Thursday, September 13, 2012

A Ride On the Roosevelt Island Tram


Roosevelt Island is a mixed income, racially diverse, waterfront community around two miles long, situated in the East River of New York City between Manhattan and Queens. It is jurisdictionally a part of the borough of Manhattan


The Roosevelt Island Aerial Tramway was constructed in 1976 to provide transportation to and from the island and midtown Manhattan.  I never rode the tram before, so a friend and I decided we would take a round trip one day just for the experience.  The day we went was misty and threatening rain, but we went anyway.  We first drove to Queens and then went over the Roosevelt Island Bridge to Roosevelt Island


As you can see, the Roosevelt Island Tram runs on cable above the East River alongside the Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge.  In a few months this will be one of the bridges the NYC Marathoners will be running across during the race.


A photo mosaic of some of the sights of the tram station.


On line as the next tram arrives.


All aboard!  The price to ride is the same as a one way ride on a New York City bus or subway: $2.25 paid by swiping a pre purchased Metro Card at a turnstile.



There are a few seats in the tram cab,  but the ride is only around five minutes long, so most passengers stand.



According to Wikipedia: Over 26 million passengers have used the tram since it began operation in 1976. Each cabin has a capacity of up to 110 people and makes approximately 115 trips per day. The tram moves at about 17.9 mph (28.8 km/h) and travels 3,100 feet (940 m) in 3 minutes. At its peak it climbs to 250 feet (76 m) above the East River as it follows its route on the north side of the Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge, providing views of the East Side of midtown Manhattan. Two cabins make the run at fifteen minute intervals from 6:00 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. (3:30 a.m. on weekends) and continuously during rush hours




The view of the East River looking north from the tram....



... the view looking south.



A far away view of the Crysler Building on the left, the Empire State Building on the right



Our tram begins to approach the station.  The ride is very smooth and not at all scary. I hardly felt like I was moving and enjoyed the view! You can watch a Youtube video of a round trip ride on this link if you'd likethat will show you how quick and pleasant the ride is.



Getting closer to the Manhattan 59th Street station....


...and even closer.


My friend and I had to depart the tram and leave through the turnstile, as the trip back had to be paid for separately.  We then waited on the platform a few minutes for the next tram back to Roosevelt Island.


While we waited I took these photos of old time New York City--ivy covered townhouses, water towers, and a vintage sign painted on the side of a building. (all photos will enlarge when clicked on once and then again, as they did in the past, as I disabled the lightbox feature on my blog)


After a few minutes the tram back to Roosevelt Island begins to approach.



Getting closer...


Time to re-board.


A view of midtown Manhattan from the tram, looking north..lots of traffic, as always, on 2nd Avenue!


A good look of the Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge, that connects the borough of Queens to Manhattan


You can see a Manhattan bound tram at the top of the tower in the photo above.


A view of Roosevelt Island looking north from the tram.....


...and a view of the island looking south from the tram.


Two children were in the tram, accompanied by their nanny, and they excitedly chattered the whole ride as they looked out the window.


The speedboat going by on the river below had their attention, and mine!


Back to the Roosevelt Island Tram station.


The lamp post sign says: "Roosevelt Island--A fresh look at the Big Apple." In my next post I'lL show you more of the island.

I hope you enjoyed riding the Roosevelt Island Tram along with me--it was fun, wasn't it? I have a lot more of New York City to show on my blog before I move to Colorado.  We recently put our house on the local real estate market and although I'm hoping it sells quickly I know it is a buyers market right now, so I'm taking it one day at a time and continuing to de-clutter as I wait. My house has never looked so good and I am determined to stay simplified when I do move. Thanks again for all your moving tips--I printed them all out and they have been, and will be, very helpful!  Thank you also for your kind and sensitive comments on my 9/11 Memorial post.  It is a very emotional day for us and we will always honor those who were lost and never forget.




I'm linking this post to Seasonal SundayBlue MondayMosaic MondayOur World Tuesday,  Outdoor WednesdayAlphabe Thursday.

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70 comments:

Old Kitty said...

Gosh - just read the wikepedia link about Roosevelt Island! How interesting, thank you! Looking at your pic of the island my first thought was, is it a real island or a constructed one and of course it's very real! It's just in the most amazing place - a sort of sliver of land snaking itself between two main bits! And what a history! A prison island, lunatic asylum place...!!! And probably the only place in the US that's "car-free"!!

The tram ride looks like fun - you get such wonderful views! I love the contrast between the excited children loving the views and the ride and world weary "done this ride a million times" commuters too!

