
Coney Island
A vibrant seaside neighborhood with iconic amusement park rides, a historic boardwalk, and a lively beach atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more ride time

Coney Island
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more ride time

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant seaside neighborhood with iconic amusement park rides, a historic boardwalk, and a lively beach atmosphere.
"It's a classic NYC experience with a unique blend of thrills, nostalgia, and ocean breezes."

🎟️ Ride Wristbands
Consider a wristband for unlimited rides at Luna Park; it often includes the Cyclone. Look for discounts via work benefits.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the boardwalk and amusement park grounds.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Luna Park & Thrill Rides
Luna Park
Experience iconic roller coasters like the Cyclone and Thunderbolt, plus a variety of other thrilling rides.

Deno's Wonder Wheel
Deno's Wonder Wheel Amusement Park
A historic Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the boardwalk and ocean. A must-do for classic Coney Island vibes.

Nathan's Famous Hot Dogs
Nathan's Famous
Savor a classic chili cheese dog at the original location. A nostalgic taste of Coney Island history.

Coney Island Beach & Boardwalk
Coney Island Beach
Relax on the sandy shores or stroll the lively boardwalk, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and ocean breeze.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Ride Wristbands
Consider a wristband for unlimited rides at Luna Park; it often includes the Cyclone. Look for discounts via work benefits.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the boardwalk and amusement park grounds.
📱 Transit Apps
Check subway schedules before you go, as lines can change.
🏖️ Beach Access
The beach is free! For more space, walk away from the main subway station areas.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Ride Wristbands
Consider a wristband for unlimited rides at Luna Park; it often includes the Cyclone. Look for discounts via work benefits.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on the boardwalk and amusement park grounds.
📱 Transit Apps
Check subway schedules before you go, as lines can change.
🏖️ Beach Access
The beach is free! For more space, walk away from the main subway station areas.
⚾ Cyclones Game
Catching a Brooklyn Cyclones minor league baseball game is a fun, affordable experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Coney Island is a beloved, albeit sometimes gritty, Brooklyn icon offering a nostalgic blend of amusement park thrills, beach relaxation, and classic boardwalk eats. Visitors rave about the iconic rides like the Cyclone and Wonder Wheel, the historic charm, and the vibrant atmosphere. However, some find the journey long, and certain areas can feel a bit run-down or crowded during peak times.
"Love this place. Always a good time. Nathan's is fantastic. Fun, games and rides... the aquarium is right there too. Boardwalk is cool.. and the beach! What more can you ask for??"
Debra Lynn Jordan
"The water is amazing, and the vibe is great. Be prepared to spend a lot so I recommend maybe bring food, leave the money for the games!
The waves are great, the depth is great, and watch the young ones as the waves can get a little rough."
Cinenyi Fanini-Rodriguez
"Absolutely love this place, safe secured. Super fun vibe. It has everything from broad walk to food music firework, adventure park, arcades games etc etc"
Akshay Patel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most popular way to reach Coney Island is by subway. The D, F, N, and Q trains all go directly to Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue. Be sure to check transit apps for any service changes, as these can impact travel time.
Yes, it's accessible via subway from Manhattan, but it can take around 1-2 hours depending on your starting point and the specific train line.
The D, F, N, and Q trains are your best bet, all terminating at Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue.
While parking is available, it can be expensive and difficult to find, especially during peak season. The subway is generally recommended.
Travel time can vary significantly, but expect at least an hour to 1.5 hours from Midtown Manhattan via subway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Coney Island itself, including the beach and boardwalk, is free to access. However, you'll need tickets or passes for the amusement park rides and attractions.
You can purchase tickets and wristbands directly at Luna Park's ticket booths or online through their official website.
Yes, check if your employer offers discounts through programs like TicketsAtWork or PlumBenefits for potential savings on Luna Park wristbands.
Operating hours for Coney Island attractions, especially Luna Park and Deno's Wonder Wheel, vary by season and day of the week. It's best to check the official websites for the most up-to-date schedule.
While direct free entry to rides isn't common, you might be able to get free tickets to the New York Aquarium through your library card.
🎫 🎡 Onsite Experience
The iconic Cyclone roller coaster and Deno's Wonder Wheel are highly recommended for classic Coney Island thrills and views. Luna Park offers a variety of other coasters and rides.
Yes, the Coney Island beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. For a less crowded experience, head further down the boardwalk away from the main attractions.
