Cyclone
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Coney Island Cyclone

4.6
·1k reviews·, United States

Ride the legendary Cyclone, a historic wooden roller coaster at Coney Island, offering a classic, thrilling experience since 1927.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more rides!

CrowdLow
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Cyclone

Coney Island Cyclone

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer crowds, more rides!

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Ride the legendary Cyclone, a historic wooden roller coaster at Coney Island, offering a classic, thrilling experience since 1927.

4.6
(1k reviews)

"This roller coaster looks so unassuming, but don’t be fooled! It’s more exhilarating than the modern 0-60 ones by a mile!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Ride the Cyclone First! 🎢

Hit the Cyclone early to beat the lines. It's a classic thrill you won't want to miss!

Embrace the Rattle ⚠️

This wooden coaster is famously rickety but exhilarating. Don't expect a smooth ride, expect a classic thrill!

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Rating

4.6 · 1,000 reviews

Type

Roller Coaster

♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Cyclone Roller Coaster

The Cyclone Roller Coaster

Luna Park, Coney Island

Experience a legendary wooden coaster, a true NYC icon since 1927. Prepare for thrilling drops and a classic, rattling ride!

Coney Island Boardwalk

Coney Island Boardwalk

Coney Island Beach

Stroll along the vibrant boardwalk, soak in the ocean breeze, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this classic amusement district.

Luna Park Amusements

Luna Park Amusements

Luna Park

Beyond the Cyclone, explore a variety of classic and modern rides, games, and attractions for a full day of fun.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Classic Thrill

The Cyclone is a historic wooden coaster, offering a uniquely rickety yet exhilarating ride. Expect intense drops and a classic rattle that many find more thrilling than modern coasters. It's a must-do for coaster enthusiasts seeking an authentic experience.

Timing is Everything

To avoid the longest queues for this iconic ride, consider visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours. Weekends and summer evenings can get very busy, so planning your visit strategically will maximize your ride time and overall enjoyment.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more rides!
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Magical sunset rides
Crowd
High
When
Off-season weekends
Why
Unique seasonal charm
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

I convinced the fam to ride one of the oldest roller coasters in America (The Cyclone in Brooklyn, NY)... Y'all pray for my mother! 🤣🫶🏽 #fyp #CycloneSurvivors #nyc #FamilyFun #coneyisland #reellife #cyclone #rollercoaster #funnyvideo
@kjslaton
473.1K likes • 2.5M views

Ride the Cyclone First! 🎢

Hit the Cyclone early to beat the lines. It's a classic thrill you won't want to miss! InstagramReddit

Embrace the Rattle ⚠️

This wooden coaster is famously rickety but exhilarating. Don't expect a smooth ride, expect a classic thrill! Reddit

a summer sunset at coney island 🎡 sony a6700 @Sony Alpha || #cinematic #film #videography #filmtok #nyc #brooklyn #sombr #fair #amusementpark
@itsmlot
250.9K likes • 1.5M views
The Cyclone at Coney Island opened in 1927 and has to be one of the most famous rollercoasters in the world!🎢 . . . #coneyisland #newyork #cyclone #coneyislandcyclone
justthemeparks
287 likes • 12.5K views

Combine with Nathan's :hot_dog:

No Coney Island trip is complete without a stop at Nathan's Famous for a hot dog. Instagram

Check Ride Status 💁

Sometimes rides can close unexpectedly. Check Luna Park's app or website for real-time updates. TikTok

World’s Famous Coney Island Cyclone 🎢 PS don’t forget to get a @originalnathans 🌭
ericlangholtz
606 likes • 12.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Ride the Cyclone First! 🎢

Hit the Cyclone early to beat the lines. It's a classic thrill you won't want to miss! InstagramReddit

Embrace the Rattle ⚠️

This wooden coaster is famously rickety but exhilarating. Don't expect a smooth ride, expect a classic thrill! Reddit

Combine with Nathan's :hot_dog:

No Coney Island trip is complete without a stop at Nathan's Famous for a hot dog. Instagram

Check Ride Status 💁

Sometimes rides can close unexpectedly. Check Luna Park's app or website for real-time updates. TikTok

Wear Comfortable Shoes :athletic_shoe:

You'll be doing a lot of walking on the boardwalk and around the park. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Cyclone's exhilarating, classic wooden coaster experience, often finding it more thrilling than modern rides. While some note its rickety nature, most see it as part of its authentic charm. It's considered a must-do for coaster lovers and a quintessential NYC attraction.

