Roosevelt Island

Roosevelt Island

• Photo: Cinzia Reale-Castello62.web.rooseveltislandtram.2.JPG719831
• Photo: Cinzia Reale-Castello62.web.rooseveltislandtram.1.JPG719852
• Photo: Cinzia Reale-Castello62.web.rooseveltislandtram.3.JPG719873
• Photograph: Beth Levendis54.fw.nabe.blackwellhouse_01.jpg719894
• Photograph: Beth Levendis54.fw.nabe.CherryWalk_07.jpg719915
• Photograph: Beth Levendis54.fw.nabe.CherryWalk_14.jpg719936
• Photograph: Beth Levendis54.fw.nabe.lighthouse_07.jpg719957
• Photograph: Beth Levendis54.fw.nabe.TomOtterness_09.jpg719978
• Photograph: Beth Levendis54.fw.nabe.trellis_02.jpg719999
• Photograph: Beth Levendis54.fw.nabe.trellis_67.jpg7200110

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Photo: Cinzia Reale-Castello

Closed since March for renovations, the famous tramway that connects "the Roos" to Manhattan reopens this winter with two new cars. (As of now, there's no official reopening date. However, the island is easily accessible via the F subway line.) The modern-looking vehicles work independently of one another—they're not on a pulley system like the older models—and can withstand high winds. The views are, of course, just as amazing as ever. Grab a spot near the window so kids can press their faces against the glass to see the sights. And be prepared to hear plenty of "Let's do it again!" cries—the trip only lasts a few minutes. Once you get to Roosevelt Island, check out some of our favorite spots.

1 Lighthouse Park sits at the northern tip of the island, anchored by a 50-foot stone lighthouse. Tykes aren't allowed to climb up, but the surrounding green space is perfect for a family game of Frisbee.

2 A true piece of history, Blackwell House (500 Main St) is Roosevelt Island's oldest building and one of the most historical farmhouses in New York City (it was built in 1796). Right behind it is Blackwell Playground. It's packed with the usual—swings, slides and monkey bars—but also boasts modern features like a rock-climbing wall.

3 The Cherry Tree Walk offers the most spectacular view of midtown Manhattan. Bring a camera and snap photos of your crew in front of the dramatic backdrop.

4 Hunt for Tom Otterness's cartoon-like series The Marriage of Real Estate and Money in the East River, off the island's western shore.

5 Children can chow down on PB&J and burgers at Trellis (549 Main St, 212-752-1517). Ask for a seat in the glassed-in section—there's a great view of the historic Chapel of the Good Shepherd, an NYC landmark now used as a community center.

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