Coney Island Cyclone

The Basics

Don’t be fooled by its patchwork wooden structure—the Cyclone still packs a punch, even after eight decades of operation on the boardwalk. Located in Coney Island’s Luna Park, the Cyclone is best visited on a daylong excursion to this family-friendly beachside destination. Whether you arrive by subway or by car, you get more for your money with a pass, which typically includes entrance to Luna Park and rides on dozens of attractions.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Adrenaline seekers shouldn’t miss the Cyclone’s 85-foot (26-meter) drop, with speeds reaching 60 mph (96 kph).

• History fans enjoy visiting this New York landmark, which has a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.

• Remember to wear sunblock and a hat, since shade is scarce around Luna Park.

How to Get There

Avoid the notorious New York traffic and hop on the subway to Coney Island. Take the B, D, N, or Q train to the Coney Island - Stillwell Avenue station. Alternatively, if you’re up for a long ride, rent a bike and pedal to the Cyclone along Brooklyn’s Ocean Parkway bike path, which runs from Prospect Park to Coney Island.

When to Get There

The Cyclone operates from April through October, and you can expect peak crowds in July and August, New York’s warmest months. Locals and tourists flock to Luna Park and the Coney Island boardwalk on sunny weekend days. For fewer crowds, go during the week, and avoid major holidays like the Fourth of July and Labor Day.

Exploring Luna Park

Beyond the Cyclone, there’s a world of activities at seaside Luna Park. Complete with hand-carved horses, the traditional B&B Carousell is a perfect stop for kids. If you haven’t yet had your fill of roller coasters, take a ride on the Thunderbolt. Then fuel up on hot dogs, ice cream, and coal-fired pizza; take a stroll on the boardwalk; or try your luck at countless carnival-style games.

Ways to explore

Experience the thrills of the Cyclone on a daylong Coney Island excursion. This family-friendly beachside destination offers more than the roller coaster, from swimming and sunbathing to games and boardwalk grub. Arrive early to maximize a day exploring Coney Island; you get more for your money with a pass, which typically includes Luna Park entrance and rides on dozens of attractions.

You can visit this New York landmark (listed on the National Register of Historic Places) independently, or combine a Cyclone ride with a Coney Island tour. Go for a guided stroll to learn about Coney Island’s history, food, and culture from experts.

Accessibility

The entrance and line to the Cyclone are wheelchair accessible, but guests must be able to transfer from a wheelchair to the ride vehicle.

Age limits

Riders under 16 must be accompanied by an adult, and riders must be at least 54 inches (137 centimeters) tall.

What to pack

Sunscreen, hat, water bottle

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, light clothing

Not allowed

Clothing with offensive language, weapons, tripods, outside food and drink, pets

Amenities

Restrooms, first-aid station, lost and found

Address

Choose between driving and public transportation to reach the Cyclone in Coney Island. Many people prefer to avoid the notorious New York City traffic (and the trouble of parking) by hopping on the subway to Coney Island. Cyclists looking for a long ride can rent a bike and pedal to the Cyclone along Brooklyn’s Ocean Parkway bike path, which runs from Prospect Park to Coney Island.

Driving

Visitors who are willing to brave the traffic and parking fees can try their luck with driving to Coney Island. You can find the nearest paid parking lot at 602 Surf Avenue (the New York Aquarium’s parking lot).

Public transportation

To travel to Coney Island by subway, take the B, D, F, N, or Q train to the Coney Island Stillwell Av station.

Best times to visit

The morning hours are especially peaceful in Coney Island. Depending on the day and weather, Luna Park opens as early as 10am. Go early to enjoy the roller coaster without big crowds.

Best days to visit

Locals and tourists alike flock to Luna Park and the Coney Island boardwalk on sunny weekend days. To skip the crowds, go during the week, and try to avoid major holidays such as the Fourth of July and Labor Day.

Best months to visit

Aside from winter’s Frost Fest, The Cyclone operates from April through October, with peak crowds in July and August, New York’s warmest months. The spring (April and May) and fall (September and October) offer pleasant temperatures without the crowds.

Special events

While the Cyclone does not have special events, Luna Park offers several annual celebrations, including kickoff celebrations, Halloween Harvest, Friday night fireworks, and more.