Coney Island Park in New York, located at Brooklyn's southernmost tip, remains to this day an attraction to both locals and tourists. It reached its amusement park and resort heyday in the early 20th century, and though its popularity declined after World War II, Coney Island New York can still lay claim to being a player among New York City attractions and remains a viable portion of New York tourism. Grab a famous Coney Island Hot Dog and hit the beach and amusement rides for a day of New York family fun!
The word "coney" derives from an old English word for "rabbit". It was aptly named, considering at one time Coney Island was nearly over-run with wild rabbits, providing recreational hunting opportunity for New York City residents.
Coney Island's first carousel was constructed in 1876, and included hand-carved horses and animals rotating on a wooden platform underneath a weather-proof canvas tent, all set to live drum and flute music. Kerosene lanterns lighted it for its first three years before the advent of the Edison light bulb. The carousel itself is a notable New York tourist attraction.
The historic Coney Island amusement area spans from West 8th to West 24th Street, and from Surf Avenue to the Atlantic Ocean. It includes a three-mile beachfront boardwalk, an aquarium, and KeySpan Park—home of the Brooklyn Cyclones—and Asser Levy Park and Amphitheater.
The Coney Island Aquarium opened its doors in 1957. It offers various educational programs and tours, and is noted for its Beluga Whales. The Coney Island Aquarium is New York City's only aquarium, and includes over 350 species of aquatic wildlife and is open every day of the year. The Coney Island Aquarium offers a variety of children's and family programs, and is handicapped-accessible.
Coney Island Park still boasts several famous amusement rides, including The Cyclone rollercoaster built in 1927. Considered by many rollercoaster aficionados to be the best wooden rollercoaster in existence, The Cyclone remains a strong player among New York tourist attractions, and entertains thrill-seekers from all over the world.
Coney Island Park is easily accessible by the New York City subway system and by car. Coney Island Park beaches can be quite crowed during summer, when the sunbathers and volleyball players flock there in droves. Winter and the off-season bring with it its own kind of desolate charm, and, though many of the attractions are closed, it is well worth the drive or subway ride.
When you visit New York, plan a side trip to Coney Island Park and catch a glimpse into the history of one of the most famous New York tourist attractions.
