Sure, there may be "better" roller coasters. But the decidedly old-school Cyclone (it debuted in 1927) holds a special place in the hearts of fans. It's not the smoothest ride; the first drop can feel like riding down the rungs of an 85-foot ladder. Nostalgic, yet surprisingly vital after all these years, the Cyclone is an American classic. It's good to know that whatever may become of Coney Island (developers have plans to turn it into a more upscale, year-round destination), the coaster is protected as a National Historic Landmark and will remain untouched.