Nestled at the southern tip of Roosevelt Island, overlooking the East River, lies the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park. This four-acre park is a testament to the legacy of President Franklin D. Roosevelt and the four essential human freedoms he championed in his 1941 State of the Union Address: freedom of speech and expression, freedom of worship, freedom from want, and freedom from fear.
Designed by renowned architect Louis Kahn, the park itself is a masterpiece of modern design. A grand staircase leads visitors up to a sloping lawn, framed by rows of linden trees. At the top of the stairs sits a bronze bust of President Roosevelt, sculpted by American artist Jo Davidson.
The centerpiece of the park is a granite exedra, a roofless space with walls upon which are inscribed excerpts from Roosevelt's Four Freedoms speech. This contemplative space, known as "The Room," offers stunning, unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River.
The park's stark beauty and powerful message serve as a lasting reminder of Roosevelt's vision for a better world. It's a place to reflect on the importance of freedom and the enduring legacy of one of America's greatest presidents.
Here are some additional tips for planning your visit to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park:
- The park is open year-round, from dawn to dusk. Admission is free.
- The park is accessible by taking the F train to Roosevelt Island or the Roosevelt Island Tramway.
- The nearest restrooms are located at the Roosevelt Island Tramway station.
- Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there is some walking involved.
- Pack a picnic lunch or snacks, as there are no food vendors in the park. However, there are several restaurants located on Roosevelt Island.