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Home/USA/New York/New York City/Roosevelt Island

Roosevelt Island: Your Guide to Hidden Urban Gems

Escape the city bustle and discover the serene charm of Roosevelt Island. Whether you are seeking a peaceful nature retreat, exploring historic landmarks, or enjoying breathtaking panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, this hidden gem offers something for everyone. Immerse yourself in unique cultural experiences, from guided walking tours and delicious food tastings to scenic pedicab rides. Perfect for families, couples, and solo adventurers, our curated Roosevelt Island attractions ensure an unforgettable journey through this tranquil urban oasis. Book your next adventure today!

4.87/5 avg ratingFrom $18.57 per person482 unique experiences90% free cancellation

At a glance

Rating

Rating

4.87★ average

Based on 97,296 pooled reviews

Tour Price

Tour Price

$42–$156 typical

Median price is $76, with a range of $19–$695

Tour Type

Tour Type

Cultural walking tours

75% of options are cultural, 66% are walking tours

Tour Duration

Tour Duration

1.2–6 hours

Median duration is 2.5 hours

Booking Perks

Booking Perks

90% free cancellation

95% of tours offer instant confirmation

Best Value

Best Value

Pedicab Tours

Averages 4.96★ at $73

483 Products

Private Central Park Pedicab Tour

Private Central Park Pedicab Tour

3 hrsPrivate tourFree cancellation
4.99 (7,238 reviews)
99.67%
0.33%
Greatvery interesting tourrecommend
Viator
$38
Book now
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Private Central Park Pedicab Tour
Summary

Treat yourself to a tour of New York City's Central Park on a pedicab guided tour. Sit back and relax as you ride along the paths and hear unique stories about our famous central park. The tour begins with the short story of how this famous park was built followed by a fabulous view to Fifth Avenue ...

Inclusions
  • Fully Private Experience for your party
  • Your guide helps take your photos
  • Multiple Photo Stops at famous Central Park spots
  • Professional Expert Tour Guide
  • Fully Guided Tour of Central Park
  • Warm Cozy Blankets provided during cold weather
Exclusions
  • Pickup/Drop-Off
Itinerary
  • Central Park
  • Central Park Carousel
  • Wollman Rink
  • Central Park Zoo
  • Balto Statue
  • Rumsey Playfield
  • Upper East Side
  • Conservatory Water
  • NYC Central Park Horse Carriage Rides
  • Bethesda Terrace
  • Bow Bridge
  • Strawberry Fields
  • The Metropolitan Museum of Art
  • Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir
  • Shakespeare Garden
  • Belvedere Castle
  • American Museum Of Natural History
Good to know
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Each pedicab seats up to 3 people; larger groups will have multiple pedicabs and stay together throughout the tour., Bathrooms are available during the tour
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Greenwich Village Walking and Food Tasting Tour

Greenwich Village Walking and Food Tasting Tour

3 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellationLikely to sell out
4.97 (1,614 reviews)
97.14%
2.86%
great foodDon’t miss this tourgreat
Viator
$99
Book now
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Greenwich Village Walking and Food Tasting Tour
Summary

Beer and wine available for purchase at two of our stops. Beyond the food stops, you will explore the most iconic streets and hidden corners of Greenwich Village on this guided walking tour through one of New York City’s most historic neighborhoods. The route includes stops at Father Demo’s Square,...

Itinerary
  • Washington Square Park
  • The Stonewall Inn
Good to know
  • 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, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Vegetarian option is available, please advise when you meet your guide, Please advise any specific dietary/allergy requirements when you meet your guide, Rain or shine
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Central Park Pedicab Guided Tours

Central Park Pedicab Guided Tours

3 hrsPrivate tourFree cancellation
4.97 (7,825 reviews)
98.46%
1.54%
Great tripawesome10/0 recommend
Viator
$38
Book now
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Central Park Pedicab Guided Tours
Summary

Central park tours are fun, but nothing beats the exhilarating pleasure of exploring and enjoying the world's most famous urban park from the comfort of a Pedicab and with the help of an experienced tour guides. NYC Park Tours offers the most exciting Central Park Pedicab tours in all of New York cu...

