Roosevelt Island: An Urban Oasis
Discover a tranquil escape with stunning city views on Roosevelt Island, a unique residential community in the heart of New York City.
Roosevelt Island, nestled in the East River between Manhattan and Queens, offers a unique blend of tranquility and urban life. Once home to hospitals and asylums, it has transformed into a vibrant residential community with stunning city views, parks, and historical landmarks. Ride the iconic aerial tram for a memorable experience.
A brief summary to Roosevelt Island
- New York, Manhattan, New York, US
Local tips
- Take the Roosevelt Island Tram for a unique and scenic ride over the East River.
- Visit Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park at the island's southern tip for stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.
- Explore the historic Roosevelt Island Lighthouse at the northern end of the island.
- Enjoy a bike ride along the island's perimeter for fresh air and views of the city's infrastructure.
- Take the free Red Bus to get around the island.
Getting There
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Tram
The Roosevelt Island Tram provides direct access from Manhattan. Located at 2nd Avenue and 60th Street, the tram is accessible via the 4, 5, 6, N, Q, and R subway lines. Take any of these lines to the 59th Street/Lexington Avenue station and walk two blocks east to the tram. A single ride costs $2.90 and can be paid using a MetroCard. The ride is approximately 4 minutes.
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Subway
The F train provides direct subway access to Roosevelt Island. From Manhattan or Queens, take the F train to the Roosevelt Island station, located near the center of the island. A single ride costs $2.90 and can be paid using a MetroCard.
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Ferry
The NYC Ferry's Astoria route stops at Roosevelt Island. Check the NYC Ferry website or app for schedules and real-time updates. A single ride costs $4.00.
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Walking
From the Roosevelt Island Tram or subway station, most attractions are within walking distance. The island is pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks and promenades. The free Red Bus also provides transportation around the island.
Discover more about Roosevelt Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blackwell House
0.0 km
Explore Blackwell House, a rare 18th-century historic landmark on Roosevelt Island, showcasing colonial architecture and rich local history.
Upper East Side Historic District
1.4 km
Explore the elegant architecture and rich cultural heritage of the Upper East Side Historic District in Manhattan, a must-see for every New York visitor.
Long Island City
1.5 km
Discover Long Island City, a vibrant neighborhood in Queens offering stunning skyline views, cultural attractions, and diverse dining experiences.
Hunters Point Historic District
1.5 km
Explore the historical charm and scenic views of Hunters Point Historic District in Long Island City, a hidden gem in New York City.
Pepsi-Cola Sign
1.6 km
Discover the Pepsi-Cola Sign, a historic landmark in Long Island City, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into New York's vibrant history.
Historic Landmark Preservation
1.6 km
Explore the Historic Landmark Preservation Museum in Manhattan to uncover the stories behind New York's iconic architecture and preservation efforts.
601 Lexington Avenue
1.6 km
Discover the architectural marvel of 601 Lexington Avenue, an iconic skyscraper in Manhattan that showcases the vibrant spirit of New York City.
Roosevelt Island Lighthouse
1.6 km
Discover the charming Roosevelt Island Lighthouse, a historic landmark offering breathtaking views of Manhattan and a serene escape in New York City.
Seagram Building
1.8 km
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General Electric Building
1.8 km
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Park Avenue Historic District
1.9 km
Experience the charm and elegance of Park Avenue Historic District, a must-see architectural gem in the heart of New York City.
5th Ave & Central Park S
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant energy of New York City at the iconic intersection of 5th Avenue and Central Park South, where urban life meets natural beauty.
Grand Army Plaza
1.9 km
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General William Tecumseh Sherman Monument
1.9 km
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Sharansky Steps
2.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Queensboro Bridge
0.5 km
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Roosevelt Island Tramway
1.1 km
Experience breathtaking views and a unique transportation adventure aboard the Roosevelt Island Tramway, connecting Manhattan to Roosevelt Island.
Smallpox Memorial Hospital
1.2 km
Explore the Smallpox Memorial Hospital, a historic landmark in New York City that highlights medical history amidst beautiful landscapes.
Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms State Park
1.4 km
Explore the serene Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms State Park on Roosevelt Island, a tribute to freedom with stunning views of Manhattan.
Park Avenue Armory
1.4 km
Discover the Park Avenue Armory, a cultural hub in NYC blending history, art, and performance in a stunning architectural setting.
Gantry Plaza State Park
1.6 km
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MoMA PS1
1.7 km
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On Location Tours
1.7 km
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Amster Yard
1.7 km
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Temple Emanu-El
1.8 km
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Dag Hammarskjold Plaza Greenmarket
1.8 km
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Essential places to dine
Maiella
1.6 km
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American Brass
1.9 km
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Jackson's Eatery | Bar
2.0 km
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The Modern
2.2 km
Experience fine dining at The Modern in NYC - where American and French cuisines meet artful presentation in an exquisite setting.
Le Bernardin
2.6 km
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ROBERT
2.7 km
Savor exquisite American cuisine with breathtaking views at Robert in Manhattan's Columbus Circle.
Ellen's Stardust Diner
2.7 km
Experience Broadway magic while savoring classic American dishes at Ellen's Stardust Diner in New York City.
Per Se
2.8 km
Experience exquisite French fine dining at Per Se with stunning Central Park views and unforgettable culinary artistry.
The Smith
2.9 km
Savor exquisite American cuisine at The Smith in Manhattan—your go-to spot for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and oysters.
SoleLuna
2.9 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at SoleLuna in Sunnyside – where every meal is a celebration of taste and tradition.
Sugar Freak
3.0 km
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The Milling Room
3.3 km
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Hortus NYC
3.4 km
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The Alcove
3.4 km
Discover authentic Spanish tapas at The Alcove in Sunnyside, Queens - where every bite tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Upland
3.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Smile Just Because
1.6 km
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Just Things
1.8 km
Explore Just Things, a charming antique store in Long Island City, NY, filled with unique treasures and rich history waiting to be discovered.
I Love NY Gifts by Phantom of Broadway
2.3 km
Explore I Love NY Gifts by Phantom of Broadway for the best selection of New York souvenirs and unique memorabilia that capture the city's essence.
Side B
2.4 km
Discover unique gifts and local artistry at Side B, the charming thrift store and gift shop in Astoria, Queens.
Vintage Queens NYC
2.4 km
Explore the charm of Vintage Queens NYC, a unique boutique offering a curated selection of vintage clothing that tells a story.
The Shop at NBC Studios
2.5 km
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Rough Trade
2.5 km
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New York Attitude Gift shop
2.6 km
Explore New York Attitude Gift Shop for unique souvenirs and a cozy bar atmosphere, capturing the vibrant spirit of the Big Apple.
Unique Boutique
2.6 km
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I Love NY by Phantom of Broadway
2.7 km
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The New York Public Library Shop
2.7 km
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Ny's Best Gift Shop
2.8 km
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Gifts on the Square
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Grand Slam New York
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Line Friends New York Times Square Store
3.0 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lost in Paradise Rooftop
1.0 km
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THE HUNTRESS whiskey, wings n’ other things
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The Shannon Pot
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Strangelove Bar Nyc
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LIC Bar
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The Beast Next Door
1.5 km
Discover The Beast Next Door, a cocktail bar in Long Island City, Queens, known for its inventive drinks and inviting atmosphere, perfect for any night out.
Gantry Bar & Kitchen
1.7 km
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Dutch Kills
1.7 km
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The Infamous
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Dominie's Hoek
1.9 km
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Mad Donkey Beer Bar & Grill
2.0 km
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P J Leahy's
2.0 km
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Domaine Bar a Vins
2.0 km
Experience the finest wines and vibrant nightlife at Domaine Bar a Vins in Long Island City, an essential stop for every wine lover visiting NYC.
Madam Marie's
2.5 km
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Diamond Dogs
2.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Astoria at Diamond Dogs, a cocktail bar and beer garden known for its creative drinks and lively atmosphere.
