As New York continued its march up the island of Manhattan, there were few places where people that couldn't escape to Newport could find somewhere to relax, play, stroll and find some shade.  

The development of Central Park  provided some much needed relief but it took some time for it to become a place that was accessible and viable for all of New York's social classes.     

Out on the far coast of Brooklyn, the resort of Coney Island developed rapidly and became a truly great escape with its famous amusement parks where one could find adventure and perhaps a bit of romance.  In this episode, returning guest Esther Crain, author and creator of Ephemeral New York, takes us on a journey to visit these spots and spaces where Gilded Age New Yorkers could cool off, forget the realities of life for just a bit, and have a really good time. 

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