Coney Island has always been an iconic spot when visiting New York City, and back in the day, it was also one of New Yorkers’ favorite places to spend their time during summer. From sunbathing on the beach to having a few laughs at side shows, we’ve gathered 30 vintage pictures that can help you imagine how it was back in the day.
People sleeping in the sand during a heat wave.
1955
Crowds at the beach.
1961.
A park department attendant holding up a kid at the lost children’s office.
June 9, 1941.
Family time at the beach.
1962.
A long exposure photo of an illuminated Ferris wheel.
August 1949.
A police officer helping a kid look at something from the deck.
1963.
A view of the beach from a ride.
September 8, 1946.
Kids building sandcastles.
1962.
Girl squad going back to the shore.
June 12, 1938.
The famous “Parachute Jump” in Steeplechase Park.
1948.
A long exposure picture of an illuminated carnival ride.
1941.
Sideshows advertised in billboards at the Coney Island amusement park.
1945.
Identical twins matching outfits over the boardwalk.
1948.
A couple sharing a hot dog.
July 18, 1943.
People sunbathing on the beach.
1948.
The boardwalk.
1933.
People at Nathan’s Famous hot dog stand.
1955.
Families taking a stroll on the boardwalk.
1948
People taking a ride on the Cyclone roller coaster.
1948.
Coney Island boardwalk with sunbathers and swimmers on the beach.
1948.
The “Strong Man” testing his strength.
1945.
Crowds sunbathing on the beaches.
1948.
A loving couple chilling on the beach.
1963.
Families walking past a Coney Island Ferris wheel.
1948.
Grandma sunbathing.
1963.
Women taking a spin on the giant slide inside the “Pavilion of Fun”.
May 11, 1953.
