GREGORY WELLMAN

Love the Grouse Grind! The latest improvements are great- enhancement without changing its character. Had a great walk up recently. Was disappointed with the hike in price for the gondola down; now $25. Tried to do it online ( to get a $5 discount) but it wouldn't work and I wasted 45 mins trying, then lining up to buy a ticket. Apart from that I loved it, as always.

Great, low cost mini adventure for visitors. Take the 'tram' (it's a cable car) and head south on arrival, to visit the newer, landscapes walks, catch the bus, sit by the river, or visit the FDR monument, which is clean (no dogs, finally!) and beautifully, simply designed. There's an abandoned smallpox hospital too! A great old ruin and part of New York's heritage. Great views over to Manhattan. This is a simple, inexpensive, and relatively peaceful activity place to visit that only needs a couple of hours. You can read the history boards while you're there if you don't read about the island first!