Share this tour
Offered languages
- English
- English
Roosevelt Island has gained immense popularity in recent years, largely due to social media. However, are you aware of the dark history of this small island, located between Queens and Manhattan? What was once considered a humanitarian crisis - the atrocities faced by individuals with mental health conditions during the 19th century on this island - remains largely undisclosed. In this tour, we will delve into the dark history of Roosevelt Island, shedding light on its grim past. Join me on this walking tour, as we uncover the untold stories that shaped the island’s complex narrative.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
I will be waiting downstairs by the benches.
We will end at Roosevelt Island, where you will have the option to take the F train, tramway, or Ferry back to Manhattan/ to your destination.
Itinerary
-
1Roosevelt Island Tramway
We will meet at the Tramway Plaza and discuss a brief history of the Roosevelt Island Tramway. We will meet everyone and introduce ourselves and head over to Roosevelt Island. The tramway takes us over the East River giving us incredible views of the City. We will stop and take photos once we are off the tram.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included -
(Pass by)
Gift shop and cool information about Roosevelt Island.
Admission ticket free -
2
We will visit the island’s oldest building, which dates back to the 1790s and belonged to the Blackwell family, after whom the island was named at that time. During this walk, we will also stroll past the train and ferry stations to showcase the different forms of transportation on the island. Along the way, you will enjoy panoramic views of both the East and the Hudson River.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3
We will walk under the bridge and see it's amazing structure and gorgeous views of Manhattan.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4
The Smallpox Hospital was originally built as a quarantine facility for smallpox patients, who were isolated on the island to prevent the spread of the disease to the mainland. It was part of a larger complex of hospitals and medical facilities that served New York City in the 19th century.
10 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
FDR memorial on Roosevelt Island is dedicated to the memory of Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States. It was designed by architect Louis Kahn and dedicated in 1973. We will end the tour here and you will be free to hang out at the park and take more photos.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Show 1 more
Additional info
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Show more
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Your guide to the flawless travel experience
Top Searches
Company
Get our app
