Roosevelt Island Visitors Guide: Attractions, Views & How to Explore NYC’s Hidden Gem
In 1975, Roosevelt Island in New York City was transformed from a home to multiple institutions into a thriving residential community. Since then, it’s gained several parks and memorials, and it also provides historical landmarks.
Although it’s located in the East River between Manhattan and Queens, it feels like it’s a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Furthermore, it offers one of the best NYC skyline views available.
In this visitors’ guide, you’ll learn all about Roosevelt Island and what makes it an attractive destination. Plus, we’ll clue you in on how to reach the island. Additionally, we’ll reveal the best way to get up close and personal without actually setting foot on the island.
Keep reading to learn why taking a jet ski tour of Roosevelt Island is a completely unforgettable experience.
Why Visit Roosevelt Island, New York?
New York City has plenty of popular destinations and landmarks. So, why should you prioritize a visit to Roosevelt Island? First off, going to Roosevelt Island is worth it for the incredible views alone.
You’ll be able to see the NYC skyline, Queensboro Bridge and East River like never before. Many tourists and locals search for the best way to see the skyline. Getting Roosevelt Island views is an easy way to accomplish this.
Another reason to spend a day on Roosevelt Island is that it offers a quieter alternative to typical Manhattan attractions. You’ll still technically be in the city, but you can relax and enjoy yourself without all the crowds.
Additionally, you’ll get to take in peaceful green spaces and see modern apartments and historic ruins. Even arriving on Roosevelt Island offers an iconic opportunity. After all, taking the Roosevelt Island Tramway ride over the East River offers a bird’s eye view of the surrounding areas.
Things to Do on Roosevelt Island
Despite only allowing residences for the past 50 years, Roosevelt Island has a long and interesting history. During much of the 19th and 20th centuries, it was an island full of hospitals, asylums, and prisons. In fact, its name was Welfare Island from 1921 to 1973.
Fortunately, NYC decided to change its image without eliminating the island’s historical significance. Some of the best things to do on Roosevelt Island include getting a glimpse of its history. Here are a few Roosevelt attractions to think about doing while you’re there.
Ride the Roosevelt Island Tramway
Providing the world’s most modern aerial tramway, this attraction is an absolute must-do, especially for first-time visitors. You’ll be taken across the East River and gain incredible views of Midtown. Rides currently cost $2.90 each way.
Visit Four Freedoms Park
Four Freedoms Park, designed by Louis I. Kahn, took its name from a speech delivered by President Roosevelt in 1941. Make your way to this park’s southern tip to view to see a stunning memorial for the late president.
Explore the Smallpox Hospital Ruins & The Octagon
The 19th century Smallpox Hospital is historic and haunting. It has a medieval appearance and ivy-covered ruins. Contrast this by checking out The Octagon, which is a luxury apartment building. Of course, it was once the New York City Lunatic Asylum that Nellie Bly wrote her groundbreaking book—Ten Days in a Mad-House—about. It also served as Metropolitan Hospital, which treated Titanic survivors.
Relax at Southpoint Park
This peaceful green space makes it easy to gaze upon unobstructed views of Manhattan and the UN Headquarters. The park takes up approximately 7 acres and is filled with native plants and flowers. It’s also where the Smallpox Hospital and Strecke
r Lab are located.
Walk or Bike the Island Loop
If you’d like to see everything the island has to offer, you can ride your bike, walk or jog the Island Loop. You’ll have 3.8 miles of paved promenade, which offers beautiful water views. Plus, you’ll have easy access to historic sites, parks, and shopping.
Attend Community Events or Discover Public Art
One of the many things that make Roosevelt Island special is its dedication to art and community events. Cultural events, rotating art displays, and family-friendly festivals happen all year long. Three annual festivals have earned acclaim: Roosevelt Island Cherry Blossom Festival, Roosevelt Island Film Festival, and Roosevelt Island Fall for Arts Festival.
Roosevelt Island Attractions with the Best Views
If you’re looking for the very best Roosevelt Island views, be sure to check out the Queensboro Bridge, which towers over the East River. Also, you’ll be able to get a breathtaking view of the Midtown Manhattan skyline, including the iconic Empire State Building. Plus, look directly across the river to catch a glimpse of the United Nations Headquarters.
As far as views on the island go, be sure to visit Four Freedoms Park. It offers a dramatic, minimalist design that delivers a must-see. Furthermore, take a scenic stroll along the East River promenade for a calm, relaxing experience.
