Last updated: June 21, 2026
Quick Answer: Ocean City, Maryland is far more than a boardwalk and a beach. The best things to do in Ocean City Maryland range from watching wild horses on Assateague Island and kayaking the bay at sunset to touring a pre-Prohibition distillery and catching free movies on the sand. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning visitor who thinks you’ve seen it all, this guide covers 15 experiences that genuinely feel fresh.
Key Takeaways
- Ocean City’s boardwalk now runs on pedicabs (as of Memorial Day 2026) after the old tram was discontinued – fares start at $10 [1]
- Assateague Island is only a few miles away and offers wild horse sightings most visitors completely miss
- Paddle Cove offers glow paddle tours at night, one of the most unique water experiences on the East Coast [7]
- Ripley’s Believe It or Not! opened a brand-new “Waterbird” interactive gallery in May 2026 [2]
- Springfest, OC’s beloved free festival, celebrated its 35th anniversary in April 2026 with 200+ artists and crafters [3]
- Free summer events in 2026 include beach movies, fireworks, and the OC Air Show [6]
- Seacrets Distilling Company offers 12,000 sq ft of pre-Prohibition era spirit tours and tastings [9]
- The 10-mile public beach is free – most visitors only use a fraction of it [9]
- Assateague Explorer runs boat tours for close-up wild horse views [7]
- Ocean City works surprisingly well as a year-round destination, not just a summer stop
What Makes Things To Do In Ocean City Maryland So Surprisingly Varied
Ocean City, Maryland pulls in millions of visitors every summer, but most people only scratch the surface. The boardwalk gets all the attention, and yes, it’s worth your time. But the real story is what’s happening just off the main drag – on the bay side, a few miles south on Assateague Island, inside a working distillery, and out on the water after dark.
The city has been actively expanding its appeal in 2026. A new destination sales brand called “Discover Ocean City” launched in February 2026 to attract group travel and year-round visitors [5], and the summer lineup of free events is bigger than ever [6]. The result is a destination that genuinely rewards curiosity.
Here are 15 things to do that go beyond the obvious – and a few that are brand new this year.
The Boardwalk: Classic Things To Do In Ocean City Maryland With a 2026 Twist
The Ocean City Boardwalk has been a fixture since 1902, and it still delivers [8]. But the experience changed significantly this summer. Starting Memorial Day weekend 2026, pedicabs replaced the old tram service that had been a boardwalk staple for decades [1].
Here’s what you need to know about the new pedicab service:
| Route | Approximate Fare |
|---|---|
| Half-mile (short hop) | $10 |
| Full 2.2-mile length | $30 |
| Operating hours | 2 p.m. to midnight daily |
By July 1, 2026, 25 pedicabs are expected to be running the full length [1]. It’s actually a more personal experience than the old tram – you can stop anywhere, ask your driver for local tips, and enjoy the breeze without being packed in with strangers.
Beyond the pedicab, the boardwalk still has its classic draws: saltwater taffy shops, arcades, funnel cake, and ocean views. Walk it early in the morning before the crowds arrive and it feels like a completely different place.
Assateague Island: The Wild Side Most Visitors Miss
Just a few miles south of Ocean City sits one of the East Coast’s most underrated natural escapes. Assateague Island is home to wild horses that roam freely along the shore – no fences, no feeding stations, just horses living as they have for centuries [7].
Most Ocean City visitors never make the short drive. That’s their loss.
How to see the wild horses:
- Drive yourself – The Maryland side of Assateague has a National Seashore with a scenic road where horses often wander right up to cars
- Take a boat tour – Assateague Explorer runs guided tours that get you close to the horses from the water [7]
- Hike the trails – The island has several short trails through dunes and marsh where horse sightings are common
“Seeing a wild horse standing in the surf at sunrise on Assateague is one of those travel moments you genuinely don’t expect to have on a Maryland beach trip.”
Go early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and the most active horse movement. Bring bug spray – the marsh insects are relentless.
Water Adventures Beyond the Waves
Ocean City sits on a barrier island, which means you have the Atlantic on one side and the calm Assawoman Bay on the other. Most visitors only interact with the ocean. The bay side is where the real adventure is.
