Located on the eastern coast of the United States, Ocean City, Maryland, is a popular beach destination that attracts millions of visitors every year. With its pristine beaches, exciting amusement parks, and vibrant boardwalk, Ocean City is an ideal place to spend a day, whether you’re a local or just visiting. In this article, we will explore how to make the most of your day in Ocean City, Maryland, covering everything from the best times to visit to the top attractions and activities.
Introduction to Ocean City, Maryland
Ocean City, Maryland, is a barrier island located off the coast of Maryland, approximately 130 miles southeast of Baltimore. The island is 10 miles long and offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. With its beautiful beaches, scenic sunrises and sunsets, and exciting events and festivals, Ocean City is a perfect destination for a day trip or a longer vacation.
Best Time to Visit Ocean City, Maryland
The best time to visit Ocean City, Maryland, depends on your personal preferences and what you want to do. The peak tourist season is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the beaches are bustling with people. However, if you prefer milder weather and smaller crowds, consider visiting in the spring or fall. The spring season, from April to May, is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and fishing, while the fall season, from September to November, offers a range of festivals and events, including the popular Sunfest celebration.
Getting to Ocean City, Maryland
Getting to Ocean City, Maryland, is relatively easy, with several transportation options available. The city is accessible by car, with several major highways, including US-50 and US-113, connecting it to other parts of the country. You can also fly into the Salisbury-Ocean City Wicomico Regional Airport, which offers flights to several major airports, including Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport and Philadelphia International Airport. Additionally, there are several public transportation options, including buses and shuttles, that connect Ocean City to other parts of Maryland and neighboring states.
Top Attractions and Activities in Ocean City, Maryland
Ocean City, Maryland, offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. Some of the top attractions and activities include:
Ocean City Boardwalk, a three-mile-long promenade that features a range of shops, restaurants, and amusement parks, including the iconic Trimper’s Rides and the Jolly Roger Amusement Park. The boardwalk is also home to several festivals and events throughout the year, including the annual Fourth of July celebration and the OC Air Show.
Beaches and Water Sports
The beaches in Ocean City, Maryland, are some of the most beautiful and pristine on the East Coast. The city has 10 miles of coastline, with several public beaches that offer a range of amenities, including lifeguards, restrooms, and showers. Visitors can enjoy a range of water sports, including surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking, or simply relax and soak up the sun. Some popular beaches in Ocean City include the Beach at North Division Street, the Beach at 30th Street, and the Assateague Island National Seashore, which is located just outside of Ocean City and is famous for its wild horses.
Amusement Parks and Arcades
Ocean City, Maryland, is home to several amusement parks and arcades that offer a range of rides, games, and attractions for visitors of all ages. Some popular amusement parks and arcades include Trimper’s Rides, Jolly Roger Amusement Park, and Marty’s Playland, which features a range of arcade games, including classic video games and ticket redemption games.
Trimper’s Rides
Trimper’s Rides is a historic amusement park that has been in operation since 1893. The park features a range of rides, including a carousel, a Ferris wheel, and a roller coaster, as well as several kiddie rides and attractions. Trimper’s Rides is also home to several games and arcades, including a shooting gallery and a balloon darts game.
Jolly Roger Amusement Park
Jolly Roger Amusement Park is a popular amusement park that features a range of rides, including a roller coaster, a water ride, and a drop tower. The park also features several kiddie rides and attractions, including a carousel and a fun house. Jolly Roger Amusement Park is also home to several games and arcades, including a shooting gallery and a ticket redemption game.
Dining and Shopping in Ocean City, Maryland
Ocean City, Maryland, offers a wide range of dining and shopping options for visitors of all ages. Some popular dining options includePhillips Crab House, a seafood restaurant that has been in operation since 1956, and the Ocean City Brewing Company, a craft brewery that offers a range of beers and pub fare. Visitors can also enjoy a range of shopping options, including the Tanger Outlets, a outlet mall that features a range of stores, including Gap, Nike, and Under Armour, and the Gold Coast Mall, a shopping center that features a range of stores, including Sears, JCPenney, and Kohl’s.
Seafood Restaurants
Ocean City, Maryland, is famous for its seafood, and visitors can enjoy a range of seafood restaurants throughout the city. Some popular seafood restaurants include Phillips Crab House, the Crab Bag, and the Fisher’s Popcorn, which offers a range of seafood dishes, including crab cakes, fish and chips, and shrimp baskets.
Shopping Centers and Malls
Ocean City, Maryland, has several shopping centers and malls that offer a range of stores and boutiques. Some popular shopping centers and malls include the Tanger Outlets, the Gold Coast Mall, and the Ocean City Factory Outlets, which features a range of stores, including Gap, Nike, and Calvin Klein.
