an adventure?
Planning Your Visit to Roosevelt Island
When you visit Roosevelt Island, make sure to consider the best times to go and where to board the tram for a seamless experience. Timing your trip strategically and knowing the tram boarding locations will enhance your overall exploration of Roosevelt Island.
Best Times to Go
Spring and fall offer the best weather for enjoying the Roosevelt Island Tram and exploring the island. These seasons provide comfortable temperatures for walking around and taking in the scenic views of Manhattan, Queensborough Bridge, and the East River without being too hot or too cold.
Early morning or late afternoon rides on the tram allow you to catch breathtaking sunrises or sunsets against the New York City skyline. During these times, the light is perfect for photography enthusiasts looking to capture stunning shots of Harlem’s East River side or Midtown’s towering buildings from 250 feet above ground.
Summer weekends tend to be busier as both tourists and locals flock to Roosevelt Island for its attractions. To avoid crowds, consider visiting on a weekday. This way, you can enjoy a more relaxed ride on the NYC Tram without rushing through your trip.
By choosing less crowded times, you also get better chances of picking your spot in one of America’s few urban cable cars for an unobstructed view of iconic landmarks like Long Island City across the river.
Where to Board the Tram
You can board the Roosevelt Island Tram at the Manhattan Tram Station located on 60th Street and Second Avenue. This spot provides easy access for those coming from various parts of New York City.
People often choose this mode of transportation for its affordability and unique views. The tram connects to the Upper East Side of Manhattan, making it a convenient choice for travelers and locals.
The tram ride offers spectacular views of the Harlem East River, Queensborough Bridge, and the iconic New York City skyline.
Once you’re at the station, simply swipe your MetroCard to pay for the ride. It’s as simple as taking any other public transit in NYC but with added scenic benefits. The MetroCard system makes it an efficient process to get onto one of New York’s most novel forms of transportation.
Riding the Roosevelt Island Tram
Board the iconic Roosevelt Island Tram and take in breathtaking views of the East River, Manhattan, and the New York City skyline. Purchase your MetroCard and secure your spot for a memorable cable car ride to Roosevelt Island.
Cost and Ticket Information
The Roosevelt Island Tram provides an affordable way to experience New York from above. Here is the cost and ticket information you need before you go:
| Cost | Payment Method | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Swipe of a MetroCard | MetroCard | The tram ride costs the same as a single subway ride. |
| Same fare as NYC Subway | OMNY Contactless Payment System | Passengers can use the same payment methods as the NYC subway, including OMNY. |
Riders use a MetroCard or the OMNY system for payment, offering easy access between Manhattan and Roosevelt Island. This makes the tram an accessible option for anyone looking to explore the city.
Tips for Choosing Your Spot in the Tram
When riding the Roosevelt Island Tram, it’s crucial to pick the right spot to make the most of the experience. Here are some pointers to help you choose the best location:
- Opt for a window seat to enjoy uninterrupted views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.
- Consider sitting on the south side of the tram for stunning panoramas of Roosevelt Island and the Queensborough Bridge.
- Aim to arrive early to secure a spot with optimal sightseeing opportunities, especially during peak hours.
- Position yourself toward the front of the tram for an exciting perspective as it ascends above the city.
- If traveling with a group, select seats together so everyone can savor the breathtaking scenery as a team.
What to Do on Roosevelt Island
Explore Roosevelt Island’s unique blend of history and modernity. Discover the island’s fascinating historical landmarks, savor delicious dining options, and immerse yourself in the captivating exhibitions at the Museum of the City of New York.
Suggestions for Sightseeing and Activities
The island offers various activities and sightseeing opportunities to explore and enjoy during your visit. Here are some suggestions for sightseeing and activities:
- Visit the Roosevelt Island Historical Society, an organization dedicated to preserving the island’s unique history and heritage.
- Explore Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, a memorial dedicated to the 32nd President of the United States, offering beautiful views of the East River and Manhattan skyline.
- Take a stroll or bike ride along the scenic promenade that encircles the island, providing breathtaking waterfront views and a serene atmosphere.
- Discover local art installations, such as “The Octagon” and “The Ruins,” which showcase the island’s artistic spirit and creativity.
- Enjoy a picnic at one of the island’s green spaces, like Lighthouse Park or Southpoint Park, offering peaceful settings with panoramic vistas of the river and cityscape.
These activities provide a diverse range of experiences for visitors to immerse themselves in while exploring Roosevelt Island.
