We’ve all seen the movies of packed New York City subways with sullen commuters trying to fight their way through an urban jungle. Although that picture can look pretty accurate on any given weekday, there are also lots of other ways to get around New York City that don’t involve the subway or bus. From tramways to ferry rides, here are four fun ways to get around New York City that you probably never thought of.
Roosevelt Island Tramway
The Roosevelt Island Tramway offers guests a dazzling aerial view of the city every seven to 15 minutes. Tramways run from 59th Street and Second Avenue in Manhattan with amazing views of the East River. Once you land on the unique and quiet Roosevelt Island, grab a coffee or treat from a local coffee shop and take a quick walk to explore the tiny island. During your walk, keep an eye out for a Gothic-revival lighthouse was originally built to light a nearby insane asylum.
Water Taxi
For a fun and spirited journey on the water, the New York Water Taxi offers a hop-on, hop-off experience to visit Manhattan and Brooklyn at your own pace. Day passes are also available so your family can explore Midtown, Downtown Battery Park, South Street Seaport and DUMBO in Brooklyn on your own schedule.
Ferry
There’s something thrilling about sailing out onto the water with a group of other people on a ferry. New York City’s ferry system is growing in popularity with routes in South Brooklyn, the Rockaways, Astoria, the Lower East Side, Soundview and the East River. For the price of a subway ride, you can cruise along the water and see the stunning views of the city while seeing how the city commutes everyday. There’s also a free Staten Island ferry ride that takes you near the Statue of Liberty for unbeatable views.
Kayak
Kayaking throughout NYC isn’t just free, it also offers some of the best skyline views the city has to offer. Open seasonally, spots like the Long Island City Community Boathouse provides free kayaking on a first-come, first-serve basis out to Hallet’s Cove. Meanwhile, the Manhattan Community Boathouse offers free kayaking on Pier 96 or the dock at 72nd Street. The Brooklyn Bridge Park Boathouse is also a popular spot with lines at Piers 1 and 2 for a journey near the majestic Brooklyn Bridge.
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