I’m trying to take advantage of any chance of nice weather, in other words, not raining and above 60 degrees. Even though it’s May, it certainly does not feel like it! So when Saturday afternoon checked the boxes for “nice weather” in my books, we decided to spend an afternoon exploring Roosevelt Island.

Situated in between Manhattan and Queens, Roosevelt Island is a cute skinny strip in the middle of the East River. Home to more than 14,000 residents, it’s also the home of the newly built Cornell Tech Campus!

Known for its Cherry Blossom Festival in April (and not much else, or at least that’s what I initially thought), the Island has quite a few scenic spots and dare I say, Instagram-Worthy spots for photos that not many people have discovered yet!

GETTING THERE

The Roosevelt Island Tram located at 59th St. and 2nd Ave.
F train Roosevelt Island Stop

THINGS TO DO

The Island in General

Purely by the way it is formed and designed, Roosevelt Island provides beautiful views throughout. Wonderful river views of the East side of Manhattan, there’s ample of opportunities to snap a great photo or simply enjoy the scenic route.

Cornell Tech Campus

Modern sleek design that comes with outdoor and indoor cafe seating. Super great to chill, relax, and get some work done.

Insider Tip: Cornell University is known for its Dairy Bar on its main campus in Ithaca (I was a fellow Big Red so I know!) The Agriculture School creates its own ice cream, yogurt, and other dairy products. They are not sold anywhere else other than Cornell Campuses because it doesn’t meet FDA regulation for fat content! Hence, you know the ice cream is good! Pick up a half-pint or pint as a snack while you are there. Multiple flavors, including sorbets are available. You won’t regret it!

Smallpox Memorial Hospital

Creepy but quaint at the same time. Apparently, it’s where the smallpox patients were quarantined during the 1800s. The structure is fenced off due to structural concerns and rumor has it that it is home to a group of feral cats! Unfortunately, I did not spot any kitties while there…

Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park

Gorgeous park at the edge of the the island featuring roles of trees and an open quad. It then opens up to the water in which you can see the Southern tip of Manhattan. Also a great location for IG moment backdrops!

wanderingsnow

Top 4 Things to Do at Roosevelt Island NYC