Paddle Cove at 67th and 48th Street rents paddleboards and kayaks, and offers guided tours for beginners and experienced paddlers alike [7]. The standout option is their glow paddle trip at night – you paddle through dark water lit by LED boards underneath your board. It sounds gimmicky but it’s genuinely one of the most memorable things I’ve done on any East Coast beach trip.
Choose this if: You want something active that isn’t swimming or surfing, and you’re comfortable on the water even as a beginner.
Other water options worth considering:
- Parasailing over the inlet
- Jet ski rentals on the bay
- Fishing charters out of the Ocean City Inlet (flounder, striped bass, and tuna depending on the season)
- Dolphin-watching cruises at sunset
If you’re the type of traveler who likes to stay active on vacation, check out our 50 fun things to do at the beach for every age for more ideas that work across different coastal destinations.
Ripley’s “Waterbird” Gallery and Other Indoor Attractions
When the weather turns or you just need a break from the sun, Ocean City has more indoor options than most beach towns.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! opened its brand-new “Waterbird” gallery in May 2026 [2]. The interactive gallery features ocean-inspired oddities, a secret room, and unique photo opportunities. It’s genuinely weird in the best way – the kind of place where you end up spending twice as long as you planned.
Other indoor attractions worth your time:
- Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum – Located at the south end of the boardwalk, this free museum covers the history of maritime rescue on the Eastern Shore [9]. It’s small but fascinating, especially for anyone interested in local history.
- Miniature golf – There are several well-designed courses along Coastal Highway, ranging from pirate-themed to elaborate indoor setups
- Escape rooms – A few options have opened in recent years for groups looking for something different
Common mistake: Skipping indoor attractions because “you came for the beach.” A rainy afternoon at the Life-Saving Station Museum or Ripley’s can end up being the highlight of the trip for kids and adults alike.
Free Events That Make Summer 2026 Worth Timing Right
Ocean City runs a packed calendar of free events every summer, and 2026 is no exception [6]. If you can align your trip with any of these, the value goes up significantly.
2026 summer event highlights:
- OC Air Show – Free to watch from the beach, featuring military aircraft and aerobatic teams
- Movies on the beach – Family-friendly films projected on a big screen right on the sand
- Fireworks – Multiple dates throughout the summer, visible from the beach or the bay
- Concerts on the boardwalk – Free live music at various stages
The 35th Annual Springfest (April 23-26, 2026) was a massive success this year, drawing visitors with 200+ artists and crafters, a new Gourmet Food Pavilion, and live music across two stages [3]. If you’re planning an off-season trip, Springfest is worth building your schedule around.
Pro tip: Check oceancitymd.gov before you book. The event calendar is updated regularly and many of the best experiences are completely free.
Eating and Drinking Your Way Through Ocean City
Ocean City’s food scene is anchored by two things: blue crabs and Seacrets. Both are worth your full attention.
Blue crabs are the defining food experience of the Maryland coast. Order them steamed with Old Bay seasoning, get a mallet and some newspaper, and plan to spend two hours at the table. It’s messy, communal, and completely worth it. Locals will tell you the best crabs come from smaller spots away from the boardwalk.
Seacrets Distilling Company is a 12,000 square foot pre-Prohibition era distillery that offers tours and tastings of handcrafted spirits [9]. It’s attached to the famous Seacrets Jamaica USA bar and restaurant, which is essentially its own ecosystem – a sprawling, Jamaica-themed waterfront venue with multiple bars, a pool, and live reggae music. You can spend an entire afternoon and evening here without leaving.
Other food and drink worth knowing:
- Fractured Prune – A local doughnut chain with made-to-order glazed doughnuts that people genuinely plan trips around
- Thrasher’s French Fries – Boardwalk institution, served with vinegar (not ketchup – don’t argue)
- The Crab Bag, Crabcake Factory, and similar spots – All solid for sit-down seafood
If you enjoy comparing coastal food scenes, our guide to 17 best things to do in Myrtle Beach covers a similar Southern beach town with its own distinct food culture.
