8 Things to Do in Ocean City, New Jersey

If you are going to be visiting Ocean City, NJ, you’re in for a treat. This city calls itself “America’s Greatest Family Resort.” With luxurious seaside resorts, thrilling theme parks, and sandy beaches, it offers endless diversions and is a great getaway for the entire family. What should you see and do when you are in the area? Following are some destinations and activities for your Ocean City bucket list.

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Walk the Ocean City Boardwalk

This is probably the most famous and popular destination in Ocean City. Here, you can enjoy the scenery and the unique ambience of Ocean City while shopping and dining to your heart's content. Vendors line the boardwalk selling souvineers from under their commercial canopy tents.

Being as the Ocean City Boardwalk was first constructed in its original form in 1902, you will have an opportunity to pick up some history while you were exploring it. Additionally, there are a number of hotels, resorts and bed and breakfast establishments right along the boardwalk where you can stay to be close to all the amenities.

While you are at the Ocean City Boardwalk, do not miss out on the Trimper’s Carousel. This famous carousel has been in operation since 1912. No other carousel in the US has run continuously for this long.

Go to a theme park

The carousel is not the only ride you can enjoy and Ocean City. Also right at the boardwalk is Gillian’s Wonderland Pier. This amusement park dates back to 1929 and includes 31 different rides and attractions.

Some of the rides have changed over the years, but you can expect a combination of midway rides (including the 144 foot Giant Wheel), lower lot rides, upper deck rides and indoor rides. Not only will kids and adults of all ages enjoy the rides, but you’ll also delight in the nostalgic ambiance of the park.

Also nearby is the OC Waterpark. Located right by the water, it includes a lazy river, a variety of water slides, and other fun activities and attractions. Some of these include a climbing wall, mini-golf, and special play areas for kids.

If you are going to be spending a whole day at the waterpark, consider renting one of the cabanas. This will give you a private, shaded area where you can relax, a credit for dining, free wi-fi, and other great benefits. You even can skip the admission line.

Visit the Ocean City Historical Museum

If after visiting the Ocean City Boardwalk, you still want to learn more about the local history, drop by the Ocean City Historical Museum. Here, you can view a variety of exhibits, artifacts and pictures. These will help you to learn more about both the Ocean City Boardwalk and OC in general.

Visit Corson’s Inlet State Park

About a 15-minute drive away from the city center is Corson’s Inlet State Park. Since 1969, this park has protected systems of dunes along the ocean shore. These dunes are home to some of the area’s vulnerable species of wildlife.

What can you do while you are here? Hike across the dunes and explore, go fishing, crabbing or boating, or just relax on the beach and take in the sun and the fresh, salty air. If you are a birdwatcher, keep an eye out for endangered species such as the Least Tern, the Black Skimmer and the Piping Plover. Many more common species of birds also can be seen here.

Gamble in Atlantic City

You’re also only around half an hour away from Atlantic City when you are staying in Ocean City. So if you enjoy taking a spin at a slot machine or trying your hand at blackjack or poker, don’t miss out. Some of Atlantic City’s famous casinos include Caesars at Atlantic City, Harrah’s Resort Atlantic Casino, Bally’s Atlantic City and Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa. Who knows—maybe you will get lucky and your vacation will end up paying for itself!

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Go golfing

Did you know that Ocean City is home to the Ocean City Municipal Golf Course? This par 37 course features 12 holes in a lush, open setting featuring lovely scenery. Practice your game here and enjoy a relaxing day with just the right amount of challenge.

Attend a special event

Ocean City plays host to a number of events throughout the year. Some examples include Car Show Weekend, Baby Parade, Christmas Parade, Music Pier, Night in Venice, the Summer Concert Series, and so on. If you happen to be in town during one of these events, consider attending! You’ll have a fun time mingling with tourists and locals alike and experiencing the best of OC entertainment, food and community.

How can you find out what is happening around town? You can check the official Ocean City, NJ website to see the calendar for the current year. You also can ask around town. Concierges and others who work in tourism-related positions should be able to point you in the direction of popular events.

Visit any of the area’s lovely beaches

Finally, there are many beautiful beaches in the Ocean City area for you to enjoy. Some are public, while others are privately owned by resorts and set aside exclusively for guest use.

To get the most out of a day at the beach in Ocean City, make sure that you bring everything with you that you will need to stay comfortable throughout the day and enjoy yourself to the fullest.

Strongly consider setting up a beach shelter canopy to protect yourself from UV rays and stay cooler throughout the day. You will also want to bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen.

Ocean City is a Vacationer’s Paradise

Now you know what you have to look forward to if you are planning a trip to Ocean City, New Jersey. Whether it's during the slower winter months or during the bustling summer months, there is always something to do in this beach town. In this town rich with history, you’ll have an amazing time walking the famous boardwalk, going on rides at the historic amusement park, gambling at nearby casinos, golfing, attending festivals, and sunbathing and swimming at the beach. Have fun putting together your itinerary, and have even more fun on your vacation!

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