Dining Options on the Island
Various dining options are available on Roosevelt Island, catering to a range of tastes and preferences. A popular choice is the Riverwalk Bar & Grill, which offers a diverse menu with options like burgers, seafood, and pasta.
There’s also Nisi Kitchen for those who seek Mediterranean-inspired dishes such as falafel, hummus, and gyros. For a quick bite or a sweet treat, visitors can stop by the Trellis Diner or the Wholesome Factory for freshly made sandwiches, salads, smoothies, and desserts.
In addition to these eateries, Fuji East serves up sushi and other Japanese cuisine. Lastly, there is Cornell Tech’s café where patrons can enjoy specialties like coffee drinks and fresh-baked pastries in a vibrant setting overlooking the water.
These dining establishments ensure that visitors have plenty of choices to fuel up while exploring all that Roosevelt Island has to offer.
Visiting the Museum of the City of New York
The Museum of the City of New York offers a fascinating insight into the history and culture of New York City. It holds an extensive collection of over 1.5 million items, including photographs, paintings, and artifacts that showcase the city’s evolution.
The museum aims to educate about the rich heritage and diverse stories within New York City.
Located in East Harlem, the museum is easily accessible via public transportation or by foot from various points in Manhattan. Visitors can immerse themselves in exhibitions detailing early settlements, urban development, and important social movements within the city.
The museum also features rotating displays on contemporary New York life to offer a well-rounded experience for all interested in exploring this iconic metropolitan area.
Alternative Transportation Options
Consider taking the NYC Ferry back or utilizing other public transportation links for your return journey from Roosevelt Island. Different modes of transportation can enhance your overall experience and offer diverse perspectives of New York City’s skyline.
Taking the NYC Ferry Back
- The NYC Ferry provides a scenic and convenient way to return from Roosevelt Island to Manhattan, offering stunning views of the East River and the city skyline.
- Visitors can purchase tickets for the NYC Ferry using a variety of payment options, including credit cards and mobile apps.
- The ferry offers a reliable and punctual service, with departures scheduled at regular intervals throughout the day.
- Passengers can enjoy comfortable seating and onboard amenities, such as refreshments and restrooms, during the approximately 20-minute journey back to Manhattan.
- The NYC Ferry provides connections to different parts of New York City, allowing visitors to explore other neighborhoods or attractions after returning from Roosevelt Island.
- Upon arrival in Manhattan, passengers can easily access public transportation options or continue their exploration of the city on foot.
- The ferry ride back from Roosevelt Island offers a unique perspective of New York City’s waterfront and is an enjoyable experience for both tourists and locals alike.
Other Public Transportation Links
After exploring Roosevelt Island and enjoying the tram ride, there are other convenient public transportation links available for your journey back to Manhattan or onward explorations. Here are some alternative transportation options to consider:
- NYC Ferry: The NYC Ferry provides another scenic and enjoyable way to cross the East River back to Manhattan or explore other parts of New York City’s waterfront. With various routes and stops, it offers flexibility and stunning views of the city’s skyline.
- MTA Subway: Make use of the extensive New York City subway system to continue your exploration of the city. Convenient subway stations are easily accessible from several points on Roosevelt Island, providing access to different areas of Manhattan and beyond.
- Bus Services: Consider utilizing local bus services that operate in the vicinity of Roosevelt Island for further connectivity within the city. These buses offer a budget-friendly and straightforward mode of transport with routes connecting various neighborhoods.
- Walking and Cycling: Embrace the opportunity to walk or cycle across the pedestrian-friendly bridges, such as the Ed Koch Queensborough Bridge, offering a unique perspective while making your way back into Manhattan or exploring nearby neighborhoods.
- Ride-Sharing Services: For added convenience and personalized transportation, popular ride-sharing services operate throughout New York City, providing an efficient means of traveling between destinations with ease.
Keep in mind that these additional transportation options cater to diverse preferences and offer convenient connectivity for continuing your exploration beyond Roosevelt Island.
Conclusion
Discovering Roosevelt Island and experiencing the tram ride provides an affordable and breathtaking adventure in New York City. The spectacular views of the East River, Manhattan skyline, and Queensborough Bridge make the tramway a must-see attraction.
Exploring Roosevelt Island offers visitors various sightseeing opportunities, dining options, and easy access to public transportation for further exploration. So, if you’re looking for a unique way to see New York City from a different perspective, taking the tram to Roosevelt Island is definitely worth considering!