What is Coney Island Famous For? + 20 Things to do in Coney Island
*Updated July 2020*
Summer in New York City usually means free outdoor concerts, yoga in the park, and Mister Softee ice cream cones (good news- you will still be able to find the trucks this summer).
Of course, summer in NYC looks a lot different this year. I originally wrote this post in July 2019. Hopefully next summer, Coney Island will be back in full swing. For now, use this post to do some daydreaming or to learn more about this historic area!
If you are planning a future trip to the world-famous Coney Island, keep reading. In this post, we will dive into Coney Island’s history to help answer the question, “what is Coney Island famous for?” Plus, we will look at 20 things to do in Coney Island to make the most of your visit.
Ready to go? Hope you are ready for a hot dog and a ride on the Cyclone! (Just maybe not in that order…)
What is Coney Island Famous For?
Even if you’ve never been, you’ve probably heard of Coney Island. But why is it famous?
Coney Island’s history is tied to the invention of amusement parks. In 1829, the first hotel opened in Coney Island. By 1865, this island had the feel of a Victorian beachside retreat. Here you could find theaters, a racetrack, and resorts.
In 1884, the first rollercoaster in Coney Island (and likely the world) opened. This coaster, called Switchback Railway, traveled 6 miles per hour and used gravity to carry a cart of passengers down a track. The vehicle had to be manually pushed back to the start after each ride.
In 1895, Sea Lion Park opened in Coney Island. Many consider this the first amusement park in North America. The park was entirely enclosed and one entry fee was charged to enter. This park included the first looping roller coaster, the Flip Flap Railway. The only issue was this ride completely inverted so people were subjected to intense g-forces and often passed out.
In 1902, Sea Lion Park was sold to new owners who turned it into Luna Park. This quickly became an iconic amusement park. In 1926, the Cyclone was added to Luna Park. Although the original Luna Park burned down, the Cyclone remained and is one of the only remnants of Coney Island’s original amusement parks. This historic roller coaster is part of the National Register of Historic Places and can still be enjoyed today.
Good to Know
*The city’s beaches are currently re-opened but visitors must maintain 6ft of distance and wear a face covering when on the sand and boardwalk*
Coney Island is open year-round, but it is mainly a summer destination. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, the island is full swing. Lifeguards watch the public beach and the amusement park rides operate from noon. The boardwalk and Nathan’s famous are open all year long.
How to Get Here
Coney Island is located in Brooklyn and is easy to reach from Manhattan. Take the D, Q, N, or F train to Stillwell Avenue. But, it is a bit of a trek so prepare for a long subway ride.
Essentials
- The beach at Coney Island is free and open to the public.
- Multiple amusement parks operate at Coney Island including Luna Park and Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park.
- To reach Coney Island by subway, take the D, Q, N, or F train to Stillwell Avenue.
20 Things to Do in Coney Island
Now that you know a bit more about Coney Island, let’s discuss what you can do in this kitschy area. I’ve created a list of the 20 best things to do in Coney Island!
Eat a Hot Dog
*You can still order Nathan’s Famous for take-out*
You can’t go to Coney Island without seeing the massive Nathan’s Famous hot dog restaurant. Nathan’s started in Coney Island in 1916 and has been an institution ever since. The Coney Island stand is the original and you know you want to order a classic all-beef hot dog when you are here.
Ride the Cyclone
*The Cyclone and Luna Park are closed until further notice due to the pandemic*
The Cyclone is Coney Island’s most iconic ride. This historic wooden roller coaster opened in 1927. Charles Lindbergh once rode the coaster and said, “A ride on the Cyclone is a greater thrill than flying an airplane at top speed”. Board the ride and see for yourself.
Cheer on the Cyclones
*Unfortunately the 2020 season was cancelled due to the pandemic*
In addition to riding the Cyclone roller coaster, you can cheer on the Brooklyn Cyclones. This minor league baseball team play at MCU Park, which is located just off the Coney Island boardwalk. You can see the amusement park rides in the skyline behind the outfield.
Try a Flight at the Coney Island Brewery
*You can still order beer-to-go*
Coney Island Brewery is a small craft brewery just outside MCU Park. Here you can sample some the 8 house-brewed beers. They also offer occasional tours of the brewery. There is a spacious outdoor patio where you can play giant Jenga and enjoy beers like the Merman NY IPA and Watermelon Wheat.
