Perfect Day on Roosevelt Island

Photo by Moira Nazzari on Unsplash

I’ve been visiting every NYC neighborhood in an attempt to explore my own city the way I do when I travel. I'm 100 neighborhoods deep and have documented it all on TikTok.

Now, I’m on a mission to write it all out—starting where it all began: Roosevelt Island.

Roosevelt Island is one of my favorite Manhattan neighborhoods, and I even spent some time living there.

You can take the ferry or the famous red tram. Fair warning: thanks to TikTok virality, you might have a bit of a wait for the tram. If you’re not feeling fancy, the F train stops here too.

When you arrive, take a picture with the RI sign. Grab a bike or start walking to the southern part of the island, which pays homage to its namesake, Franklin D. Roosevelt. There’s the stunning Four Freedoms Park, which is worth a visit on its own. But also—there are not one, but two commemorative statues. On your way out, you’ll pass the hauntingly beautiful ruins of the former smallpox hospital.

Then walk north, passing Cornell Tech. Yes, there’s a college campus on the island. It’s home to the Graduate Hotel, which has a gorgeous rooftop with sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline. Save this for later though, because I’m telling you where the real locals eat.

Pass the meditation steps, and you’ll arrive at the island’s Episcopal Church—where you’ll find my two favorite foodie spots. First, Mediterranean Eatery. I genuinely dream of their bowls and lemonade. Then, Aviva Cafe—for a coffee and a cheeky pastry.

Keep walking north until you reach the lighthouse, and you’ll have officially walked all 2 miles of Roosevelt Island. On your way, make sure to admire all the art and sculptures that dot the island—and don’t miss the luxury apartments that used to be an insane asylum (yes, really).

This is your chance to catch a classic Roosevelt Island sunset from the rooftop, the perfect way to end your day in this beautiful neighborhood.

Let me know which neighborhoods you want me to write about next—and what spots I might’ve missed on Roosevelt Island!