Long known as the "People's Playground," Coney Island is famous for its family attractions, including iconic rides (Deno's Wonder Wheel, the historic Cyclone roller coaster and the restored B&B Carousell), glorious junk food like Nathan's Famous hot dogs and Williams Candy, the New York Aquarium, the minor league Brooklyn Cyclones, and the beach and boardwalk. But walk east on the peninsula and you'll find Brighton Beach, a largely Russian neighborhood where you can experience authentic Russian restaurants and culture in action, plus a much less crowded shore. Our Coney Island & Brighton Beach Family Guide highlights the very best things to do in the adjacent neighborhood with kids, both the big tourists attractions and under-the-radar local gems. We hope you enjoy getting to know Coney and Brighton with your family.