How to Get to Roosevelt Island
If you’re wondering how to get to Roosevelt Island, you’re in luck because it’s super easy. Simply choose one of the following four routes:
- Roosevelt Island Tramway – This is by far the most exciting way to approach the island. The way the red gondola passes over the East River is dramatic and impressive enough on its own before you even reach Roosevelt Island.
- Subway – When in New York, why not do as New Yorkers do and ride the subway? Climb aboard the F-Train and ride it directly to Roosevelt Island.
- Ferry – The NYC Ferry goes to Roosevelt Island from a number of boroughs.
- Walk or Bike – Gain access to Roosevelt Island without any fees by crossing Roosevelt Island Bridge from Queens.
How Long is Roosevelt Island?
So, how long is Roosevelt IslandIf you may be wondering. If that’s the case, we’ve got good news. The entire island is just under 2 miles long, and it has a maximum width of 800 feet. In other words, it’s easy to take everything in during a single day. In fact, it only takes about 1.5 – 2 hours to walk around the entire island. If you prefer biking or jogging, you can see it all in approximately 1 hour. Of course, don’t forget to allow yourself some extra time to browse the island’s shops and dine in one of its restaurants.
See Roosevelt Island from the Water – On a Jet Ski Tour
NYC sightseeing by jet skiing is always a good time, but particularly if you’re planning to ride by Roosevelt Island. You can get a close-up view of Roosevelt Island from a jet ski that’s unlike any other. It’s a scenic way to take in all the green spaces and historic sights from the East River.
Explore Roosevelt Island and More with Sea the City Jet Ski Tours
Sea the City’s Roosevelt Island East River jet ski ride departs from Jersey City and cruises around iconic landmarks including the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and more.
On the Roosevelt Island ride, you’ll capture rare photo angles of the bridge, tram, and skyline from the water. Landmarks like Four Freedoms Park and the island’s historic ruins come into view, and you can snap panoramic shots of Roosevelt Island with Midtown Manhattan as your backdrop.
Getting There
Our Roosevelt Island jet ski tours launch from Liberty Landing Marina, located at 84 Audrey Zapp Dr, Jersey City, NJ. Also, we’re just 10 minutes from Manhattan when you take the Liberty Landing Ferry. Visitors can catch the ferry at Brookfield Place, near the 9/11 Memorial, for a quick 10–15 minute ride to Liberty Landing Marina.
Why Jet Skiing is the Best Way to See Roosevelt Island
As an adventurous and exciting alternative to taking a walking tour, you’ll have the ability to explore at your own pace. If you prefer to avoid crowds, this is the ideal way to experience Roosevelt Island. Plus, getting unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline and East River can’t be beat.
Taking this jet skiing trip is ideal for couples, travel photographers, and adventurers. Even if you have zero jet skiing experience, you’ll be equipped with the proper skills to ride past Roosevelt Island.
Who Should Visit Roosevelt Island (and Try a Jet Ski Tour)?
See Roosevelt Island and Queensboro Bridge views from a jet ski! You’ll get unique angles and be able to enjoy the island even more than people who set foot on it. People who should take a jet ski tour include:
- History buffs drawn to Roosevelt Island’s past
- NYC tourists seeking off-the-beaten-path attractions
- Couples looking for a unique, romantic outing
- Photographers and content creators
- Families with older kids and teens
Want the best Roosevelt Island view?
Skip the crowds and see Roosevelt Island from the water with a thrilling jet ski adventure.
Book Your Tour Today with Sea the City
One of NYC’s Best Lesser-Known Destinations
Enjoy the uniqueness of Roosevelt Island. You’ll get to learn about the island’s history, see its greenery, and gain unparalleled views of the city. You’ll find lots to explore, including the tram, parks, and memorials. For the most unforgettable experience, though, nothing compares to a jet ski tour. Sea the City gives you front-row access to NYC’s skyline and Roosevelt Island’s landmarks. Turn a simple visit into a thrilling adventure.
FAQs
Is Roosevelt Island worth visiting?
Absolutely! Enjoy this hidden NYC gem to take in unbeatable skyline views, scenic parks, and historic landmarks.
How do you get to Roosevelt Island?
You can access Roosevelt Island in four different ways. Via the Roosevelt Island Tramway, subway (F train), NYC Ferry, or by crossing the Roosevelt Island Bridge.
How long is Roosevelt Island?
Roosevelt Island is the perfect size for an afternoon of exploration. Its widest point is 800 feet, and it’s just under 2 miles long.
Can you see Roosevelt Island on a jet ski tour?
Yes! Sea the City’s jet ski tours always cruise down the East River, thus providing incredible views of Roosevelt Island, Midtown, and Queensboro Bridge.