Attractions, New York, Parks & Recreation, USA

High in New York on the Roosevelt Island Tram

Catherine Sweeney
November 7, 2011

Quite by accident, I came across the Roosevelt Island Aerial Tramway in New York City.

Walking along Second Avenue at 59th Street, I saw the tram leaving a platform and heading out alongside the Queensboro Bridge. Intrigued by this new discovery, I bought a ticket and took the ride high over the East River to Roosevelt Island, a residential community with parks, schools, historic sites and scenic views. It’s a short, four minute ride as the tram travels at about 16 miles per hour and climbs to 250 feet.

From the west side of Roosevelt Island, there are wonderful vantage points for views of Midtown Manhattan, the Upper East Side and passing boats. On the east side, the borough of Queens is across the river.

It’s well worth the $2.25 fare to take a fun ride and explore a quiet, less crowded area of New York City.

"On the Roosevelt Island Tram Crossing Over 1st Avenue"

On the tram over First Avenue

Looking back at the platform at 59th Street and Second Avenue

East River and Roosevelt Island

Upper East Side from tram over the East River

Tram arriving at platform on Roosevelt Island (you many want to zoom in to see better)

Manhattan from Roosevelt Island

For more information: Roosevelt Island Tramway


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32 thoughts on “High in New York on the Roosevelt Island Tram”

    1. Cathy Post author

      Loved the views from the tramway — especially gliding over the traffic on First Ave. looking north.

    1. Cathy Post author

      Fida — definitely time to go back! I’m sure you’ll find that much has changed & think for the better!

    1. Cathy Post author

      Thanks, Nancie — one of the best things about traveling or exploring your own area is finding something new!

  6. Abby

    Wow! I lived in NYC for five years and never made it to Roosevelt Island. This is awesome! What a cool way to see the skyline.

    1. Cathy Post author

      I’m sure there’s a lot of people in NYC who haven’t been there. Since it’s a quiet residential area without restaurants, clubs, etc. I’m sure they don’t think of it as a place to go. But it really is a fun ride and great views from the island.

    1. Cathy Post author

      Hmmm.. maybe a little strange in that it’s so quiet yet so close to all of the Manhattan hustle and bustle. It did seem almost deserted when we were walking around. Great views there from there, however, and there’s some interesting history, too.

    1. Cathy Post author

      Thanks, Angela. I like that first photo, too. In fact, I’ve got a copy of it framed at home 🙂

  15. Jim

    Sorry Cathy, thought I had been across. Hey is that tramway really that high? Gee, those are magnificent shots, great perspective!

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