Domino Sugar sign
Photo by Wes Tarca

Every city has its signature items. Aside from its jaw-dropping skyline, New York is associated with yellow taxi cabs, dirty water dogs, and hordes of disgruntled commuters. But beyond the obvious, there are plenty of lesser-known fixtures that have also become synonymous with the city. Over the years, we’ve grown accustomed to seeing select New York City signs — some more flashy than others, but all equally as spectacular — that decorate the top of buildings, hang off the side of walls and advertise businesses. Here’s a look at the most iconic former and existing New York City signs:

13. Coney Island Signs

coney island wonder wheel

Coney Island is full of flashy signs that advertise its many attractions, including one of its oldest and most beloved rides, the 150-foot Wonder Wheel (built between 1918 and 1920). Another historic ride at the amusement park is the Cyclone, a wooden roller coaster that opened in 1927.

Like the Wonder Wheel, the Cyclone also boasts an iconic red sign that proclaims its name. The Cyclone is nearly 100 years old, but it wasn’t the very first roller coaster at Coney Island. That distinction goes to the now lost switchback railway ride that opened on June 16, 1884. It travelled at just six miles per hour! As you can imagine, many of the amusement park’s signs have been lost to time as attractions have rotated out. Check out other interesting secrets of Coney Island here.