Coney Island Amusement Parks and Rides
Landmark rides from the 1920s next to modern coasters.
Plan a New York TripThe Coney Island Amusement Park Today
The Coney Island amusement park scene today is two main parks plus a historic coaster, all side by side on the boardwalk: Luna Park, Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park and the Cyclone. Together they mix century-old landmarks with modern thrill rides.
The Cyclone (1927)
The wooden Cyclone opened in 1927 and is a New York City landmark. It is operated by Luna Park under an agreement with the city. Expect a steep first drop and a rattling, old-school ride; many riders come for the bragging rights as much as the thrill.
The Wonder Wheel (1920)
At 150 feet, the Wonder Wheel has turned over the boardwalk since 1920 and became a city landmark in 1989. It is the centerpiece of Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park, a family-run park with kiddie rides and classic attractions. Choose a stationary car for the view, or a swinging car for the stomach drop.
Luna Park
Named for the original 1903 park, today’s Luna Park opened in 2010. Its biggest ride is the Thunderbolt, a steel coaster that opened in 2014 and borrows the name of a famous wooden coaster that once stood nearby. Luna also has a range of spinning rides, family rides and arcade games. Rides are paid with the park’s own cards or passes; see the parks’ official sites for current options and hours.
Ride Tips
- Go on a weekday or early in the day in summer; evenings and weekends bring the longest lines.
- Ride the Cyclone first, before lines build.
- Check height requirements before you queue, especially with kids.
- Bring a small bag: loose items must be stowed on many rides.
- Parks open mainly from spring to fall and may close in bad weather; check the official park sites on the day.
Beyond the rides
The city’s tourism site lists more Brooklyn attractions, and the New York Aquarium sits on the boardwalk next to the parks for a cooler, calmer break.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amusement parks are at Coney Island?
Two main parks: Luna Park, which also operates the Cyclone under a franchise from the city, and Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park, home of the Wonder Wheel and many family rides. There are also independent attractions along the boardwalk and Surf Avenue.
Is the Cyclone scary?
It is short but intense: a steep first drop, sharp turns and an old-fashioned rough ride. Check height and health restrictions posted at the entrance, and expect a bumpy experience — that is part of its fame.
Do the Wonder Wheel cars swing?
Some do. The Wonder Wheel has both stationary cars and swinging cars that slide on tracks as the wheel turns. You choose the line for the kind you want.
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