The Best Things to Do in Ocean City MD (Boardwalk, Beach & Family Fun)
Planning a beach trip? Here are the best things to do in Ocean City MD, including the boardwalk, mini golf, boat tours, Assateague Island, and family fun.
Estimated reading time: 28 minutes
Ocean City has a way of sneaking into people’s traditions.
Talk to almost anyone who grew up in Maryland and you’ll hear some version of the same story: family beach weeks, late-night boardwalk walks, mini golf tournaments that got oddly competitive, and arcade prizes that felt like winning the lottery.
My own trips to Ocean City have followed a similar pattern. We arrive with a rough idea of what we want to do… and then most of the time the days unfold on their own. A beach morning turns into an afternoon boat ride. A quick boardwalk walk turns into two hours of arcade games.
That’s kind of the charm of Ocean City. You don’t have to plan every minute.
Still, if you’re visiting for the first time (or bringing kids), there are a handful of experiences that really define the place.
If you’re visiting with kids (or if you are the kid… at heart), you’ll quickly realize there are plenty of things to do in Ocean City MD with kids, from classic boardwalk attractions to boat adventures and mini golf courses all over town.
Planning a Maryland adventure? See this guide to the best things to do in Maryland for hundreds of destinations across the state.
The Beach (Obviously)
Before we get into rides, arcades, and boat tours, let’s acknowledge the obvious reason Ocean City exists in the first place: the beach.
It’s huge.
That was honestly the first thing that surprised me the first time we visited. Photos don’t really show how wide the beach is until you’re standing there looking toward the ocean with what feels like a football field of sand in front of you.
Families spread out umbrellas, kids start digging ambitious sand holes, and before long the sound of waves and seagulls sort of takes over the day.
Related: The 20 Best Things to Do With Kids On the Eastern Shore
There isn’t a complicated strategy here. Bring chairs. Bring sunscreen. Expect to lose track of time.
Sunrise and Sunset
That being said, apart from swimming, laying around, and playing in the sand.. if you don’t catch the sunrise at least once on your Ocean City trip, you are totally missing out.
So here is the thing.. Ocean City is located on a barrier island. As in, it is the barrier between the ocean and the rest of the continent.. or something like that. Basically, it has water on both sides, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Inlet on the other.
That means you can catch the most amazing sunrises… and sunsets!
The Boardwalk (Where the Energy Lives)
If the beach is the relaxing part of Ocean City, the boardwalk is where the personality shows up.
During the morning it’s surprisingly calm. Cyclists ride past, people walk their dogs, and a few early restaurants start serving breakfast.
But later in the day, the whole thing transforms.
Lights come on. Arcades fill up. Music drifts out of restaurants and snack stands. Kids run toward the rides while parents attempt to convince themselves they’re just there to supervise.
One of my favorite simple traditions is grabbing Thrasher’s fries and walking the length of the boardwalk while the sun goes down over the ocean.
It’s not complicated, but somehow it feels like the exact right way to end a beach day.
Oh, and here is another tidbit…. if you are thinking about visiting Ocean City in the off-season, or the shoulder season.. do it!
It may or may not be warm enough to swim, but a surprising number of restaurants and attractions are still open (just with more limited hours). But sometimes the entire town seems like you have it all to yourself.
Classic Ocean City Boardwalk Experiences
Beyond the rides and arcades, the Ocean City boardwalk is full of small traditions that families come back to year after year. Some of them feel like stepping into a different era of beach vacations.
Here are a few fun things to look for while you’re exploring.
Old-Time Photo Studios
These shops let you dress up in costumes and pose for vintage-style photographs. Families can choose themes like the Wild West, gangsters from the 1920s, or old-fashioned beach scenes. The final photos usually come out looking like something from a completely different time period, which makes them a surprisingly fun souvenir.