Off-Season and Shoulder Season: Things To Do In Ocean City Maryland Year-Round
Ocean City is not just a summer destination, even though most people treat it that way. The “Discover Ocean City” brand launched in February 2026 specifically to shift that perception [5].
Why shoulder season works:
- Hotel rates drop significantly after Labor Day and before Memorial Day
- The beach is quieter but still beautiful (and often warmer than you’d expect in September and October)
- Restaurants are less crowded and some offer off-season specials
- Fall fishing is excellent, particularly for striped bass
- The boardwalk is walkable without fighting through crowds
Best months for off-season visits:
- September-October – Warm enough for the beach, uncrowded, fall fishing peaks
- April-May – Springfest season, milder temps, great for cycling and hiking Assateague
- November-March – Best for budget travelers; some attractions close but the town doesn’t shut down
If you’re weighing beach destinations and budget is a factor, our list of budget-friendly vacations with kids includes some useful comparisons for East Coast options.
The Full List: 15 Things To Do In Ocean City Maryland
Here’s the complete rundown, organized for easy planning:
- Ride a pedicab the full length of the boardwalk – New in 2026, $30 for the full 2.2 miles [1]
- See the wild horses on Assateague Island – Drive or take a boat tour [7]
- Night glow paddle on the bay – Paddle Cove at 67th Street [7]
- Tour Seacrets Distilling Company – 12,000 sq ft of handcrafted spirits [9]
- Explore Ripley’s new “Waterbird” gallery – Opened May 2026 [2]
- Watch the OC Air Show from the beach – Free, summer 2026 [6]
- Movies on the beach – Free family event, multiple summer dates [6]
- Visit the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum – Free, south end of boardwalk [9]
- Eat steamed blue crabs with Old Bay – The quintessential Maryland experience
- Catch a sunset from the bay side – Completely different view from the ocean side
- Fish the inlet or go offshore – Charter boats available for all skill levels
- Walk Assateague’s hiking trails – Dunes, marsh, and wildlife beyond the horses
- Play mini golf at night – Several well-lit courses along Coastal Highway
- Attend Springfest (April) – 200+ artists, live music, free admission [3]
- Dolphin-watching cruise at sunset – Multiple operators run evening tours
Practical Planning: What to Know Before You Go
Getting there: Ocean City is about 2.5 to 3 hours from Washington D.C. and Baltimore by car, and roughly 3 hours from Philadelphia. There’s no major airport nearby, so driving is the standard approach.
Where to stay: The north end of Ocean City (above 60th Street) tends to be quieter and more residential. The south end near the boardwalk is more action-oriented. Mid-town (around 40th-60th Street) splits the difference.
Parking: Paid parking is available throughout the city. The inlet lot at the south end is convenient for boardwalk access. If you’re staying more than a few days, a hotel with included parking saves real money.
Best time to visit:
- Peak season (June-August): Most events, highest prices, biggest crowds
- Shoulder season (May, September): Good weather, lower prices, manageable crowds
- Off-season (October-April): Budget-friendly, peaceful, limited attractions
What to pack:
- Sunscreen (the Maryland sun reflects hard off the water)
- Bug spray if you’re visiting Assateague
- Cash for boardwalk vendors (many are cash-only)
- A light jacket for evening bay activities
For comparison with another well-known East Coast beach destination, our guide on things to do in Siesta Key Florida covers a Gulf Coast alternative with a very different vibe.
FAQ: Things To Do In Ocean City Maryland
Is Ocean City Maryland worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you go beyond the boardwalk. The combination of free beach access, Assateague Island wildlife, water sports on the bay, and a packed summer event calendar makes it one of the better-value beach destinations on the East Coast.
How many days do you need in Ocean City?
Three to four days is a solid amount. One day for the boardwalk and beach, one day for Assateague Island, one day for water activities on the bay, and a fourth day for distillery tours, museums, and any events you want to catch.
Is Ocean City Maryland good for families?
Yes. The beach is free and safe for swimming, there are multiple family-friendly attractions (Ripley’s, mini golf, movies on the beach), and Assateague Island is a genuinely memorable experience for kids who’ve never seen wild horses.
