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20 Best Things to do in Coney Island + Secret Local Tips

Looking for the all time best things to do in Coney Island?

Yeah, that was a silly question because of course you are! After all, this iconic summertime hot spot in Brooklyn is brimming over with fun an exciting things to do – Coney Island attractions that you will not want to miss out on since you’ll love the immortal, old-world charm of this place.

I mean, can you can you get more yesteryear than the Wonder Wheel and the Cyclone both of which have been featured in countless movies set in New York City?

And, just in case you were wondering, the correct answer to that question is an emphatic, “No!”

So, buckle up because we’re about to swan dive into this epic local’s guide to all of the top things to do at Coney Island.

This way, you’ll be able to steer clear of any looming tourist traps – at least as long as you use the expert advice of a well-informed 30+ year local like me.

Therefore, step away from the guidebook and use this epic list to enjoy all of my my most favorite things to do in Coney Island.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

Best Hotels Near Coney Island

If you’re looking for a home base from which to enjoy some of the best things to do in Coney Island, then book a room at any of the following hotels.

  • Best Western Brooklyn – Coney Island Inn (budget) – Rooms here aren’t super fancy but they are well-priced at under $150 per night and include WiFi, flat-screen TVs, and in-room coffeemakers. This charming brick building is also super close to Coney Island, features a 24-hour gym, and even offers guests free daily breakfast.
  • Best Western Plus Brooklyn Bay Hotel (budget) – A little further away from Coney Island is this budget-friendly hotel that is just a 2-minute walk from the subway. Low-key rooms here are also well-outfitted for a comfy stay and even feature complimentary continental breakfast and access to a 24-hour gym.
  • The Rockaway Hotel + Spa (luxury) – This stunning, 4-star hotel is a little further away in the Rockaways but is pretty dang swank since it sits less than a half-mile from the beach. Rooms also have a high-end, contemporary beach feel since they come with custom-made teak furniture, offer beach views, and feature plush king-size beds. Guests can also use an amazing, outdoor, heated pool on the rooftop, book a luxurious treatment at the spa, or enjoy a latte at their charming on-site cafe.

Where is Coney Island and How to Get There

Aerial view of the beach at Coney Island, one of the best beaches in NYC.

Coney Island is located all the way out the most Southwestern end of Brooklyn. It sits right on the Atlantic Ocean and is surrounded by the neighborhoods of Manhattan Beach, Lower New York Bay, Brighton Beach, Gravesend, and Sea Gate.

Therefore, if you want to visit from midtown Manhattan, your best option is to use the subway. Just hop on the Brooklyn bound Q train from Times Square and get off at Ocean Parkway.

Alternatively, you could you catch a train from Bryant Park instead. Just board the Brooklyn bound F train and take it to West 8th street station or take the Brooklyn bound B train to Brighton Beach station.

Regardless of the train you choose though, the journey will be relatively long and can take anywhere between 58 minutes and and one hour and fifteen minutes – with no delays.

Pro Tip: If you’re in a hurry, the Q train from Times Square would be your fastest option.

Best Things to do in Coney Island

1. Take a stroll on the iconic Coney Island Boardwalk

One of the beat things to do in Coney Island is stroll down the boardwalk.

This collection of wooden boards is one of the most famous seafront constructions in America. The historic Coney Island Boardwalk – also called the Riegelmann Boardwalk – has been featured on TV and in countless movies.

Named after then-Brooklyn borough president Edward J. Riegelmann, these iconic boards were opened to the public in 1923.

So, visitors can stretch their legs and enjoy the ocean air along a 2.7 mile pathway that stretches from West 37th St all the way to Brighton 15th St at the end of the beach.

So, whether you’re strolling in the sun and sipping a cold drink, or enjoying the vibrant evening atmosphere of the amusement parks here, this walkway is one of the best things to do in Coney Island.

Be sure to take in the view of the Coney Island lights from the end of Steeplechase Pier before enjoying one of the best beaches in Brooklyn.

Also be on the lookout for rogue cyclists since the Boardwalk has a cycle lane. So, do expect to see New Yorkers zipping past hella fast!

However, if you visit during the summer, you won’t have much to worry about this since cycling is prohibited after 10:00 am due to the ridiculous number of visitors the area receives at this time of year.

Address: Coney Island, New York‎

Hours: Open daily from 6:00 am to 1:00 am.

Price: Free

2. Spend some time on the Coney Island beach

Visitors hanging out at Coney Island Beach. One of the best things to do at Coney Island.

It’s not a picture perfect vacation unless you get some time on the beach, amirite?

And throughout the summer, the atmosphere of this waterfront paradise is buzzing! After all, with nearly 3 miles of sandy beach, there’s plenty of space for everyone.

So, if you’re looking to work on that gorgeous tan just bring your beach towel and sunscreen and start soaking up that sun!

In the mood for something a little more active? Then Coney Island beach is the place to be since it has courts dedicated to volleyball, handball and basketball.

Plus, if you really want to work those muscles, you can always take a swim in the cool Atlantic water!

For safety reasons though, swimming is only permitted whenever a lifeguard is on duty, which is usually between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm daily, throughout the summer.

Plus, once you’ve had your fun in the sun, try exploring the local neighborhood “Little Odessa” – you’ll find plenty of shops and restaurants to enjoy in this small Eastern European community!

Address: Corbin Pl. to W. 37 St., Boardwalk, Coney Island, Brooklyn.

Hours: Open 24 hours a day but you can only swim between 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, usually from Memorial Day through Labor Day, when lifeguards are on duty.

Price: Free

3. Get all the fun of the fair at Luna Park

Built to replace Astroland Park – which had previously operated in Coney Island for over forty years – Luna Park opened its gates in 2010 and has been thrilling thousands of visitors every year since.

And that’s mostly because you can find all sorts of classic of amusement park ammentieis here. From scream-inducing rides and rollercoasters to fun sideshow games, delicious hot food, snacks and candies, souvenir stalls and more.

Plus, if you really enjoy want to take your visit to the next level, you can even stop by Luna Park Ink and get a permanent reminder of how much fun you had!

Although, any thrill-seekers who want to experience the best things to do in Coney Island should head to the Electro Spin, the Endeavor, the Soarin’ Eagle, the Thunderbolt and of course, the Coney Island Cyclone for a total adrenaline rush.

For those who brought the whole family though (aka you have small kids), you’ve also got a ton of options too, including the Rainbowheel, Aeromax, Lynn’s Trapeze, Mini Mouse, Clockworkz and the Coney Clipper

In fact, there are so many rides for all ages that your biggest problem will be figuring out how much you want to be thrown around and how long you want to spend upside down!

Address: 1000 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224

Hours: Open during the summer Monday/Tuesday/Thursday from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, Wednesday from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, and Friday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 12:00 am.

Price: 2-hours of unlimited rides start at $35.00 per person.

4. Test your bravery by riding the Cyclone

View of the Cyclone Roller Coaster at Coney Island. One of the best Coney Island things to do.

How often can a New York City designated landmark result in heart-pounding excitement and make you feel truly alive?

Yeah, not that often, y’all! I mean, the Statue of Liberty is great, but it’s not a rollercoaster!

Well, the Cyclone is the “Big Mama” of Coney Island. Because of all the rides in Luna Park, it is still one of the most entertaining Coney Island attractions of them all.

I mean, it’s one of the oldest surviving rides for a reason! See, this wooden rollercoaster has been in operation since June of 1927 and is now almost a hundred years old. Therefore, it’s easily one of the best things to do in Coney Island.

Plus, it has some pretty impressive statistics too. In fact, it’s the second steepest wooden rollercoaster in the world,
hurtling groups of up to 24 people around a track at speeds of up to 60 miles per hour.

Additionally, The Cyclone also features plunges of up to 85 feet that make you feel like you’re falling straight down!

And because of its height, the Cyclone is a huge part of the iconic Coney Island skyline, and looks Insta-fabulous when lit up at night!

Address: 1000 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224

Hours: Open during the summer Monday/Tuesday/Thursday from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, Wednesday from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, and Friday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 12:00 am.

Price: 2-hours of unlimited rides start at $35.00 per person.

5. Experience the New York Aquarium

Aerial view of the New York Aquarium.

Where can you be both by the sea and under the sea at the same time? Why, the New York Aquarium of course!

Now located on the east side of Coney Island beach, the New York Aquarium was founded in 1896 in Battery Park.

Eventually, it moved to its current location in 1957 and is now one of the best to do at Coney Island. In fact, to this day, it is the oldest continually operated aquarium in the United States.

That’s why, it should come as no surprise that this impressive institution has a huge collection of sea creatures on display.

In total, there are over 500 species of aquatic wildlife to see here, including 18 different species of sharks and rays!

Plus, the entire place is under the ownership of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS). So, as you can imagine, they care a whole lot about the ocean and the animals that call it home.

The WCS is also big on education and conservation, and visitors are encouraged to form a connection with the sea creatures they find here.

Whether its through learning about octopuses, squids and jellyfish you might not have known existed, or by enjoying one of their many fun and exciting live performances, you’re going to get to bond with these amazing animals like never before!

Therefore, visiting the New York Aquarium is without a doubt one of the best things to do in Coney Island for families with kids and anyone passionate about marine life!

Address: 602 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224

Hours: Open daily from 10:30 am to 4:00 pm.

Price: Tickets are $24.95 for adults, $21.95 for seniors (65+), and $19.95 for kids (3-12).

6. See the Mermaid Parade

Participants pn a rainy day at the Mermaid Parade in Coney Island. One of the best Coney Island things to do.

One of the most unique and best things to do at Coney Island is to see the Mermaid Parade!

Every year, on the Saturday closest to the summer solstice on June 21st, Coney Island holds this creative celebration of mythology, where participants dress up as aquatic creatures, with some epic floats and elaborate costumes thrown in for good measure.

Think mardi gras, but where the theme is mermaids, sea monsters and pirates!

It’s also one of the best things to do in Coney Island that is pretty dang historic since the whole thing started in 1983 and was inspired in part by the local streets named Mermaid Ave, Surf Ave and Neptune Ave.

Fast forward 30+ years and it is still going as strong ever. In fact, it has become increasingly popular over the years, and currently attracts an average of 3,000 participants annually.

Add in hundreds of spectators who also want to get in on the fun and you have the largest art parade in the United States!

It’s also a great place for New Yorkers to show off their creative skills, and if you happen to be in Coney Island in June I strongly encourage you to go check it out!

7. Catch the Classic Circus Sideshow

Roll up ladies and gentlemen and feast your eyes on these wondrous feats of human performance!

Because in addition to the modern marvels that are amusement parks and video game arcades, Coney Island is also home to a good old-fashioned Circus Sideshow.

Established in 1985 and advertised as “the last traditional 10-in-1 continuous sideshow”, this inexpensive talent show can be found on Coney Island and allows you to enjoy daring performances from contortionists, sword-swallowers, fire-eaters and other human curiosities.

So, bring yourself back to yesteryear and the days of P.T. Barnum-style circus entertainment as you enjoy one of the best things to do in Coney Island.

Also, because the show runs continuously, you can enter/re-enter at any time and see the whole thing again as long as you have your ticket handy.

So, If you miss the first half, just stay past the end and the show will begin all over again.

Address: 1208 Ocean Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11229

Hours: Shows are held continuously daily between 1:00 pm and 8:00 pm, with the last ticket sold at 7:00 pm.

Price: Tickets are $12.00 for adults and $8.00 for children.

8. Gasp at the Friday Night Fireworks

Evening fireworks display at Coney Island.

Need I say more? I mean, who doesn’t enjoy a good fireworks display? I know I do!

So, if high-speed rides, fun beach activities, and delicious hotdogs aren’t enough for you, Coney Island has the perfect cherry to put on top of your vacation experience.

Because every Friday throughout the summer season, Luna Park holds a fireworks display that literally lights up the sky!

This free event attracts a large crowd, as you might imagine. So, if you plan on attending and you’re arriving by car, make sure to get there early in order to secure a parking space, because they do fill up fast.

Also, this regular fireworks event runs from late June through the end of August each year, every Friday, starting at 9:30pm, and is one of the best things to do in Coney Island on a Friday night.

Plus, there are always some extra fireworks events each year: on the 4th of July (as you might expect) and on the night that Coney Island’s resident baseball team, the Brooklyn Cyclones, has it’s first home game.

Address: Luna Park, Coney Island

Hours: Friday evenings at 9:30 pm from late June through early August.

Price: Free

9. Spend a day at Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park

Proudly serving patrons for over a hundred years, Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park went from being one hotdog seller’s dream to the hugely successful entertainment park it is today.

With dozens of rides, sideshows, and other exciting attractions, there are enough activities in this park alone to keep the whole family occupied for their entire Coney Island visit!

