Pier & Beam Road Trips
Pier & Beam travelers at the top of Chicago’s iconic Tribune Tower in 2024 / photo by Emily Ardoin
About the Road Trips
Preservation doesn’t stop at Houston’s city limits. Pier & Beam’s Road Trips give members a chance to see how other communities protect their heritage, adapt historic spaces and create vibrant neighborhoods. These experiences inspire fresh ideas and a deeper understanding of what makes cities livable, resilient and distinctive.
Where we’ve been
Launched in 2018 with a day trip to Galveston, Pier & Beam Road Trips have taken us across Texas and beyond. Past destinations include Beaumont, San Antonio, Dallas/Fort Worth, Chicago and Detroit. Along the way, we’ve gotten the chance to visit some extraordinary places:
The storied Bronzeville Forum, a hub of Black life and culture in Chicago
The roof of Dallas’ Magnolia Building, where we got up close and personal with the iconic Pegasus sign
The stage of the Fox Theatre in Detroit, one of America’s most fabulous 1920s movie palaces
And we’re just getting started. Up next: Mexico City in spring 2026 — a global capital of architecture, history, color and culture. P&B members, watch your e-mail for details!
How Pier & Beam trips work
Our annual Road Trips are open to all Pier & Beam members — but space is limited. These getaways are designed to be flexible and accessible, giving you the chance to explore other cities through the lens of architecture, history and preservation.
A small deposit covers most group expenses, including site admissions and expert guides. You’ll cover your own travel and most meals so you can tailor the trip to your budget and schedule. Watch your e-mail for trip announcements and registration details.
Not a member yet? Join Pier & Beam today →