Inclusions
  • Warm Blanket - During cold weather / All Taxes and Fees
  • ⁠Comfortable Pedicab Ride - Relax and explore the park effortlessly in a pedicab.
  • ⁠Exclusive Private Experience - Enjoy a personalized tour tailored for your family.
  • Expert Local Guides - Knowledgeable and professional guides who bring the history and beauty.
  • ⁠Photo Opportunities - Your guide will help capture memorable moments at the most iconic spots.
Exclusions
  • Gratuites/Tips (Optional)
  • Hotel Pickup / Drop off.
Itinerary
  • Central Park
  • Central Park Carousel
  • Wollman Rink
  • Gapstow Bridge
  • Central Park Zoo
  • Balto Statue
  • Rumsey Playfield
  • Conservatory Water
  • NYC Central Park Horse Carriage Rides
  • Bethesda Terrace
  • Bow Bridge
  • The Falconer
  • Daniel Webster Monument
  • Strawberry Fields
  • The Dakota
  • Heckscher Playground
  • Alice in Wonderland Statue
  • Cleopatra's Needle
  • The Metropolitan Museum of Art
  • Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir
  • Belvedere Castle
Good to know
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Public transportation options are available nearby, Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Minimum Booking Policy: A minimum of two participants is required per tour. Single-person bookings may only be accommodated if another solo traveler books the same time slot. If the minimum requirement is not met, the reservation may be canceled and a full refund will be issued.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Half-Day Bus Tour of NYC Top Highlights

Half-Day Bus Tour of NYC Top Highlights

4 hrsFree cancellation
4.94 (2,196 reviews)
98.23%
1.77%
very goodGreat tourwonderful tour guide
Viator
$65
Book now
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Half-Day Bus Tour of NYC Top Highlights
Summary

Experience New York City’s top sights in just half a day from the comfort of your seat, including Central Park, Rockefeller Center, and the Empire State Building. Capture amazing photos of the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty. Learn fascinating stories from your expert guide as you visit the 9/...

Inclusions
  • Photo Stops at Top Sights
  • Professional Local Tour Guide
  • Luxury Climate-Controlled Bus
  • 30+ Must See NYC Locations Covered
Exclusions
  • Hotel Pickup/Drop-Off
Itinerary
  • Midtown
  • Central Park
  • The Dakota
  • Upper East Side
  • St. Patrick's Cathedral
  • Rockefeller Center
  • Empire State Building
  • Flatiron Building
  • SoHo
  • Chinatown
  • Trinity Church NYC
  • Financial District
  • Charging Bull
  • Brooklyn Bridge
  • Battery Park
  • Statue of Liberty
  • Little Island
  • Chelsea Piers Sports & Entertainment Complex
  • Hudson Yards
Good to know
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Multiple photo-stops at most famous locations, Bathrooms available at photo-stops, If you're driving, the nearest garage is located at 307 W 50th St, New York, NY 10019. Please note that parking is not included in the tour price and rates vary.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

True Crime NYC: Mafia Walk w/Ret. NYPD Detective and Local Food

True Crime NYC: Mafia Walk w/Ret. NYPD Detective and Local Food

3 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.9 (1,054 reviews)
98.91%
1.09%
amazingGreat tourcouldn't recommend more
Viator
$75$79
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True Crime NYC: Mafia Walk w/Ret. NYPD Detective and Local Food
Summary

Two options: 10 AM or 11 AM. Why join our experience? We LIVED this firsthand. We are Born and raised in Little Italy or worked in the area as NYPD Officers. We go to places the tour companies don't know exist and see things often missed while meeting locals along the way. Start with Behind the s...