"What an experience. Classy wooden and impact roller coaster. Surprisingly fast and steep drops. Loved it."

MICHAEL RUA ALEX P J

"This roller coaster looks so unassuming, but don’t be fooled! It’s more exhilarating than the modern 0-60 ones with big drops by a mile! I was screaming for the last full 30 seconds 😂 10/10 would recommend for roller coaster lovers, but perhaps not for the too young or old due to the rickety nature and the intense pull."

Kelli Oswald

"This ride is wonderful. Literally just behind Boulder Dash at Lake Compounce for the best wooden coaster. It’s a bit rough, but it’s not a bad roughness. It’s just a classic rattle. This ride is also the best roller coaster in the NY metropolitan area, and should not be changed in any way. Perfect as is."

Bowie Fernandez

What People Like

Exhilarating classic thrill
Intense airtime and drops
Authentic wooden coaster feel

What People Dislike

Can be rickety

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The easiest way to reach the Cyclone at Coney Island is via the NYC Subway. Take the D, F, N, or Q trains to the Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station. From there, it's a short walk to Luna Park and the Cyclone. TikTok+1

Yes, there are parking lots available near Coney Island, but they can be expensive, especially during peak season. Taking public transportation is often more convenient and cost-effective. TikTok

Absolutely! The Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue subway station is very close to Luna Park and the Cyclone. You'll see signs directing you towards the amusement area. TikTok

The subway is highly recommended. The N and Q trains offer direct service from Manhattan to Coney Island. The journey typically takes around 45-60 minutes. TikTok

While less common, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft can take you to Coney Island, but expect surge pricing during busy times. Buses also serve the area. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

A single ride on the Cyclone typically costs around $10. Prices can vary, so it's always a good idea to check the official Luna Park website for the most up-to-date pricing. Reddit

While you can often purchase tickets on-site, buying in advance online through the Luna Park website can sometimes save you time and potentially money, especially if they offer deals. Reddit

Yes, Luna Park offers various wristband options that allow for unlimited rides on many attractions, including the Cyclone. This can be a cost-effective option if you plan on riding multiple attractions. Reddit

Operating hours for the Cyclone and Luna Park vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Luna Park website for the most current hours of operation before your visit. TikTok

The Cyclone typically operates seasonally, with its main season running from spring through fall. It may have limited hours or be closed during the colder months. TikTok

🎫 🎢 Onsite Experience

The Cyclone is a classic wooden roller coaster known for its intense airtime, steep drops, and a distinct, rickety 'rattle.' Many riders find it more exhilarating than modern coasters due to its raw, unrefined thrill. InstagramReddit

It's described as 'rickety' and 'classic rattle' rather than unpleasantly rough. The roughness is part of its charm and contributes to the authentic wooden coaster experience. Reddit

Coney Island offers a wide array of attractions, including other rides in Luna Park, the iconic Wonder Wheel, arcades, boardwalk games, and the beach. TikTok+1

Due to its intensity and height requirements, the Cyclone is generally not recommended for very young children. Check the height restrictions posted at the ride entrance. Reddit

Many visitors recommend riding the Cyclone early, exploring the boardwalk, trying classic boardwalk food, and enjoying the overall vibrant atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

📸 📸 Photography

Great photo opportunities include from the boardwalk looking towards the coaster, from the base of the ride itself, and capturing the surrounding Luna Park atmosphere. TikTokInstagram

Most amusement parks, including Luna Park, prohibit the use of phones and cameras on roller coasters for safety reasons. Secure your belongings before boarding. Instagram

Absolutely! The iconic Wonder Wheel, the beach, the boardwalk, and the vibrant street art offer numerous picturesque moments. TikTok+1

Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the Cyclone and the boardwalk. Evenings with the park lights on are also very photogenic. TikTok

Drone usage is typically restricted in amusement parks and densely populated areas for safety and privacy reasons. Check local regulations and park rules before considering drone photography. TikTok

Coney Island Cyclone (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide