Coney Island is one of New York’s most famous beaches. It is a perfect place to go to escape the busy city and enjoy a bit of relaxation beside the sea. Located in the Southernmost part of Brooklyn, with just a 1-hour train drive away from Manhattan, making it a perfect day out for the locals and the perfect place to visit for the tourist!
My time here was short and sweet, therefore, I was unable to visit everything the seaside resort had to offer! With my family, we had a nice stroll along the beach and the boardwalk, a wander past Luna Park, and a bite to eat at Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog.
Below, I’ve put together not just what I chance to see and do, but also the main attractions of Coney Island.
Getting There
If you are staying somewhere in New York City, the best way to get to Coney Island is by subway. It will take you just under an hour from Manhattan, less time from Brooklyn.
Subway lines Q, F, and D will take you to Coney Island-Stillwell Avenue station.
Top Things to do
Hit the Beach and Walk the Boardwalk
A 3-mile long beach to catch the sun rays and relax from the hustle-bustle of the city. Open all year round and according to the locals, it is one of the best places in New York to people-watch.
Luna Park
Luma Park is home to many rides, however, it is famous for the Cyclone, a wooden rollercoaster. Open from April to September, thousands of visitors visit the park each year just to ride the thrilling wooden rollercoaster. With 2,640 feet of track, 12 drops, and 27 elevation changes, it is the place where you can scream your loudest and fit right in!
For more information, please visit their website: Luna Park
New York Aquarium
The New York Aquarium located at Coney Island is the only major aquarium in the whole of New York City. Open all year round, it is home to more than 300 marine species. Not only that, but the aquarium is also home to the famous Shamu Show, were acrobatic sea lions dance, dive and perform.
For more information, please visit their website: New York Aquarium
Frankfurter-Eating Legends
If you time your trip right, you can witness Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest. This is basically a competition on who can chew and swallow the most sausages and buns in 10 minutes, ran by Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog. More than 40,000 people tune into this event every year! This event normally takes place on Independence Day from 10 am to 2 pm.
Coney Island Museum
Would you like to learn about the history of Coney Island? Why not take a trip to the museum. Entry to the museum is just $5 each, located on Surf Avenue.
Food and Drink
Make sure you visit Nathan’s Famous. Nathan’s Famous is a hot dog stand that opened back in 1916, more than a hundred years ago. It is still currently one of the most popular places to buy a hot dog in New York. Apparently, it is one of the best too! Mine was very delicious!
More information, please visit their website: Nathan’s Famous
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Further Reading
My book, How I Tamed the Wolf, Living with Lupus is available on Amazon via this link:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09M73X2JQ/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_MWAF58981F0VVMNRV1WN
Other travel guides you may like:
Chicago – 48 Hours in Chicago
Miami – Miami
New York – A Full Guide To New York
