Who hasn’t heard of Coney Island and has these images from the 50s in movies? Ah, the 1950s – a time when Coney Island was at the height of its popularity and a beloved location for movies. But on our visit this past weekend, it seemed quite dated.
I had a similar feeling when I visited Atlantic City. It felt a little rundown and seedy. That said, they were getting ready for the season. The boardwalk itself is lovely and stretches on forever to Brighton Beach.
I can imagine it when it is bustling with locals in the summer, and the weather is good. I’m sure it’s delightful, but it was foggy, cold and drizzling on the day we were there.
The Iconic Coney Island Amusement Park
The amusement park first opened in the late 1800s and quickly became a popular destination for New Yorkers looking to escape the city heat. Over the years, Coney Island has seen its fair share of ups and downs, but it has always remained a beloved attraction for locals and tourists alike.
One of the most famous rides at Coney Island is the Cyclone, a wooden roller coaster that was first built in 1927. This ride is known for its steep drops, tight turns, and high speeds, and it's a must-ride for anyone who loves a good adrenaline rush. Another popular ride is the Wonder Wheel, a giant Ferris wheel offering stunning boardwalk views and the Atlantic Ocean.
In addition to the rides, Coney Island is also home to various carnival games, food vendors, and live performances. Good luck trying your hand at winning a stuffed animal.
In my opinion, the amusement park is a complete rip-off. One had to purchase coupons at $1.00 each. The kiddies' rides cost 5 coupons and the others were either 8 or 10 coupons. That is pretty expensive in my books.
Of course, we had to try Nathan's Famous hot dog. It seemed a little overcooked to me, but the fries were fantastic.
The biggest draw of Coney Island is the beach itself. The boardwalk stretches for miles, offering plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching. And if you're feeling brave, you can even dip in the ocean (just be prepared for some chilly water!).
Coney Island is also home to several special events throughout the year. The Mermaid Parade, held every June, is a beloved tradition that celebrates all things nautical and fantastical. And on the Fourth of July, the park puts on an incredible fireworks display that lights up the night sky over the Atlantic.
Check out other New York City Parades.
If you’re slow travelling and have quite a bit of time in the New York City area, visiting Coney Island and Brighton Beach is worth a day in good weather. However, if you have a limited time, I would not put it on the list of things to do. It simply takes a long time to get there by public transit, and you don’t want to drive in New York.
Don’t get me wrong. I’m not slamming the place. There’s just so much to do in the five boroughs that one has to make choices. For example, while we are in Manhattan for four months, I suspect we will not make it to the Bronx or Queens.
