This roundup of the best things to do in Coney Island was written by Alejandro Beltran, co-founder of New York Simply (an official partner of Apple Maps).
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!
Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The 10 Best Neighborhoods for First Timers & 3 to Avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s my favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Best Things to Do in Coney Island
Table of Contents: Coney Island Attractions
Table of Contents: Coney Island Guide
Stroll the Boardwalk
Website: Coney Island Beach & Boardwalk
Address: Coney Island Boardwalk, Brooklyn, NY
You couldn’t miss it if you tried, the Coney Island Boardwalk (also known as the Riegelmann Boardwalk), spans 2.7 miles along Brooklyn’s southern shore. Built in 1923, it’s peppered with colorful storefronts and offers nice views of the Atlantic Ocean. Walking (or biking) the boardwalk is one of the most iconic things to do in Coney Island.
You’ll have access to tons of casual restaurants, small shops and street performers. If you’re visiting Coney Island in June, try to time you visit with the annual Mermaid Parade (June 22, 2024), the largest parade in the country!
Explore Luna Park
Website: Luna Park
Address: 1000 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224
Luna Park is probably the most iconic attraction in Coney Island. Hell, it’s not a stretch to call it the main attraction altogether. The amusement park you see today opened in 2010 and was named after the original Luna Park, which operated from 1903 to 1944.
The amusement park features over 40 attractions, but the most popular ride is the Cyclone roller coaster, which is made entirely of wood! If you’re keen to get your heart pumping, pick up a 4-hour unlimited ride wristbands ($40-$65, depending on height) or pay-per-ride. It’s great fun for the whole family (there’s plenty of kid-friendly rides).
Try the (Famous) Hot Dogs at Nathan’s
Website: Nathan’s Famous
Address: 1310 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224
Serving New Yorkers for more than 100 years, Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs has been a Coney Island staple since 1916. There’s a few outposts on Coney Island (and NYC) but visiting the flagship at Surf & Stillwell Avenues is one of the best things to do in Coney Island.
You’ll find a variety of classic hot dogs on offer, alongside burgers, fries and frozen custards. Over the course of a century, Nathan’s Famous has become a nationwide brand, largely thanks to the uber-famous Fourth of July International Hot Dog Eating Contest, held in Coney Island every year.
Ride the Wonder Wheel
Website: Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park
Address: 3059 W 12th St, Coney Island, NY 11224
A defining landmark of Coney Island, the Wonder Wheel isn’t your average Ferris wheel. Built in 1920, this 150-foot giant features both stationary and swinging cars, making it a thrilling or relaxing ride, depending on preference. From above, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the boardwalk below.
A survivor of Coney Island’s ever-changing landscape, the Wonder Wheel is a piece of history that dates back 100 years. You’ll find it at Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park, rides are roughly $10 per person.
Catch a Brooklyn Cyclone’s Game
Website: Brooklyn Cyclone’s Maimonides Park
Address: 1904 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224
The Brooklyn Cyclones are a minor league affiliate of the New York Mets! The team plays home games at Maimonides Park, which is centrally located in the neighborhood. Catching a Cyclones game is a budget-friendly option compared to pricier MLB games, and attending a game is a fun activity while visiting Coney Island.
The relaxed atmosphere is perfect for introducing kids to baseball. And who knows, you might catch the next big leaguers (like Matt Harvey or Noah Syndergaard, who both played for the Cyclones before reaching the majors).
Take a Dip in the Atlantic
Taking a dip in the Atlantic Ocean is not for the faint of heart! Chilly temps mar the water year-round, but it’s a refreshing Coney Island activity during the scorching summer months. Lifeguards are on duty seasonally from 10am to 6 pm (make sure to swim in designated areas).
Strong currents and riptides are not uncommon, so this Coney Island activity might not be for everyone. But, if you’re a confident swimmer, the Atlantic Ocean awaits! For non-swimmers, sprawling out for a tan, playing beach volleyball or building sandcastles are also fantastic things to do on Coney Island’s beach.
