When you’re looking for an East Coast beach vacation not far from hubs like Washington, D.C. or Philadelphia, Ocean City, Maryland is the perfect pick. With a famous boardwalk, sandy beaches, and no shortage of fun, Ocean City is a great family destination.
A Short History of Ocean City
Ocean City has been a vacation hotspot since the late 19th century, when the first beachfront guesthouse and first big hotel were built here. Back then, most visitors relaxed by the shore, fished, and enjoyed the Atlantic surf. The opening of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge in the 1950s opened up the area to many more vacationers, and increased demand and development quickly made Ocean City the vibrant, colorful spot that it is today.
What Ocean City Does Best
Ocean City is the quintessential summer destination, and the action centers on its famous boardwalk. Ride the Ferris wheel, indulge in cotton candy, and enjoy a leisurely stroll along this legendary seaside walkway. When you're ready for some offshore action, hit the beach or book a watersports excursion.
Have a Grand Time on the Boardwalk
No beach town is complete without a great boardwalk, and the Ocean City Boardwalk is one of the best. It dates back to the 19th century, when Trimper’s Rides and Amusements first opened on the southern end. Today, you’ll find over 100 rides, including bumper boats for little ones and big kid rides like Freakout. There’s also plenty of junk food, souvenir shops, and attractions like Ripley’s Believe It or Not! along this three-mile stretch.
Catch Some Crabs
One of Maryland’s favorite kinds of seafood, the crabs are famous here. You can catch your own here with a fishing line and a little practice, and you don’t even need a license to catch a bushel of adult male crabs. If you’d rather just enjoy some freshly prepared, you’ll find Maryland blue crabs and crab cakes on most menus in Ocean City.
Cool Off With a Water Adventure
Whether you’re an extreme sports fan or want to explore the waters around Ocean City, you’ll find several activities here. Rent a jet ski to explore offshore, go parasailing to get a view from above, or go extreme with a kiteboarding excursion. Take in the natural beauty of Assateague Island, just a few miles from Ocean City, with an eco tour and a kayak trip.
Enjoy Family Friendly Attractions
Ocean City is a great place for families, and it hosts plenty of inexpensive or free events throughout the summer. Catch a concert on the beach on Wednesday evenings, compete in family beach Olympics on Tuesday evenings, and watch kid-approved movies on the beach several nights each week. Ocean City even hosts laser shows on Sunday nights and fireworks shows every Monday and Tuesday night. Don’t forget to satisfy your sweet tooth with a little ice cream during Sundaes in the Park each Sunday.
With so many events and attractions to see every day, Ocean City is a great place to spend a week. Settle in to one of the area’s roomy vacation homes, and kick back and enjoy this top vacation destination.
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Ocean City, Maryland Travel Tips
Crystal waters, clear blue skies, and stunning sunsets are just a few of the reasons that tourists travel to Ocean City, MD. This coastal community is more than a beautiful retreat for adults in need of relaxation; it is also a fun place for children. When traveling with kids, parents will want to ensure that they plan the best vacation possible. This means making choices that will keep the entire family happy and satisfied. One of these choices is picking the right accommodations. Hotels are often the first thing that people think of when making travel plans, but they aren’t the ideal choice when traveling with children. When traveling to Ocean City, rentals are typically a better choice. The right one can be found right here online with Vacation Home Rentals. The ideal rental is large enough to allow kids the freedom of movement that can’t be found in a hotel room. It should also be well-maintained and have all of the amenities that will make your vacation a comfortable one. The Ocean City, MD, rentals that are listed on our website are for rent by owner properties. This means that they are well-maintained and equipped. Before reserving one of our Ocean City condo rentals, you will want to pick the best time of year to visit. While summer is the most popular time to visit Ocean City, it will be crowded and rental prices will be higher. Spring, from April to late May, boasts generally warm weather conditions, fewer crowds and shorter lines, and vacation rental rates that are lower than summer rates. Unfortunately, some attractions may not be open for tourists this early in the year.
Attractions
Attractions are plentiful when visiting Ocean City, Maryland. Rentals are a great place to return after spending an exciting day exploring all that the town has to offer. The Ocean City Boardwalk is one of the first places that tourists head to when visiting Ocean City. This wooden boardwalk has been called one of the best in the country. There are plenty of things to do while visiting the Boardwalk, such as bike riding or rollerblading, dining, souvenir shopping, or riding the roller coaster.
Trimper’s Rides is also located along the boardwalk. This amusement park includes roller coasters and other thrilling rides. Also on the boardwalk is the
Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum. People who are staying in Ocean City rentals will also visit the beach. It is a great place for relaxation, surfing, or boogie-boarding. Horseback riding on the beach is also an activity that tourists can enjoy when visiting the town during the winter and spring months. The Jolly Roger Amusement Park is another great spot for families.
Events
When planning one’s vacation, check out events that may be taking place in Ocean City, Maryland. Rentals allow tourists to experience fairs, festivals, and other events in the same way as locals. In May, the White Marlin Festival and Crab Soup Cook-Off is a delicious single-day event. In addition to food there is also entertainment for kids in the form of face painting and even clowns. Celebrate spring with the Springfest, which also takes place in May. This celebration includes food, arts, crafts, and entertainment. Around the middle of June is the Annual Ocean City Air Show. In September, enjoy food, music, and art at Sunfest. This annual event is free and a great destination for families staying in Ocean City, Maryland, condo rentals. Also in September is the Sunfest Kite Fest. In November, there is the Fallfest of Fine Arts. From November to January, enjoy the Winterfest of Lights. If in Ocean City during Christmas, gather the family for the O.C. Christmas Parade in December.
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