Soaring 250 feet above the East River, the Roosevelt Island Tramway is New York City’s only aerial cable car, offering a quick, scenic ride between Manhattan and Roosevelt Island. Whether you’re a tourist chasing breathtaking skyline views or a local looking for a unique commute, this tramway is a must-try. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about costs, tickets, prices, schedules, and the tramway itself—made simple and easy planning.
What Is the Roosevelt Island Tramway?
The Roosevelt Island Tramway is a modern aerial cable car system that connects Manhattan’s Upper East Side (at 2nd Avenue and 59th Street) to Roosevelt Island, a narrow strip of land in the East River between Manhattan and Queens. Opened in 1976, it was the first commuter cable car in the U.S. and has since carried over 26 million passengers. The tram runs parallel to the Queensboro Bridge, offering panoramic views of Midtown Manhattan, the East River, and iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building.
Fun Fact: The tram has appeared in films like Spider-Man (2002) and Now You See Me (2013), making it a pop culture icon!
Cost and Tickets
Riding the Roosevelt Island Tramway is affordable and uses the same fare system as NYC’s subway and buses. Here’s the breakdown:
- Single Ride Cost: $3.00 (same as a subway fare).
- Payment Methods: Use a MetroCard or OMNY (contactless payment via credit/debit card or mobile wallet).
- Unlimited MetroCard: If you have a 7-day or 30-day unlimited MetroCard, your tram ride is included at no extra cost.
- Children: Up to three children 44 inches tall or under ride free when accompanied by a paying adult. Kids taller than 44 inches pay full fare.
Note: You must pay for each direction of travel (Manhattan to Roosevelt Island and back). MetroCards can be purchased at subway stations or tram terminals, and OMNY readers are available at turnstiles.
Pro Tip: Use an unlimited MetroCard for multiple rides to save money if you’re exploring NYC extensively!
Roosevelt Island Tram Schedule and Hours
The tram operates daily with frequent service, making it a reliable option for commuters and sightseers. Here’s the schedule:
Pro Tip: Ride during off-peak hours (mid-morning or early afternoon) for a less crowded experience and better photo ops!
- Regular Hours:
- Sunday–Thursday: 6:00 AM–2:00 AM
- Friday–Saturday: 6:00 AM–3:30 AM
- Frequency:
- Peak Hours (Monday–Friday, 7:00 AM–10:00 AM and 3:00 PM–8:00 PM): Every 7.5 minutes.
- Non-Peak Hours: Every 15 minutes.
- Holidays: On major holidays (New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Day), the tram runs on a rush-hour schedule (every 7.5 minutes).
Each ride takes about 4–5 minutes, and the tram’s two cabins (each holding up to 125 passengers) run back and forth, meeting halfway. For real-time updates, check the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC) website or social media.
The Roosevelt Island Tramway offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and East River.
Getting to the Roosevelt Island Tramway
The Manhattan station is located at 2nd Avenue and 59th Street, easily accessible by public transit or on foot:
- By Subway: Take the N, Q, R, 4, 5, or 6 trains to Lexington Avenue/59th Street or the F train to 59th Street. The tram station is a short walk from these stops.
- By Foot: From the Plaza Hotel (5th Avenue and 59th Street), walk east along 59th Street for about 20 minutes, passing Lexington Avenue and Bloomingdale’s.
- Accessibility: Both Manhattan and Roosevelt Island stations are wheelchair-accessible with elevators.
On Roosevelt Island, the tram station is at Tramway Plaza, near the island’s Main Street. A free Red Bus shuttle meets the tram and loops the island for easy exploration.
Tips for an Amazing Tramway Experience
- Best Views: On the way to Roosevelt Island, stand at the rear of the tram on the right side (Queensboro Bridge side) for skyline views. On the return, stand at the front on the left side.
- Photo Spots: Capture the tram “parking” at the Manhattan station from 2nd Avenue or snap skyline shots from Roosevelt Island’s Four Freedoms Park.
- Explore the Island: Don’t rush back! Visit landmarks like the Blackwell House, Smallpox Hospital ruins, or the serene Four Freedoms Park.
- Weather Check: Clear days offer the best visibility, but the tram is air-conditioned and heated for comfort year-round.
Why Ride? For just $3, you get a mini-adventure with unmatched NYC views—cheaper than any observation deck and way more unique!
Why the Roosevelt Island Tramway Stands Out
Unlike typical NYC transit, the Roosevelt Island Tramway blends practicality with awe-inspiring scenery. It’s a budget-friendly way to see the city from a new angle, whether you’re commuting or sightseeing. With its frequent service, easy payment options, and accessibility, it’s no wonder locals and tourists alike love this hidden gem.
Ready to ride? Grab your MetroCard, head to 2nd Avenue, and soar above the East River for an unforgettable NYC experience!
Read more: https://rioc.ny.gov/302/Tram
