If you spent your childhood summers in Ocean City, NJ, the news hits like a wave crashing against the pier—Gillian’s Wonderland Pier is closing its gates for good. This beloved amusement park, a staple on the Ocean City boardwalk since 1929, is preparing for its final curtain call, marking the end of a nearly century-old legacy that’s been a part of countless family vacations, first dates, and childhood memories.
For 94 years, Gillian’s Wonderland Pier has been more than just a collection of rides—it’s been the heartbeat of Ocean City. It all started with David Gillian, who after a devastating boardwalk fire in 1927, saw an opportunity to bring joy back to the community. He laid the foundation for what would become an iconic part of Ocean City’s identity, starting with just a Ferris Wheel and a Merry-Go-Round. Little did he know, he was creating a legacy that would be passed down through generations, becoming a symbol of summertime fun for countless visitors.
The park expanded and evolved under the leadership of David’s son, Roy Gillian, who took the reins in 1965 and turned Wonderland Pier into the sprawling amusement wonderland we know today. Roy didn’t just grow the business; he also played a significant role in the community, serving as Ocean City’s mayor and leaving his mark on both the town’s skyline and its history books.
But the magic of Wonderland Pier wasn’t just about the rides—it was about the people. Generations of locals and seasonal workers found summer jobs at the park, and visitors returned year after year, drawn by the park’s unique blend of nostalgia and excitement. Whether it was the creaky old wooden roller coaster that made your heart race or the smell of freshly made funnel cakes wafting through the air, Wonderland Pier was a sensory experience that left an indelible mark on everyone who walked through its gates.
This summer, however, the mood at Wonderland Pier was bittersweet. With news of its impending closure, the park saw massive lines as people rushed to relive their favorite memories one last time. Jay Gillian, who has managed the park for the past 47 years, made the difficult decision to close Wonderland Pier, citing the increasing challenges of maintaining the business. His retirement marks the end of an era, not just for the Gillian family, but for Ocean City itself.
As if the loss of Wonderland Pier wasn’t enough, this summer also saw the passing of Roy Gillian at the age of 94. Roy wasn’t just the mastermind behind the park’s success; he was a pillar of the community, a skilled pianist, and a beloved figure in Ocean City’s history. His contributions to the amusement industry and his community are too numerous to count, but his legacy will live on in the memories of everyone who ever set foot in his park.
As we say goodbye to Gillian’s Wonderland Pier, it’s hard not to feel a pang of nostalgia for the simpler times when summer meant a day at the boardwalk, a ride on the Ferris wheel, and a slice of pizza from 6th Street. The park may be closing, but the memories we made there will last a lifetime.
So, if you find yourself in Ocean City this fall, take a stroll down the boardwalk, hear the echoes of laughter from summers past, and remember the magic that was Gillian’s Wonderland Pier. It’s the end of an era, but the spirit of the pier will live on in the hearts of those who loved it.
