Roosevelt Island Tramway
Soar above the East River for breathtaking Manhattan skyline views at the price of a subway ride. A unique and affordable NYC experience!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Roosevelt Island Tramway
Best Time
Golden hour magic
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Soar above the East River for breathtaking Manhattan skyline views at the price of a subway ride. A unique and affordable NYC experience!
"One of NYC's most scenic and underrated rides which connects Manhattan and Roosevelt Island."
💰 Use Your MetroCard
The tram accepts MetroCards, making it as affordable as a subway ride!
📸 Capture the Views
Hold your phone steady for the best shots of the skyline. Sunset is particularly stunning.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Manhattan Skyline Panorama
During the ride
Soar 250 feet above the East River for unparalleled views of the iconic Manhattan skyline.
+1East River Views
During the ride
Enjoy unique perspectives of the East River, bridges, and Roosevelt Island's waterfront.
Unique Commute Experience
Boarding station
Experience a truly unique way to travel, feeling like you're flying over the city.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Budget-Friendly NYC Views
+1Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Use Your MetroCard
The tram accepts MetroCards, making it as affordable as a subway ride!
📸 Capture the Views
Hold your phone steady for the best shots of the skyline. Sunset is particularly stunning.
⏰ Check the Schedule
Operating hours vary, so check the latest schedule before you go.
🚶♀️ Explore Roosevelt Island
Make a day of it! Roosevelt Island offers parks and unique architecture to discover.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Use Your MetroCard
The tram accepts MetroCards, making it as affordable as a subway ride!
📸 Capture the Views
Hold your phone steady for the best shots of the skyline. Sunset is particularly stunning.
⏰ Check the Schedule
Operating hours vary, so check the latest schedule before you go.
🚶♀️ Explore Roosevelt Island
Make a day of it! Roosevelt Island offers parks and unique architecture to discover.
🎬 Movie Magic
Spot filming locations from movies like Spider-Man!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Roosevelt Island Tramway for its incredible value, offering stunning panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline and East River at the price of a subway ride. It's praised as a unique, affordable, and scenic alternative to crowded observation decks, though some note it can get busy during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Manhattan, take the N, R, W, 4, 5, or 6 subway lines to Lexington Ave/59th St. The tram station is located at East 59th Street and 2nd Avenue.
The closest subway station is Lexington Ave/59th St, served by the N, R, W, 4, 5, and 6 trains.
Yes, the tramway also operates from Tramway Plaza on Roosevelt Island back to Manhattan.
The tram is generally accessible, but it's always a good idea to check with the MTA for the most up-to-date accessibility information.
Walking from Midtown East is quite feasible, or you can take a short subway ride to Lexington Ave/59th St.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Roosevelt Island Tramway costs the same as a single subway ride, which is currently $2.90 per trip. You can use your MetroCard or OMNY.
No, you can pay per ride using your MetroCard or OMNY contactless payment at the station.
The tram typically runs from early morning until late evening, with varying frequencies. It's best to check the official MTA schedule for exact times.
No, it is not free, but it is very affordable, costing the same as a subway fare.
Yes, unlimited MetroCards are accepted for rides on the Roosevelt Island Tramway.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Sunset and sunrise offer the most dramatic lighting for skyline photos. Evenings provide beautiful city lights.
You'll get stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, including the Chrysler Building and Empire State Building, as well as the Queensboro Bridge.
Yes, the large windows offer clear views. Try to hold your phone steady and avoid reflections if possible.
While the ride itself is the main attraction, the waterfront on Roosevelt Island offers great ground-level views back towards Manhattan.
Absolutely! Many creators share videos of their tram rides, capturing the dynamic city views.
ℹ️ 💡 General Tips
It's known for offering one of the most scenic and affordable aerial views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.
The ride itself is quite short, taking approximately four minutes one way.
While popular, it's often considered a hidden gem or underrated attraction compared to other NYC viewpoints.
Roosevelt Island offers parks, waterfront promenades, the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, and unique architecture.
Yes, unlimited ride MetroCards are valid for the Roosevelt Island Tramway.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It’s a much more engaging experience than a typical bus or subway ride. The short duration of the ride is perfect for shorter attention spans, and the incredible views offer plenty to point out and discuss. Pro-tip: Pack some snacks and drinks, as options on the tram itself are limited. Once on Roosevelt Island, there are parks and open spaces where kids can stretch their legs after the ride.
+1💰 Budget Travelers
+1 This makes it one of the most cost-effective ways to experience breathtaking panoramas of Manhattan. Maximize your savings by using your MetroCard or OMNY for payment.
Instead of paying for expensive observation decks, you get a dynamic, moving view that's constantly changing. Combine the tram ride with exploring Roosevelt Island itself, which has free public parks and waterfront areas, for a full day of affordable sightseeing. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Aim for sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting, and be prepared for the motion to get sharp shots. Don't just focus on the skyline; capture the East River, the Queensboro Bridge, and the urban landscape of Roosevelt Island.
Many creators on Instagram and TikTok share their best photo spots and tips, so a quick search can provide inspiration. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Unique NYC Commute
+1 It connects the residential community of Roosevelt Island to Manhattan, offering a daily commute that feels anything but ordinary. The tram travels 3,100 feet across the East River, providing a smooth and scenic journey. Many visitors are surprised to learn that the tram accepts the standard MetroCard, making it an incredibly budget-friendly way to experience breathtaking city views.
+1 This accessibility means you can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Manhattan skyline, the Queensboro Bridge, and the East River for the price of a single subway fare. It's a fantastic alternative to more expensive observation decks, offering a dynamic and ever-changing perspective of the city. Beyond its practical function, the tramway has also made its mark in popular culture, famously appearing in films like Spider-Man.
Riding it offers a unique glimpse into the daily lives of New Yorkers while simultaneously providing a tourist experience that feels both authentic and awe-inspiring. Whether you're a local looking for a different commute or a visitor seeking unforgettable views, the Roosevelt Island Tramway delivers.Capturing the Best Shots
+1 The large windows provide clear, unobstructed views, making it relatively easy to get stunning shots. Timing is key for the best photographic results. Many travelers recommend riding during sunrise or sunset to take advantage of the golden hour's warm, dramatic lighting.
The city lights twinkling to life in the evening also create a magical backdrop. Be prepared for the tram's movement; holding your phone or camera steady is crucial for sharp images. Consider shooting in burst mode or using a slightly faster shutter speed if possible.Beyond the skyline, don't forget to capture the East River itself, the intricate details of the Queensboro Bridge, and the waterfront of Roosevelt Island.
The journey back to Manhattan often provides a different, equally captivating view. Many visitors share their experiences and tips on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, showcasing creative angles and the best moments to capture. +2
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit