Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier Is An Inexpensive Road Trip Destination In Texas That's Affordable

Those who aren't local to the region may be confused by the name of the pier - if it opened in 2012, how is it historic?

From 1943 to 1961, a pier of rides, arcade games, a ballroom and even an aquarium stood out into the gulf. There was even a hotel! Unfortunately, Hurricane Carla had her say and destroyed the pier. A few years later, the USS Flagship Hotel was opened, and Hurricane Ike took that out to sea in 2008. The pier itself had begun to fall apart and wash away since it had not undergone any work for decades. When the restoration project began and the dream of a new Pleasure Pier took hold, the pier was rebuilt using a blend of new materials and original artifacts.

If you know you'll be riding everything all day long, pick up the All Day Pass. For people 48" and up, you'll pay just $26.99. Anyone shorter pays $19.99, and the pass includes unlimited rides from open to close. Children under the age of 2 are allowed to ride for free.

Family day packs discount the daily tickets. You can pick up four 48"+ passes for $99.99, three 48" and one under 48" pass for $94.99, or two 48"+ and two under 48" for $89.99. If you don't think you'll ride any of the rides, you can gain access to the pier and park with a Walk-On Pass which costs between $7 and $10. If you decide to join in on the fun, you can purchase individual ride tickets or upgrade to a day pass. The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier also offers military and veteran discounts!

Whether you're looking for a gourmet meal or a quick bite to eat, you'll find it on Galveston Island.

If you do happen to stay in the area, you might be able to get a discount on tickets from your hotel! The San Luis Resort, The Hilton Galveston Island Resort, and the Holiday Inn Resort on the Beach each offer Pleasure Pier packages.