On June 16, 1884, the first roller coaster in America, known as the Switchback Railway, opened at Coney Island, Brooklyn, New York. Created by LaMarcus Thompson, the coaster cost only a nickel to ride and traveled at about six miles per hour. The Switchback Railway did not make a round trip loop, with passengers needing to get out of their cars after the first ride and ascend a second 50-foot tower to board cars to head back.
Following the success of the Switchback Railway at Coney Island, LaMarcus Thompson founded an amusement empire called the L.A. Thompson Scenic Railway Company. This company manufactured classic roller coasters and other rides for amusement parks worldwide. Three amusement parks, Dreamland, Luna Park, and Steeplechase, opened at Coney Island between 1897 and 1904, solidifying its reputation as a popular resort destination with theaters, restaurants, and a racetrack.
By the 1920s, Coney Island had become easily accessible by subway, drawing summer crowds for rides, games, sideshows, and the beach. The area was also known for its invention of the hot dog in 1867 by Charles Feltman and the opening of Nathan’s hot dog stand in 1916. Although Coney Island lost some of its allure by the 1920s due to competition from movies, radio, and the expense of maintenance, it remained a popular destination for tourists.
An iconic coaster, the Cyclone, opened at Luna Park in Coney Island in 1927. The Cyclone is a wooden roller coaster that reaches speeds of up to 60 miles per hour, carries 24 passengers, and has a total track length of 2,640 feet. Designated as a New York City Landmark in 1988 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1991, the Cyclone is one of the country’s oldest coasters still in operation today. It is celebrated as one of the most famous roller coasters in the world.
In the mid-1960s, the major amusement parks at Coney Island shut down, and the area gained a “seedy” reputation. However, in recent decades, Coney Island has been revitalized and remains a popular tourist attraction with attractions including an aquarium, amusement rides, restaurants, and shops. The Cyclone coaster continues to operate and is a popular destination for thrill-seekers.
Today, Coney Island offers a variety of attractions from roller coasters to go-karts, live entertainment, boardwalk games, and beachfront activities. With its rich history as a hub of amusement and entertainment, Coney Island continues to draw visitors from around the world and remains an iconic destination with something for everyone to enjoy.
