History

Now a distinctive casual fine-dining destination, PIER 22 Restaurant, Patio and Catering is most celebrated for our commitment to creating an exceptional guest experience. Our magnificent waterfront views, charming ambiance, and scratch-cooked meals have given rise to a new narrative, and you're invited to become a part of the story!"
Timeline

1878
Construction of the Municipal Pier, later known as Corwin Dock, begins.

1925
Corwin Dock is rebuilt and later renamed Memorial Pier.

1925
With the original dock gone, Corwin's Ice Cream Shop, which neighbors PIER 22, pays tribute to maritime businessman Samuel C. Corwin.

1928
Pier building rises.
Constructed near the end of the Florida land boom in 1928, the pier building reflects the fashionable style of the time: Mediterranean Revival.

Early 1920s
Manatee Chamber of Commerce moves to the pier building.

1928–1945
Main floor becomes a warehouse for goods from cargo ships.

1930
Memorial Pier is dedicated to 21 men from the Bradenton area who gave their lives in the Great War.

1930s & '40s
Second floor Grand Ballroom becomes a popular dancing nightclub and social lounge.

1940s
Pier building serves as a U.S.O. servicemen's center during World War II.

1946
Bradenton AM-1490 WDHL studios begin broadcasting from Memorial Pier building.

1946
Transmissions occasionally interfered with incoming ships.

1946
South Florida Museum moves to main floor of Pier building.

1949
After arriving in Bradenton for the 1949 De Soto celebrations, Manatee "Baby Snoots" made his home at a South Florida Museum exhibit on the pier.

1960s
Memorial Pier and building are neglected and fall into disrepair.

1970s
It was important to maintain the building's original style, and meticulous restoration lasted two years.

1976
Don Miller Jr. opens the doors to The Pier, as the restaurant was first known.

Today
In 2026, PIER 22 celebrates 50 years of welcoming guests to the waterfront. From its beginnings as The Pier to the award-winning restaurant, venue, and catering company it is today, PIER 22 continues to be part of Bradenton's story.
