The best things to do in Coney Island, NY

There's one thing that neither Yankee Stadium nor Citi Field have: a view of the ocean that spans the distance of the outfield. MCU Park, home to the minor-league Brooklyn Cyclones, is mere steps from the beach and boardwalk and is a fun and affordable way to enjoy a summer afternoon. Purchase any seat (tickets start at $20) and enjoy a beers for $6–$7. The season starts in June and goes through the first week of September. Bonus: Many of the night games conclude with oceanfront fireworks.

Coney Island is home to the only major aquarium in NYC. The 14-acre water world is open year-round and is home to more than 300 marine species. Current exhibits include outdoor touch pools where you can handle sea stars, turtles and more. And forget the Shamu show—acrobatic sea lions take center stage here, as they dance, dive and vie for your attention.

In a sure sign that summer's on its way, NYC's largest amusement park is back for another season of rollicking good times. The Coney Island institution boasts more than 50 attractions, including the iconic Cyclone, the high-flying Air Race and the family-friendly Wild River. After trying your luck at dozens of carnival games, refuel with a burger at White Castle Express or cool down with a sweet treat from Coney's Cones.

Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park is a Coney Island attraction. The eponymous wheel was built in 1920. Head over to experience an iconic and fun afternoon whirling around the park.

On Surf Avenue, the main drag of New York’s most famous beach, you’ll find this colorful museum dedicated to America’s playground: Coney Island. Here, the Brooklyn neighborhood’s past is celebrated with fun house mirrors, vintage bumper cars, a collection of coolers and thermoses from the ’50s and ’60s and examples of particularly unique postcards. Check out a 3-D printed scaled model of the original Luna Park (1903–1944) and other special exhibits.

In addition to acting as the home of the Coney Island Circus Sideshow, this space hosts off-kilter events and variety shows!

Every June, thousands of spectators and marchers descend upon Surf Avenue for a sea spectacular. Dressing up like merpeople, fish and other oceanic wildlife, New Yorkers use this quirky and often sparkly event to show off their love for the sea, Coney Island and off-the-beaten-path revelry. 

Cap off a day at the beach at the best restaurants and bars in Coney Island, from hot-dog stand to boardwalk watering holes, including Ruby’s, Totonno’s and more.

Chances are you’re not going to down dozens of hot dogs in one sitting, but you can watch others descend into hot dog hell. It’s a spectator sport for those with a strong stomach!

We cooked up a minute-by-minute itinerary for how to have the most awesome day there ever