Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue: The Gateway to Fun in Brooklyn

The Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue station is a major subway terminal complex located in the Coney Island neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York. It serves as the terminus for four main subway lines, making it one of the largest and busiest terminals outside of Manhattan. Its iconic location next to the beach, boardwalk, and amusement parks makes it a crucial access point to one of New York’s most famous entertainment destinations.

Connections and Services

The Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue station is a large terminal that integrates services from four distinct lines:

Station Services

• This terminal is one of the largest in the system, with multiple platforms and tracks.
• It is served by trains from the following services:
  • D (orange)
  • F (orange)
  • N (yellow)
  • Q (yellow)
• Main entrance address: Corner of Stillwell Avenue and Surf Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11224

Terminal Features

• It is one of the largest elevated terminals in the world.
• It offers services for the lines:
  • D (orange)
  • F (orange)
  • N (yellow)
  • Q (yellow)
• The main entrances provide direct access to Coney Island attractions.

As a terminal, passengers begin or end their journeys here, providing direct and convenient access to the Coney Island area from various parts of Brooklyn and Manhattan.

Importance and Location

• The station is located at the intersection of Stillwell Avenue and Surf Avenue, in the heart of Coney Island, Brooklyn.
• Its strategic location makes it a key access point to important destinations such as:

  • Coney Island Beach & Boardwalk

    • The famous public beach and historic boardwalk.
    • An iconic destination for summer activities, swimming, and sunbathing.
    • Home to annual events like the Mermaid Parade.

  • Luna Park Amusement Park

    • Modern amusement park with roller coasters, games, and attractions.
    • Home of the historic Cyclone roller coaster.
    • Offers family entertainment and thrilling rides.

  • Additional Nearby Attractions

    • New York Aquarium: Located on the boardwalk.
    • Maimonides Park: Stadium of the Brooklyn Cyclones baseball team.
    • Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs: The original location of the famous restaurant.

History and Evolution

• The original terminal, built by the BMT, was inaugurated in phases between 1919 and 1920, consolidating several previous railway lines.
• The station complex underwent a massive reconstruction completed in 2004, modernizing the facilities and integrating an innovative roof with solar panels.
• It has been a vital transportation hub for the Coney Island tourist destination for over a century.

Interesting Facts

• The station experiences a high volume of passengers, especially during the summer months and on weekends.
• Its solar panel-covered roof is a distinctive architectural feature and one of the largest solar power installations in the MTA system.
• It is the main gateway for millions of visitors to Coney Island’s attractions, beach, and events each year.