The star of the park is, obvs, the Wonder Wheel itself. It stands at 150 feet tall and became an official New York landmark in 1989.

It’s also made from steel forged right here on Coney Island and features 24 different cars, 16 of which actually slide towards and away from the central hub of the wheel as it turns.

And as I’m sure you can guess, the view from the top is breathtaking!

Address: 3059 W 12th St, Brooklyn, NY 11224

Hours: Open weekends and school holidays from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm between Memorial Day and Labor Day.

Price: $40.00 for 50 ride credits.

10. Educate yourself at the Coney Island Museum

Anyone who wants to learn more about Coney Island should make their way directly to the Coney Island Museum.

Because there is quite literally nowhere else where you can find so many vibrant and fascinating exhibits dedicated to the festival of fun that is Coney Island.

See, visiting amusement parks is often all about the thrill and excitement. As a result, people often forget that these places are actually culturally important, and that the attractions here often have a rich history.

Fortunately, the Coney Island Museum is here to make sure that this area’s incredible history is not forgotten.

First opened in 1980, the museum is the only accredited institution that specializes in preserving and cataloging Coney Island’s unique history.

And with an extensive collection of memorabilia available to see, you can easily lose track of time here!

Also, because it’s Coney Island, everything is super colorful and eye-catching. So, enjoy plenty of paintings, vintage signs, pieces of old architecture, and amusement park artifacts.

Best of all, there are photographs showing just how much the park has changed over time!

Address: 1208 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224.

Hours: Open Wednesday through Friday from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm, Saturday from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm, and Sunday from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm throughout the summer season only.

Price: $5.00 for adults and $3.00 for seniors.

11. Ride the historic B&B Carousel

Colorful horses on the carousel at Coney Island.

If there’s one thing that transports me back to days of yore, it’s got to be an old-timey carousel. The intricately carved horses, the extravagant paint jobs, it just screams nostalgia to me!

Fortunately, Coney Island has one of the best that you can find. Because in total, there are fifty horses – as well as two chariots – to ride on as you enjoy this entertaining work of art.

See, the carousel was originally constructed in 1906, and traveled around a lot before being fully restored and taking up permanent residence at Coney Island in 2013.

During its long life, almost all of the horses on the B&B Carousell have been replaced, though one of the original lead horses is still in use.

In fact, it was carved specially for Abraham Lincoln’s 100th birthday, and features a plaque dedicated to him.

So, without a doubt, riding this historic carousel is one of the best things to do in Coney Island for anyone who wants to experience what it was like to come here in Victorian times.

Address: 1000 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224

Hours: Open during the summer Monday/Tuesday/Thursday from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, Wednesday from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm, and Friday through Sunday from 11:00 am to 12:00 am.

Price: 2-hours of unlimited rides start at $35.00 per person.

12. Catch a Ball Game at MCU Park

MCU Park and the entrance to the baseball stadium at Coney Island.

Amid all the excitement of the Coney Island rides and sideshow attractions, it’s sometimes nice to take a break, kick back, and watch a baseball game.

Fortunately, Coney Island has its very own baseball stadium for just this purpose!

Standing on the old site of Steeplechase Park, which operated from 1897 until it closed in 1964, MCU Park (now known as Maimonides Park) is the home of the Brooklyn Cyclones, Coney Island’s very own minor league baseball team.

Founded in 2001, the team takes its name from the iconic Cyclone rollercoaster situated in Luna Park, which can be seen from the baseball field.

And it’s not just baseball that takes place here. Because this stadium also hosts some amazing concerts from artists like Jay-Z, Bryan Adams, Daft Punk and Snoop Dogg.

Plus, during every game, there’s a hotdog race sponsored by Coney Island’s very own, Nathan’s Famous.

Therefore, eager spectators can cheer for Ketchup, Mustard, and Relish as they race their way to victory, even though Relish apparently rarely wins!

Address: 1904 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224

Hours: Varies but games usually start at either 2:00 pm or 7:00 pm.

Price: Tickets start at $21.00 each.

13. Admire the Coney Art Walls

Art on the Coney Art walls.

This is one of the most creative and best things to do in Coney Island.

See, every year, at 3050 Stillwell Ave, Coney Island holds an annual outdoor exhibition of street art. It’s completely free, and it showcases the skills of talented artists from around the world.

