New York Dark History Walking Tour: Roosevelt

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.

Meeting Point

Roosevelt Island Tramway

254 E 60th St, New York, NY 10022, USA

I will be waiting downstairs by the benches.

What to expect:

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Roosevelt Island Tramway

254 E 60th St, New York, NY 10022, USA

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

Roosevelt Island Historical Society Visitor Center Kiosk

285 Main Street, Tram Plaza, New York City, 10044, New York

Gift shop and cool information about Roosevelt Island.

Pass by without stopping

Blackwell House

500 Main St, New York City, 10044-0031, New York

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

Queensboro Bridge

59th Street and York Avenue, New York City, New York

We will walk under the bridge and see its amazing structure and gorgeous views of Manhattan.

15 minutes

Smallpox Memorial Hospital

E Rd, New York City, 10044, New York

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

Fdr Hope Memorial

Southpoint Park, New York City, 10044, New York

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

What's included:

• Tramway entry