Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier Tours and Activities

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier showing rides, general coastal views and a sandy beach
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Ride the thrilling swings over the Gulf of Mexico and browse the shops and restaurants on this fun and scenic pier.

The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is an iconic dock with a range of shops, restaurants and rides. Its many family-fun activities are the main source of entertainment in the center of Galveston on the Gulf Coast. Bring the whole family down to the dock for an afternoon of games, food and shopping.

Walk along the pier and snap photos of the excellent views of the Gulf of Mexico. The pier runs out into the ocean, stretching 1,130 feet (340 meters) long. Bring your kids to various thrilling roller coasters, including the Iron Shark and the Sky Shooter.

Ride the Galaxy Wheel for the best views from the sky. The Texas Star Flyer will make you feel like you’re flying over the water on its swings. Take your toddlers to the rides suitable for little kids.

Select from the range of restaurants along the dock, including the Bubba Gump Shrimp Company from the Forrest Gump movie. Look back on the historic sea wall flanking Galveston’s shore.

Browse the various souvenir shops lining the pier, which was built in 2012. The initial pier on this spot stood from 1943 until 1961, when it was destroyed by Hurricane Carla. For years, the Flagship Hotel stood on this location, before it too was damaged by a hurricane.

Note that the pier and its rides open most days from morning until late in the evening. The schedule is fairly erratic and can be found online. Purchase an all-day ride pass for a fee, with prices based on height. Pay for a pier pass to use the dock without rides.

The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is in the heart of Galveston, stretching out from its southern shore. It is an extension of the Seawall Boulevard and overlooks the Gulf of Mexico. Visit nearby attractions, such as Menard Park, the Jonathan M. Romano Skate Park and the iconic Murdochs gift shop.

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Top Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier Hotel & Accommodation Deals

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Galveston Beach
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Galveston Beach
4 out of 5
1702 Seawall Boulevard, Galveston, TX
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Galveston Beach
Grand Galvez Resort, Autograph Collection
Grand Galvez Resort, Autograph Collection
4 out of 5
2024 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX
Grand Galvez Resort, Autograph Collection
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.