Events and Festivals in Ocean City, Maryland
Ocean City, Maryland, hosts a range of events and festivals throughout the year, including the Sunfest celebration, a four-day festival that features live music, food vendors, and craft vendors, and the OC Air Show, a two-day air show that features a range of aircraft, including fighter jets and helicopters. Visitors can also enjoy a range of other events and festivals, including the Fourth of July celebration, the Springfest celebration, and the Winterfest of Lights, a holiday festival that features a range of lights and decorations.
Summer Events and Festivals
The summer season in Ocean City, Maryland, is packed with events and festivals, including the Sunfest celebration, the OC Air Show, and the Fourth of July celebration. Visitors can also enjoy a range of other events and festivals, including the Concerts on the Beach, a series of free concerts that feature live music, and the Beach Olympics, a series of beach games and activities that include volleyball, tug-of-war, and sandcastle-building contests.
Winter Events and Festivals
The winter season in Ocean City, Maryland, is a great time to visit, with a range of events and festivals, including the Winterfest of Lights, a holiday festival that features a range of lights and decorations, and the New Year’s Eve celebration, a party that features live music, food vendors, and a fireworks display. Visitors can also enjoy a range of other events and festivals, including the St. Patrick’s Day parade and the Easter Egg Hunt, a family-friendly event that features an egg hunt, face painting, and other activities.
In conclusion, Ocean City, Maryland, is a great destination for a day trip or a longer vacation, with its beautiful beaches, exciting amusement parks, and vibrant boardwalk. Whether you’re interested in water sports, amusement park rides, or simply relaxing on the beach, Ocean City has something for everyone. With its range of events and festivals, including the Sunfest celebration, the OC Air Show, and the Winterfest of Lights, Ocean City is a great place to visit any time of the year. So why not start planning your trip to Ocean City, Maryland, today and experience all that this amazing destination has to offer?
To help you better plan your trip, here is a table of some of the top attractions and activities in Ocean City, Maryland:
| Attraction or Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Ocean City Boardwalk | A three-mile-long promenade that features a range of shops, restaurants, and amusement parks. |
| Beaches | Ocean City has 10 miles of coastline, with several public beaches that offer a range of amenities. |
| Trimper’s Rides | A historic amusement park that features a range of rides, including a carousel, a Ferris wheel, and a roller coaster. |
| Jolly Roger Amusement Park | A popular amusement park that features a range of rides, including a roller coaster, a water ride, and a drop tower. |
| Phillips Crab House | A seafood restaurant that has been in operation since 1956 and features a range of seafood dishes. |
| OC Air Show | A two-day air show that features a range of aircraft, including fighter jets and helicopters. |
Additionally, here are some key points to consider when planning your trip to Ocean City, Maryland:
- The best time to visit Ocean City, Maryland, is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny.
- Ocean City, Maryland, is accessible by car, with several major highways connecting it to other parts of the country.
- The city has a range of public transportation options, including buses and shuttles, that connect it to other parts of Maryland and neighboring states.
- Ocean City, Maryland, offers a range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals.
- The city has a range of events and festivals throughout the year, including the Sunfest celebration, the OC Air Show, and the Winterfest of Lights.
What are the best times to visit Ocean City, Maryland?
The best times to visit Ocean City, Maryland, depend on various factors such as weather, crowd preferences, and event schedules. Generally, the summer months from June to August are the peak tourist season, with warm weather and a wide range of activities and events. However, this period also attracts large crowds, and prices for accommodations and attractions tend to be higher. Visitors who prefer milder weather and smaller crowds may consider visiting during the spring (April to May) or fall (September to October), when temperatures are pleasant and prices are more affordable.
Visitors should also consider the various events and festivals that take place throughout the year in Ocean City, such as the Ocean City Air Show, the OC Beachfest, and the Sunfest celebration. These events can be a great way to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere and community spirit. Additionally, visitors can check the city’s event calendar to plan their trip around their interests and preferences. By considering the time of year, weather, and events, visitors can make the most of their trip to Ocean City, Maryland, and enjoy a fun and memorable experience.
What are the top attractions to visit in Ocean City, Maryland?
Ocean City, Maryland, offers a wide range of attractions and activities that cater to different interests and ages. One of the top attractions is the Ocean City Boardwalk, a three-mile promenade that features shops, restaurants, and amusement parks. Visitors can also explore the Jolly Roger Amusement Park, which offers a variety of thrill rides, games, and attractions. For those who love nature and the outdoors, the Assateague Island National Seashore is a must-visit, with its beautiful beaches, wild horses, and scenic hiking trails.
In addition to these popular attractions, Ocean City is also home to several museums, such as the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum and the Ripley’s Believe It or Not! museum. Visitors can also enjoy water sports and activities, such as surfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking, or take a fishing trip or a boat tour to explore the city’s waterways. For families with children, the Ocean City Pier and the Trimper’s Rides amusement park are great places to spend the day. With its rich history, natural beauty, and wide range of activities, Ocean City has something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for a fun and memorable vacation.
What are the best ways to get around Ocean City, Maryland?