Yeah, this amazing public art wall project was started by Jeffrey Deitch, and Joseph Sitt, who curated an exhibition for the work of 30 artists, both local lesser-known ones and others who are well-known in the global street art scene.

Because different artists take part each year, every summer you’ll get to see new pieces of street art.

Many take their inspiration from Coney Island, and feature things like mermaids, local landmarks and residents.

Others often use the event to create pieces that represent a form social commentary and that help get people think about important issues.

Whatever they choose to create though, you can guarantee it’s going to look amazing. So start filling your Insta feed up with some excellent art!

Address: 3050 Stillwell Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224

Hours: Open daily from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Price: Free

14. Visit the Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk

This 5,000-seat covered open-air amphitheater is one of the best things to do in Coney Island if you’re looking for entertainment. And, because it’s actually covered, it’s also a perfect event venue regardless of the weather.

While there isn’t always something going on, they tend to keep the calendar pretty full when there aren’t any ongoing restrictions.

Plus, since it opened in 2016, the amphitheater has hosted a mix of concerts, family shows, sports, comedy, and multicultural events. It’s also a popular spot for local graduation ceremonies too.

Apparently, the first show ever held here was Impractical Jokers. However, the amphitheater has also seen performances from legends like Beach Boys and Willie Nelson.

It has hosted events and shows as disparate as Reggae shows, a One Africa festival, an Irish Fair, and Boyz II Men.

Plus, as part of the contract to build the amphitheater, it guarantees good jobs for local residents and is a great way to support local residents as you enjoy various Coney Island attractions.

Address: 3052 W 21st St, Brooklyn, NY 11224

Hours: Varies by show.

Price: Varies by show.

15. Learn About Coney Island’s history with the Coney Island History Project

The Coney Island History Project (CIHP) is a non-profit organization whose entire aim is to collect information and teach people about Coney Island’s rich history.

As a result, this incredible organization regularly hosts walking tours around Coney Island that dive into the extensive history of this place – thereby bringing the past to life right before your eyes.

The guides are also hardcore experts who are super excited to share everything they know with you and introduce you to all the most unique areas in Coney Island.

However, if you’re not interested in or able to take a walking tour, they now have an Exhibition Center beneath the Wonder Wheel!

Here you can dig through Coney Island’s history by yourself since this place is packed with oral histories from local residents, items collected from the area, and friendly/knowledgeable volunteers ready to help you out.

So, if you are interested in learning more about this unique part of NYC, CIHP is definitely one of the best things to do in Coney Island. I promise you’ll learn something new and fascinating about this amazing part of the city!

Address: 3059 W 12th St, Brooklyn, NY 11224

Hours: Open Saturday. Sunday, and holidays from 1:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

Price: Free

16. Take a Coney Island Bike Tour

Beach and rides at Coney Island

What better way to see Coney Island than bike around the neighborhood? Okay, maybe this won’t be for everyone, but if you enjoy seeing a city by bike, this is one of the best things to do at Coney Island for you.

And the very best Coney Island bike tour is hosted by Brooklyn Giro. However, it is LONG. I mean, the full tour lasts between 6 and 7 hours and covers what feels like every inch of Coney Island and Brooklyn.

That being said, you’ll learn everything there is to know about Coney Island and the surrounding area, and even enjoy lunch at Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs (more of them below).

But, if 6-7 hours of biking sounds like a lot – and I don’t disagree – you can enjoy a more budget-friendly option and just rent a bike for the day.

This way, you can go at your own pace and see what you want in Coney Island. It’s also fun and easy to do on your own or with friends.

Just be sure to check the bike hours for Coney Island’s Boardwalk as it is normally only open to bikes in the mornings.

Address: 1 Carlton Ave, Brooklyn, NY, 10021

Hours: Varies but offered somewhat daily at 8:00 am and 11:00 am.

Price: $43.50 if you rent your own bike or $148 for the 6 hour tour.

17. Grab a Brew at the Coney Island Brewing Company

A beer tasting at Torch and Crown, one of the best breweries in NYC

With all that excitement and walking around in the heat, it’s time for a frosty cold one at one of the best breweries in NYC.

Tucked away behind the baseball diamond, the Coney Island Brewing Company has a dozen beers on tap ready to quench your thirst.

So, choose from pale ale, Czech pilsner, pumpkin and espresso ale, German-style lager and more.

