Coney Island is a charming peninsular neighborhood situated in the southwestern part of Brooklyn. Known for its open-air amusement park and beach, it’s a popular getaway for both New Yorkers and visitors. In addition to its iconic status, Coney Island is currently undergoing a series of projects aimed at adding more than 14,000 square meters of new leisure and entertainment attractions. These developments aim to revitalize the area, featuring landmarks like the historic “Wonder Wheel” Ferris wheel and the inspiring Luna Park.
Getting to Coney Island from Manhattan is straightforward, with a subway ride from Midtown taking just about an hour.
In 2019, the amusement park’s classic rides were open from Saturday, April 6 through Labor Day. The boardwalk and the beach are accessible year-round.
Luna Park is the go-to place for rides. It offers free entry, and for a flat rate starting at $29, you can enjoy unlimited access to the rides. Among the most popular attractions is the Coney Island Cyclone, a legendary roller coaster that spans 2,640 feet with 12 drops and 27 elevation changes. Other favorites include Zenobio, Sling Shot, and Thunderbolt.
No visit to Coney Island is complete without sampling its famous food. Nathan’s Famous hot dog stand is a must-visit spot, offering a classic dining experience. For dessert, you can head to Coney’s Cones for gelato or sorbet. Additionally, numerous stands along the boardwalk provide options like pretzels and pizza slices.
The beaches at Coney Island stretch nearly three miles. They are well-loved for their history and their quick escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, providing easy access to water and nature.
The New York Aquarium, the city’s only aquarium and the oldest continually operating one in the United States, moved from its original location in Battery Park, Manhattan, to Coney Island in 1957. It’s a must-see attraction featuring playful sea lions and walruses, a shark tank, and Squirt, the Giant Pacific octopus.
If you want to take a break from the beach and amusement park crowds, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy. You can explore coastal forests and woodlands on foot or by bike, engage in bird watching, or attend a classic Coney Island Cyclone game.
These are just a few of the many attractions Coney Island has to offer. Visiting this quintessential New York City destination is definitely worth your time.