Inclusions
  • Insider Story from Retired NYPD guides who are NYC Mafia experts.
  • Tour operates in ALL WEATHER
Exclusions
  • Gratuities are not included.
  • Drinks are not included, but can be purchased on the day.
Itinerary
  • New York City
  • East Village
  • East Village
  • St. Mark's Church In-the-Bowery
  • Liz Christy Bowery Houston Community Garden
  • Little Italy
Good to know
  • Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible, Transportation options are wheelchair accessible, Wheelchair accessible, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, Customers who have not reached the legal age for alcohol consumption, that is 18 years, will not be served alcoholic beverages, Not recommended for travelers with walking / leg conditions
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

NYC in a Day Tour: Lady Liberty, Times Square, 9/11 Memorial

NYC in a Day Tour: Lady Liberty, Times Square, 9/11 Memorial

6 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.9 (1,760 reviews)
95.46%
4.54%
outstandingGreat private tourRecommending
Viator
$89
Book now
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NYC in a Day Tour: Lady Liberty, Times Square, 9/11 Memorial
Summary

Experience an immersive journey through New York City, led by a local guide. This top-rated tour captures the city's iconic highlights. Designed to let you embrace the essence of the city by walking, using the subway, and taking the Staten Island ferry, this experience takes you from vibrant Times...

Inclusions
  • Self-guided tour of the lobby of Freedom Tower with the film “Voices”
  • Ground Zero Guided Walk: Visit the Survivor Tree and FDNY Memorial.
  • Reflecting Absence Pools: Guided context at the twin memorial fountains.
  • Ride the Staten Island Ferry for stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and NYC skyline.
  • Local Expert Guide: Personal stories of 9/11 and the city’s recovery.
  • One World Observatory: 360-degree views from the 102nd floor. Only included if upgrade selected.
  • Walk historic & iconic districts such as Wall Street, Broadway and Times Square
Exclusions
  • This is NOT a bus tour
  • Transportation on the subway, Times Square. Payment via contactless at turnstiles.
Itinerary
  • Times Square
  • Broadway Theatre
  • Rockefeller Center
  • St. Patrick's Cathedral
  • New York Public Library - Stephen A. Schwarzman Building
  • Chrysler Building
  • Grand Central Terminal
  • New York City Subway
  • Charging Bull
  • Canyon of Heroes
  • Brooklyn Bridge
  • Staten Island Ferry
  • Trinity Church NYC
  • Wall Street
  • Federal Hall
  • One World Observatory
Good to know
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness, Approximately 5 miles of walking. Please do not book this tour if you cannot walk 5 miles over 6 hours., Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

All-Access 9/11: Ground Zero Tour, Memorial and Museum, One World Observatory

All-Access 9/11: Ground Zero Tour, Memorial and Museum, One World Observatory

5 hrsEco-FriendlyFree cancellation
4.87 (4,998 reviews)
94.17%
5.83%
OutstandingGreat all access tourknowledgeable
Viator
$109
Book now
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All-Access 9/11: Ground Zero Tour, Memorial and Museum, One World Observatory
Summary

Don't just see the landmarks; understand the legacy. This all-encompassing experience provides a chronological journey through one of history’s most significant days and the resilience that followed. Led by a local guide with personal ties to the events, you will explore the hallowed grounds of the ...

Inclusions
  • Views from 150 feet up in the One World Observatory with the highest panoramic views in NYC
  • Self-guided tour of the lobby of Freedom Tower with the film “Voices”
  • Visit to the meaningful sites of Ground Zero
  • Moment of reflection at the “Reflecting Absence” fountains
  • A local guide who shares stories about their personal connection to 9/11
  • Skip-the-line ticket for the 9/11 Museum, featuring historic artifacts, art, and themed exhibits
  • 9/11 Museum small-group guided tour (if you choose the VIP option)
Itinerary
  • The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum
  • One World Observatory
Good to know
  • 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, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Tour operates rain or shine. A large portion of this tour is outdoors, so please dress appropriately and be prepared for the weather. The tour may be rescheduled in the event of poor conditions; in the rare case of downpours or unreasonable weather, the tour will be canceled and you will be offered a refund. However, the One World Observatory and 9/11 Museum tickets cannot be rescheduled since they are date/time specific, We offer two upgrades for the 9/11 Museum. You can either tour the exhibits with a guide or get a skip-the-line ticket to visit on your own. If you choose the ticket option, be sure to arrive during your timed entry window as the museum reserves the right to deny admission if you miss this. With both options, you can stay as long as you like after entering. There’s a security checkpoint, and all large bags must be checked., Freedom Tower policy: Tickets are only available for a specific date and time and cannot be used at any other time. The date will be the same date as the selected tour date. Typically, the entry time for the 10:30am tour is 2pm; the 1pm tour typically has an entry time of 4:30pm. The actual entry time may vary based on availability. In the case of no availability, you will be notified by the local tour operator to select another date, another tour, or a refund, Also note, in case you are approached by street sellers, they are not affiliated with us.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

