If you’re looking to explore a hidden gem in New York City, consider taking a trip to Roosevelt Island. Located in the East River between Manhattan and Queens, this peaceful island provides breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, beautiful green spaces, and rich historical landmarks. Despite its proximity to Manhattan, many New Yorkers haven’t experienced all that Roosevelt Island has to offer. In this article, we will discuss three different ways you can get to Roosevelt Island and experience its unique charm.

1. The Roosevelt Island Tramway

The most iconic and scenic way to get to Roosevelt Island is by taking the aerial Roosevelt Island Tramway. Launched in 1976, this tram connects the Upper East Side of Manhattan with the western end of the island. It takes just about four minutes for the tram to traverse the East River, providing riders with stunning views of Midtown Manhattan and the Queensboro Bridge along the way.

The Tramway operates daily from 6:00 AM until 2:00 AM on weekdays and from 6:00 AM until 3:30 AM on weekends. To use the tram, you can simply use your MetroCard – it costs one swipe each way, which is equivalent to a subway fare.

2. The F Train Subway Line

Roosevelt Island is serviced by its own subway station on the F train line. The trip takes approximately 12-minutes from Midtown Manhattan and is convenient for those traveling from Queens or Brooklyn as well.

The Roosevelt Island Station is located near Main Street, which is the island’s central hub for commerce and community activities. After disembarking from the train, you can easily explore walking trails or take advantage of a free Red Bus shuttle that circling major points on the island throughout the day.

3. NYC Ferry

In addition to air and underground travel options, you can reach Roosevelt Island via water using NYC Ferry. The Astoria Route stops at Roosevelt Island and connects riders to Astoria, Long Island City, East 34th Street, and Wall Street in Manhattan. Tickets for the ferry can be purchased through the NYC Ferry app or on board the ferry itself. The cost is similar to a subway ride, making it an affordable and convenient choice to reach your destination.

Ferries follow a set schedule, so make sure to check the timetable before planning your trip. This method of transportation provides a unique perspective of the city skylines and landmarks and is a perfect way to begin or end your Roosevelt Island adventure.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose to soar over the East River on the Roosevelt Island Tramway, ride underground on the F train, or sail aboard an NYC Ferry, there are several convenient options for experiencing the serenity of Roosevelt Island. This quaint oasis nestled within New York City’s bustling landscape offers visitors a perfect urban escape with stunning sights and rich history. Don’t miss out on this unique adventure – plan your trip to Roosevelt Island today!