So you think you know all there is to know about sightseeing New York? You’ve seen the Statue of Liberty, taken the elevator to the top of the Empire State Building and got lost in the Guggenheim, but did you know that as well as being the world’s capital city, the resort is also home to a typical American resort for those that want to get away from it all?

Coney Island, located in the New York suburb of Brooklyn is a stereotypical American seaside resort that’s perfect for both adults and children alike. Even better you can get to the resort by the New York City subway – now how convenient is that? There’s no admission cost for sightseeing New York’s seaside town, although if you like your roller coasters you’re probably better off buying a wristband entitling you to unlimited rides, but you can pay on a ride to ride basis.

Luna Park

The original Luna Park was ruined in 1944 after a pair of fires destroyed the attraction. However, the building reopened in May 2010 and is said to bear an uncanny resemblance to the original that first opened for business in 1903. The new park is set to be the first step towards re-establishing Coney Island as a top entertainment and amusement destination. One of Luna Park’s most popular attractions is called ‘air race’ and allows up to 24 people at a time to simulate the experience of a fighter pilot.

Deno’s Wonder Wheel

If you’re looking for an iconic Coney Island attraction to photograph when sightseeing New York, how about Deno’s Wonder Wheel? Deno’s Wonder Wheel is as synonymous with Coney Island as the Ferris wheel is with Santa Monica. The wheel is over 90 years old and can hold up to 144 people at a time. In the entire 90 years that it’s been running it’s only stopped running once and that was during the great New York City blackout of 1977.

Spook-a-Rama

If you like ghosts and ghouls then you’ll love Spook-a-Rama, the kitsch ghost train experience. The ride once took over ten minutes and was billed the longest spook ride in the world, however the current affair only takes 45 seconds and during that time zombies, ogres and the Grim Reaper all make an appearance.

Nathan’s Famous

A spot of New York sightseeing just isn’t complete without grabbing a hot-dog en-route and of all the New York hot-dog vendors, Nathan’s is perhaps the most famous. The original Nathan’s opened in Coney Island with a small hot-dog stand in 1916 and now the brand has over 20,000 outlets worldwide. Nathan’s hot-dogs have been eaten by US presidents, movie stars and even the King and Queen of England, so while in Coney Island an original Nathan’s hot-dog is a must.

The Original Freak Show

In this time of political correctness, most circus freak-shows have died out. However, that isn’t the case in Coney Island and when sightseeing New York you can visit one of the last true sideshows. With exhibits such as Donny Vomit, a snake-charming contortionist, a two-headed man and a man that eats lit cigarettes this isn’t one for the faint-hearted; and with some x-rated acts appearing on the schedule it perhaps isn’t one for the children either.

Author Bio: Marta Sanders-Cooper is the New York Destination Expert for Shorex, specialising in unique and unmissable, expert-led tours & excursions in major cities around the world, for the best in city sightseeing. New York tours are custom made and constructed from an extensive menu of activities, attractions and excursions, many of which are unique to Shorex.com.

Category: Travel
Keywords: sightseeing. New York