Coney Island

Coney Island was the first great American amusement resort, with three competing parks by 1904 - Steeplechase, Luna Park and Dreamland - all of which eventually burned or closed. What survives from that era are two landmarked rides. The Cyclone, opened 1927, is a wooden coaster with a first drop of about twenty-seven metres and a rough ride that is part of its reputation. The Wonder Wheel of 1920 has both fixed cars and cars that slide along rails as the wheel turns, which unnerves first-timers. Nathan's Famous has sold hot dogs since 1916 and hosts an eating contest each 4 July. The boardwalk runs about four kilometres with the beach below it, free and public.

What you actually see

• The Cyclone of 1927 - wooden, rough, and landmarked.
• The Wonder Wheel of 1920 - with cars that slide as it turns.
• Nathan's - selling since 1916, with the July contest.
• A four-kilometre boardwalk - and a free public beach.

When to go

June to September; rides largely close in winter. Half a day.

Honest expectations

Rides operate seasonally and on weather. Summer weekends are extremely crowded. The Cyclone is genuinely rough and not for bad backs. It is a long subway ride from Manhattan.

Nearby

Brighton Beach is east along the boardwalk; the New York Aquarium is adjacent.