Related: Our picks for the best eats in Ocean City
Try Boardwalk Caramel Corn or Saltwater Taffy
You’ll smell these long before you see them. Several shops along the boardwalk make fresh caramel corn, saltwater taffy, and other old-school beach treats. Even if you don’t have a sweet tooth, it’s hard to resist stopping for a small bag.
People Watch
This might sound simple, but it’s honestly one of the best things to do on the boardwalk. Street performers pop up, families stroll past with giant stuffed animals from arcade games, and there’s always something interesting happening.
Sometimes the best entertainment on the boardwalk is just sitting on a bench and watching everything unfold.
If you want to know where to find something on the boardwalk, there are actually maps with all the attractions and restaurants.. and locations of the restrooms (very important).
Related: Here are the restaurants in Ocean City that have playgrounds or play area
Boardwalk Arcades
The arcades deserve their own mention because, for kids, they might as well be the main attraction.
The moment you step inside one you hear it — the constant chorus of ticket machines printing and bells ringing. Flashing lights everywhere. Kids sprinting between games trying to beat their friends’ scores.
Some of the games are modern video games, but a lot of them are still the classics: skee-ball, basketball toss, spinning wheels.
On one trip our daughter decided she was absolutely determined to win a decent prize. What followed was a determined tour of every ticket game in sight.
The final prize was small.
The victory celebration was not.
Mini Golf (Ocean City Takes It Seriously)
Something about Ocean City seems to inspire a lot of miniature golf courses.
They’re everywhere.
Dinosaurs, jungle temples, pirate ships, glowing indoor courses — you’ll see a different theme every few blocks.
I am partial to the Old Pro Golf on 68th Street.. and for two reasons.
They have one of the only indoor mini golf courses in Ocean City. So, if it’s too hot.. or raining, this is perfect. And it’s perfectly delightful too! Think glowing sea creatures and slightly quirky obstacles that make the whole place feel like a vintage beach attraction.
But if outdoor mini-golf is more your vibe, than their prehistoric dinosaur-themed mini-golf course is sooo much fun!
Mini golf also fits perfectly into the rhythm of an Ocean City evening. Dinner wraps up, nobody is quite ready to head back to the hotel, and suddenly someone suggests a mini golf round.
That suggestion is rarely rejected.
Jolly Roger (Water Slides and Rides)
Ocean City’s biggest amusement park area is Jolly Roger, and depending on which part you visit you’ll find water slides, amusement rides, or go-karts.
The water park side — Splash Mountain — is usually the biggest draw for families. Wave pools, twisting slides, lazy rivers. This is located at 30th Street, and at the same location there is a huge go-kart track (Speedworld), some rides, and mini-golf.
Lazy rivers are always a good sign at a water park, in my opinion.
Kids tend to bounce between attractions for hours while parents rotate between supervising and floating.
And Jolly Roger at the Pier has all the rides and carnival games to keep you busy for a few hours.
Later in the evening, the amusement rides light up and the place feels more like a classic seaside carnival. Honestly, I like visiting in the daytime and the evening. Why? Because it does tend to be less busy during the day. But at night, everything is just so fun with the lights and Boardwalk atmosphere.
Trimper Rides
Trimper Rides is one of those places that feels like it belongs in a different decade — in the best possible way. It is located at the end of the Boardwalk Pier.. pretty much across from Jolly Roger.
The big highlight here is the carousel built in 1912, which somehow still feels magical more than a century later.
We really loved riding the ferris wheel here. It gives you such a great view of Ocean City and the Atlantic Ocean.
Related: Check out this list of the 100 Best Things To Do With Kids In Maryland
A Boat Trip Across the Bay
One of our most memorable Ocean City outings started on a boat.
The Assateague Adventure tour leaves from Talbot Street and heads out across the bay toward the marshes near Assateague Island.
The ride itself is calm — houses sliding past along the water, seabirds overhead, wind coming off the bay.
But the real fun begins when the boat stops near a shallow shoreline and kids hop out to explore.
Armed with little nets, they start searching for shells and small sea creatures.