Order a Pie at Totonno’s Pizza
Website: Totonno’s Pizza
Address: 1524 Neptune Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224
Dating back to 1924, serious pizza lovers know to make a pilgrimage to Totonno’s Pizza for proper pies. The cash-only establishment was founded by Antonio “Totonno” Pero, whose coal-fired pizzas earned him recognition from serious enthusiasts. All this to say, if you’re a foodie then Totonno’s is a must while visiting Coney Island.
Learn Something New at the Coney Island Museum
Website: Coney Island Museum
Address: 1208 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224
Established in 1980, the Coney Island Museum specializes in quirky exhibitions. The museum is home to a compelling collection of artifacts, photographs, and memorabilia that chronicles Coney Island’s evolution from a tranquil seaside town to world-famous amusement district.
Exhibits encompass everything from captivating circus banners to the evolution of swimwear, offering a glimpse into the area’s bygone era. Beyond the displays, the museum frequently curates lectures, film screenings, and special events that delve into Coney Island’s history.
Though modest in size, it’s a must-see for those visiting Coney Island for the first time. Not to mention, tickets are only $5 a pop, making this one of the most affordable things to do in Coney Island. The museum is also home to the Circus Sideshows, which (for an extra fee) perform acts like fire-breathing, sword swallowing and acrobatic feats.
Order a Lobster Roll at Paul’s Daughter
Website: Paul’s Daughter
Address: 1001 Riegelmann Boardwalk, Brooklyn, NY 11224
Paul’s Daughter is a longstanding family-owned eatery that dates back six decades. The casual joint offers a variety of quick bites like hot dogs, hamburgers, fries, ice cream, and — the best lobster roll in Coney Island. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or want to enjoy a leisurely meal by the sea, take a break at Paul’s Daughter and soak up some sunshine.
Fun fact: Fans of And Just Like That… (Sex and the City‘s reboot) will likely recognize Paul’s Daughter. This is the food stand Steve purchases in season 2, episode 10.
Visit the New York Aquarium
Website: New York Aquarium
Address: 602 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224
Established 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. Explore exhibits like Ocean Wonders: Sharks! which features over 115 species of marine animals.
Other popular attractions include the Sea Cliffs (sea lions and harbor seals), and Conservation Hall, which focuses on marine conservation efforts. Whatever you do, make sure to visit the ever-adorable PlayQuarium, which is an interactive exhibit designed for children to learn about ocean life through play.
Visiting Coney Island (Post Summary)
- Stroll Down the Boardwalk
- Explore Luna Park
- Devour a Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog
- Take a Ride on the Wonder Wheel
- Catch a Brooklyn Cyclone’s Game
- Enjoy a Dip in the Atlantic
- Grab a Slice at Totonno’s Pizza
- Learn a Little History at the Coney Island Museum
- Order a Lobster Roll at Paul’s Daughter
- Deep Dive Marine Life at the New York Aquarium
Coney Island Attractions (Map)
Frequently Asked Questions: Things to Do Coney Island
Coney Island is worth visiting for its iconic boardwalk, historic attractions, diverse dining options, and vibrant beach atmosphere.
Coney Island is popular for its fun amusement parks, iconic boardwalk, beautiful beach, and rich history.
The length of your stay at Coney Island can vary depending on your interests, but a full day allows ample time to enjoy its attractions, beach, and dining options.
Coney Island is approximately 15 miles away from Midtown Manhattan, which is about an hour’s drive or subway ride.
The beach at Coney Island is free and open to the public, offering visitors a chance to enjoy the sand, surf, and sun without any admission fees.
Coney Island is worth visiting for adults due to its historic attractions, diverse dining options, cultural events, and lively atmosphere, offering a unique and entertaining experience.
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And there you have it, my friends! I hope you enjoyed my recap of the best things to do in Coney Island. Enjoy the beach, and don’t forget your sunscreen. Also – if I didn’t mention your favorite attractions in Coney Island leave them in the comments for others to read.
Until next time, Alejandro.
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