Southpoint Park

A Breath of Fresh Air on the East River

Found on the southern tip of Roosevelt Island sits Southpoint Park, a 7-acre green haven that opened in 2011. It offers a moment of peace away from Manhattan's concrete jungle.

What makes this spot special? The panoramic views are truly impressive. From here, you can take in Manhattan's iconic skyline, spot the United Nations building, and gaze at the Queensboro Bridge spanning across the East River. It's one of those peaceful escapes where you can snap incredible photos without fighting through crowds of tourists.

Where History Meets Nature

Walking through the park, you'll come across the hauntingly beautiful Renwick Smallpox Hospital ruins. This landmarked structure was designed by James Renwick Jr. (the same architect behind St. Patrick's Cathedral) and remains as a ghostly reminder of the island's past. Nearby stands the restored Strecker Laboratory, another piece of preserved history.

Information plaques scattered around the ruins tell the story of these buildings and their significance to Roosevelt Island. These weathered structures create an interesting contrast against Manhattan's modern skyline.

Wild in the City

The park embraces a wilder approach to urban greenery with native flowers and plants creating habitats for local wildlife. Instead of manicured perfection, you'll discover thoughtful design that celebrates the natural character of the island.

Look closely and you'll notice how history is woven throughout the landscape. The low retaining walls incorporate stone from the demolished City Hospital that once stood nearby. Cast iron columns from the same hospital mark the entrances, while decorative stone pieces are scattered like treasures throughout the gardens.

In early spring, flowers bloom here a few weeks before cherry blossom season begins elsewhere in the city. You might spot geese waddling by or American Robins searching for their next meal - a small but welcome slice of nature in the big city.

Find Your Perfect Spot

Wide, well-maintained paths guide you along both sides of the waterfront. For the best view, head to the grassy hill in the middle of the park where you can take in both Manhattan and Long Island City at once.

There's no shortage of places to sit and soak it all in, with benches and loungers positioned to maximize those stunning views. If you're looking for a more immersive experience, check out the section that dips closer to the water with denser plantings.

Practical amenities make longer visits comfortable - public restrooms near the entrance, water fountains throughout, and plenty of shaded areas under trees that create perfect picnic spots alongside the river views.

Green by Design

This isn't just any park - it's designed with sustainability in mind. Clever infiltration gardens handle all stormwater on-site, and the landscaping features only native New York plant species. Existing trees were preserved to provide immediate shade while newly planted ones mature.

Things to Do

Southpoint Park sits between the modern Cornell Tech campus and the elegant Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms State Park, creating a trifecta of public spaces worth exploring on the island's southern end.

The park truly comes alive at sunset when Manhattan's skyline glows golden across the water. Whether you're taking a quiet walk, cycling along the paths, jogging with a view, or simply sitting to watch the city light up as day turns to evening, it offers a unique experience that's uncommon in other parts of New York.

Families will appreciate the playground equipment and open spaces where kids can burn off energy. And if you're just looking to escape the constant city noise, you can find few better places to clear your head while technically still being in New York.

Getting There

Half the fun is the journey - take the aerial Roosevelt Island Tramway from Manhattan for a ride that offers spectacular views of the city from above. Once you're on the island, hop on the free bus service that circles around, making it easy to visit Southpoint Park and other island attractions without wearing out your walking shoes.