Destinations › North America › United States › Maryland

Ocean City

Population: 7.000 Since: Founded in 1875 Price: Mid-range

accessible Accessibility: Most areas are accessible, but some beaches may have limited access.

Introduction

Ocean City, Maryland, is a vibrant beach town known for its lively boardwalk and stunning sandy shores. Visitors are drawn to its family-friendly atmosphere, with plenty of activities for all ages, from amusement parks to water sports.

The town comes alive during the summer months, with a bustling nightlife and numerous events. However, it can get crowded, so plan your visit accordingly to enjoy the best of what Ocean City has to offer.

Sightseeing

Ocean City Boardwalk: a lively promenade with shops and eateries

Assateague Island National Seashore: famous for wild ponies and natural beauty

Trimper's Rides: historic amusement park with classic rides

Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum: showcases maritime history

Jolly Roger Amusement Park: fun for families with rides and games

Fenwick Island State Park: a quieter beach experience nearby

Ripley's Believe It or Not!: quirky museum with oddities

The Kite Loft: a unique shop for kite enthusiasts

Things to do

Relax on the beach: soak up the sun and enjoy the ocean

Go fishing: charter a boat or fish from the pier

Explore the boardwalk: enjoy shops, games, and street performers

Try water sports: rent jet skis or go parasailing

Attend local events: check the calendar for festivals and concerts

Top attractions

Assateague Island National Seashore

Home to wild ponies and beautiful beaches

Sunrise to sunset Since 1965

Jolly Roger Amusement Park

Fun rides and games for all ages

10 AM - 10 PM Since 1964

Ocean City Boardwalk

Iconic boardwalk with shops and entertainment

Open year-round Since 1902

Ripley's Believe It or Not!

Quirky museum with oddities and exhibits

10 AM - 10 PM Since 2000

Local food and drinks

Thrasher's French Fries: iconic boardwalk fries served with vinegar

Dumser's Dairyland: famous for ice cream and milkshakes

Crabs at the Beach: enjoy Maryland's blue crabs, a local specialty

Fisher's Caramel Corn: sweet treat popular among visitors

The Shark on the Harbor: seafood with a view of the bay

Local traditions

Sunfest: annual festival celebrating arts, crafts, and music

OC BikeFest: motorcycle rally attracting enthusiasts every September

Winterfest of Lights: holiday celebration with festive lights and displays

Beach fireworks: summer weekends feature fireworks shows over the ocean

History

Ocean City was founded in the late 19th century as a small fishing village and quickly grew into a popular seaside resort. The construction of the boardwalk in 1902 marked a significant development, attracting tourists from nearby cities.

Over the decades, Ocean City has evolved while maintaining its charm. It became a favored destination for families and has preserved much of its historical architecture, making it a blend of old and new.

Things to know

Expect heavy traffic during peak summer months, especially on weekends

Beware of tourist traps along the boardwalk, especially overpriced food

Public transport options are limited; consider renting a bike or car

Safety can be a concern at night; stay in well-lit areas

Do's and don'ts

Visit the beach early for a quieter experience

Try local seafood dishes for an authentic taste

Explore beyond the boardwalk for hidden gems

Check the weather before planning outdoor activities

Don't forget sunscreen; the sun can be intense

Don't assume all beaches are family-friendly; some areas can be rowdy

Don't ignore local regulations regarding beach access and pets

Don't rely solely on cash; many places accept cards

Good to know

Accessibility: Most areas are accessible, but some beaches may have limited access.

Price level: mid-range

Photo: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons

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