Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park, home to iconic Coney Island rides like the 1920s-era Wonder Wheel, welcomes a brand new roller coaster this summer!
Last year was the historic amusement park’s 100th anniversary, when the park announced through USA Today — that they would be adding a brand new roller coaster in summer 2021, and the time is finally upon us!
The suspended thrill coaster is their biggest investment ever, and some lucky riders were already able to experience the exhilarating coaster at its soft opening.
#ConeyIsland’s newest ride, the #Phoenix #rollercoaster, meets the oldest, #denoswonderwheel 🎢🎡 !!! Now open to riders though it’s official opening is July 4th Weekend. Be among the first to experience the excitement of the Phoenix at @WonderWheelPark 📷#normanblake pic.twitter.com/rBYWNpUaO9
— Denos Wonder Wheel (@WonderWheelPark) June 27, 2021
The coaster rises 68 feet tall and goes up to 34 mph, not quite as intense as some of the others, but promising to pack just as much of a thrill! It’s also suitable for families with younger children.
It’s called the “Phoenix” because of the way its suspending carts will mimic flying as passengers feet will dangle in the air.
“Nothing can be more appropriate than the Phoenix Roller Coaster rising from the ashes of 2020 and the pandemic after it upended our shores and the world,” said the Executive Director of the Alliance for Coney Island, Alexandra Silversmith.
Third-generation co-owner Deno “DJ” Vouderis agreed earlier last year and said it symbolizes the rebirth of both Coney Island and NYC, “rising from the ashes.”
You’ll be able to check it out for it’s official opening at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 1st, 2021! And better yet, the first 100 people to visit the park that day will get a free ride!
featured image source: Deno’s Wonder Wheel