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Is there an urban sprawl more magical than the ‘City That Never Sleeps’?
I’ve been all over the world, but there’s only one place with one tangible buzz permeates the city.
Yes, it’s New York, New York.
Autumn is one of the best times of the year to visit as the summer crowds wane and the scorching heat subsides to cool, fresh air.
Well, until you hop aboard the subway, but that’s another story…
Manhattan’s Central Park is instantly recognizable around the world, drawing travelers from far and wide epic cityscapes and photo ops.
The famous park’s trees start to see a hint of color from mid-October, but there’s another easy-to-reach gem in Manhattan, free from crowds, glistening with autumn leaves.
Roosevelt Island: Manhattan’s secret slice of autumn happiness
Manhattan and Brooklyn are the two boroughs that visitors to New York often look for, but there is also one hidden island literally overshadowed by the iconic towering skyline.
Although not technically its own municipality, Roosevelt Island feels like its own little oasis separated from the non-stop hustle and bustle of the Big Apple.
With no crowd and some of the best views imaginable, this rare piece of untouched real estate in New York is calling your name this fall.
Sure, millions of tourists will hit Central Park at some point to explore the best spots to capture fall memories, the same can’t be said for Roosevelt Island, a quiet place that locals visit (and live) to escape their neighborhood noise .
The beautiful little island has passed through many hands over the years, from early Native American settlers to Dutch settlers, to what it is today as a Manhattan secret.
And you thought Ellis Island was the place to take a deep dive into New York’s fascinating history?!
Take a trip away from the madness of the city and enjoy blissful days under colorful trees in the background one of the most famous cityscapes in the world.
Trade smelly subway cars for the scenic Roosevelt Island Tram
Once you hear, “Stay away from the closing doors, please!”, you find yourself in an underground world that defies description.
New York’s subways are undoubtedly the most convenient way to navigate the vast city, but man oh man, you never know what you’ll experience!
From pizza-eating rats and ugly beggars to buskers (some good, some a bit of a ‘spicy dawg’), just the subway ride can be a thrill in itself.
But there is another mode of transportation that is much more unique, yet just as convenient and centrally located in Manhattan, near 2nd and 59th.
The Roosevelt Island Tram is not a novelty ride; it is operated by The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation (RIOC), and best of all, accepts MetroCards for just $2.75 per ride.
The ‘Tram’ is the exact opposite of the metro as you are suspended in the air in a cabin, but don’t worry, the safety record is spotless, contrary to what you may remember Spider Man.
Enjoy elevated views of the East River and surrounding skyline.
You can wave to the dozens of yellow taxis below stuck in traffic as you seemingly float over the Queensboro Bridge before heading off to explore all that Roosevelt Island has to offer.
What is there to do on Roosevelt Island?
More and more people these days are venturing outside the norm to New York’s top attractions.
For example, Jersey City, located just a stone’s throw across the Hudson River, is referred to as the city’s unofficial “sixth borough.”
This is your chance to enjoy Roosevelt Island while everyone else is cruising past the Statue of Liberty, lining up for a Broadway show, or winding through the chaotic sidewalks of Central Park.
Here you will find one calm outside the storm with scenic parks and designated walking areas to absorb panoramic views of Manhattan’s architectural wonders.
Perhaps the most blissful side of Roosevelt is Lighthouse Park, located at the very tip of the island, chock full of bundles trees pop in color.
If you still want a taste of the “action,” Roosevelt’s Main Street is home to a variety of shops and restaurants, such as Top-Rated ME Mediterranean eaterybut not nearly as fast as the rest of Manhattan.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author, and not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included in the post.
