Guide to Theme Parks in the New York City Area

New York City is the center for many things. From world-famous landmarks to world-class museums, live theater and more, New York has it all, including access to several historic and modern amusement parks. For residents or visitors of the city and its suburbs, there are several parks within driving distance where one can enjoy good old fashioned family fun or high tech thrills. Take a look at some of the amusement and theme parks in the vicinity of New York:

New York City

Coney Island Amusement Center

Coney Island is world-famous for being a center of fun and thrills for more than 100 years. With a storied history as a destination for millions of visitors, the area, located on the shores of the Atlantic in Brooklyn, fell into disrepair during the 1960's. The region has undergone a resurgence of late, most notably with the opening of the all new Luna Park in 2010. More development is underway.

Coney Island is composed of several independently owned amusement areas, with the majority of the locale now owned and operated by New York City. The amusement area is home to two famous landmarks, Deno's Wonder Wheel and the world-renowned Cyclone roller coaster. The Wonder Wheel is an independently owned park named after its central attraction. The Wonder Wheel ride is a unique structure that looks like a Ferris wheel, but is much more than your ordinary ride. With some cars that swing and slide and some that remain stationery, this is one ride that's unpredictable fun. Built in 1920, the Wonder Wheel has been giving visitors exceptional thrills for more than 90 years.

The Cyclone is undoubtedly the world's most famous roller coaster. Opening in 1927, this classic "woodie" still gives one of the scariest rides out there. The ride is fast, furious, and just a little bumpy, and riding it more than once takes a good deal of bravery and stamina.

Wonder Wheel Park contains 22 rides and attractions, arcades and more, and sits right next to the newly reopened Luna Park. Luna Park was opened as part of the city's quest to bring Coney Island back to its glory days. With several unique rides and an authentic design, Luna Park is great fun for the whole family.

Scream Zone is Coney Island's newest theme park, set for its grand opening on April 16^th, 2011. Scream Zone promises four all new large-scale rides, including a brand new roller coaster designed by the Italian thrill ride manufacturer Zamperla. Stay tuned for more on Scream Zone and in the meantime, check out the promotional video for the new park on the Luna Park website below.

Long Island

Adventureland, Farmingdale, NY

Adventureland is Long Island's only amusement park. Located in Farmingdale on Route 110, this small park is centrally located and within a half hour's reach of most places in the New York City area. Due to its size, Adventureland is perfect for a few hours of afternoon or evening fun. With all sorts of thrill rides, including the Hurricane Coaster, Frisbee, Silver's Twister, kiddie rides, games and more, Adventureland is a great place for the whole family. Check out their website below for more details.

Westchester County

Rye Playland, Rye, NY

Rye Playland is beautifully situated between the shores of the Long Island Sound and a picturesque lake. The amusement park, run by Westchester County, has been providing warm weather entertainment for more than 70 years and has several unique and historic rides within its gates. The park is approximately a half hour's ride from many spots in New York City.

The centerpiece of Playland is the landmark Dragon Coaster. The Dragon Coaster is tame by today's standards, but is still one of the most enjoyable coasters anywhere. The Derby Racer is one of only a handful of its kind in the world, and though it may look like an old fashioned carousel, riders should be wary of the speed and ferocity of this innocent looking ride. Other unique rides in this entertainment center include the Whip, Superflight roller coaster, Double Shot, and much, much more. Playland also boasts one of the most expansive kiddie ride areas anywhere, making this amusement park the perfect destination for families anywhere.

Sources:

http://www.adventureland.us/themepark/index.shtml

http://www.coneyislandfunguide.com/

http://www.lunaparknyc.com/

http://www.ryeplayland.org/default.htm

http://www.wonderwheel.com/