Vintage photos from the Coney Island of yesteryear

New York's quirky summer hotspot evolved over the years from a wealthy resort to "The People's Playground"

by Jackie Friedman

May 30, 2016

.polaris__post-meta--date { display: none; } .polaris__post-meta--date.no-script { display: block; padding-left: 45px } May 30, 2016

Circa 1890

Visitors outside of the entrance of Luna Park.

Circa 1900

Visitors enjoy the beach.

Circa 1900

Beachgoers walk around the waterways and gondolas.

1904

Children ride goat-drawn carriages.

1908

People ride the Helter Skelter slide in Luna Park.

Circa 1925

A stereographic image of bathers at Coney Island.

Circa 1930

A crowd at Nathan's hot dog stand.

July 13, 1937

Newsboys shoot in a carnival game.

Aug. 3, 1937

Women compete in the Miss Venus Competition.

April 24, 1938

Riders ascend the Steeplechase.

May 8, 1946

Coast Guard members and their girlfriends enjoy the beach.

Sept. 8, 1946

Vacationers enjoy the high swings.

Circa 1962

The beach and boardwalk.

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woah there