Discover the Serenity of Roosevelt Island
Experience the tranquil beauty, rich history, and stunning skyline views of Roosevelt Island, a hidden gem in New York City's East River.
Nestled in the East River between Manhattan and Queens, Roosevelt Island offers a unique blend of serene parks, stunning skyline views, and rich history, making it a must-visit destination for tourists. Accessible via the iconic Roosevelt Island Tram, this hidden gem features a charming waterfront, beautiful green spaces, and intriguing historical sites, perfect for a day of exploration or relaxation. Don't miss the chance to take in the breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline as you stroll along the island's paths.
A brief summary to Roosevelt Island
- New York, Manhattan, New York, US
Local tips
- Take the Roosevelt Island Tram for breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline.
- Visit the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park for a peaceful retreat.
- Explore the island on foot or by bike to fully appreciate its scenic paths.
- Don't forget your camera; the waterfront views are perfect for stunning photos.
- Check local events; the island often hosts family-friendly activities and festivals.
Getting There
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Subway
From the Yonkers Metro-North train station, take the Hudson Line train towards Grand Central Terminal. Get off at the 125th Street station in Manhattan. From there, transfer to the A or C subway line at the 125th Street subway station. Take the A or C train downtown towards Brooklyn; get off at the 59th Street - Columbus Circle station. Walk to the 59th St & 2nd Ave stop and board the Q subway line towards Astoria - Ditmars Blvd. Get off at the 34th St - Hudson Yards station and transfer to the Roosevelt Island Tramway at the 59th St and 2nd Ave. The tram will take you directly to Roosevelt Island.
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Bus
From the Yonkers Metro-North train station, walk to the nearby Yonkers Public Library and catch the Bee-Line Bus #1 towards Mount Vernon. Ride the bus for approximately 30 minutes until you reach the intersection of 2nd Avenue and East 59th Street in Manhattan. From this stop, you can walk to the Roosevelt Island Tramway located at 59th St and 2nd Ave. The tram will take you directly to Roosevelt Island.
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Taxi or Rideshare
If you're looking for a more direct route, consider using a taxi or a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Request a ride to the Roosevelt Island Tramway station at 59th St and 2nd Ave in Manhattan. This ride will take approximately 30-40 minutes depending on traffic. Once you arrive at the tram station, board the tram for a scenic ride directly to Roosevelt Island.
Discover more about Roosevelt Island
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Blackwell House
0.0 km
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Upper East Side Historic District
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Long Island City
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Hunters Point Historic District
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Pepsi-Cola Sign
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Historic Landmark Preservation
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601 Lexington Avenue
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Roosevelt Island Lighthouse
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Seagram Building
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General Electric Building
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Park Avenue Historic District
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5th Ave & Central Park S
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Grand Army Plaza
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General William Tecumseh Sherman Monument
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Sharansky Steps
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Unmissable attractions to see
Queensboro Bridge
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Roosevelt Island Tramway
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Smallpox Memorial Hospital
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Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms State Park
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Park Avenue Armory
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Gantry Plaza State Park
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MoMA PS1
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On Location Tours
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Amster Yard
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Temple Emanu-El
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Dag Hammarskjold Plaza Greenmarket
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Essential places to dine
Maiella
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American Brass
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Jackson's Eatery | Bar
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The Modern
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Le Bernardin
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ROBERT
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Ellen's Stardust Diner
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Per Se
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The Smith
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SoleLuna
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Sugar Freak
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The Milling Room
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Hortus NYC
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The Alcove
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Upland
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Smile Just Because
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Just Things
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I Love NY Gifts by Phantom of Broadway
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Side B
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Vintage Queens NYC
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The Shop at NBC Studios
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Rough Trade
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New York Attitude Gift shop
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Unique Boutique
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I Love NY by Phantom of Broadway
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The New York Public Library Shop
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Ny's Best Gift Shop
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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
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lost in Paradise Rooftop
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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
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Gantry Bar & Kitchen
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Dutch Kills
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The Infamous
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Dominie's Hoek
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Mad Donkey Beer Bar & Grill
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P J Leahy's
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Domaine Bar a Vins
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Madam Marie's
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Diamond Dogs
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