Roosevelt Island Tram: A Unique NYC Experience

The Roosevelt Island Tramway offers a truly unique perspective on New York City, providing a scenic aerial journey across the East River. Far from your typical commute, this cable car system connects the bustling borough of Manhattan to the tranquil Roosevelt Island, offering breathtaking panoramic views that are often missed by those sticking to the ground. If you're looking for an experience that combines practical transport with memorable sightseeing, the Roosevelt Island Tram is an absolute must-do.

What is the Roosevelt Island Tramway?

The Roosevelt Island Tramway is an aerial tramway that spans the East River, linking Midtown Manhattan with Roosevelt Island. Often described as a 'hidden gem' of New York City, it's more than just a mode of transport; it's an experience in itself. This modern aerial tramway operates on a regular schedule, whisking passengers across the water in a matter of minutes. The journey provides unparalleled vistas of the Manhattan skyline, the East River, and Roosevelt Island itself, making it a popular choice for both tourists and locals seeking a different way to travel and see the city.

The Journey: What to Expect

The ride itself is remarkably swift, taking approximately four minutes to complete the journey from Manhattan to Roosevelt Island. As the tram ascends, you'll be treated to increasingly spectacular views. The iconic skyline of Manhattan stretches out before you, with landmarks like the Chrysler Building and the United Nations Headquarters often visible. The East River flows beneath, dotted with various vessels, and the growing expanse of Roosevelt Island comes into view. The tram cabins are spacious, designed to hold up to 109 people, and offer large windows for unobstructed viewing. It truly feels like you're gliding through the air, suspended between two distinct parts of the city.

How to Access the Roosevelt Island Tram

Getting to the Manhattan station is straightforward. The entrance is conveniently located at 60th Street and Second Avenue on Manhattan's Upper East Side. For those relying on public transport, the closest subway stations are:

• Lexington Av/59 St (Lines 4, 5, 6)
• Lexington Av/63 St (Lines F, Q)

Once you arrive at the station, you can simply walk up and pay for your journey. The tram resembles a ski gondola, and the boarding process is efficient. You can use your MetroCard to pay for the fare, which is a significant advantage for those with an Unlimited MetroCard, as the ride is included at no extra cost.

Fares and Ticketing

The standard fare for a single ride on the Roosevelt Island Tram is currently $2.90. This fare can be paid using a regular MetroCard. A key benefit for Unlimited MetroCard holders is that the tram fare is covered. This means if you have an Unlimited MetroCard for the subway, you can ride the tram without any additional charges. It's worth noting that children under 44 inches (112 cm) can ride for free when accompanied by a fare-paying adult, with up to three children per adult. Children taller than 44 inches will require a full fare ticket.

Operating Hours

The Roosevelt Island Tram operates seven days a week, with slightly different hours for weekdays and weekends:

The frequency of the tram also varies. Typically, the tram runs every 15 minutes. However, during peak hours, this frequency increases to every 7.5 minutes to accommodate higher passenger volumes.

Avoiding the Crowds: Best Times to Visit

Given its popularity, the Roosevelt Island Tram can get quite busy, especially during peak times. If you prefer a more relaxed experience with shorter queues, it's advisable to avoid the tram during:

• Weekends
• Weekdays between approximately 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM (rush hour)

Mornings and weekdays outside of the typical commuting hours tend to be less crowded. An excellent tip to potentially avoid queues is to save the tram ride for your return journey. You can take the subway (Line F) from Manhattan to Roosevelt Island first. Explore the island, and then board the tram for your return trip to Manhattan. This way, you might find yourself among the first in line for the tram, and crucially, the tram will be facing Manhattan, offering an even more impressive view.

What to Do on Roosevelt Island

Roosevelt Island itself offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. A recommended activity is to take a leisurely walk along the riverfront. Head towards the river and turn left from the tram station. You'll find numerous benches perfect for sitting and enjoying the stunning views of Manhattan across the water. It's an ideal spot for relaxation and photography. Along your walk, you might encounter interesting historical sites, such as the ruins of the old Smallpox Hospital, and the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, which features a prominent bust of the former US President. The island provides a tranquil contrast to the energy of Manhattan.

Returning to Manhattan

After enjoying your time on Roosevelt Island, you have several options to return to Manhattan. You can, of course, use the tram again. Alternatively, there's a subway station conveniently located behind the tram station on Roosevelt Island, between the first apartment buildings. From here, you can catch the F train, which will take you back to Manhattan. Another option is the NYC Ferry, which docks on the east side of the island. This ferry service first stops at Long Island City before continuing its journey to Manhattan, offering yet another scenic route back.

Accessibility

The Roosevelt Island Tramway is committed to accessibility. Both the tram cabins and the stations in Manhattan and on Roosevelt Island are wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all passengers can enjoy the experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Unlimited MetroCard on the Roosevelt Island Tram?

Yes, if you have an Unlimited MetroCard, your fare is covered, and you can ride the tram without any additional cost.

How long does the tram ride take?

The journey across the East River takes approximately four minutes.

What are the operating hours of the tram?

The tram runs from 6:00 AM to 2:00 AM Sunday through Thursday, and from 6:00 AM to 3:30 AM on Fridays and Saturdays.

Is the tram accessible for wheelchairs?

Yes, the tram and its stations are fully wheelchair accessible.

What's the best way to avoid crowds?

Try to visit during weekday mornings or avoid weekends and weekday evenings (4 PM - 7 PM). An alternative is to take the subway to Roosevelt Island first and use the tram for your return journey to Manhattan.

In conclusion, the Roosevelt Island Tramway is a delightful and efficient way to travel between Manhattan and Roosevelt Island. It offers stunning views, a unique perspective of the city, and a practical transport solution, especially for those with an Unlimited MetroCard. Whether you're a tourist seeking iconic cityscapes or a local looking for a different commute, the tram provides a memorable experience that's well worth incorporating into your New York City adventures.