How can you get a bird's eye view of Eastern Manhattan for only $2.25? The Roosevelt Island Tram is a unique New York City attraction that is unknown to many who are seasoned Manhattan visitors. Departing from Manhattan, the tram crosses over the East River to land on Roosevelt Island. The Roosevelt Island Tram is the cheapest way to see the Manhattan skyline, costing only one swipe a metro card. Simply by setting foot on Roosevelt Island, you'll be visiting a lesser known part of New York City that is missed by your average tourist. You may want to stay for a few hours to take in the small town feel of Roosevelt Island that is only a few minutes from Manhattan!
What to Expect
The Roosevelt Island tram station is located at the intersection 60th street and 2nd avenue in East Manhattan.
A one-way fair on the Roosevelt Island Tram only costs $2.25. You may purchase a metro card at the tram station. I would suggest purchasing a one day or seven day unlimited metro pass to any one visiting New York City.
The fastest and cheapest way to get around Manhattan is by subway, and the card can also be used for the Roosevelt Island Tram. (More information about the
MTA unlimited passes can be found at:
http://www.mta.info/metrocard/mcgtreng.htm). Expect to wait anywhere from five to fifteen minutes at the platform for the next tram to Roosevelt Island.
The waiting area is not enclosed, so dress appropriately!
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| View from the Roosevelt Island Tram |
Once the tram arrives, wait for the previous passengers to exit, and try to be one of the first in the tram if you want to sit down.
The best place to sit to take photos of Manhattan is in the rear of the tram. The ride itself only takes about five minutes, so have your camera ready as soon as it takes off. Be aware that your view will, at times, be obstructed by the
Queensboro Bridge. Once the tram arrives at Roosevelt Island, all riders must disembark, even if you plan on simply riding back to Manhattan. If you wish to further explore
Roosevelt Island, hop on one of the waiting red buses for only a quarter!
Just the Basics
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| Manhattan from Roosevelt Island |
- Location: The entrance to the tram from the Manhattan side is at 60th Street and 2nd Avenue.
- Cost: $2.25 one-way (same as a standard subway fare). You may use your MTA card to ride the tram.
- Advice: Be one of the first onto the tram so you don't have to stand.
- Website: The website for Roosevelt Island is http://www.rioc.com
