Just one tram ride away from the bustling New York City streets, you’ll find the not-so-hidden gem of Roosevelt Island. This small and skinny island is situated between Manhattan and Queens and is only 800 feet wide.
The entire island is just 2 miles long meaning you can walk it in about 30 minutes! FYI: If you’d prefer, you can also take the Red Bus shuttle which transports you around the island for free, it runs on a loop and makes different stops throughout the island.
The walkability, ample green spaces, and mixture of new and old make Roosevelt Island such a fun day trip. I’m excited to share the ultimate guide to visiting Roosevelt Island in New York, NY.
Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.
About Roosevelt Island
Today, Roosevelt Island is a vibrant residential community with over 12,000 permanent residents, a hospital, a Tech College, a hotel and several restaurants.
However, it has an extremely interesting history that dates back hundreds of years. What is known as Roosevelt Island today, was originally named Blackwell’s Island. The Blackwell family owned the island until 1828, when they sold it to New York City.
The city then used the secluded island to serve as the site of various institutions, including a penitentiary, lunatic asylum, and a smallpox hospital during the 19th century. It was even nicknamed “Welfare Island” to reflect its role as a home for these institutions.
The most significant transformation came in the 1970s when the island underwent a redevelopment process and was renamed Roosevelt Island in honor of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
Although the island does have many modern amenities today, you will still appreciate its effort to preserve the elements of its historical past.
How to Get to Roosevelt Island
Although an island, Roosevelt Island is surprisingly easy to get to. Visitors can either take the F train to the only subway station on the island, the ferry, drive there and rent a vehicle beforehand or (my personal favorite) the Tramway.
The Roosevelt Island Tramway runs daily every 7-15 minutes depending on the time of day. You can hop on the tram right in Manhattan at 59th Street and Second Avenue. It’s then just a quick 4-minute ride to the island with some of the best views!
You can pay for the tram with your Metrocard, which can be purchased from the machines right at either station. Much to my surprise, the tram ride cost the same as a subway or ferry ride!
When is the Best Time to Visit Roosevelt Island?
There’s truly not a bad time to visit Roosevelt Island as each season brings its own unique charm. However, it’s important to note that most of the things to do on Roosevelt Island are outdoors, so be sure to dress for the weather!
Spring offers mild weather and the chance to see the famous cherry blossoms (late March to early May), making it ideal for leisurely strolls. Summer is perfect if you enjoy warm weather and outdoor events but it can get crowded. Fall provides pleasant weather and beautiful autumn foliage, while Winter is quieter but much colder. I went during the Summer and had a blast.
Roosevelt Island Map of Things to Do
Things to Do at Roosevelt Island New York, NY
Tour the Blackwell House
Nestled on the corner of East Road and Main Street, you’ll find Roosevelt Island’s oldest landmark, The Blackwell House. The home was built in 1796 for the Blackwell family, the longtime owners of the island. After NYC purchased the island, they used this house as living quarters for wardens of the island’s institutions.
Today, you can get a glimpse of the island’s past with a free tour of The Blackwell House. The home is open to visitors on Wednesday-Sundays from 11am-4pm. Each visit is limited to 30 minutes.
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Check Out the Smallpox Hospital
Another interesting thing to do on Roosevelt Island in New York is to check out the historical Smallpox Hospital. Although you can not go inside, you can view the ruins of this 1856 hospital from the perimeter.
Have a Picnic at Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park
Found at the southernmost point of the Island, Four Freedoms Park is the perfect place to relax, learn a bit about history, and have a picnic. The park was built as a memorial for former president, Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR).
Throughout the park you’ll find memorials, sculptures, and plaques outlining FDR’s history. Four Freedoms Park is open daily from 9am-7pm and closed every Tuesday.
Go Fishing at Roosevelt Island Lighthouse
No stop to Roosevelt Island is complete without checking out the historic Lighthouse at the north end of the island. This 50-ft lighthouse was designed by the same architect of the Smallpox Hospital and was built by inmates of the penitentiary.
Today, it’s a great spot for fishing and taking in the views.
