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When you think of Amusement Parks, you think of Coney Island in Brooklyn, New York. Discovered in 1609 by Dutch explorer Henry Hudson, Coney Island eventually became an amusement resort at the beach. During the 1870s and 1880s, several luxury hotels were built there and a railroad was extended to the resort. Coney Island was described as “Heaven at the end of a subway ride.”

Coney Island was home to Sea Lion Park, the first enclosed amusement park, which opened in 1895. Coney Island became famous for having several of the best-known amusement parks in the world. There was Steeplechase Park, Luna Park and Dreamland. In addition, a person or group of persons would lease space for single attractions. Coney Island was described as the “Poor Man’s Paradise.” It also became the “Nickel Empire”, where for a nickel, you could get a hot dog or a knish (deep-fried baked potato cake), or ride on any of the thrilling amusements.