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The Best of New York · Parks and outdoors · Pools and beaches

The best things to do at Coney Island

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 Let’s dive in.

Antonina PattizWriter and photographer · how I decide
Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

Best things to do at Coney Island, 2026

  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 Island
  3. Deno's Wonder Wheel Amusement ParkOther · Coney IslandA defining landmark of Coney Island, the Wonder Wheel isn’t your average Ferris wheel.
  4. Nathan's FamousRestaurant · Coney Island
  5. 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.
  6. Luna ParkOther · Coney IslandLuna Park is probably the most famous attraction in Coney Island.
  7. Paul's DaughterRestaurant · Coney Islandthe best lobster roll in Coney Island.
  8. Totonno's PizzaRestaurant · Coney IslandCome early. Seriously.

On the map

Where they are

All in Coney Island.

Coney Island

Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

The Best of New York 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).