Gillian's Wonderland Pier has been a cherished part of the Ocean City Boardwalk since 1929, bringing joy to countless families over the decades.

The pier was lovingly operated by the Gillian family, with current Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian continuing the family legacy of maintaining and nurturing this iconic destination. For me, Gillian's was the heart of my childhood, especially during the "First Night" celebration on New Year's Eve 2013. I’ll never forget that night—despite the freezing cold, everyone was on the rides, ringing in the New Year together, and creating memories that would last a lifetime.

Gillian's was more than just an amusement park; it was a tradition. The Ferris Wheel, the carousel, the roller coasters—they weren’t just rides; they were part of what made summers in Ocean City unforgettable. The log flume ride was always a highlight, offering the perfect blend of excitement and refreshment with its thrilling drops and splashy finales. Each visit felt like a new adventure, where time seemed to stand still, and the magic of the boardwalk came alive.

After 94 years of bringing joy to countless visitors, Gillian's Wonderland Pier is closing its doors, marking the end of an era. The pier will officially close on October 13th, so there's still time to enjoy the rides and relive those cherished memories before it’s gone. It’s hard to say goodbye to a place that has meant so much to so many. With Gillian's closing , Playland's Castaway Cove  remains the last amusement park on the island, keeping the spirit of fun alive.

To learn more about the history of Gillian's Wonderland Pier, check out the history page of their website.