Ocean City Boardwalk is the most famous and iconic spot in Maryland. This Boardwalk is 3 miles long and has its own unique charm and lovely atmosphere. The Boardwalk is filled with shopping, food and entertainment shops for tourists to buy stuff and beach accessories. They organize various events and festivals so that everyone can enjoy and experience them.
In this blog, we are going to mention all the information related to Ocean City Boardwalk. Which will help the people to explore various activities and food joints.
History of Ocean City Boardwalk
Ocean City Boardwalk was built in 1902. Firstly, this structure was built on a temporary basis and laid down in summer seasons and taken up when off season arrives. As the time went by, the boardwalk became permanent as Ocean City grew into a popular east coast beach destination.
During the early part of the 20 th century, the Boardwalk was also beginning to be crowded with stores, hotels and other place of interest as well. With the growth of Ocean City, the boardwalk was also developed extending with the addition of souvenirs and new attractions. It has Amusement parks, new shops and hotels in modern days. Nevertheless, the boardwalk has not lost its old shape even in the light of the changes, and it is an ideal combination of nostalgia and the excitement that the visitors will be exposed to this Broadway.
Top Things to Do at Ocean City Boardwalk
This place is packed with attractions that draw the attention of the visitors. There is so much to do from rides to shopping, everything is there, which is mentioned below:
Trimpers Amusement Park
This amusement park is the best place to start your tour, here visitors have various things to do such as local games, huge roller coasters, small food vendors, and many more. It has been at the location since the late 1800s with a mix of old fashioned and up-to-date rides. You can find classic carousels and bumper cars and rollercoasters that pump your adrenaline.
Thrasher’s Fries
This Amusement Park is old and it has been operational since the late 1800s. It offers both vintage and modern rides. Classic carousels and bumper cars are present, as well as adrenaline pumping rollercoasters.
The Inlet Village
It is present at the end of the boardwalk and here, you will discover some small shops where you can buy accessories. This village has lots of things for every visitor, including clothing, toys and souvenirs that can help you to remember your trip forever.
Ripley’s Believe it or not
If you want to experience something different, then you should visit this odditorium, as this museum contains very different types of things like interactive displays, odd artifacts and many more. This Place is kid friendly and perfect for those families who love strange and unusual things.
Jolly Roger At the Pier
Jolly Roger is located at the southern end of the boardwalk. They offer a lot of rides which include a giant Ferris wheel, the looping kraken roller coaster and many more. Its maximum rides provide a wonderful view of the oceans.
Kohr Bros
There are various sweet treats to choose from. Kohr bros is one of the longest running attraction points in the boardwalk. They have a variety of yogurt flavours and you can even combine both of them. You can also add whatever topping you like on your yogurt and choose whether you want your yogurt on a cone or a cup.
Best Food and Shopping at Ocean City Boardwalk
Ocean City Boardwalk offers various delicious best foods and branded shopping spots at Ocean City Boardwalk that are mentioned below:
First, we discuss about some of the famous restaurants:
Hammerheads Bar & Grill
It happens to be one of the most renowned restaurants in the Ocean City Boardwalk. It is a casual place where we can have a drink and tasty seafoods. Their ability to sit outside has a magnificent view of the oceans where you can sit and have your delicious food.
Shenanigans Irish Pub and Grille
This venue serves visitors, Irish food, as well as a range of drinks and performances. You can take a lunch, a beverage, but shenanigans will certainly serve to improve your experience on the Ocean City Boardwalk.
Harbour Watch Restaurant and Raw Bar
It offers an elegant dining experience and a seafood restaurant in Ocean City. It is a 40 year staple on the southern end of the boardwalk, known for its panoramic view of the Ocean City inlet and fresh. This Restaurant is known for its best seafood, raw bar and stunning views.
9th Street Tap House
This Taphouse has a huge variety of craft beers and a menu filled with burgers, wings and seafood. It has a beachside view and it’s best for locals and tourists as it has a fun and friendly atmosphere.
Now, we discussed about shopping places:
Souvenir Shops
There are numerous souvenir shops located within the Boardwalk whereby any visitor can purchase anything they desire such as seashells, crafts, fridge magnets and many others. These stores are most convenient to purchase some souvenirs to be reminded of your visit.
