Coney Island's fun season begins

NEW YORK (FOX5NY.COM) - From the sand to the Steeplechaser, Coney Island is ushering in Memorial Day weekend with crowds. The weather was perfect for the mayor to announce the official start of beach season at the city's eight beaches.

The mayor and local officials also unveiled the plaque designating the Coney Island Boardwalk a scenic landmark in recognition of its cultural and historic significance.

But it is not just about old traditions by the boardwalk. Some new ones are here, too. Coney Art Walls is an open-air museum available for events. It opens Saturday with live music and food and drinks.

A new thrill ride has debuted. The Astro Tower brings riders 137 feet up into the air and then plunges them down.