Wow. Just look at the Ford Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk. Isn’t it amazing?
This isn’t just any concert venue. The Ford Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk boasts a rich history. It’s built right into the historic Childs Restaurant building. That building itself dates back to 1923. Can you imagine the stories those walls could tell?
The amphitheater opened in June 2016. It wasn’t without controversy though. There was community opposition. Some people worried about noise and traffic. Others fought to preserve a community garden. But the project went ahead. Marty Markowitz a former Brooklyn Borough President played a key role. He’d been pushing for a permanent summer concert venue for decades.
The Ford Amphitheater at Coney Island Boardwalk’s first show? The Impractical Jokers. Then came Peter Gabriel and Sting. The Beach Boys with John Stamos followed on the Fourth of July. Big names like Travis Scott and Willie Nelson also graced the stage. It became a major success.
The amphitheater is unique. It’s a covered outdoor venue. This means concerts happen rain or shine. It seats 5000 people. The views of the Atlantic Ocean are breathtaking. The Childs Restaurant building was renovated. It now houses Kitchen 21 a popular restaurant.
So next time you’re on the Coney Island Boardwalk take a moment to appreciate the Ford Amphitheater. It’s more than just a concert venue. It’s a piece of Coney Island history. It’s a testament to perseverance and vision. It’s a place where legends are made. A place where memories are created. A place you’ll remember long after you’ve left.