Art and Craft Stalls
These stands are established by the local artistes in the boardwalk where they sell their homemade jewellery, art and other special products. These booths contain special souvenirs, which you can purchase to yourself.
Speciality Stores
There are some stores which focus on selling special things. The Kite Loft is a popular shop which sells kites and windsocks that we can fly on the beach. Surf stops which sell surf gear and accessories.
Event and Festivals at BoardWalk
There are numerous events and festivals happening annually at Boardwalk. Some of the famous events are mentioned below:
Seasonal Festivals
Ocean City, MD has a number of festivals and events every year, these events cut across food and music festivals, as well as sporting events. Springfest is the most common event and this event is held in May and includes live music, food and craftsmen. Then there comes Sunfest in October that features local music, beach mazes and art. It has other festivals such as Film Festivals, Ocean Calling Festivals and Winterfest of light.
Fishing Tournaments
Ocean City has a reputation of inshore and off shoring fishing and it is a land of fishing gurus. The city has such tournaments as White Marlin Open and Ocean City Tuna Tournament. Citizens of all nations arrive to compete and get prizes.
Culinary Festivals
Ocean City has a variety of restaurants and Boutique breweries. Enjoy the Best Culinary spots at discounted prices during the Restaurants Week that happens in April. Get to taste the Quality of beer made in the region during Shore Craft Beer.
Theater
The City’s Performing Art Centers offer a year-round lineup of shows, which includes Broadway musicals and symphony performances. It also brings top-notch Comedians from around the city for comedy lovers.
Themes Weeks
They host a variety of themed weeks throughout the year, like Jeep Week, Bike Week. which offers the visitor a unique experience for all the clients.
Best Time to Visit Ocean City Walk
Every season offers something special on the Ocean City Boardwalk. Ideal time to visit completely depends upon what weather you want to experience, peak seasons, quieter getaways and budget friendly travel.
Summer (May to September)
It is the best season to visit since it is warm and will be ideal to have water activities such as swimming, surfing among others. You can spend a day in Jolly Roger Amusement Park, have a sunset cruise and watch the fireworks. However the crowd may be at its peak during the summer and all the attraction points will be occupied.
Fall (September to November)
This time period offers light temperatures, smaller crowds and low prices. It is the best time to enjoy and visit the outdoor activities without the peak season rush. In this season you can also enjoy some events like Sunfest and Endless Summer Cruisins. The restaurant also offers off-season special dishes. Consider this, swimming becomes less comfortable as water temperature drops and days become shorter too.
Winter (December to February)
This is the time of year when the crowd is less and it provides serenity and relaxations to the tourists. It is suitable in deserted walks, watching birds and having off-season discounts. This also introduces the Winterfest of Lights which is an event that displays animated holiday lights. Celebration of New Year with fireworks on the sea. Some of the things to consider are that, not all of the shops may be open and the same can be said about water sports, with the exception of cool temperatures and some of the seasonal shops may be closed.
Spring (March to May)
Spring comes with the start of the warm days and activities, but there is no packed crowd. This weather is perfect for kayaking and bike rides along with the boardwalk. You can also expect early seasons deals in Ocean City. Consider that the weather can be unpredictable and on weekends, you can expect large crowds, so plan accordingly.
Travel Tips for Visiting the Ocean City Boardwalk
If you want to visit the Ocean City boardwalk when there is a low crowd and affordable rates, then the best months are May, September and October. The Inlet Parking lot is best for parking but it fills quickly, so try to come early. Consider parking further up and walking. For transportation, you can take the OC Beach Bus which is affordable. For activities and sightseeing, visit Trimper’s Ride and Jolly Roger Amusement Park or you can ride a bike in the early morning.
It is highly recommended to try Thrasher’s French Fries to try their iconic vinegar french fries and Kohr Brothers to try Frozen Custards. Now, try to wear comfortable clothes and shoes and use sunscreen and be safe as the ocean can have strong currents.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we just want to tell you that this lovely ocean city boardwalk, Maryland, is a perfect place for everyone. It has lots of things to do such as a variety of unique and delicious dining options, amusement parks, water activities and many more. Its beautiful ocean views, vibrant atmosphere, and wide range of entertainment make it a must-visit place when traveling to Ocean City.