If you are lucky you will get to see the wild horses of Assateague National Seashore too!
On the way back, the tour guides bring out all kinds of aquatic animals for kids (and adults) to touch. That was really such a nice touch.
Talbot Street Watersports has a few different tours and they are all fantastic! We have also done the Duckaneer- a kid friendly pirate adventure. I would say this is best suited for preschool through early elementary school age. But it is a blast. Literally… they have water blasters. You will get wet.
And if you want an adrenaline rush, book a ride on the OC Rocket.
Flying Kites
You’ll notice pretty quickly that Ocean City has a lot of kite shops.
They’re easy to spot because the ceilings are filled with giant colorful designs — dragons, butterflies, airplanes, cartoon characters.
The ocean breeze does most of the work once you get down to the beach. And Northside Park is a great place to fly your kite too!
Soon enough you look up and see dozens of kites floating over the sand.
Haunted House
Another long-standing boardwalk tradition: the haunted house.
They’re not exactly terrifying. Think more jump scares and animatronic monsters than full horror movie.
But kids absolutely love them.
Half the fun is watching people run out the exit laughing after they scream.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not
Right near the Ocean City inlet you’ll find one of the boardwalk’s most recognizable buildings — Ripley’s Believe It or Not.
Even if you’ve never gone inside, you’ve probably noticed it. I mean, there is a big shark sticking out the building, which immediately catches people’s attention as they walk along the boardwalk.
Inside, Ripley’s is basically a collection of odd, surprising, and sometimes slightly bizarre exhibits from around the world. There are strange artifacts, interactive displays, and a lot of things that make kids stop and say, “Wait… is that real?”
It’s the kind of place where you wander from room to room discovering unusual things you definitely weren’t expecting to see during a beach vacation.
Older kids and teenagers usually enjoy it the most, but younger kids often like the interactive parts and hands-on exhibits.
Ripley’s is also a good option if the weather suddenly turns rainy or you need a break from the heat of the beach.
And even if you decide not to go inside, the crooked building itself has become one of those classic Ocean City boardwalk photo spots that people can’t resist stopping to photograph.
Related: These are the best playgrounds on the Eastern Shore
Northside Park
When you need a break from the noise of the boardwalk, Northside Park is a good place to breathe.
It’s a big open park with playgrounds, walking paths, sports fields, and views over the bay.
During summer there are often free concerts or fireworks here.
It’s one of those spots that feels unexpectedly peaceful compared to the busy beach areas.
Ride Bikes on the Ocean City Boardwalk (Morning Only)
One of the most classic Ocean City traditions actually happens early in the morning.
For a few hours each day, bicycles are allowed on the boardwalk, and locals and visitors alike take advantage of the cooler temperatures to ride along the oceanfront.
Bike rentals are easy to find throughout town, and the ride itself is simple and scenic. The ocean is on one side, the boardwalk shops are slowly opening for the day, and the whole area has a peaceful feeling before the crowds arrive.
If you’re an early riser, this is one of the most enjoyable ways to start the day in Ocean City.
Those big multi-person bikes you see rolling down the boardwalk are called surrey bikes (sometimes people call them dandy bikes). Families can rent them and pedal together along designated areas near the boardwalk and side streets. They’re a fun and slightly goofy way to explore Ocean City. Dandy Don’s will hook you up if this is something you want to do.
Visit the Ocean City Inlet Area
The Ocean City inlet sits at the southern end of the boardwalk, and it’s an interesting place to explore even if you’re not heading to the beach.
Fishing boats pass through the channel, charter boats come and go throughout the day, and the nearby park area offers great views of the water.
It’s also where you’ll find the Ocean City Life-Saving Museum, several boat tour departures, and some great sunset views in the evening.
This museum tells the story of shipwreck rescues along the coast — back in the days when surfmen launched small boats into rough seas to save sailors stranded on wrecked ships.
If you like watching boats or simply want a quieter spot near the boardwalk, the inlet is worth wandering through.