NYC Secrets of Grand Central Station Tour

NYC Secrets of Grand Central Station Tour

1.5 hrsFree cancellation
4.86 (1,929 reviews)
96.59%
3.41%
Great tourExcellentexcellent and knowledgeable guide
Viator
$39
Book now
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NYC Secrets of Grand Central Station Tour
Summary

Did you know there is a hidden tennis court inside Grand Central? Or that the ceiling is backwards? Discover many more secrets on this tour and learn about the surprising history of this New York City icon! This tour is led by a native New Yorker who is a licensed New York City Tour guide. - Discov...

Inclusions
  • Ear pieces provided to each guests, ensuring everyone hears the guide perfectly, even from a distance
  • Guided walking tour led by a local New Yorker
Itinerary
  • Grand Central Terminal
  • Midtown
  • MetLife Building
  • Chrysler Building
  • Campbell Apartment
  • Grand Central Market
  • Graybar Electric Building (Graybar Rats)
  • New York City
  • Manhattan Skyline
Good to know
  • 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, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Tour is in English, The tour starts in front of Track 29, inside Grand Central Terminal's main concourse. Your guide will be holding an "Untapped New York" sign.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Gilded Age Mansions Tour in New York

Gilded Age Mansions Tour in New York

2 hrsFree cancellation
4.85 (1,176 reviews)
94.09%
5.91%
amazinginteresting tourinteresting stories
Viator
$40
Book now
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Gilded Age Mansions Tour in New York
Summary

This is the only Gilded Age Mansions tour in New York City recommended by Condé Nast Traveler magazine and listed by TripAdvisor as one of the top 10 most unique experiences in New York City. Scandals! Murder! Romance Architecture! Step inside some of the few remaining Gilded Age mansions of Fifth...

Inclusions
  • Access to mansions
Itinerary
  • The Metropolitan Museum of Art
  • Neue Galerie
Good to know
  • 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, Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manhattan Architecture Yacht Cruise

Manhattan Architecture Yacht Cruise

2.8 hrsFree cancellationLikely to sell out
4.84 (1,454 reviews)
94.05%
5.95%
Absolutely fantasticNice tourNice boat
Viator
$86
Book now
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Manhattan Architecture Yacht Cruise
Summary

Step aboard the teak decks of elegant 1920s style yachts, Manhattan or Manhattan II, and enjoy a 2.75 hour cruise while learning about NYC's architectural landmarks from the water. The "Around Manhattan" tour narration, provided by members of the American Institute of Architects’ (AIA) NYC chapter, ...

Inclusions
  • One complimentary beverage included
  • Narration by a member of the American Institute of Architects New York Chapter
  • Elegant tables assigned. Choose between private section seating or communal seating at check out
Exclusions
  • Gratuity is not included in the price of your cruise, but recommended.
  • Food selections available for purchase. If bringing food please keep to a light snack
Itinerary
  • One World Observatory
  • Woolworth Building
  • Statue of Liberty
  • Brooklyn Bridge
  • Lower East Side
  • Empire State Building
  • Chrysler Building
  • Upper West Side
  • George Washington Bridge
  • Roosevelt Island
  • Four Freedoms Park
Good to know
  • Service animals allowed, Public transportation options are available nearby, Suitable for all physical fitness levels, Guarantee of a full circumnavigation of Manhattan is not included. On rare occasions, the Spuyten Duyvil train bridge is inoperable and cannot open for us to pass through. This is often times not known until our tour is underway. River closures may also occur for a number of reasons. There are no refunds for tours that cannot fully circumnavigate. We will accommodate such cases with a tour that features a double backing of the route and further detail of the waterfront sites., Service animals are permitted; Emotional Support animals and pets are not permitted, Please coordinate with the operator in advance if assistance is required for boarding or if you have any questions about general accessibility. Accessibility varies by boat, Not for children under 12 years due to this cruise being a heavily-narrated tour experience. We recommend families to join us on Statue & Skyline tours, day sails or any other minimally narrated day time event, This cruise is a heavily-narrated tour experience. It's for those seeking an informative, exciting, and content-rich trip. We require guest conversations to be kept to a reasonable level so that narration can be heard by all, Large group bookings are not permitted. Multiple bookings are subject to added fees or cancellation by operator, Important note for Friday departures: the narration on this tour on select Friday departures will focus on Climate Change: Resiliency, Sustainable Architecture and the Future of NYC. Please reach out to the operator for questions on specific tour theme details, A 2-hour version of this cruise is available on select Tuesday & Wednesday departures. Option will show at check-out if available
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

