Family travel 5: Historic piers
Whether you’re seeking sun, a sea breeze or a Ferris wheel, put a historic pier at the center of your family travel plan. Here are five to consider:
Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, Calif.
This Southern California landmark has been a festive and fun family destination for more than a century. Wander beyond the iconic entrance gate and make your way to the historic Ferris wheel for long views of the Pacific Ocean, test your skills in the arcade and prepare for thrills on the roller coaster. Don’t miss the vintage carousel that pairs well with a stop for treats in the adjacent old-school soda fountain, where you will find thick and creamy milkshakes. Consider the one-hour history tours offered each weekend that uncover the many stories that have shaped the historic destination. Children 11 and younger are free.
For more: www.santamonicapier.org
Historic Pleasure Pier, Galveston Island, Texas
The original pier was destroyed when a hurricane battered the Texas coast in the 1960s. So when the new pier opened it was to the delight of locals and visitors. Today, with 16 rides like the Pier Pileup, the Sky Shooter and the Iron Shark roller coaster, there is plenty of waterfront fun to be had by every member of the family. The Texas Flyer, a towering swing suspended more than 230 feet above sea level, offers thrill seekers a panoramic view of the Pier and the Gulf of Mexico. Test your skills at the Pirate Striker, Lucky Duck, Balloon Pop and other Midway games before sampling the flavors at Sweet Scoops or other family-friendly dining spots.
For more: www.pleasurepier.com
North Breakwater Light, Ludington, Mich.
For a nostalgic beach-town vibe, head to the Great Lakes town of Ludington, Michigan. Their beloved freshwater pier offers a laid-back stroll that leads straight to the iconic Ludington North Breakwater Light, creating a picturesque and stroller-friendly one-mile round-trip adventure. While on the pier, watch fishermen pull in their catch and wave to the S.S. Badger car ferry as it passes by. It’s the largest to sail the Great Lakes and makes its voyage between Ludington and Manitowoc, Wisconsin, mid-May to mid-October. The North Breakwater Lighthouse is open to the public for tours every day from 10am-5pm. There are 53 steps to climb to the top.
For more: www.visitludington.com
Morey’s Piers, Wildwoods, N.J.
This classic seaside fun zone was named Park of the Year in 2019 by Amusement Today, honoring the establishment for providing families who live or vacation along the Jersey Shore with an innovative and creative variety of entertainment. With more than 100 rides and attractions expanding through eighteen acres and along six beach blocks, visitors can explore three amusement piers and two waterparks. To celebrate their 50th anniversary, Morey’s Piers unveiled a new ride. The Runaway Tram, a family-friendly roller coaster, pays homage to the Wildwood Sightseer Tramcar, an icon of the Wildwood Boardwalk. Breakfast in the Sky on the Morey’s Piers Ferris wheel, available from mid-July through mid- August, is one for the summer bucket list.
For more: www.moreyspiers.com
Navy Pier, Chicago
This not-for-profit lakeside landmark is one of the most popular attractions in the Midwest and ranks at the top of the list for visitors to the Windy City. Brimming with activity, the pier offers family-friendly fun including the botanical garden, the children’s museum, and Pier Park, where the Centennial Wheel, the Wave Swinger, tea cups and an iconic carousel engage kids of all ages. Expect live music performances, dance and outdoor fitness classes. Challenge family members to find their way through the twisting, turning, dizzying Funhouse Maze before catching the nighttime fireworks during the summer months. Originally completed in 1916, Navy Pier is evolving into an accessible, year-round centerpiece for Chicago’s diverse arts and cultural treasures.
For more: www.navypier.com
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