Gillian's Wonderland Pier in Ocean City, New Jersey, a decades-long family destination, has closed its doors and triggered a redevelopment decision. The amusement park, which originated as the Fun Deck in the 1930s and became known for its carousel, monorail, and 144-foot Giant Wheel during its tenure under Roy Gillian from 1965 onwards, ceased operations in October 2024.

Local officials have voted to approve converting the former pier into a luxury hotel, marking a significant shift in the use of this long-established Jersey Shore property. The redevelopment decision has produced divided responses among residents and community stakeholders regarding the loss of the historical amusement park.