Another amazing slice of NYC brought to life!! I thing the

Good luck with your house sale!! It's really happening!! You're leaving NYC!!

Take care
x

Pamela Gordon said...

I really enjoyed this post! What an interesting ride across the river. I look forward to your post about Roosevelt Island. I am going to NYC in mid-Nov. and am wondering what the weather is usually like. What type of coat do I need? Can you help? Thanks Pat.

Barbara F. said...

I enjoyed this post, as I have never ridden the tram and really doubt I ever will. The views were spectacular on a cloudy foggy day, I can only imagine on a sunny one. I didn't know they added Ed Koch's name to the bridge either, some lame New Yorker I am. I always run away from the city, never in. My bad :) xo

Ciao Chow Linda said...

Pat - I always say I'm going to ride that tram and never seem to get around to it. You're making me want to do it more than ever.

Vee said...

I learned something new...never have heard of Roosevelt Island I'm ashamed to say. Looking forward to seeing more of the island. It may be a buyer's market, but there's only so much market in NYC. Right? All the best!

~Lavender Dreamer~ said...

I feel like I've ridden the tram with you...you make it seem so real to all of us. I've enjoyed your photos of NYC but I'm excited for you to move out West, too! Life is good!

ellen b. said...

I have never visited New York properly. Someday I hope to do that. Love the tram ride with you. I especially like the ivy covered buildings!

eileeninmd said...

Great post, Pat! I loved the views from the tram, especially the shots of the river. Wonderful photos, have a great weekend!

Liz, Karl, Madison, Brooklyn, Aubrey and Zachary said...

It is always fun to see something new and that was all new to me. Portland, Oregon has a tram that goes from a hospital to a medical building because they are not on the same driving level (one is up a hill with no close roads). Interesting.

Liz, Karl, Madison, Brooklyn, Aubrey and Zachary said...

Sorry, Pat. The comment above was from me. My kids had been using my computer and I didn't realize they were logged in.

Linda said...

I feel like I was experiencing this myself as I 'traveled' through your post! You can see and I'm sure FEEL the excitement and energy of living in such an awesome city!

Now you are on a NEW adventure!!!
I LOVE Colorado!! Can't wait to see the posts you do from there.

God bless you as you make this big change in your life. Change is a GOOD thing! Right??!

podso said...

Lovely photos! The car is so bright and red! Thanks for posting all the wonderful photos, I'm guessing you are quite torn between packing and organizing and wanting to squeeze the most out of your last months in the city. Keep looking forward!

Sarah said...

Thanks for the ride, Pat........Sarah

Linda said...

What fun! You got some great pictures!!How are things going with the move? Have a great evening!!

Judy said...

Most interesting...and great photos as always! I look forward to learning more about Roosevelt Island.

Ola said...

this way of travelling looks very original to me:)

Blog about life and travelling
Blog about cooking

My name is Riet said...

What a fun day you had with your friend. Taking the rides and photographing at the same time. Your photo's show s much of beautiful New York.
Have a wonderful weekend.

Anonymous said...

I love that house all covered in grass!

Tracy said...

WOW... you know I didn't know much about this, so between your detailed post & Wiki link, I've learned so much today! Love seeing the views from the tram. :o) Happy Weekend, Path ((HUGS))

Dianne said...

the light in most of your photos is so amazing
I can hardly wait to see how you shoot Colarodo

I haven't been on the Tram in ages

Anonymous said...

I love visiting here with you,you always take us on such great adventures.I will miss NYC when you move,but I know there is more adventures ahead in Colorado.

Amanda Jones said...

you must be psychic! this is on my list of things to do in a few weeks when we come up there. i don't know anyone that's ever been on it or recommended it so i'm very glad to read this. thank you!!

Sharon Lovejoy said...

Hi Dear,

This is the THIRD time I've tried to leave you a comment.

I wanted to thank you for really helping to familiarize us with your Big Apple. It is wonderful learning about so much in a city that once intimidated me.

Thanks for your words about my Luke. Today I finally got to see him with his eyes open! What a joy.

Sending good thoughts,

Sharon

Sharon Lovejoy said...

OF COURSE, we'll still love you when you move to Colorado. Oh gosh, that valley is BEAUTIFUL.

Yes, grandkids are THE BEST and worth the move. Your life will change and be so much richer in every way.

S

SavoringTime in the Kitchen said...

What a fun ride! You know you're going to have to come back to NYC once in a while to show your grands the sights :)

Carol said...

I always liked to see the trams when we'd go over the 59th Street Bridge, but I never went in one. Always went shopping instead :) Looks like a fun time. The views are magnificent!

pam said...

