The seaside summer playground known around the world as Coney Island, is the iconic way to spend the day.
The DL: Located in Brooklyn, Coney Island was originally created as an island getaway for the wealthy in 1865. Now it has become a classic destination for tourists and locals alike to cross off the bucket list. In the early 1880’s the first rollercoaster opened on the island and started what many claim to be the first amusement park in the USA. The carnival, boardwalk, and beach make you feel like you are part of an American movie and is a must-visit. The rides are not like a Disney World, its more like a carnival or fair where they are based on tickets and not centrally run.
1. BEACH – What to know:
This is a public beach right off of the boardwalk. There are lifeguards, public restrooms, and easy access to shops and restaurants. Many people on the beach will walk by and sell alcoholic drinks, fruit, waters, umbrellas, etc. so if you forget anything you can probably still get it here.
2. FOOD – Where to eat:
- Of course Nathans hot dogs, there are two locations (one by the subway and one on the boardwalk)
- Coney Cones; get a gelato to go
- Totonnos; classic thin crust pizza
- Williams Candy; candied apple, cotton candy, chocolate-covered strawberries. They have been open since the 1940s.
- Coney Island brewery; small but patio for larger groups available, free tours
- Rubys bar and grill; burgers, chicken fingers, pizza, seafood
- Pauls Daughter, a seafood spot
- Toms; diner food
3. RIDES – What to see and do:
We went during COVID-19 and nothing was open, unfortunately, but the most iconic ride is the cyclone a wooden rollercoaster, the Brooklyn flyer which are the 100 foot high swings, the original carousel and the iconic Wonder wheel.
Luna Park in Coney Island opened in May 2010 and houses most of the rides you will see.
If not into rides or the beach, check out the Coney Island Museum, a Brooklyn cyclones game, or New York Aquarium.
4. TRANSPORTATION – How to get here:
We took the subway which was easiest but not fastest, specifically the D to Stillwell Avenue/Coney Island, other subway options include the Q, N, F. It lets you off a block from the boardwalk and beach, just follow the signs or the people and you should just cross one street and you’ll be there which was super convenient.
Bus options:
B36 (Coney Island / Avenue U/Sheepshead Bay)
B64 (Coney Island / Bay Ridge)
B68 (Coney Island / Windsor Terrace)
B74 (Sea Gate / Coney Island)
B82 (CI / Spring Creek)
5. SHOPS – What to buy:
My favorite shop is the Brooklyn beach shop, there are plenty of your typical touristy shops but this one feels local and more boutique-like. They have beach day essentials, clothing, collectible items, and local prints.
You are also close to Brighton Beach and Manhattan Beach which are cool spots to check out if you finish your day at Coney Island and are not ready to head back home.
Leave a Comment