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Parks and outdoors · Pools and beaches · 2026

The best things to do at Coney Island.

Every one from my own visits, updated September 2026. 8 places.

Coney Island is New York City’s oceanfront playground, an iconic attraction, the amusement park sees an average of 5 million visitors a year. It’ll take about an hour to reach the area from Manhattan, so most folks make a day of it. I thought it’d be fun to roundup some of the best things to do in Coney Island so you can make the most of your visit.

Antonina PattizI went to every one · how I decide
  1. Coney Island BoardwalkLandmark · Coney IslandWalking (or biking) the boardwalk is one of the most iconic things to do in Coney Island.
  2. Coney Island MuseumMuseum · Coney IslandThis one of those New York moments that makes you fall in love with the city all over again.
  3. Deno's Wonder Wheel Amusement ParkOther · Coney IslandA defining landmark of Coney Island, the Wonder Wheel isn’t your average Ferris wheel.
  4. Luna ParkOther · Coney IslandLuna Park is probably the most famous attraction in Coney Island.
  5. Nathan's FamousRestaurant · Coney IslandI never get tired of this view.
  6. New York AquariumMuseum · Coney IslandEstablished in 1896, the New York Aquarium is one of the oldest (and largest public) aquariums in the country, showcasing diverse marine life from around the world.
  7. Paul's DaughterRestaurant · Coney Islandthe best lobster roll in Coney Island.
  8. Totonno's PizzaRestaurant · Coney IslandCome early. Seriously.

Best things to do at Coney Island, 2026

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 12 Interesting Things to Do in Coney Island (Local’s Guide).