Manhattan's little, quieter island and beyond
With the opening of FDR Four Freedoms Park, then Cornell Tech, interest in Roosevelt Island soared. Soon, the Tram, New York City’s cheapest big thrill, caught travelers’ attention too.
Courtesy of The Roosevelt Island Daily News
What does the Roosevelt Island Tram cost? Although not managed by the MTA, the Tram operates within the New York City Subway MetroCard and OMNY systems. With OMNY, any internet ready credit card works with a single touch.
Transfers are easy between systems. You swipe a MetroCard at turnstiles in either Tram Plaza. Buy MetroCards at either location. Fares are now $2.90 per single ride, the same as MTA Subways and Buses. That includes one free transfer within the MTA system.
Where is the Roosevelt Island Tram? The most popular access point is the Tram Plaza on 2nd Avenue, between East 59th and East 60th Streets. Closest subway access is from the N, R and W station one block west at 3rd Avenue. Also, one block farther west is the 4, 5 and 6 59th Street station on Lexington near Bloomingdale’s. Q32 and M102 buses also stop within a block of the Tram. Reach the Roosevelt Island Tram by F Train, one block north. You can also take the Q102 Bus or NYC Ferry. Both have stops next to the Tram Plaza.
How long does the Roosevelt Island Tram take? The Tram glides alongside the Queensboro Bridge for roughly four minutes. Times vary a little as the cabins speed up or slow down, depending on need. Cabins rise 250 feet. The city spreads out on all sides. Views are great anytime, but nighttime rides are spectacular.
When is the Roosevelt Island Tram open? First cabins sweep skyward at 6:00 a.m and run at 15 minute intervals until 2:00 a.m. They run twice as often, every 7 1/2 minutes, during rush hours when demand is high. Rush hours occur, for example, when the subway is down or there is a special event. If possible, visitors should avoid rush hours when cabins can be cramped. You’re better off waiting for a better experience. The view is also better when local residents aren’t using the Tram to get to and from work. RIOC Red Buses offer free rides to most Island locations.
It doesn’t happen often, but Tram travel is suspended during thunderstorms or when winds are very high.
How do I get around Roosevelt Island? Roosevelt Island, from north to south between channels of the East River, is just two miles long. It’s an easy walk to Shops on Main in the heart of town. You can also visit many historic sites. There are small parks sprinkled throughout the Island. Additionally, you can visit FDR Four Freedoms Park and Cornell Tech.
As unique as the Tram, free, full size RIOC Red Buses carry passengers to all points. Just watch for frequent red signs and catch a free ride. The buses, like the Tram, are run by the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation.
The Roosevelt Island Tram was built and operating in 1976. The modern community, envisioned as the City of Tomorrow, welcomed its first permanent residents. It was planned as a temporary solution until a subway connection was built.
But construction lagged. By the time the local Subway Station opened in 1989, the Tram was a beloved local fixture. Residents put up a fierce fight, and finally, they won the battle. They saved the treasured system.
Eventually, New York State rebuilt the entire system, except the towers, replacing everything else with newer, more reliable technologies.
Tourists flock to the Tram, which never disappoints, but visitors experiences increase during off-peak hours. Residents rely on the Tram for commuting, and the cabins tend to overcrowding in rush hours.
Quick Tip: However you find your way to Roosevelt Island, be smart. Stop by the Historical Society’s Kiosk. It is in the Tram Plaza on Main Street. Find souvenirs, maps and refreshments along with helpful suggestions and answers from a knowledgeable staff.
Founder & Euro Editor
