Introduction
I’ll be honest—when I booked my weekend getaway to Ocean City, Maryland, I expected just another beach town with sand, sun and maybe a boardwalk. What I found instead was a wonderfully lively, classic seaside resort packed with more variety, history and fun than I’d bargained for. From boardwalk rides to wild pony-watching, coconut drinks to sunset cruises, I found 12 top experiences that made my visit unforgettable. Whether you’re heading there with family, friends or solo, here are the best fun things I did (and you should too) in Ocean City.
12 Best & Fun Things To Do In Ocean City, MD (2026)
1. Walk & Ride the Boardwalk
One of the first things I did was stroll along the iconic three-mile boardwalk of Ocean City. It’s been a major attraction since 1902, with wooden planks, beachfront shops, classic arcades, rides and the unmistakable atmosphere of summer fun.
What I loved:
- Morning bike ride on the boardwalk when it was quiet and the air was cool.
- Midday arcade break and an evening ride on the carousel at sunset.
- Don’t miss grabbing a cone of soft-serve or saltwater taffy while you wander.
Tip: Go early in the day to beat the crowds and enjoy the boardwalk in its peaceful best, then stay into the evening for the lights and activity.
See Also: 36 Best & Fun Things To Do In Kissimmee, FL
2. Lounge on the Beach
Of course, the beach is the heart of any trip to Ocean City. I spent a good part of one afternoon just relaxing in the sand, hearing the waves, watching families build castles and letting the sea breeze wash away my week.
Why it works:
- There’s plenty of clean, public beach space perfect for swimming, sunbathing or just people watching.
- Evening walks or sunset sessions on the shore felt magical and mellow.
Tip: Bring a blanket or beach chair and linger into the golden hour. If you go in the off-season, the beach has a quieter, more contemplative feel.
3. Ride the Thrills at an Amusement Park
For a dash of adrenaline, I visited the Jolly Roger Amusement Park—a fun-filled spot with roller coasters, water rides, mini-golf and more.
What stood out:
- The mix of rides suitable for kids and thrill-seekers alike.
- A good escape when you want a break from the beach but still want high energy.
Tip: Check their operating seasons and hours. If you’re traveling with younger children, go earlier in the day when energy is high and lines are shorter.
4. Try Water Sports & Boat Adventures
One of my favourite afternoons was spent on the water—whether that meant renting a jet ski, paddle-boarding in calmer bay waters, or taking a sunset cruise. According to guides, Ocean City offers a wide range of water-based activities to suit many tastes.
Highlights:
- Floating on a paddleboard with the sun low in the sky.
- Hearing children let out delighted yelps on jet skis.
- A relaxed boat cruise with sea breeze and horizon views.
Tip: Choose your activity based on your mood: calm paddleboard or high-speed jet ride. Always check safety equipment and local regulations.
5. Visit the Life-Saving Station Museum
When I needed a break from the high-energy fun, the Ocean City Life‑Saving Station Museum was a perfect stop. Housed in an 1891 station, it delves into the area’s maritime history, rescues, shipwrecks and local marine life.
Why it’s worthwhile:
- It offers a quieter, educational counterpoint to the boardwalk bustle.
- The exhibits appealed to both kids (hands-on displays) and adults (historical narratives).
Tip: It’s a great choice when you want a slower pace. Check the seasonal hours ahead of your visit.
6. Explore Nearby Assateague Island & Wild Ponies
I took a short drive to Assateague Island and was rewarded with nature, calm, and a small herd of wild ponies grazing near the dunes. It’s one of those experiences that feels remote even though you’re close to town.
What makes it special:
- A chance to see wild ponies against a coastal backdrop.
- Quiet beaches and natural marshes away from the main crowd.
Tip: Bring binoculars and patience. Early morning or late afternoon tend to give you the best light and less fuss. Also check for park rules and any required permits if driving on the sand.
7. Indulge in Classic Boardwalk Eats & Local Food
Part of what makes Ocean City feel so right is its food scene—great casual eats, seafood, iconic boardwalk treats. For instance, locals swear by the fries at Thrasher’s Fries and the soft-serve at Dumser’s Dairyland.
My favourites:
- Steamed blue crabs and crab cakes at a local crab house.
- Ice cream cones and taffy on the boardwalk.
- Fresh seafood with a relaxing waterfront view.
Tip: Go for lunch to beat the dinner rush. If you’re near the boardwalk, don’t skip the treats—those little indulgences make the memories.
8. Fishing, Pier Walks & Sunset Views
If you’re in the mood for something contemplative, I enjoyed an evening walking the pier and watching the sunset reflect off the water. According to local guides, Ocean City offers excellent fishing opportunities and scenic pier spots.
Why this works:
- A bit slower pace, less crowded, you can linger and reflect.
- Great photo opportunities.
Tip: Bring a jacket—breeze off the water can be cooler than expected. If you like fishing, explore charter options ahead of time.
9. Mini-Golf, Go-Karts & Family Amusements
When I visited with friends we carved out some time for mini-golf and go-karts—fun for all ages, especially when you want energy but something lighter than full thrills. Many local guides list this among top family-friendly activities.
What’s great:
- Friendly competition and laughs without needing to commit to big rides or long lines.
- A good option for mixed-age groups.
Tip: Use this as an afternoon filler between beach time and dinner. It’s also a nice option if weather transitions from sun to clouds.
10. Shop, Browse & Discover Hidden Gems
Beyond the typical souvenirs, I found spots worth exploring: art galleries, clothing boutiques, outlet malls and off-boardwalk shops. The “hidden gems” side of Ocean City surprised me.
Suggestions:
- Browse art or local trinkets in smaller galleries.
- Take the opportunity for some light retail therapy or find unique beach gear.
Tip: If you’re planning to shop, allocate at least an hour late in the day so you aren’t rushed and can browse without heat or crowds.
11. Evening Entertainment & Nightlife
My evening in Ocean City included live music, beachside drinks and just soaking in the live-vibe. According to visitor guides, the nightlife here ranges from family-friendly concerts to more adult-oriented bars.
What stood out:
- A casual drink with a bay view as the sun went down.
- Live music near the beach or boardwalk that set a chill tone.
Tip: If you’re with kids, pick spots that are more laid-back; if with friends, ask locals for the best bars after dark.
12. Take a Day Trip or Nature Escape
Finally, I took a bit of time to escape the main tourist hub and explore nearby nature and quieter spots. This gave the trip a richer rhythm—moments of excitement balanced with calm.
Ideas:
- Visit nearby small towns for local culture or a change of pace.
- Go marsh kayaking or explore nature trails that are less crowded.
Tip: Use this as a half-day option so you still get the boardwalk/beach experience but with added depth.
Final Thoughts
My visit to Ocean City was one of those trips where I came back feeling both exhilarated and refreshed. It’s vibrant enough to keep you entertained, relaxed enough to reward slow moments, and varied enough to suit different moods and group types.
Here are a few takeaways I’d recommend:
- Balance your time: Mix beach mornings, boardwalk afternoons and maybe a fun evening ride or water adventure.
- Pace yourself: There’s no need to try everything in one day. Some of the best moments happened when I wandered without an agenda.
- Check the season & time of day: Early mornings or late afternoons often gave the best light and fewer crowds.
- Go beyond the obvious: While the boardwalk and beach are must-dos, the quieter stops (museum, nature, shopping) added richness.
- Bring layers: Even summer evenings near the water can turn breezy.
If I were to go back, I’d plan one full boardwalk day, one full water/activity day, one slow nature/escape day and then an evening dedicated to local food & live music. That rhythm gave me variety without packing my schedule too tight.