Roosevelt Island — Attraction in New York

Part of me wants to only give Roosevelt Island one star because that is where I live, and I'd like fewer tourists! Roosevelt Island is a national park that is set up to be a place for the pollinators to come.

Both on the North and South sides of the island, there are two different sightseeing locations. Roosevelt Island also houses the only ruins in New York City designated as a New York City landmark (Smallpox Hospital). There is also a cat sanctuary, located in two different locations on the island.

Generally, Roosevelt Island is a little slice of heaven in the middle of New York City. It is peaceful, beautiful, and generally clean. The more people that visit, the more disrespect for the land I see, i.e. garbage dropped on the ground, etc.

My main issue is the RIOC - the Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation. They do not seem to be maintaining the island, which they are tasked to do.

Vegetation grows quickly and immensely, such that it can create a breeding ground for potential infestations, like fleas. On the north side of the island, where the cat sanctuary is, it is completely overgrown ALL around their enclosure. There is one bench on the back of the soccer field that is being overrun with vegetation. It seems they only cut the trees once a year, and that is at the end of summer. Vegetation growth is unruly, so there is no way one cutting a year is sufficient.

There are significant portions of the riverwalk that clearly need repair, but nothing is being done. The pavement itself requires shoring up and has clearly and obviously grown weak in several areas. For an entire week, there was a large hole in the pavement. Outside of filling that hole, I have seen no work done.

There is also a ship-shaped pier that has been closed off for over a year. The area next to it has been taped off for the same amount of time. The ship is slowly falling apart, which you can see from the side. It appears that the entire corner there has questionable safety issues, yet nothing is being done about it, and it is the responsibility of the RIOC.

As a resident, I am concerned that the funds are being misused, as this island is dedicated to a former president, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, so it should be kept in...

I would recommend to visit on cloudy sunny day in Cherry Blossom Period (March-April). As I find it easy to roam around without sweat. Most people use tram (located on 59th Street Manhattan) which is farely in budget as it cost same as (F line)subway fare. Currently it's $2.75 and it is worth every penny. Tram gives you spectacular view of Manhattan & Roosevelt island. Though the true beauty lies in other parts of island. On the uptown direction you have the lighthouse and art work THE GIRL PUZZLE by Nellie Bly. There was a private wedding ceremony nearby the lighthouse and it was great sight. I felt delighted.

Most people don't reach upto this point as they are busy taking selfies in trampway area which is 1 of the beautiful place because of the cherry blossom.. but trust me there are better cherry blossom spots available across the island especially on loop rd (queen side) from tramway toward lighthouse direction.

On the Downtown direction, there is FDR 4 PARK. It is nicely paved and filled with full of monuments. There is a sunset viewing point as well. It gives nice view of Little river and manahattan. Start of spring time is also duckling and goosling time so enjoy the time looking at cute little ducks or gooses 🪿 (please maintain safe distance, especially hold your dogs not horses, they are sort of curious and chase them put lease on them). Small pox hospital from 18th century is preserved, though you are now allowed to enter because of unstable structure but just to stand next to it is an amazing feeling.

City rental bicycles are available to roam around. Overall a good experience, they have great staff, very supportive. Park does not allow scooter, bicycles or any vehicle. Staff I interacted was very funny and supporting. He allowed me to keep the scooter inside his cabin so it won't...

sandwiched between Manhattan and Queens, opt for Tram ride to reach there

It lies between Manhattan Island to its west and the borough of Queens, on Long Island, to its east. It is politically part of the borough of Manhattan, Spanning 2 miles and almost 40 city blocks from 46th to 85th street, this small island is often (literally) overshadowed by the Queensboro bridge which passes right above it.

The island is home to one of the city’s oldest houses, the Blackwell House. The house is technically the 6th oldest in the city, built in 1796. Basically, this island was home of city’s most ill, several hospitals and lunatic asylums. The Octagon, which originally served as the entrance to the lunatic asylum is still standing today. On the west side, The walk along the river just south of the Tram station is also cool, especially right now with those trees turning white and pink. With no urban planning to speak of, it's a mix of old and new; bleak, tall buildings and serene, empty spaces; great views and mediocre shopping. Beautiful Four Freedoms National Park which hosts a season of events including free yoga, concerts, book readings, public talks, and even kite flying. The season runs from May to October. Some of the building still tagged as haunted. There is a walking trail you can explore that loops around the tip of the island. You can see the old insane asylums and prisons - untouched and spooky

It is accessible by the F and E trains but the best part of the Island is getting there and it is Tram ride from E 60th Street and 2nd Avenue

PS: Never go there on some festivals days. I went there on the cherry blossom festival (14-Apr-19) and it was horrible. There was 1-2 hours line for tram/subway. I left the island by 5 in the evening and I was shocked to see the crowd at the...