Despite its name, Coney Island is actually a peninsula at the southernmost part of Brooklyn and has been attracting tourists and city folk since the 1880s. Not only does it contain many old rides indicative of early 20th century amusement parks, but it is also the original home of Nathan's Famous frankfurters.
Coney Island is a flurry of activity during the summer months. Ride the exciting, world-famous Cyclone, a wooden roller coaster constructed in 1927. Look out onto the vast Atlantic horizon while on Deno's Wonder Wheel. Or enjoy the view from 262 feet in the air on Parachute Jump, or the "Eiffel Tower of Brooklyn," as some people call it. The Parachute Jump was constructed for the 1939 World's Fair and has been in operation ever since. All three of these rides are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and stand as a tribute to Coney Island's long history.
So, what else is there to do? Slap on your swim trunks and make a splash in the ocean. Afterwards, dry off and take the family to New York City's only aquarium. Later, play games in the arcade and get spooked in one of the haunted houses. Or if you're into history, visit the Coney Island Museum to see all the transformations this "island" has gone through — it's open every Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.
Help celebrate the start of summer by watching many artistic floats go by in the Mermaid Parade, held every June. The month of June also signifies the start of something else—fireworks! Yes, that's right, every Friday night during the summer months, pyrotechnics illuminate the sky. Or if you'd rather see baseballs take to the air instead of fireworks, buy some peanuts and cracker jacks and root for the home team, the Brooklyn Cyclones (minor league), at KeySpan Park.
And who could forget the heavily publicized hot dog eating contest hosted by Nathan's Famous every Fourth of July? This is quite a spectacle if you can stand to watch people devour frankfurters one right after the other for 12 minutes. The event takes place outside the Nathan's Famous store on Surf Avenue and always leaves spectators baffled at how many hot dogs contestants can consume.
So if you're looking for a change of scenery, escape to Brooklyn's historic Coney Island to see some of New York City's most beloved attractions.
Information
- Subway Stop:
- Take the D, Q N or F train to Stillwell Avenue (last stop). This takes about 45 minutes from midtown Manhattan
- Contact:
- Website: www.coneyisland.com
