The Wonder Wheel goes round and round

The Coney Island landmark is a beloved treasure

For this month’s “Rode It! Loved It!” (which is exclusively for paid subscribers), we’re heading to the amusement industry mecca, Coney Island, for my review of the historic Wonder Wheel. You’re not a paid subscriber, you say? What’s up with that? It’s a challenging time for journalists. I hope you agree that we should be compensated for our work. Paid subscriptions are my only source of income here at the ad-free About Theme Parks, and your support would be greatly appreciated.

More goodness for paid subscribers! Tomorrow (Friday, April 19) will be the monthly “What’s the Attraction” discussion thread that is exclusively for you. How and why did you fall in love with theme parks? That’ll be the topic of tomorrow’s thread. Please gather your thoughts, and plan to share your story.

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4.5 (out of 5)

The iconic Wonder Wheel stands as a proud testament to the Industrial Era and to Coney Island’s storied past. Opened in 1920, it is older than two other venerable icons along the famed Brooklyn beach's skyline, the Cyclone roller coaster and the Parachute Jump. But it continues to remain relevant and vital to visitors today. Riders stand "on line" (as they say in New York City) to ride the Wonder Wheel as much for its panoramic views, unique swinging cars, thrills, and fun as they do for its sheer nostalgia.

(Norman Blake, Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park)