What is the best month to visit Ocean City Maryland?
September is arguably the best month – warm enough for the beach, significantly less crowded than July and August, and still great for water activities. May is a close second for spring visitors.
Is the Ocean City boardwalk free?
Walking the boardwalk is free. Individual attractions, food, and the new pedicab service have their own costs. The pedicab runs $10 to $30 depending on distance [1].
What happened to the Ocean City boardwalk tram?
The tram was discontinued. As of Memorial Day weekend 2026, pedicabs have replaced it as the primary boardwalk transport option [1].
Can you see wild horses in Ocean City Maryland?
Not in Ocean City itself, but Assateague Island – just a few miles south – is home to wild horses that roam freely along the beach and through the dunes [7].
Is Ocean City Maryland expensive?
It depends on the season. Peak summer rates for hotels and parking can be steep. Off-season (September through May) offers significantly lower prices, and many of the best activities (beach, boardwalk walking, free events) cost nothing.
What’s new in Ocean City for 2026?
The biggest changes in 2026 include pedicabs replacing the boardwalk tram [1], Ripley’s new “Waterbird” gallery [2], and an expanded free summer events calendar including the OC Air Show, beach movies, and fireworks [6].
Is Assateague Island part of Ocean City?
No. Assateague Island is a separate barrier island managed as a National Seashore and State Park. It’s about 8 miles south of Ocean City via Route 611.
Conclusion: How to Actually Plan This Trip
Ocean City Maryland rewards the traveler who does a little homework. The beach and boardwalk are great, but they’re just the starting point. The real highlights – wild horses at sunrise on Assateague, a glow paddle trip on the dark bay, a distillery tour followed by live reggae at Seacrets, catching a free air show from the sand – are all within easy reach.
Here’s a simple three-day framework:
- Day 1: Arrive, walk the boardwalk, ride a pedicab, eat Thrasher’s fries and steamed crabs
- Day 2: Morning at Assateague Island (wild horses, hiking), afternoon water sports on the bay, evening glow paddle
- Day 3: Ripley’s “Waterbird” gallery, Life-Saving Station Museum, Seacrets distillery tour, sunset from the bay side
If you’re planning a longer East Coast beach trip, our guide on 17 best things to do in Martha’s Vineyard is worth a look for a very different coastal experience, and our 25 best things to do in Charleston SC covers a Southern coastal city with deep history and great food.
Book your Assateague boat tour and bay paddle in advance during peak season – they fill up fast. Everything else can be figured out when you arrive.
References
[1] See Whats New In Ocean City For Summer 2026 – https://northernvirginiamag.com/things-to-do/travel/2026/05/18/see-whats-new-in-ocean-city-for-summer-2026/
[2] Ribbon Cutting Ripley’s Believe It Or Not New Gallery – https://chamber.oceancity.org/events/details/ribbon-cutting-ripley-s-believe-it-or-not-new-gallery-45732
[3] Ocean City Celebrates 35 Years Of Springfest And Full Month Of April Events – https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/ocean-city-celebrates-35-years-of-springfest-and-full-month-of-april-events/
[4] Ocean City Tourism Launches Only In Ocean City Social Series Featuring Stephanie Pratt – https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/ocean-city-tourism-launches-only-in-ocean-city-social-series-featuring-stephanie-pratt/
[5] Ocean City Tourism Shares February Highlights And New Destination Sales Strategy – https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/ocean-city-tourism-shares-february-highlights-and-new-destination-sales-strategy/
[6] Celebrate Summer In Ocean City Maryland With Movies Music And More – https://oceancitymd.gov/oc/celebrate-summer-in-ocean-city-maryland-with-movies-music-and-more/
[7] 10 Unique Things To Do In Ocean City Maryland For Couples – https://www.century21newhorizon.com/blog/10-unique-things-do-ocean-city-maryland-couples
[8] Experience The Ocean City Boardwalk – https://oceancity.guide/experience-the-ocean-city-boardwalk/
[9] TripAdvisor – Attractions Ocean City Maryland – https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attractions-g41298-Activities-Ocean_City_Maryland.html