You can visit the New York Aquarium, catch a Brooklyn Cyclones baseball game, explore the Coney Island Art Walls, or enjoy street performers and arcade games.
Coney Island is generally safe, especially in the main entertainment areas. Like any busy urban area, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. Friday nights often feature fireworks.
The Coney Island Art Walls are a vibrant outdoor gallery featuring large-scale murals by various artists, offering great photo opportunities.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
Coney Island is famous for its classic boardwalk fare, including Nathan's Famous hot dogs, corn dogs, fries, and funnel cakes.
Nathan's Famous is the original and most iconic spot for hot dogs. Many visitors also rave about Paul and Daughter's fries on the boardwalk.
Yes, you can find various dining options. Gargiulo's is a well-regarded Italian restaurant nearby, and Dona Zita offers Mexican cuisine.
While many classic Coney Island foods are meat-based, you can often find options like fries, funnel cakes, and sometimes pizza or salads at various stands and restaurants.
Ruby's Bar and Grill on the beach is a popular spot for seaside drinks, serving beachside cocktails since 1934.
📸 📸 Photography
The Wonder Wheel, the Cyclone roller coaster, the colorful boardwalk, the Coney Island Art Walls, and the beach offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Absolutely! The vibrant atmosphere, retro amusement park rides, and ocean views make it a photographer's dream, especially during golden hour.
Late afternoon and early evening offer beautiful lighting for photos, with the added bonus of potential fireworks on Friday nights.
The historic architecture, the street art on the Coney Island Art Walls, and candid shots of people enjoying the park provide unique photographic moments.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide shots of the boardwalk and details of the rides. A wide-angle lens is also useful for the expansive beach and art walls.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, or be prepared for classic boardwalk treats like funnel cakes and hot dogs. Consider purchasing a ride wristband for unlimited access to Luna Park rides, which can be more economical for families. The beach is also a free and fun way for kids to burn off energy.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for discounted ride tickets or wristbands for Luna Park, especially if you can find deals through work benefits. Attending a Brooklyn Cyclones baseball game is also a more affordable entertainment option than some other city attractions. Utilize the subway for transportation, which is the most cost-effective way to reach the island.
couples
Explore the vibrant Coney Island Art Walls for some unique photo opportunities, or enjoy a relaxed drink at Ruby's Bar and Grill with ocean views. The lively atmosphere and classic amusement park charm make for a playful and engaging date.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Rides of Coney Island
Deno's Wonder Wheel is another must-visit, a towering Ferris wheel that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Coney Island area, the boardwalk, and the Atlantic Ocean. Riding it offers a unique perspective on the bustling seaside destination. Many visitors recommend purchasing a wristband for unlimited rides at Luna Park, which often includes access to the Cyclone, offering great value.
When planning your ride experience, consider that some rides may have height restrictions, and it's always wise to check the operating schedules as they can vary. The sheer variety of rides ensures there's something for every thrill-seeker, from gentle carousels to heart-pounding drops.
A Taste of Coney Island History
The Wonder Wheel, erected in 1920, stands as a testament to the area's enduring charm and architectural heritage. Similarly, the Cyclone roller coaster, a National Historic Landmark, continues to offer a classic, albeit intense, ride experience that harks back to a bygone era of amusement parks. Even the Williams Candy Shop, a family-run establishment since 1941, represents the old-school charm that many visitors cherish, though its future is uncertain with potential development.
Exploring Coney Island is like stepping back in time, with its retro aesthetic and iconic landmarks. The Coney Island USA organization also plays a vital role in preserving and celebrating this unique cultural heritage through its museum and circus sideshow performances, offering a deeper dive into the area's fascinating past.
Beyond the Rides: Exploring Coney Island
The Coney Island Beach itself is a significant attraction, providing a free and expansive space to relax, swim, or simply enjoy the ocean breeze. For those interested in local culture and art, the Coney Island Art Walls showcase vibrant, large-scale murals by talented artists, offering a colorful backdrop for photos and a glimpse into the local art scene. Additionally, catching a Brooklyn Cyclones minor league baseball game is a popular and affordable way to spend an afternoon or evening, offering a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
For a truly unique experience, consider attending the Mermaid Parade if your visit coincides with it; it's a celebrated local event known for its creativity and spectacle. Friday nights often feature fireworks over the boardwalk, adding a magical end to the day.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit