Accessing Roosevelt Island in New York City is a unique experience with three primary modes of transport available in 2026. The most iconic and scenic way is the Roosevelt Island Tramway, which departs from 59th Street and Second Avenue in Manhattan; it uses the standard NYC MTA OMNY or MetroCard system and offers incredible views of the East River and Midtown. For a more traditional route, the F Train (Subway) stops directly on the island, providing a quick connection to both Manhattan and Queens. For those who prefer the water, the NYC Ferry (Astoria Route) has a dedicated landing on the island, connecting it to Wall Street and Long Island City. If you are driving, the only vehicle access is via the Roosevelt Island Bridge from Astoria, Queens; there is no direct vehicle bridge from Manhattan. Once on the island, a red "Red Bus" shuttle provides free transportation to various residential and historical points of interest, making it one of the most accessible and transit-friendly residential communities in the five boroughs.