Venue Guide: Ford Amphitheater at Coney Island – Brooklyn, NY

Ford Amphitheater at Coney Island History

Coney Island’s premier all-weather entertainment center is one of the Boardwalk’s newest and one of its oldest attractions. The Brooklyn venue incorporates the Childs Restaurant building, constructed in 1923, a landmark structure noted for its fanciful Spanish Revival architecture and history as both a famous restaurant and a candy factory. It was used in the late 2000s as an ice skating rink. Construction began in 2015 on the adjacent amphitheater, which opened in the summer of 2016.

Ford Amphitheater at Coney Island Performers

The Ford Amphitheater at Coney Island has hosted legendary musical acts including Willie Nelson, Sting, Wiz Khalifa, The Four Tops, The Temptations, Gladys Knight, Chicago and, in 2017, a virtual concert featuring Elvis Presley. Ford Amphitheater is also home to the Great Irish Festival of New York, and has hosted events like 80s Live, Freestyle Funhouse, On Da Reggae & Soca Tip, and the Coney Island New Year’s Eve Celebration and New Year’s Day Polar Bear Plunge.

Planning Your Visit to Ford Amphitheater at Coney Island

It’s easy to make an entire day (or night) out of Coney Island, with such famous attractions as Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs, Deno’s Wonder Wheel Amusement Park, Steeplechase Park and New York Aquarium all within walking distance. In the summer months, Coney Island’s three miles of beaches are where the action is. You can also catch a Brooklyn Cyclones game at MCU Park, or chill indoors at the Abe Stark ice rink.

Ford Amphitheater Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Ford Amphitheater parking options?

Public parking is available at MCU Park on 1901 Surf Ave. Additional lots are nearby on Surf Avenue. A NYC special permit is required for ADA spaces on streets and at lots, such as those along W 21st Street. If using public transportation, hop on the subway and take the Q, N, D or F train to Stillwell Avenue/Coney Island. Ford Amphitheater is also easily accessed via MTA buses.

Does Ford Amphitheater serve food?

The Bacardi Seaside Bar sits to the left of the main stage, with the Terrace Grill directly behind. Indoor concessions and Beer Express kiosks are throughout the venue, and the Ford Amphitheater rooftop features a VIP Lounge.

What are the seating options at Ford Amphitheater?

There are three main sections in the 5,000-seat Ford Amphitheater: the Orchestra closest to the stage at Sections 101-103 and 201-203, followed by the Promenade (301-303 and 401-403) and General Admission Bleachers (A, B, C & D sections). Accessible seats are available in Sections 201, 203, 301, 303 and 402, with box seats located in Sections 201, 202 and 203. The General Admission Pit is in Sections 101-103 for certain events, with standing room only.

What are the Ford Amphitheater safety & security guidelines?

Prohibited items include weapons, outside food and drink (including alcohol), audio/video recording devices, non-service animals, and coolers and luggage. Outside bags larger than clutches are discouraged and may be searched. Fans are prohibited from re-entry after leaving the Amphitheater. Visit the venue website for more info on Ford Amphitheater’s policies.