Getting around Ocean City, Maryland, is relatively easy, with a range of transportation options available to suit different needs and preferences. One of the most convenient ways to get around is by using the city’s public transportation system, which includes buses and trams that run along the coastal route and connect major attractions and neighborhoods. Visitors can also use taxis or ride-hailing services, which are widely available throughout the city. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, walking or biking are great ways to explore the city’s scenic coastal route and enjoy the fresh air and ocean views.
In addition to these options, Ocean City also has a range of parking facilities, including municipal lots and private garages, which offer convenient and affordable parking for visitors. For those who prefer to drive, the city’s coastal route is well-signposted, and traffic is generally manageable, except during peak summer months. Visitors can also consider renting a car or a bike for the day, which can provide more flexibility and freedom to explore the city and its surroundings. With its range of transportation options, getting around Ocean City is easy, allowing visitors to focus on enjoying their vacation and making the most of their time in the city.
What are the best places to eat in Ocean City, Maryland?
Ocean City, Maryland, is known for its fresh seafood, and visitors can find a wide range of restaurants serving up delicious fish, crab, and oysters. Some of the top-rated restaurants in the city include the Angler Restaurant and Bar, which serves up seafood and steaks in a waterfront setting, and the Phillips Crab House, which offers a variety of seafood dishes, including crab cakes and fish tacos. Visitors can also find a range of casual eateries and diners, such as the Ocean City Cafe and the Happy Jack Pancake House, which serve up classic American comfort food.
In addition to its seafood restaurants, Ocean City is also home to a range of specialty food shops and markets, such as the Ocean City Farmers Market, which sells fresh produce, baked goods, and local specialties. Visitors can also find a range of sweet shops and cafes, such as the Candy Kitchen and the Fractured Prune, which offer a variety of treats, including fudge, saltwater taffy, and doughnuts. With its wide range of dining options, from fresh seafood to classic American comfort food, Ocean City has something for every taste and budget, making it a great destination for foodies and families alike.
What are the best shopping destinations in Ocean City, Maryland?
Ocean City, Maryland, is a shopper’s paradise, with a wide range of retail stores, boutiques, and markets to explore. One of the top shopping destinations is the Ocean City Boardwalk, which features a variety of souvenir shops, beachwear stores, and specialty food shops. Visitors can also find a range of outlet malls and discount stores, such as the Tanger Outlets and the Ocean City Factory Outlets, which offer a wide range of brand-name products at discounted prices.
In addition to its retail stores and malls, Ocean City is also home to a range of unique boutiques and specialty shops, such as the Kite Loft and the Life is Good store, which offer a variety of gifts, souvenirs, and collectibles. Visitors can also find a range of surf shops and beachwear stores, such as the Quiet Storm Surf Shop and the Beach Town Posters store, which offer a variety of surf gear, beachwear, and accessories. With its wide range of shopping options, from souvenir shops to outlet malls, Ocean City has something for every shopper, making it a great destination for retail therapy and souvenir hunting.
What are the best water sports and activities in Ocean City, Maryland?
Ocean City, Maryland, is a water sports enthusiast’s dream destination, with a wide range of activities and sports to enjoy. One of the most popular water sports is surfing, with several surf schools and rental shops along the coast offering lessons and equipment for all levels. Visitors can also enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, or canoeing, which are great ways to explore the city’s waterways and get some exercise. For those who prefer more adrenaline-pumping activities, Ocean City offers jet-ski rentals, parasailing, and banana boat rides.
In addition to these activities, Ocean City is also a popular destination for fishing, with several charter boats and fishing piers offering trips and equipment for both novice and experienced anglers. Visitors can also take a boat tour or a sunset cruise to explore the city’s coastline and enjoy the scenic views. For those who prefer more relaxing water activities, Ocean City has several beaches and swimming areas, such as the Ocean City Beach and the Northside Park, which offer a range of amenities, including lifeguards, showers, and picnic areas. With its wide range of water sports and activities, Ocean City is a great destination for water enthusiasts and adventure-seekers.
What are the best events and festivals in Ocean City, Maryland?
Ocean City, Maryland, hosts a wide range of events and festivals throughout the year, which showcase the city’s vibrant culture and community spirit. One of the most popular events is the Ocean City Air Show, which features a range of aerial performances and displays by military and civilian aircraft. Visitors can also enjoy the OC Beachfest, which offers a range of live music, food, and activities, including sand sculpture contests and beach volleyball tournaments. For families with children, the Sunfest celebration is a must-attend, with its range of kids’ activities, face painting, and live entertainment.
In addition to these events, Ocean City also hosts a range of cultural and artistic festivals, such as the Ocean City Film Festival and the OC Arts Festival, which showcase the work of local artists, musicians, and filmmakers. Visitors can also enjoy the city’s annual Fourth of July celebrations, which feature a range of fireworks displays, parades, and patriotic events. With its wide range of events and festivals, Ocean City has something for every interest and age group, making it a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. By attending one of these events or festivals, visitors can experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere and community spirit, and create lasting memories of their trip.