From Manhattan, marked a turning point in Coney Island's history and foreshadowed the challenges facing many urban amusement parks in the following decades. While Coney Island continued to operate, its dominance gradually declined as tastes changed and new forms of entertainment emerged. The Spread of Amusement Parks Across America Coney Island's success inspired the development of amusement parks across America. Entrepreneurs recognized the profitability of providing accessible entertainment to the growing urban population. Trolley parks, built by streetcar companies to encourage weekend ridership, became particularly important in this expansion. Many trolley parks evolved into major amusement destinations. Kennywood, near Pittsburgh, began as a simple picnic ground for a trolley company in 1898 before gradually adding rides and attractions. Similarly, Atlanta's Ponce de Leon Park began as a trolley destination before developing into a major amusement center. These parks often featured a mix of natural beauty (lakes, gardens) and mechanical amusements. Early amusement parks often reflected local culture and history. Philadelphia's Willow Grove Park, opened in 1895, featured elaborate landscaping, concerts by John Philip Sousa's band, and recreations of historical events. These parks often served as important community gathering places, hosting events like Fourth of July celebrations and labor union picnics. The Golden Age of Roller Coasters The early 20th century saw rapid development in roller coaster technology. Designers like Harry Traver and John Miller created ever-larger and more complex coasters that pushed the boundaries of thrill. The 1920s became known as the "Golden Age of Roller Coasters," with iconic designs still admired today. Roller coasters became the signature attraction of many amusement parks. The 1927 Cyclone at Coney Island, designed by Harry Traver, remains a landmark for its intense drops and twisting layout. John Miller's designs, including the Racer at Kennywood and the Phoenix at Knoebels, emphasized smooth rides with airtime moments when riders experience a sensation of weightlessness. The technology of roller coasters advanced rapidly. The introduction of the underfriction wheel in the 1920s allowed for steeper drops and inversions (though true inverting coasters did not become common until the 1970s). Wooden coaster construction reached its peak in this era, with elaborate structures that combined speed, height, and complex layouts. The Decline of the Traditional Amusement Park The Great Depression of the 1930s dealt a severe blow to the amusement park industry. Many parks closed due to financial hardship, and investment in new attractions dwindled. World War II further impacted the industry, with resources diverted to the war effort and travel restricted. After the war, the rise of television and suburbanization changed American leisure patterns. Traditional amusement parks, often located in urban areas, faced competition from new forms of entertainment. The growth of automobile ownership led to the development of roadside attractions and regional theme parks, challenging the dominance of older urban parks. Many classic amusement parks struggled to adapt to these changes. Increased operating costs, changing demographics, and competition from newer, more themed attractions led to the decline or closure of many historic parks