The 2019 Coney Island Mermaid Parade
photo by Amanda Hatfield

ride Coney Island's Cyclone, Thunderbolt & more, virtually

While state-run beaches in New York State and New Jersey are open (with social distancing limitations in place) as of Memorial Day Weekend, NYC beaches remain closed for swimming amid the pandemic. Coney Island’s iconic rides and amusement parks are all shuttered for now, including the Wonder Wheel, which was to celebrate its 100th anniversary this season. There’s no comparison to going to the beach or riding a roller coaster in person, of course, but if you’re looking to bring a little bit of that summery feeling into quarantine, Luna Park made 360-degree POV videos of four of their most beloved rides: The Thunderbolt, The Cyclone, Steeplechase, and Soarin’ Eagle. Watch all four below.

Another beloved Coney Island summer tradition that’s off this year is the annual Mermaid Parade. Check out pictures from the 2018 edition below.