Coney Island: the boardwalk and Luna Park

What it is like

Luna Park at 1000 Surf Avenue is the paid part. It has a mix of rides, games, shops and restaurants, and you can pay per ride, buy an all-day wristband, or choose a Luna Pass starting from $40. The Cyclone and Thunderbolt roller coasters are there too. The park's hours vary by day and weather: in October, weekdays are generally 4pm to 10pm and weekends 11am to 8pm or 10pm, with Halloween Harvest running through the month.

I could not verify the height requirements or kiddie-ride list on the pages I read, so check them before you promise a four-year-old a roller coaster. Height charts have broken more hearts than any ride.

Safety first: ocean swimming only makes sense when lifeguards are on duty, which is a summer season; check NYC Parks for the schedule. Out of season, the boardwalk walk is still free and the beach is empty enough for sandcastles in coats.

Best time to go

Summer weekdays for the beach; fall weekends for a calmer Luna Park.

Tips before you go

• Check Luna Park's hours and ride rules before you go; they vary by day and weather.
• Pick between pay-per-ride and a wristband based on how many rides your children will actually ride.
• Swim only when lifeguards are on duty.
• A walk along the boardwalk is free and a good first stop.