Coney Island West Entrance
North East
The Coney Island West Entrance is part of the larger Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue station complex, a major transit terminal in Brooklyn, New York. Opened in 1919–1920, this elevated station features eight tracks and four island platforms, serving as the southernmost terminal of the New York City Subway system. It was designed during a period when Coney Island was the primary summer resort for the New York metropolitan area, consolidating multiple former steam railroad lines into a unified elevated terminal. The station's location at Stillwell and Surf Avenues marks a historic transportation hub that facilitated access to the famed beachfront amusement parks and attractions. The West Entrance historically included retail spaces and was part of a major expansion to accommodate the growing number of visitors. Over the decades, the station has undergone renovations, including a complete overhaul from 2001 to 2004, ensuring it remains a vital transit gateway for millions of visitors annually. Its architectural design reflects early 20th-century transit engineering, and it continues to symbolize the cultural and recreational vibrancy of Coney Island.
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Tip: Visitors should aim to visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid peak crowding, especially in summer weekends. Purchasing transit passes in advance can save time and offer discounts. The station is well connected by multiple subway lines (D, F, N, Q), facilitating convenient access to Coney Island's attractions. Checking the latest subway schedules and service advisories is recommended before planning your trip.
Interesting facts
- •Coney Island–Stillwell Avenue station is one of the largest elevated transportation terminals in the world.
- •It is the southernmost terminal in the New York City Subway system.
- •The station originally unified multiple separate steam railroad lines into one elevated terminal.
- •The station underwent a complete renovation from 2001 to 2004 to modernize its infrastructure.
- •Below the tracks, the station houses a New York City Police Department transit precinct.
History
Rail transportation to Coney Island began in 1864 with the Brooklyn, Bath and Coney Island Railroad operating steam trains to the area.
By the late 1910s, the New West End Terminal was constructed as an elevated station to unify several former steam railroad lines, culminating in the opening of the Coney Island Terminal station in 1919.
This terminal marked a significant upgrade, with eight tracks and four platforms designed to handle large passenger volumes.
The extension of the Culver Line in 1920 completed the terminal, enabling reduced fares and increased accessibility.
Over the years, the terminal became a central transit hub and was renovated extensively between 2001 and 2004 to modernize facilities while preserving its historic character.
Place Guide
West Entrance Building1929
The West Entrance serves as a grand gateway to the station complex, featuring historic architectural elements and retail spaces that once catered to the vast summer crowds visiting Coney Island.
Elevated Platforms and Tracks1919–1920
The station's elevated structure includes eight tracks and four island platforms, designed to handle multiple subway lines and large passenger volumes efficiently.