Taking their logo from the iconic Coney Island Parachute Jump – “the Eiffel Tower of Coney Island” – this independent brewery began its life in 2007.

Originally known as the “smallest brewery in the world”, it was housed in the Coney Island Freaktorium until Hurricane Sandy came along in 2012 and destroyed the building.

Then, after relocating to another spot very close by, they have worked tirelessly to infuse the vibe and atmosphere of Coney Island into their beer. And I think it’s worked!

Pro Tip: Try the Beach Beer and order the Carolina Pork sandwich to go with it.

Address: 1904 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224

Hours: Open Thursday through Sunday from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Price: Beers on tap start at $7.00 each.

18. Discover Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs

Original Nathan's Hot Dog stand in Coney Island. One of many Coney Island attractions.

Nathan’s hot dogs are famous for a reason. I mean, I can’t think of things to do in Coney Island without thinking of scarfing down hot dogs as a kid.

And while you can find Nathan’s outposts all over the USA now (and in your grocery store too), the original is still right here in Coney Island, where it’s been selling some of the best hotdogs in the world since 1916!

In fact, there are actually two Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog spots in Coney Island, the original, which is on Surf Ave, a few blocks from the beach, and a Boardwalk stall.

Just for authenticity and nostalgia sake though, I recommend the original. But, the location along the Boardwalk is certainly more atmospheric. It’s also usually busier and one of the best Coney Island attractions of them all!

So, what makes Nathan’s so special? Well, over the years they’ve perfected the art of the hot dog. And while they do sell fries, burgers and various seafood dishes, their hot dogs are basically a form of art and need to be ingested while you’re here.

That’s why, whether you’re enjoying a romantic getaway, on a family vacation, or just wandering through solo, stoping in at Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs is one of the best top things to do at Coney Island.

Pro Tip: The original Nathan’s hot dog stand is also home to Coney’s Island annual hot dog eating contest on July 4th.

Address: 1310 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm.

Price: Hot dogs start at $4.75.

19. Eat some Williams Candy

Located just across the street from the original Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs restaurant is a place made of confectionary dreams: Williams Candy.

As the name suggests, this is a candy shop. And both my inner child and sweet tooth love stopping here. Yeah, I can’t help but stop into Williams Candy whenever I’m in Coney Island and stock up on all my fave classic sweets.

In fact, they sell a wide variety of classics like soft serve ice cream, candy apples. lollipops, and cotton candy.

And best of all, most of these classics come in various flavors. So, you always have a ton of options to choose from. However, If you don’t feel like something sweet, you can also always get a carton of buttered popcorn instead.

FYI, you’ll also find more modern classics like pixie stix, rock candy, sour apple rings, yogurt pretzels, and Swedish fish, among others.

Address: 1318 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224

Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Price: Varies

20. Chow down on Doña Zita tacos

Tacos

As a kid, whenever I thought of Coney Island, food was one of the first things that came to mind – but not Mexican!

Well after discovering this absolute gem, that all instantly changed. And now I will gleefully tell anyone who asks that eating at Doña Zita’s is definitely one of the top things to do in Coney Island when your tummy starts a-rumblin’.

While tacos are their bestsellers – and for good reason – you’ll find plenty of other options here, too, like cemitas, tortas, flautas, and more. As well as hot dogs, obvi, but Mexican style!

All of their dishes come with multiple filling options when it comes to meat, as well as a veggie-friendly choices too. There’s also a ton of Jarritos flavors to wash it all down!

So, grab a delicious meal to go and head to the boardwalk where you can enjoy stuffing your face as you walk along the beach. OR, if you aren’t that coordinated (i.e. me) sit on the patio and eat to your heart’s content.

Pro Tip: Portions are huge so don’t order a ton and get the Gordita de Chicharrón. Plus, if you’re in the mood for pizza.head to Totonno’s Pizza. The pies here are next level and they’ve been around since 1905.

Address: 1221 Bowery St, Brooklyn, NY 11224

Hours: Open daily from 12:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

Price: Entrees start at around $8.00 each.

Map of the Best Things to do in Coney Island

Map of the best things to do in Coney Island.
Click here for the full map.

Additional New York Resources You’ll Love

There you have it! That wraps up this guide to the best things to do in Coney Island!

Tell me, did your fave Coney Island attractions make the list? If not then let me know in the comments below!

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