View the City From the Meditation Steps
After a day full of walking, the Meditation Steps are a great place to take a seat and relax. You’ll find these recently renovated steps on the west side of the island, overlooking the river and the Manhattan skyline.
View the Chapel of the Good Shepard
The Chapel of the Good Shepherd is another fascinating part of the island’s history. A quick stop here is a must to admire the architecture and stained glass windows. In the past, the chapel was used to serve the residents of the almshouses and today it is used as a community center.
Where to Eat on Roosevelt Island New York, NY
Although limited, there are several options as to where to eat on Roosevelt Island. However, I do still recommend packing a picnic to enjoy on the green spaces of the island and then checking out one of the following choices for dinner!
Anything At All
Anything At All is a quirky restaurant located inside The Graduate Hotel. They pride themselves on providing delicious food while focusing on seasonality, locality, and sustainability. You’ll see a wide variety of sandwiches, burgers, pastas, and other small plates on the menu while you admire the environment and walls lined with books.
Panorama Room
Also located inside The Graduate Hotel, The Panorama Room has the best views of the island. This rooftop bar is on the 18th floor of the hotel and is home to fun drinks, outdoor seating, and panoramic views. It’s the perfect place to end a fun-filled day on Roosevelt Island.
Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs
Does it get anymore “New York” than grabbing a delicious hot dog from a stand? Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog stand can be found just north of the tram station. You’ll find a variety of hot dogs and sides to choose from.
The Meditteranean Eatery
The ME is a fan-favorite among Roosevelt Island locals and visitors alike. The staff members are always friendly and helpful and the food is top notch. They even have picnic boxes if you forgot to pack your own!
Where to Stay on Roosevelt Island
Although you’ll have many more options of hotels on the mainland, if you have your heart set on staying on the island you do have one option. The Graduate Hotel is located on the Cornell Tech Campus, just south of the tram station.
Is Roosevelt Island Worth Visiting?
Yes! Roosevelt Island is definitely worth visiting. Although just 2 miles long, Roosevelt Island is chalked-full with adventures to fill a day. From admiring the views on the tram to walking from point to point, a trip to Roosevelt Island in New York, NY is a must.
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Final Thoughts
Roosevelt Island is a great place to visit for its history and magnificent views. Don’t sleep on visiting this one of a kind destination. As always, thank you for reading. Did you learn anything new or have any feedback? Would you visit Roosevelt Island? Let me know. Please comment below and don’t forget to subscribe here.
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Photo Credit
Thank you to Qianshan Weng, Benjamin Hanimann and William Justen de Vasconcellos for the photos on Roosevelt Island (I discovered their work on Unsplash.com). Make sure you check them out!
Disclosure
This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission. This commission comes at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.
Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. If you decide to take a trip, follow national and state guidelines, and of course the CDC when traveling.
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Even though I’m from the US, I haven’t been to New York before. Roosevelt Island would be a great place to visit if I do travel to New York!
Yes, it’s a great destination. Please come by and visit one day if you can!
Roosevelt Island is definitely going on my list of things to do when I finally get back to New York. I love islands and this one sounds like a lot of fun (and easy to get to).
I can’t wait for you to revisit and check it out. The views are unbeatable and it’s such a great escape from the hustle and bustle.
I love places like Roosevelt Island that have plenty of green areas to explore on food *and* that you get to use a novel form of transport like that tram to reach! It sounds like the trip there would be part of the whole adventure! 😀
p.s. Grabbing a picnic from the ME sounds great too!
It definitely was a great aspect of the trip and even better that there were plenty of walking areas. Definitely have your own picnic if you’re able to go!
The tram looks beautiful! What a lovely contrast with NYC!
It’s a great trip with beautiful views!
I’d love to visit Roosevelt Island one day! Sounds like a great way to spend a day in New York. Thanks for sharing all your recommendations!
I hope you’re able to visit one day and you’re welcome!
We have sadly missed Roosevelt Island on all our visits to NYC. It would be fun to take the tramway over. This looks like a great escape for a few hours. And love that there is a shuttle around the island too.
So sad to hear you missed it. Definitely visit on your return trip to NYC, you won’t regret it!
I love a good quirky restaurant. Thanks for the tips!
You’re welcome, thanks for reading!