On June 16, 1884, the first roller coaster in America opened at Coney Island, in Brooklyn, New York. The ride, known as the Switchback Railway, was created by LaMarcus Thompson. The coaster traveled at a speed of about six miles per hour and cost only a nickel to ride. The coaster did not make a round trip loop but consisted of two sets of parallel tracks descending in opposite directions from elevated towers. Following the success of the Switchback Railway, Thompson founded the L.A. Thompson Scenic Railway Company, which manufactured classic roller coasters and other rides for amusement parks around the world.
By the post-Civil War years, Coney Island had become an established resort with theaters, restaurants, and a racetrack. Between 1897 and 1904, three amusement parks sprang up at Coney Island: Dreamland, Luna Park, and Steeplechase. In the 1920s, Coney Island could be accessed by subway, and summer crowds flocked there for rides, games, sideshows, and the beach. The hot dog was reportedly invented at Coney Island in 1867 by Charles Feltman, and in 1916, a hot dog stand called Nathan’s was opened and went on to become a Coney Island institution and international franchise.
In 1927, the iconic Cyclone roller coaster opened at Coney Island’s Luna Park. The Cyclone reached a maximum speed of 60 miles per hour, carried 24 passengers, and boasted a total track length of 2,640 feet. It is featured in major films, music videos, and works of art. The Cyclone was almost removed in the spring of 1972 to make way for an aquarium expansion but was saved due to a campaign to protect it. Designated a New York City Landmark in 1988 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1991, the Cyclone is celebrated as one of the most famous roller coasters in the world.
By the mid-1960s, the major amusement parks at Coney Island had closed down, leading to a decline in the area’s appeal. However, in recent decades, it has been revitalized and remains a popular tourist destination. Coney Island now boasts an aquarium, amusement rides, restaurants, shops, and live entertainment, offering something for everyone from roller coasters to go-karts, to boardwalk games. It still remains home to the iconic Cyclone, one of the oldest coasters still in operation in the country. The area continues to attract visitors with its rich history, cultural significance, and diverse entertainment options.
Overall, Coney Island has played a significant role in the history of amusement parks in America, with the Switchback Railway being the first roller coaster designed specifically for amusement. The area’s evolution from a resort with theaters and restaurants to a thriving amusement center with iconic roller coasters like the Cyclone showcases its enduring popularity and influence in the entertainment industry. With its continued revitalization and diverse attractions, Coney Island remains a beloved destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique blend of history, nostalgia, and modern entertainment for all ages to enjoy.
