There's nothing more classic New York than Coney Island. The hot dogs, the boardwalk, that iconic Cyclone rollercoaster and the Wonder Wheel. It's been our city's go-to seaside resort since the middle of the 19th century, and still going strong. Coney Island's shown up in the stories of O. Henry and Fitzgerald's The Great Gatsby, been featured in music video's (Beyonce's "XO and Salt-n-Pepa's Shoop), and appeared in numerous films (Men in Black 3, Wonder Wheel and Annie Hall). The area saw years of neglect but was revitalized with the opening of the new and improved Luna Park amusement park in 2010, and when you go now? It still feels like you've stepped back in time.

So what can you do there? Head to the beach, people! A nearly three-mile stretch of sea and sand and the boardwalk are free to sunbathe, take a dip or people-watch. (But get there early--it can get crowded on a nice day!)

Coney Island is home to the only major aquarium in the city. Fourteen acres of water containing 300 marine species at your disposal. (Don't miss the acrobatic sea lions!). Off-peak admission tickets cost $26.95 for adults, $27.95 for seniors and $25.95 for kids 3-12. (Admission is free after 3 PM on Wednesdays.)

The Coney Island Museum showcases antiques and memorabilia from games and rides from the past. Think vintage bumper cars and crazy fun-house mirrors. Admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors and kids under 12. There, the Coney Island Circus Sideshow will send you back decades. Guests can gawk at fire eaters, sword swallowers and snake charmers in this old-timey production ($15 for adults and $12 for kids under 12).

And you just can't miss the Cyclone. This rollercoaster has been around since 1927 and is New York City's only remaining wooden coaster, and the second-steepest in the world. (It gained landmark status in 1988.) The ride reaches a maximum of 60 miles per hour and boasts a total track length of 2,640 feet.

You're going to get hungry, so head to the original Nathan's Famous and treat yourself to a Coney Island hot dog (with chili). This flagship location of the chain opened in 1916, and their fare is used in the annual Fourth of July hot dog eating contest, which has been taking place for over 100 years. Or check out Totonno's, hailed by Zagat, the New York Times and the James Beard Foundation as the best pie in our pizza-blessed city. This joint's been around for since 1924 and if you take even one bite, you'll know why.

So there you have it. An only-in-New-York day just a short subway ride from the hotel (the D or F train to Stillwell Avenue from the West Fourth St. station.)

Image via Lichtwolke/iStock