Coney Island

What do the words "Coney Island" mean to you? Well, the reality of the real Coney Island is most likely very different. Many non-New Yorkers have a fanciful image of Coney Island as a large beachfront amusement park, almost like a New York Disney Land. That is simply not the reality. The real Coney Island is a series of small amusement attractions, each individually owned and operated within and near a New York City Park.

Upon entering Coney Island, there is no one gigantic, distinct entrance to all of the many attractions. Each attraction has their own entrance, hours of operation and admission price. One of the most famous Coney Island attraction is the freak show, more appropriately named "The Coney Island Circus Sideshow." This is one of the last places in America where you can see exhibitions reminiscent of the old world circus freak show.

Astroland is another one of Coney Island’s venues. For thrills, one can ride the Astrotower, the Swings or the Cyclone. Dante’s Inferno is a horror house tour for another kind of scare.

Your trip to Coney Island should include a ride on the 100-year-old “Wonder Wheel.” They say it is rickety, but safely maintained to give the riders the thrill of a lifetime. The views from this 150-foot tall wheel is unsurpassed. There are several kiddie parks where the real young ones can be introduced to the thrills of riding magical beasts, four-by-four wheel trucks or other thrilling rides.

This island has numerous beaches where one can enjoy the sun and surf. Numerous restaurants are available that serve the traditional hot dog. This helps maintain the historical fact that the hot dog was invented by Charles Feltman in 1874 right here at Coney Island. While his famous restaurant is no longer present, the hot dog lives on at Nathan’s. This is a family orientated area that strives to maintain a traditional family atmosphere.

This area has many different kinds of amusement parks designed for young, old and the adventurous. There is nothing Disney about it. It can give the impression that there are truly strange and mysterious, real acts in this world. This is Coney Island's cluster of amusement parks; in one of the greatest cities, New York. Enjoy the rides, beaches and the eateries. There is something for everyone to enjoy at the intriguing, Coney Island.