Business Landscape

Coney Island showcases a vibrant and varied business landscape, blending its world-famous amusement attractions with small businesses that reflect the community's spirit. Along Mermaid Avenue and beyond, local restaurants, delis, hairdressers, florists, auto repair shops, and other independent enterprises play a vital role in maintaining the area’s cultural and economic identity.

For over a century, Coney Island has been a world-renowned entertainment destination, drawing millions with its thrilling rides, iconic boardwalk, and historical charm. The district features 51 rides. Over five million people visit annually, making it one of the most popular tourist spots in New York City.

Image by Courtney Knapp

Luna Park: This modern amusement park features over 30 rides, including the historic Cyclone Roller Coaster, a classic wooden coaster, and the high-speed Thunderbolt Roller Coaster. The park offers a mix of thrilling and kiddie rides, making it a family-friendly destination.

Deno's Wonder Wheel: Since 1920, the 150-foot-tall Wonder Wheel has been a signature attraction at Deno’s Wonder Wheel Park, located on Coney Island’s iconic boardwalk. The park offers a variety of family-friendly rides, including bumper cars, a carousel, and the spooky Spook-a-Rama, a beloved dark ride.

The Cyclone roller coaster that has been thrilling riders since 1927, The Cyclone is one of the most well-known landmarks in Coney Island and remains a bucket-list ride for coaster enthusiasts .

The Thunderbolt: a steel roller coaster that twists and turns high above the boardwalk, offering high-speed thrills and incredible views of the area .

The Parachute Jump: Originally buid’s Fair, the Parachute Jump is a historic landmark. While no longer an operational ride, it remains a symbol of Coney Island’s rich history and serves as a popular photo spot for visitors

The proposed casino in Coney Island aims to boost tourism and generate revenue, creating jobs and attracting visitors. However, there are concerns about potential gentrification, displacement of long-time residents, and the loss of the area's unique cultural identity. Critics worry that it could prioritize tourism over the needs of the local community and lead to further commercialization. Our survey revealed that 60% of locals strongly disagree with the casino project, citing these concerns as central reasons for their opposition.

Coney Island attracts between 5 to 6 million visitors annually, with a large portion of those visitors drawn by the unique events and festivals that define the area’s charm and history. Annual events include long-standing events such as the Coney Island Mermaid Parade, Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest, and the Coney Island Film Festival. These events celebrate the area's cultural diversity and history and also offer an opportunity for local businesses to showcase their offerings.

Survey Themes:

• 63% Not satisfied with the amount of jobs

• 76% Available jobs are not in line with interests or skills

• 71% Not satisfied with the variety of local businesses

• 71% Not satisfied with the variety of food establishments

• 66% Not able to purchase necessities

Desired Changes:

• Grocery Stores (20)

• Affordable

• Fresh fish market

• Healthy/Fruit/Vegetable

• Variety of Restaurants (10)

• Clothing Stores (4)

• Pharmacies (3)

Desired Jobs:

• All industries, with an emphasis on professional jobs: 

• Tech

• Environmental 

• Finance

• Retail

• Hospitality

• Not seasonal work