Related: Chesapeake Bay beaches are fantastic for sunsets
Take a Sunset Cruise on the Bay
Most visitors think of Ocean City as an Atlantic beach destination, but the bay side of the town is just as beautiful, especially at sunset.
Several companies offer evening boat cruises where you can relax and watch the sun set over the water while passing coastal homes and marshland.
It’s a peaceful contrast to the busy boardwalk and a great way to see another side of Ocean City.
Assateague Island
Just a short drive south of Ocean City sits Assateague Island, famous for its wild horses.
The beaches there feel different — quieter, more natural, less developed.
If you’re lucky, you might see the ponies wandering through the marsh or along the roadside.
It’s a nice contrast to the energy of Ocean City.
Berlin, Maryland
About 15 minutes away, the small town of Berlin offers a completely different pace.
Historic buildings, little shops, restaurants, and a walkable downtown area.
It’s the kind of place where you wander without a plan and eventually find a great coffee shop or bakery.
Check out the Playgrounds at Ocean Pines
Yes, there are decent playgrounds in Ocean City. But some of the best playgrounds in the area are actually about 15 minutes away in Ocean Pines! My favorites here are the Manklin Meadows and White Horse Park Playgrounds.
Pocomoke City
If you’re looking to explore a little more of Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Pocomoke City makes a surprisingly fun side trip from Ocean City. It’s about an hour away, so it works well if you’re ready for a break from the beach for a day.
The town itself sits right along the Pocomoke River, which has a beautiful cypress swamp landscape that feels completely different from the beach environment around Ocean City. Walking along the riverfront or exploring nearby parks is a peaceful change of pace after a few busy days on the boardwalk.
If your family enjoys small museums, nature, and quiet towns, Pocomoke City can be a fun and unexpected addition to an Ocean City vacation.
Related: Check out this guide to Pocomoke River State Park
Free Things to Do in Ocean City
Some of the best Ocean City moments don’t cost anything at all.
Walking the boardwalk in the evening. Watching the sunset near the inlet. Flying a kite on the beach while the ocean breeze does the work.
Northside Park often hosts free concerts and fireworks in the summer too.
Sometimes the most memorable part of the day is simply sitting on the sand while the waves roll in.
Related: 100+ FREE things. to do with kids in Maryland
A Few Things That Surprised Me
Even after multiple visits, a few things about Ocean City still stand out.
The beach is wider than expected.
Mini golf is practically everywhere.
The boardwalk becomes far more lively after sunset.
And perhaps the biggest surprise: even with all the attractions around town, some of the best memories come from the simplest moments.
Ocean City FAQ
Ocean City is best known for its wide sandy beaches, lively boardwalk, amusement rides, mini golf courses, and family-friendly beach atmosphere. The combination of classic seaside attractions and easy access to nature areas like Assateague Island makes it one of the most popular beach destinations on the East Coast.
Most families spend 4–7 days in Ocean City, especially during the summer. This allows time to enjoy the beach, explore the boardwalk, visit attractions like Jolly Roger or Trimper Rides, and take day trips to nearby places like Assateague Island or Berlin.
Yes. Ocean City is widely considered one of the most family-friendly beach towns on the East Coast. The beaches have lifeguards during the summer, the boardwalk offers rides and arcades for kids, and there are many attractions designed specifically for families.
Summer is the most popular time to visit Ocean City because the weather is perfect for beach activities. However, late spring and early fall can also be great times to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and slightly cooler temperatures.
Definitely. In addition to the beach, visitors can enjoy mini golf, amusement rides, boat tours, museums, arcades, fishing charters, parks, and nearby destinations like Assateague Island or Berlin.
Final Thoughts
Ocean City has been drawing families to the Maryland coast for generations.
The beach. The boardwalk. The arcades. The mini golf courses that somehow appear on every corner.
It’s not a complicated destination.
But that simplicity might be exactly why people keep coming back.
