Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier Vacations & Packages

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier


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.

Plan a trip to see Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel & Suites Houston by the Galleria
Stylish Luxury Downtown Home
Hotel Granduca Houston

Browse tours and tickets to explore Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

Tours & day trips

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Private & custom tours

See all 12 activities

Holiday & seasonal tours

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Cruises & boat tours

See all 4 activities

Reviews of Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

4.2
Top Destination
5 - Excellent
292
5 - Excellent 41%
4 - Good
313
4 - Good 44%
3 - Okay
95
3 - Okay 13%
2 - Disappointing
13
2 - Disappointing 2%
1 - Terrible
4
1 - Terrible 1%

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

I was sad that the Pier wasn't lit while I was there. The rides were still closed due to COVID.

2/5 - Disappointing

Verified traveler

Cant walk the pier without paying $10.00

4/5 - Good

Verified traveler

best at night,very beautiful.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

Very little to do here if you don’t go on rides. I did enjoy shopping at Murdoch’s though.

3/5 - Okay

K8G

Was confused as to what the times and cost were for this attraction (different websites had different times/costs). Arrived at the location and found it to be open from 11am - 11pm. They sell wristbands for riding the rides but I never got clear instructions regarding games and if you did not want the wristband... Found out it is $10 just to walk the pier. So we took pictures from the road and left. It was a beautiful show of carnival lights.

3/5 - Okay

Verified traveler

You have to pay even if you want to just walk around.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

Seabreeze Hotel, An Ascend Collection Hotel

Seabreeze Hotel, An Ascend Collection Hotel

2 out of 5
2311 Avenue P 1 2, Galveston, TX
Seabreeze Hotel, An Ascend Collection Hotel
Grand Galvez Resort, Autograph Collection

Grand Galvez Resort, Autograph Collection

4 out of 5
2024 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX
Grand Galvez Resort, Autograph Collection
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Galveston Beach by IHG

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Galveston Beach by IHG

2.5 out of 5
3228 SEAWALL BOULEVARD, Galveston, TX
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Galveston Beach by IHG
Comfort Inn & Suites

Comfort Inn & Suites

2.5 out of 5
2818 Avenue R 1/2, Galveston, Galveston, TX
Comfort Inn & Suites
Beachfront Palms Hotel Galveston

Beachfront Palms Hotel Galveston

3 out of 5
5914 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX
Beachfront Palms Hotel Galveston
The San Luis Resort, Spa & Conference Center

The San Luis Resort, Spa & Conference Center

4 out of 5
5222 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX
The San Luis Resort, Spa & Conference Center
The Mariner

The Mariner

2.5 out of 5
1602 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX
The Mariner
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
Gaido's Seaside Inn

Gaido's Seaside Inn

3 out of 5
3700 Seawall Boulevard, Galveston, TX
Gaido's Seaside Inn
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.

Things to do near Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

At Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including birdwatching and vibrant festivals. Experience stunning ocean views and waterfront adventures, perfect for family excursions. The area also offers great shopping options, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking outdoor thrills or a relaxing day by the water, the Pleasure Pier is an ideal spot for fun and excitement.

Shopping

At Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, you can enjoy unique shops and souvenir stands. If you're up for a drive, check out Tanger Outlets, 19 miles away, Mall of the Mainland, 16 miles away, and Outlet Shops at La Marque, 15 miles away—all offering great shopping experiences.

Recreation

At Moody Gardens Golf Course, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by lush landscapes, just 5 miles from the Pleasure Pier. For family fun, visit Magic Carpet Golf, also 5 miles away, where you can experience a whimsical mini-golf adventure. The Galveston Country Club, 11 miles away, offers a luxurious retreat for relaxation.

Adventure

At Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, thrill-seekers can enjoy the nearby Galveston Schlitterbahn Waterpark, 4 miles away, for exciting water rides. The Galveston Go Kart and Fun Center, located 5 miles away, offers a thrilling karting experience. Don't miss LagoonFest, a waterpark 18 miles away, perfect for family fun.

Nightlife

The nightlife at Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier offers a blend of culture and excitement. Enjoy a romantic film at the Strand Theatre, dive into adventures at Haunted Mayfield Manor, or catch a captivating show at Pier 21 Theater, all within a mile's reach for unforgettable evening fun.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier offers a rich blend of attractions appealing to culture seekers, families, and city explorers. Visitors can enjoy the historic charm of the pier, relax on the beautiful Galveston beach, and explore the vibrant town neighborhoods. With access to Galveston Bay and various local points of interest, there’s something for everyone, making it a perfect destination for a fun-filled vacation.

  • Galveston Seawall: This iconic seawall stretches for over 10 miles along the beachfront, offering stunning views of the Gulf of Mexico. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or bike ride, with plenty of picnic areas and beach access. The Seawall is also steeped in history, having been built after the devastating hurricane of 1900 to protect the city.
  • Pier 21: A family-friendly destination, Pier 21 features delightful restaurants, shops, and outdoor spaces. Enjoy waterfront dining while watching the boats pass by, or take a scenic harbor tour. It's a great place for families to relax and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
  • Grand 1894 Opera House: This beautifully restored opera house is a cultural gem in Galveston, hosting a variety of performances from concerts to Broadway shows. Its Victorian architecture and rich history provide a romantic setting for an unforgettable night out.

Best time to go to Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

The best time to visit Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January55.4°F (13.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February57.9°F (14.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March64.2°F (17.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
April70.0°F (21.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May76.5°F (24.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June82.4°F (28.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
July83.8°F (28.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
August84.2°F (29.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September81.0°F (27.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October73.6°F (23.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
November64.4°F (18.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
December59.0°F (15.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

To save money on your trip to Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, consider visiting between December and February when hotel prices are lower. Tuesdays typically offer the best rates for accommodation, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia’s search tool to find budget-friendly hotels and take advantage of package deals that combine flights and activities. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and OneKeyCash for future bookings. Lastly, explore free activities around the pier and opt for public transport or walking to keep travel costs down.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool makes it easy to customize your travel plans by allowing you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodations that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel stay at Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier with your flights and activities.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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