I LOVE those buildings so covered by ivy. I know nothing about that island...will have to go check out your links. Have a great weekend!

Pat @ Mille Fiori Favoriti said...

Thanks everyone! Roosevelt Island is primarily residential, so it isn't usually a typical destination, but riding the tram was fun!

Linda (More Fun Less Laundry) said...

Hi Pat! I'm so going to miss your NYC posts!! I have never ridden the tram either. Isn't it funny what we don't do when we aren't a tourist? I would like to do this someday. Need to have some out of town guests to get me going! I did not know that bridge was renamed for Ed Koch. I am still saying Triboro because RFK doesn't trip off the tongue as easily. Oh well. I know where I'm going, usually. When I was working in NY I had an office friend who lived on Roosevelt Island. If the tram wasn't running he had a bit of a problem getting to work, but I think it's more reliable now. Your pictures of the neighborhood are wonderful and I'm so glad you turned off the lightbox feature. I like to click to enlarge the photos! Hope your sale moves along. We are still in a real estate rut up here, but the agents say things are improving! I'll send good thoughts and prayers for your house. It's not easy to live with your home on the market, I know. Linda

Anonymous said...

I'll definitely have to take a tram ride the next time in am in NY. Isn't it funny that our homes never look so good as when we have them listed for sale.

Paula's Postings said...

Terry and i rode the tram when we were in NY last month. We spent a good couple of hours on the island, you get some great views of the UN building. Fab photo's Pat.

Mary said...

Pat~ What a scenic and fun ride! I was wondering if it was scary or not :) I just read your good news about your daughter and your move to Colorado! You'll still be my favorite NYC tour guide :)

diane b said...

A great new perspective of NYC. I'll miss getting to know it when you leave but then I'm looking forward to learning about Colorado. Good luck with your house sale. It is a shame that after living in the one place for so many years and now that you need to move the market is not good. That happened to us when we last moved 20 years ago.

Kim, USA said...

Love that ride and didn't know there is a tram like that in NYC. ^_^ Thanks for sharing.


Kim,USA

Judith @ Lavender Cottage said...

It was like being on the tram with you Pat and a nice view of the river. I'm glad you decided to take the trip and share it with us.
Judith

A Bit of the Blarney said...

Thanks for the tour!!! As always so very well done!!! Cathy

Trotter said...

Hi Pat! It’s great to be back and enjoy your posts!!
Lovely journey!! It's incredible, but though I've been so many times in NYC, and many as a tourist, and I often stayed midtown at 56th and Park, I never made it to the Roosevel Island... Great to see it through your eyes...

Blogtrotter Two is now in Dominica. Enjoy the rain :-) and have a great week!

Jill Harrison said...

Well there you go! I never knew there was an island in the middle - Roosevelt Island - the things you learn by blogging! thank you for taking me there and for the ride!
Have a wonderful week. I am linking up to you through Mosaic Monday.

SmilingSally said...

New York has so much to offer. This tram ride looks like fun, and the price is reasonable. Thanks for sharing your blues.

(I fixed your link.)

Happy Blue Monday, Pat.

Unknown said...

Dear Pat have not been by for awhile. I feel like I could come there and get around just from your blogs. Just hearing about your move to Colorado. Gonna miss these NYC posts. Blessings
QMM

Gardening in a Sandbox said...

I would be nervous as I don't like heights but I could see some wonderful views and pictures to take. Thanks for sharing this with us. Valerie

RobinfromCA said...

I didn't know you were moving to Colorado! I can't imagine you not being in NY! I love that you're going around to see and do all of those things you've not done before. That Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge is really beautiful!
Good luck with the house sale! I'm going to go and troll your blog now to find your story about moving!
Robin

Unknown said...

Wow Pat,

I was so taken with your words and beautiful photographs that I felt like I had take a ride on the tram. This looks so wonderful.

Pat your work is so amazing on your blog. I always come away with knowing so much more about New York. Recently my mom was telling me about how my Great Grandfather had been a mason in Prospect Park. I popped over here and sure enough you had a beautiful post all about Prospect Park.

Have you ever thought about publishing a book?

Karen

Cindy said...

Thank you first of all for the post you did on 9/11, I knew I could count on you doing one and I enjoyed it as much as a person can, considering what we are remembering.
The tram ride was very fun! I have taken a few and always love them, I look forward to seeing the island more in-depth.
Have a marvellous day, Cindy

Yogi♪♪♪ said...

Wow, what a treat. I have lots of things on my New York City bucket list and I think the tram ride just got added.

Tito Eric said...

