Amusement Parks In New York: A Huffington Post Travel Guide

Amusement Parks In New York: A Huffington Post Travel Guide

Amusement parks in New York State run the gamut from classic Coney Island to modern Six Flags in Lake George. From Manhattan to the Adirondacks to suburban Buffalo, you're never far away from fun and entertainment. As part of a Huffington Post Travel series on family-fun parks, here is our guide to all the key information visitors need to know about New York amusement parks.

Luna Park At Coney Island

Opened in 2010,
draws on the 100-plus-year history of Coney Island. The park combines modern technology and thrill rides with classic attractions like the iconic Cyclone and live entertainment.

Classic Coaster

The signature ride at Luna Park is not the latest thrill ride -- it's the classic wooden roller coaster,
. This restored beauty started America's love affair with roller coasters back in 1927 and continues to thrill riders today.

Arcade And Entertainment

In addition to The Cyclone,
features 18 other rides, including one other roller coaster. The park also has an arcade and offers a variety of live entertainment. Of course, you're never far from the beach, so there's plenty of opportunity to cool off between the thrills.

Dining Options

Luna Park offers six dining options, from the classic Nathan's hot dogs to Luna BBQ with its pork sandwiches and fries, to the full-service Cyclone Cafe, which serves a variety of sandwiches, salads, sushi rolls and kids favorites.

Safety Record

According to
, in 2007 a girl's lap bar flung open while riding the Polar Express. The girl was hospitalized and suffered from mild injuries.

Address: 1000 Surf Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11224
Phone: 718-373-5862
Hours: Luna Park is open mid-April through October. Hours vary frequently. Check website for current information.
Price: Four-hour unlimited wristbands Monday through Thursday only, $26; 40 Luna card credits, $35; 70 Luna card credits, $60; discounts for online ticket purchases.

Six Flags Great Escape

Opened in 1954, the 150-acre Six Flags Great Escape is located about 60 miles north of Albany. The park, which is divided into seven themed areas, features 58 rides, including six roller coasters, as well as live entertainment, a kiddie area and a summer water park.

Restored Ride

is the signature ride at Six Flags Great Escape. The 4,200-foot-long classic wooden coaster debuted in 1944 and was rescued from the scrap yard and restored by Six Flags in 1994.

More Coasters

Six Flags Great Escape offers five other roller coasters besides The Comet. Some of the coasters include Alpine Bobsled, a unique winter sled coaster, and Skycoaster, a roller coaster that simulates sky-diving and hang-gliding.

Plenty Of Dining Options

Six Flags Great Escape features more than two dozen dining options. They include the Timbertown Cafe, which serves burgers, salads, sandwiches and a selection of healthy choices; the Chicken Chalet; and the Alpine Fest Haus, a full-service eatery with burgers, pizzas, salads and more.

Safety Record

Our research revealed no notable news reports of accidents or safety issues at Six Flags Great Escape.

Address: 1172 State Route 9, Queensbury, NY 12804
Phone: 518-792-3500
Hours: Six Flags Great Escape is open mid-May through October. Hours vary frequently. Check website for current information.
Price: General admission 48" and taller, $46.99; under 48", $34.99; children age 2 and younger, free; online tickets, $41.99.

Other Noteworthy Parks Near New York

What's your favorite ride at Six Flags Great Escape? Tell us about it in the comments section below.

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