Luna Park: A Funfair for Everyone
Luna Park is a name shared by dozens of amusement parks around the world. They are named after the first Luna Park, which opened in 1903 on Coney Island, New York. Luna parks are small-scale attraction parks that offer classic funfair attractions, such as great wheels, roller coasters, carousels, and games, as well as newer features, such as electronic displays and catering services. Luna parks are easily accessed and located in the suburbs or near the town center. They are suitable for people of all ages and interests who want to have some fun and entertainment.
In this article, we will explore some of the most famous and popular Luna parks in different continents and countries. We will also learn about their history, features, and attractions. Whether you are looking for a thrilling ride, a relaxing stroll, or a delicious snack, you will find something to enjoy at a Luna park.
Luna Park in Coney Island
The original Luna Park on Coney Island was a massive spectacle of rides, ornate towers and cupolas covered in 250,000 electric lights. It was opened in 1903 by the showmen and entrepreneurs Frederic Thompson and Elmer “Skip” Dundy. The park was either named after the fanciful airship Luna, part of the new park’s central attraction A Trip to the Moon, or after Dundy’s sister.
The park was a huge success and inspired many other amusement parks to take the name Luna Park. However, it also faced competition from nearby Steeplechase Park and Dreamland. The park suffered several fires and accidents and eventually closed down in 1946.
In 2010, a new Luna Park was opened on the same site as the original one. It features modern rides and attractions, such as the Thunderbolt roller coaster, the Coney Island Cyclone wooden coaster, the Soarin’ Eagle flying coaster, and the Deno’s Wonder Wheel Ferris wheel. The park also hosts events and festivals throughout the year, such as Halloween Harvest and Lunar New Year Celebration.
Luna Park in Sydney
Luna Park in Sydney is one of the oldest and best-known amusement parks in Australia. It was opened in 1935 on the northern shore of Sydney Harbour, near the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It was designed by Herman Phillips, who had worked on several Luna Parks in America. The park features a distinctive Art Deco style and a large smiling face at the entrance.
The park has over 20 rides and attractions, including the Wild Mouse roller coaster, the Rotor spinning room, the Tango Train swinging ride, and the Ferris wheel that offers panoramic views of the harbour. The park also has a variety of games, food stalls, shops, and entertainment venues. The park is listed on the New South Wales State Heritage Register and is protected by law.
Luna Park in Melbourne
Luna Park in Melbourne is another iconic amusement park in Australia. It was opened in 1912 on the foreshore of Port Phillip Bay in St Kilda. It was designed by T.H. Eslick, who had also worked on Luna Parks in America. The park features a similar smiling face at the entrance as the one in Sydney.
The park has over 18 rides and attractions, including the Scenic Railway roller coaster, which is the oldest continually operating roller coaster in the world. The park also has a carousel, a ghost train, a dodgem car track, and a giant slide. The park is also listed on the Victorian Heritage Register and is protected by law.
Other Luna Parks
There are many other Luna Parks around the world that share the name and spirit of the original one on Coney Island. Some of them are:
- Luna Park in Tel Aviv, Israel: Opened in 1970 on the Yarkon River bank. It has over 30 rides and attractions, including a Ferris wheel, a log flume, a pirate ship, and a bumper car track.
- Luna Park in Beirut, Lebanon: Opened in 1969 on the Corniche seafront promenade. It has over 20 rides and attractions, including a Ferris wheel, a carousel, a roller coaster, and a haunted house.