Roosevelt Island: The Hidden Gem of NYC

Nestled along the East River, just a short distance from Manhattan and Queens, Roosevelt Island is one of New York City's most unique and overlooked destinations. This small, 2-mile-long island has transformed over the years from a site of hospitals and prisons to a thriving residential and cultural hub. With its peaceful environment, stunning views, and fascinating history, Roosevelt Island is truly one of NYC’s hidden gems.

A Brief History of Roosevelt Island

Roosevelt Island has a rich and intriguing history. The island was originally called Blackwell Island after the Blackwell family, who owned the island in the 1600s. Over the years, it served a variety of purposes, including as a site for a hospital, almshouse, and prison. In the 19th century, the Smallpox Hospital (designed by architect James Renwick Jr., who also designed St. Patrick’s Cathedral) was built on the island. Today, it stands as one of the island’s most iconic landmarks.

In the 20th century, the island became home to a mental health facility and a nursing home, before being rebranded as Roosevelt Island in honor of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who was born nearby. Since the 1970s, Roosevelt Island has seen significant residential and commercial development, but it has maintained a charming, tranquil atmosphere that's quite distinct from the bustling streets of Manhattan.

Things to Do on Roosevelt Island

While small in size, Roosevelt Island offers a wealth of activities, historical landmarks, and unique experiences that make it well worth a visit:

Take the Roosevelt Island Tramway
One of the most iconic ways to get to the island is by taking the Roosevelt Island Tramway, which provides a thrilling aerial view of the city. The tram runs from Manhattan’s Upper East Side, crossing the East River, offering spectacular views of Central Park, East River bridges, and the city skyline. It's a quick 3-minute ride but offers a whole new perspective of New York City.

Explore the Southpoint Park
For those seeking a serene escape, Southpoint Park offers beautiful green space with views of the Brooklyn Bridge, Governors Island, and Lower Manhattan. Located at the southern tip of the island, the park is an ideal place to relax and enjoy a picnic or simply take in the views of the river and skyline. The park also features some public art installations and plenty of open space for outdoor activities.

Visit the Roosevelt Island Historical Society
To learn more about the island’s history, stop by the Roosevelt Island Historical Society. The society offers exhibits that highlight the island's rich past, including its use as a site for hospitals and prisons, as well as the history of its residential development. The Red Brick Building (the island’s former hospital building) is another must-see, as it showcases a fascinating part of the island’s past.

Stroll through Four Freedoms Park
One of the island’s most remarkable features is Four Freedoms Park, dedicated to President Franklin D. Roosevelt and designed by architect Louis Kahn. The park, which opened in 2012, is a stunning tribute to FDR’s legacy and features an open, minimalist design. At the center of the park is a 10-foot-tall granite bust of Roosevelt, which faces the United Nations headquarters. Visitors can reflect on the four freedoms Roosevelt championed: freedom of speech, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear, while enjoying the sweeping views of Manhattan and Governors Island.

Smallpox Hospital Ruins
One of the most fascinating landmarks on Roosevelt Island is the Smallpox Hospital, a stunning Gothic-style building that dates back to the 1850s. Although it’s no longer operational, the building is one of the island's most photographed sites due to its eerie beauty. Though the hospital itself is not open to the public, visitors can still admire its impressive architecture from the outside, and its haunting, yet fascinating history is a must-learn for history buffs.

Rent a Bike or Go for a Walk
Roosevelt Island is pedestrian-friendly and offers bike rentals for those who want to explore the island at a leisurely pace. You can ride or walk along the Roosevelt Island Promenade, a scenic waterfront path that provides views of the East River and the Queensboro Bridge. Whether you're cycling, jogging, or simply strolling, the quiet paths on the island make it the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Dining and Refreshments

While Roosevelt Island is mostly residential, there are a few cozy cafes and restaurants that offer a pleasant dining experience. For a delicious and scenic meal, try Riverwalk Bar & Grill, which overlooks the river and serves a variety of American dishes. Another local favorite is The Trellis Restaurant, which offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and has a lovely outdoor patio where you can enjoy your meal while taking in the views of the East River.

Getting to Roosevelt Island

Getting to Roosevelt Island is easy, and there are several ways to access it:

Roosevelt Island Tramway: As mentioned earlier, the Tramway is a unique and scenic way to get to the island from Manhattan’s Upper East Side. It’s an iconic and fun way to start your visit!
Ferry: You can also take the NYC Ferry from Astoria in Queens or from Manhattan to Roosevelt Island. The ferry offers a pleasant ride and beautiful views of the waterfront.
Subway: The Q subway line also has a stop on Roosevelt Island, making it easy to get there by public transit. The island’s subway station is located near the Roosevelt Island Bridge, which connects the island to Queens.

A Peaceful Escape in the Heart of NYC

While Manhattan, Brooklyn, and other boroughs grab most of the spotlight, Roosevelt Island is a peaceful sanctuary that offers a calm and picturesque escape from the city’s fast-paced lifestyle. Whether you’re taking in the stunning views, exploring the island’s history, or enjoying the beautiful parks, Roosevelt Island provides a unique experience that shouldn’t be missed. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime New Yorker, Roosevelt Island remains one of NYC's best-kept secrets, offering a truly hidden gem in the heart of the city.