Roosevelt Island

Nestled in the East River between Manhattan & Queens, Roosevelt Island has experienced many incarnations, and consequently many names; Minnahononck, Blackwell Island, Welfare Island. Once fertile farmland, Roosevelt Island served as a home for asylums, various hospitals, and correctional facilities throughout the 19th century. In the late 20th century, the island was the site of heavy residential development, including the transition of a prominent asylum, The Octagon, into a high-rise residential community. This transition led to increased public transportation into Manhattan, including a subway stop and a gondola tramway into the Upper East Side. This planned community features numerous outdoor parks and recreation spaces, a bike path spanning the circumference of the island, and unencumbered views of neighboring Midtown East and the Upper East Side. Due to an abundance of green spaces, decent public transportation, and affordable rents, Roosevelt Island has drawn a mixed population of the younger generation and families. Highlights: Biking on the River, views of Manhattan