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Roosevelt Island Tramway: A Ride Above the City

Experience breathtaking views of New York City on the Roosevelt Island Tramway, an iconic aerial tram offering a unique ride above the East River.

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The Roosevelt Island Tramway, an aerial tram connecting Manhattan to Roosevelt Island, offers stunning city views. Opened in 1976 as a temporary transit solution, it became a beloved New York icon, carrying millions above the East River.

A brief summary to Roosevelt Island Tramway

  • Monday 6 am-2 am
  • Tuesday 6 am-2 am
  • Wednesday 6 am-2 am
  • Thursday 6 am-2 am
  • Friday 6 am-3:30 am
  • Saturday 6 am-3:30 am
  • Sunday 6 am-2 am

Local tips

  • Avoid peak hours (7-9 AM and 5-9 PM) for a less crowded ride and better views.
  • Use a MetroCard or OMNY for fare payment.
  • Consider taking the F subway line to Roosevelt Island and the tram back to Manhattan to potentially avoid queues.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Midtown Manhattan, take the 4, 5, 6, N, Q, R, W, F, E, or M subway lines to the Lexington Av/59 St or Lexington Av/63 St stations. Walk a few blocks east to the Manhattan Tram Station at 2nd Avenue between 59th and 60th Streets. A single ride on the tram costs $2.90, payable with a MetroCard or OMNY.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services can drop you off directly at the Manhattan Tram Station located at 2nd Avenue between 59th and 60th Streets. Expect to pay around $15-25 for a short ride from Midtown, depending on traffic.

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Discover more about Roosevelt Island Tramway

The Roosevelt Island Tramway, operating since 1976, provides a unique perspective of New York City. Originally intended as a temporary solution while the subway line to Roosevelt Island was being constructed, the tramway quickly became a permanent and popular fixture. It connects Manhattan's Upper East Side at 59th Street and Second Avenue to Roosevelt Island, spanning the East River. The four-minute ride offers passengers panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, the East River, and the Queensboro Bridge. Each cabin can hold up to 110 people and runs every 7.5 to 15 minutes, depending on the time of day. The tram reaches a maximum height of 250 feet above the East River. Roosevelt Island itself is a unique residential community with a mix of historic landmarks and modern development. Once known as Welfare Island, it has transformed into a vibrant neighborhood with parks and waterfront promenades. The tram provides easy access to the island's attractions and offers a convenient commute for residents. The Roosevelt Island Tramway is more than just a mode of transportation; it's an iconic New York experience.

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