Great shots! I remember when the tram started operating. Took my nephew to ride on it. He was thrilled! My friends and I often bike out to Roosevelt Island back then.

Cheers!

Visiting from Our World Tuesday

Here's mine:

http://turningboholano.blogspot.com/2012/09/mysteries-behind-philippine-flag.html

elsie said...

I'm am feelings like quite the bumpkin!! all thos visits to NYC and not a clue about the tram! must correct this oversight on my next trip for sure!!

The Tablescaper said...

What a great post! I've lived in the NY metro area my entire life but have never taken the tram to Roosevelt Island. How fun!

I didn't realize you were moving - and to Colorado??? You seem like such a New Yorker. I'm amazed of your new destination.

Wonderful to have you be a part of Seasonal Sundays.

- The Tablescaper

GailO said...

We have often driven by Roosevelt Island and I have been intrigued by the idea of living there...Someday maybe I'll just take a tram ride there:)

Fashion Momma said...

Wonderful shots!

My blues are here and here.

Lorrie said...

Well, this has been interesting. I've never heard of Roosevelt Island, nor of the tram. Looks like a fun place to visit.

From Beyond My Kitchen Window said...

I always learn so much about New York City from your posts. Great post

Houseelf said...

Thank you for the trip. I didn't notice the island when I visited so it was good to explore via you.

Rocky Mountain Woman said...

I've never been to Roosevelt Island on any of my trips to NY.

I know you will love the Mountains! I'm sure you will miss NYC, but you can always go back and visit...

Lovella ♥ said...

Ah...those views will be never forgotten. My favorite shots are the old bridge and most of all the ivy covered old buildings. So beautiful.
Saw your note on Judy's blog today...praying for that closing!

Anonymous said...

That was fun! I love all the cityscape scenes. It's so completely different from my life on the farm.

Betty said...

I didn't even know about that although I do remember Welfare Island. I really enjoy your posts about the city. I wish I had gotten to see more while growing up.

I'm going to miss your very informative posts and pictures about the city, but I guess I'll get to learn about Colorado now.

lissa said...

it looks to be so high up, I'm not sure I can look down if I ever ride the tram but I'm sure it's very safe.

have a great day.

Debra at HOMESPUN: http://www.thehomespun.com said...

Yes it was a fun ride!:)

Just a little something from Judy said...

On this early Thursday morning, I feel like I was given a gift in being able to take this tram trip with you. First time ever for me. I did not even know there was a tram. I am so thankful for you and all that I continually learn from you. Thank you so much for sharing it with us.

Midwestern City Girl said...

I love your photos, especially the ones from the tram ride itself. I didn't know this tram existed or that it had been around since 1976. Great story!

Judie said...

Pat, I have learned so much about New York from your photo tours. Thank you, my friend!

My Little Home and Garden said...

I can't help but think what a wonderful collection of posts you'll have about New York if you feel a little sentimental after your move. Much better than a photo album!
-Karen

Yvette said...

Wowsie, wow, wow! Thanks for that, Pat. I admit I've never ridden the tram either though I've often thought of doing so especially in the days when I lived in the city or close enough as makes no difference. But somehow I just never did.

Maybe it would be fun to go with my granddaughter and her mom and dad one day. :)

LOVED the photos! Great post as always, m'dear.

Welshcakes Limoncello said...

Every time I visit your blog I SO want to visit the locations in your beautiful photos!

Lisa@GrandmasBriefs said...

I have never ridden a tram, so this was quite an enjoyable post. What incredible views. I especially love the two shots looking north, the river stretched out ahead. And those two children are adorable. What a treat for them (or maybe it's an everyday occurance??). Thank you for sharing.

Sheila said...

This post is really interesting and I was especially interested to see the glass doors blocking the entrance to the tram as people are waiting to board. This would be a great safety feature! Good luck with everything Pat. I can imagine the lists you're making and crossing off as the days go by.

genie said...

Pat... This post was such a treat for me tonight. I looked at each and every picture and read your notes about each. The thing that stands out in my mind is that phenomenal bridge. It looks to be built out of matches. I am fascinated with it. Also, it looks like the people living on the island are all in highrise condos. Do not guess there would be room enough for little homes. Your ride over and back much have been great fun though you were working all the time clicking the shutter on your camera. Fabulous collage of shots. genie

Jenny said...

It's probably been 25 years since I've been there...your views look so much cleaner and brighter than I remember.

Hard to believe you're still posting in spite of moving!

You are a wonder!

Thank you for linking!

A+

Annesphamily said...

I think my comment here posted on the previous post! Nevertheless, the photos are gorgeous and your city's history is exciting and wonderful. Thanks for the share.