Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

There's a spot along the Texas coast that stands out above the rest. Its rumbling excitement felt from miles away, its colorful lights spotted from a distance along the shore. This is the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, one of the most popular attractions in Galveston. Since opening in 2012, the pier has grown into a 16-ride amusement park stretched out over the Gulf, with an appetizing range of places to eat, including Texas' first Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Restaurant & Market. For scenic sunset views and an adrenaline rush, a friendly game on the midway, or a fun lunch spot, Pleasure Pier is the place to be. Enjoy the experiences below and you'll surely have a memorable day.

Take a Ride on the Wild Side

The Iron Shark roller coaster, with its 100-foot vertical lift and beyond-vertical drop that takes you up to 52 miles per hour across a 1,246-foot track with a diving loop and four full inversions, is only for the bravest of the brave. This giant roller coaster is the personification of the mantra "everything's bigger in Texas."

There's no better view of a famous grapefruit-orange Gulf Coast sunset than from the 100-foot-tall Galaxy Wheel or swinging on the Texas Star Flyer, 230 feet above sea level. The lineup of thrill rides has grown considerably in recent years, too, now including Revolution, Cyclone, Sea Dragon, Rock N Roll, and Sky Shooter for those chasing an extra rush.

Your children will never want to leave after a day of spinning in the teacups of Texas Tea, riding on the colorful Carousel, bouncing on the Frog Hopper, or piloting their own truck on Big Wheelin'. Younger riders can also take a spin on the mini Ferris wheel, Lil' Captain Wheel, or drive bumper cars in the kid-friendly section of Pier Pileup. Classic swing rides like Pirate's Plunge (a pirate-ship log flume) and the Gulf Glider round out the lineup.

If some good old-fashioned family-friendly competition is what you're after, take on the midway games like ring toss, Whac-a-Mole, and the Iron Shark Attack, along with newer additions like Big Shot Hoops, High Striker, and Pirate Striker. Whether or not you win a prize, you'll have a great time playing in Pleasure Pier. Need a break from the rides but not the fun? Step into the 5D Theater for immersive shows like Shark Attack and Mysterious Underworld.

Feed Your Soul — and Yourself

Every good Texas vacation has to include some of that famous Lone Star State cuisine, and Pleasure Pier has your dining dreams covered. Treat yourself to a tasty pizza at Slices & More, or tuck into a delicious hamburger, a yummy hot dog, or crunchy chicken tenders at Big Top Bites. For dessert, indulge in a funnel cake, scoop of ice cream, or cotton candy at Carousel Court Sweets, or stop by Sweet Scoops Ice Cream for fresh waffle cones, shakes, malts, and specialty sundaes. Don't worry; you'll burn those calories off swimming at the beach later.

If you're thirsty, head on over to the Brew Station for a beer, wine, or margarita, which you can enjoy along with a succulent turkey leg. In the mood for seafood? You're in Galveston, so of course you are! Head to Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. & Market, where you can savor all the shrimp you're craving alongside award-winning slow-roasted ribs, all with spacious dining and patio views of the Gulf and the historic Seawall.

Dance to the Music

Stage 25 at Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier offers live music on a regular basis. Be sure to check out their entertainment lineup online while planning your trip. Kick off your shoes and dance to the rhythm under the Texas stars. The ocean breeze blows through your hair and the beat of the drum moves through your body as you dance the night away. Keep an eye out for Captain Yellowbeak, the Pier's resident mascot, who makes the rounds for photos throughout the day.

Galveston Pleasure Pier's thrilling rides and abundance of restaurants and things to do makes it a great place to go if you're looking for fun for the whole family or a romantic evening with your sweetheart. Don't miss it during your next trip to Galveston.