Things to Do at Coney Island With Family This Summer

 Coney Island Boardwalk
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Things to do at Coney Island have been limited by the pandemic, with a lot being canceled or simply TBD. But what is opening up is still amazing and will deliver fun almost effortlessly to the whole family. Coney island is a place that lots of New Yorkers think of when hot summer days roll around. You not only have the beach, but a boardwalk full of rides and fun eats. What are you waiting for?!

If your family wants to camp as well as go to amusement parks, check out this article on the top New York campgrounds.

Things to Do at Coney Island This Summer!

Walk the Boardwalk

Starting off with the expected classic. Taking a stroll on the boardwalk, seeing the sights and smelling the boardwalk food. Nothing will get you in the mood for summer like sauntering down that bouncy wooden road.

Visit the New York Aquarium

We really missed the aquarium and now that it is open we are excited to visit the sea lions, sand tiger sharks and all our favorite critters. But first, there are safety rules to follow and you must reserve date specific ticket.

Ride the Rides

Luna Park is home to some iconic New York rides and they are opening up and ready for business. No matter the age group, no matter the relationship, there are countless opportunities for good old fashioned fun and things to do at Coney Island.

Hot Dog Eating Contest

Every year when July 4th rolls around and every year Nathan’s Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest commences. And with this year being its 105th anniversary, it’s not different. A revelry heralded as American and celebrated on Independence Day, you won’t want to miss it.

Ask the Experts

Coney Island is still pursuing their ask the experts series until the end of May and via Zoom. You can look at their schedule to see who is in the lineup for this month. But whichever session you choose to take part in, you will be treated to a wealth of knowledge from painting to personal health.

Catch a Ballgame

The Brooklyn Cyclones make their home on Coney Island, and it might finally be time to head back out there and feel the roar of the crowd and taste those peanuts and crackerjacks. Being a minor league team, it’s a much more playful and intimate feel, easy for sports fans and those just looking for a fun night. They have a vigorous schedule throughout the summer, so there’ll be plenty of opportunities to see them play whenever you’re comfortable and free.

Coney Island Film Festival

Though towards the latter half of the summer, this September Coney Island still plans on hosting its annual film festival. The extended deadline to submit films is June 25th, and after that all there is to do is wait and grow more excited. If you’re free from Sept 17 – 19, try checking out these homegrown masterpieces.

William’s Candy Shop

Make sure to grab a sweet treat at William’s Candy shop! From classic cotton candy to candied apples to soft serve and more, there is something in here for every one. Although they are not located right on the boardwalk, they are super close and well worth checking out.

Mermaid Parade

Despite the date still being TBD, the Mermaid Parade still plans on happening sometime this summer. Coined as the “World’s Largest Art Parade,” it’s a celebration of not just the mystical, but humanity’s love of the mystical. It’s an all around  joyous and colorful occasion and whenever it comes back this Coney Island summer, you should consider going.

 

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Collina Italiana, The Italian Language and Cultural Center

<p>Learn Italian the fun way. Children practice and absorb the language through arts & crafts, activities, games, songs and stories!</p>

Instituto Cervantes

<p><span class="" style="font-size: 10pt; font-family: Arial;" data-sheets-value="{" data-sheets-userformat="{">Children and teenagers learn to understand and express themselves in Spanish, while improving their communication skills through a dynamic immersion program taught by NATIVE TEACHERS that combines CLASSES, ARTISTIC WORKSHOPS and FUN ACTIVITIES! All of our high-qualified teachers are native Spanish speakers who adapt the structure of the class to the needs and levels of each group while conducting the classes entirely in Spanish. We offer both Spanish Summer Camps and Regular Courses for children along the year to foster language learning and multicultural understanding.</span></p>

Play On! Studios

<p>Play On! Studios offers theater day camps and after-school classes on the UWS that are guaranteed to give kids a summer full of acting, music, and fun they won't soon forget! Young actors will rehearse and perform in a full production, work with professional NYC actors/teaching artists, build up their skills in a nurturing, non-competitive environment and play lots of drama games!</p> <p>Creative Drama Camps are perfect for kids entering grades K-4. Campers will work each week to put on a brand-new show! Each session, they will receive a script, rehearse a production, make a set and costumes, and perform their play. Kids will also play drama games, play outside (weather permitting), and have tons of fun!</p> <p>Musical Theater Camps are aimed at kids entering grades 4-9. In Musical Theater Performance Camp, campers put on a complete musical production in a professional NYC theater! Campers will stretch their skills with drama exercises and games, vocal coaching, field trips, and building a professional set. Our incredible teaching artists and campers come together to put on a truly remarkable show!</p> <p>During the school year, classes are great for beginners or more experienced actors - sing, dance, and put on a play! Whether your child is just starting out, or ready for Broadway, we’ve got the class for them. Classes are available for grades PreK-8, after school or on Saturdays! Come play with us.</p> <p> </p>