Most people will venture to the beach on a hot, sunny day. I decided to head out to Coney Island on January 8th, one of the coldest days of the year. The absence of the crowds means you’ll only find beachcomber die-hards and unique local fare. The winter skies can be immense and fierce, with the vast landscape offering an ominous perspective. Seagulls follow you onto the boardwalk, perhaps more greedy with the loss of sunbathers. The Wonder Wheel looms high above the amusement park horizon, almost skeletal in nature, waiting to come to life in the warmer months ahead.
NYC Aquarium
No trip to Coney Island is complete without stopping at the New York Aquarium. After a brisk walk in the chilly temperatures, it was surreal to be viewing vibrant salt water inhabitants in a mammoth sized tank, only moments later. The sea otters continue to delight the crowds with their aquatic antics, not even noticing the frosty temperatures. The mammoth-sized walrus was content to sun himself on the rocks, bellowing out his declarations as king. While the aquarium is currently under renovations causing about 50% of the exhibitions to be closed, there is still plenty to see and worth the $16 fare. nyaquarium.com