...

Pairs well with

Landmarks travelers visit on the same route as Roosevelt Island.

Queensboro Bridge
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Queensboro Bridge

500 m away • from $175

Astoria
Learn more

Astoria

700 m away • from $80

Roosevelt Island Tramway
Learn more

Roosevelt Island Tramway

1.1 km away • from $175

Upper East Side
Learn more

Upper East Side

1.6 km away • from $1.14

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions travelers ask before visiting.

Across the booking platforms we compare, most options cost $42–$156, with a median of around $76. The full range spans $19–$695, so there's flexibility whether you're looking for a quick budget tour or a premium private experience. Around 90% of the options we compare offer free cancellation, which means you can book with confidence and adjust plans if needed.

Walking tours make up about two-thirds of the options we compare, making them by far the most common way to explore the island. Beyond that, sightseeing tours, food tours, and pedicab tours each account for smaller shares. The vast majority of tours are cultural or historical in focus (75% and 54% of options respectively), so expect to learn about the island's heritage and significance alongside the sights.

Pedicab tours stand out as excellent value. They average 4.96 stars at around $73, which puts them at or below the typical price range while matching or exceeding the overall average rating of 4.87 stars across nearly 100,000 combined reviews. If you want a unique, slower-paced way to see the island without the physical demands of a full walking tour, pedicab options are worth considering.

Tours generally run 1.5 to 4.5 hours, with a median of around 2.5 hours. This means you can fit most experiences into a half-day itinerary, or combine a shorter tour with other activities. The variety in duration gives you flexibility depending on how much time you have and how deep you want to go into the island's history and culture.

Most tours come with a knowledgeable guide included (77% of the options we compare). Beyond that, fewer tours add extras like transportation, all fees and taxes, food samples, or dedicated photo stops. If those additions matter to you, filter for them specifically when comparing options. The good news is that 95% of tours offer instant confirmation, so you'll know right away if your chosen tour is booked.

Yes, private tours make up about 41% of the options we compare, which is a notably high share. This means you have plenty of flexibility if you prefer a customized experience for your group rather than joining a larger tour. Private tours tend to offer more flexibility in timing and focus, though they typically come at a premium compared to group options.

Roosevelt Island tours are exceptionally well reviewed, averaging 4.87 stars across nearly 97,300 combined reviews gathered from booking platforms we compare. Around 92% of reviews are positive, with visitors frequently mentioning knowledgeable guides, great experiences, and fun atmospheres. With such strong and consistent feedback across a large volume of reviews, you can book with confidence that most tours deliver a quality experience.

Take the F train to Roosevelt Island station or use the aerial tramway from Manhattan's East 60th Street. Buses and a bridge connector are also available for access.

Yes, the island has cafes, restaurants, and small shops. Options are more limited than Manhattan, so plan ahead for dining preferences.

Visit the FDR Memorial, Lighthouse, Southpoint Park, and enjoy waterfront walks. The island offers scenic views and historic sites for exploration.

Frick Collection1.8kmUnited Nations Headquarters1.9kmTrump Tower1.9kmTiffany & Co. Flagship Store2kmCentral Park Zoo2kmNew York City Fifth Avenue2kmBalto Statue2kmThe Plaza Hotel2km
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