Attend the Mermaid Parade
*A smaller event is planned for later this summer*
Each summer the unique Mermaid Parade graces the streets of Coney Island. This is a celebration of art and creativity. Join the crowds and watch as floats and individuals dressed as mermaids pass by.
Run the Brooklyn Half Marathon
*The race was cancelled for 2020*
Or just cheer on the finishers. The Brooklyn Half Marathon, which is typically held in May, ends at the Coney Island Boardwalk. This is the biggest half marathon in the country and thousands of runners make their way to the iconic finish line each year.
Check out the Coney Island Art Walls
The Coney Art Walls is an outdoor gallery of street art. This gallery is open daily from 12-8pm and you can see colorful murals from local and international artists.
Attend the Hot Dog Contest
*The 2020 contest was a much smaller and socially-distant event*
If you can stomach it, head to Coney Island on July 4 to watch the annual Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest. This is a major televised event and thousands of people pack the streets to catch a glimpse of professional eaters (yes, that’s a thing) shove as many hot dogs in their system as they can in 10 minutes. Joey Chestnut at 74 hot dogs in the 2018 competition.
Swim
From Memorial Day to Labor Day, lifeguards are on duty at Coney Island. Visitors are welcome to swim from 10:00am-6:00 pm (while the guards are on duty).
Sunbathe
If you prefer, bring a towel, sunscreen, and a good book and relax on the sandy beach. There is plenty of space along this 3-mile stretch of sand.
Cool Off with Coney Cones
*You can still get gelato to-go!*
If you are looking for a sweet treat, stop by Coney Cones for some delicious gelato. There are 24 flavors to choose from, including Stracciatella, S’mores, and Mango.
Explore the Coney Island Museum
*The museum is currently closed due to the pandemic*
To learn more about Coney Island’s history, stop by the Coney Island Museum. This small museum features both a permanent and rotating collection. The permanent exhibits feature funhouse mirrors and historic postcards. The museum costs $5 for adults and $3 for kids and seniors.
Go to a Concert at the Ford Amphitheater
*Summer 2020 events have been postponed or cancelled due to the pandemic*
During the summer, the Ford Amphitheater, a covered outdoor venue, hosts a variety of musical acts. Check out the lineup on the website for more information.
Stroll the Coney Island Boardwalk
The Coney Island Boardwalk is open year-round and is one of the most iconic parts of this area. Food stands and amusement park rides line the historic boardwalk. You will likely see some unique street performers along the boardwalk that just add to the atmosphere.
Watch the Friday Night Fireworks
*These have been cancelled for 2020*
On Friday nights in the summer, the sky above Coney Island lights up with fireworks. It is free to attend this event, and you can find a good viewing spot along the boardwalk or on the beach. The show starts around 9:30 pm.
Eat at Totonno’s
*Totonno’s is open for take-out*
Totonno’s is an iconic pizza joint that has been serving thin-crust pizza in Coney Island since 1924. Antonio “Totonno” Pero worked at Lombardi’s (the first pizzeria in America) before opening his open shop in Coney Island.
Visit the Coney Island History Project
*This is currently closed due to the pandemic*
You can visit the Coney Island History Project Exhibition Center in Deno’s Wonder Wheel Park to see artifacts from Coney Island’s unique history. Here you can see historic maps, photographs, and signs. This organization also offers walking tours on the weekends.
Get a Candy Apple from Williams Candy
*They are still open for to-go*
For an iconic carnival-style treat, stop by Williams Candy on Surf Avenue. This spot has been serving treats for 75 years. Enjoy a classic candy apple or marshmallow treat.
Board the Brooklyn Flyer
*The Brooklyn Flyer and Luna Park are closed until further notice due to the pandemic*
The Brooklyn Flyer is a family-friendly amusement ride that reaches 100-feet in the air. Board a double-swing and enjoy the birds-eye view of Coney Island and the ocean below. Try to time your ride for the early evening as the lights around the park begin to switch on.
Take a Picture with the Steeplechase Park Face
*You can still take a picture even though Luna Park is closed*
Yes, it is slightly creepy. But the Steeplechase Park face is an iconic part of Coney Island. It was first used in 1897 as the mascot for the island’s Steeplechase Park. Today you can find this sign in Luna Park at the entrance of the “Scream Zone”.
Things look very different this summer, but now you know a bit more about what Coney Island is famous for and what you can look forward to one day! If you are looking for more NYC inspiration, check out these posts:
How to Visit the Newly Re-Opened High Line Park
Your Complete Guide to Governors Island
Have you been to Coney Island? Let me know below!
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