You should take a trip to Coney Island...

Of course, this is no longer the big amusement park of the 1930s; the wooden roller coasters have disappeared, successive storms have blown up many barracks but the spirit remains.

Even when the attractions are closed.

And if you have never been there before, you cannot compare it with what was at the time so you will probably be charmed.

The easiest way to get there is to take the metro, lines D, N, Q or F. If you come from Downtown Brooklyn with the D line and its orange cars, you will pass by roofs and roofs of warehouses covered with graffities. Then, gradually, the train will empty and when you arrive at Coney Island-Stillwell Ave, it may be that the wagon is yours alone.

At least when the attractions are not open.

In any case, once you leave the station, you will immediately be transported into the special atmosphere of a fairground.

It is undoubtedly the colors which do this, bright, flashy, extreme. And then the oversized signs and their neon announcements. You want a hot dog, this is the place to go because that's part of the experience. This is what you came for, for this and of course for the rides. Even at rest, they make you dream.

Immediately to your right, you will see the Thunderbolt, a metal roller coaster that replaced the original wooden Thunderbolt while increasing its speed and slope. A little further, The Parachute Jump which is no longer in use but still impressive with its umbrella shape, especially at night when it is illuminated. It had been erected at Flushing Meadow for the 1939 World Expo before being moved to Coney Island.

When you get to the promenade, first turn right to pass the Parachute Jump then the Carrousel with its wooden horses dating from 1906 (but renovated several times since!). Even though it is now on the National Register of Historical Places, it still functions and gives you a touch of nostalgia when it turns and makes its music heard.

Finally, check out the entrance to the Ford Amphitheater and its superb posters advertising a game of the Cyclones, the local baseball team. Behind, you will glimpse the bleachers and it will be as if you were there!

On this part of the promenade, you also have access to the pontoon which heads towards the sea and suddenly, it is the fishermen who surround you.

Retrace your steps to make your way to the highlights of the place, Deno Park and its Ferris wheel built in 1920, not to mention its 14 other rides for the whole family. Then Luna Park with other equally colorful attractions and the Cyclone, a roller coaster more traditional than the Thunderbolt but just as breathtaking.

Finally, feast on the fast food stalls that you will find there. Their colorful ads are eye-catching and if eating doesn't appeal to you, you'll have some wonderful unique photo opportunities.

Without forgetting, of course and on the other side, the beach.

There is an air of vacation in this place. You are far from the city and that is why you should go. To take a break, to become a child again, "to feel the magic in the air".

If you want to walk more in this part of Brooklyn, you will find Coney Island at the start of Walk in NYC #17, Coney Island, Brighton Beach & Sheepshead Bay.

Have fun!

Dominique is the creator of newyork.citywalks.space, 18 self-guided tours to discover the city on foot, on and off the beaten track.