Ocean City Stories

Explore Experience: Country Calling 2025

Day 1  Country Calling kicked off with beautiful beach weather, cowboy hats and boots as far as the eye could see, and a crowd more than ready to party all weekend long. Ocean City, MD’s inlet transformed into Nashville-on-the-coast, with fans flooding the festival grounds by car, ride...

Explore Experience: Oceans Calling 2025

Oceans Calling 2025, you did it again! Now that we have a couple of years of Oceans Calling music festivals under our belts, Explore OC is proud to see that the concerts are getting better year after year, continuing to surpass expectations with incredible lineups, drawing crowds of 50,000+ people f...

Halloween in Ocean City, MD: Family Fun by the Shore

Costumes, candy, and a little coastal magic. Halloween in Ocean City, Maryland is one of the best times of the year. From trunk-or-treat events and pumpkin patches to spooky skate contests and hayrides, there is something for every age and every costume. If you’re searching for the best Hal...

Pumpkin Picking and Fall Festivals Near Ocean City, MD

Fall at the beach? Absolutely. Just because you’re in Ocean City, Maryland doesn’t mean you have to miss out on classic autumn traditions. From pumpkin patches near Ocean City, MD to family-friendly fall festivals, you’ll find plenty of small-town charm within a short drive. Whe...

Fall in Ocean City, MD: Family Festivals, Halloween Fun, and Coastal Escapes

Think Ocean City, Maryland is just a summer town? Fall is when the real magic happens. With cooler temperatures, lighter crowds, and festivals nearly every weekend, September and October are two of the best months to visit. Whether you’re planning a quick family getaway, a long weekend with fr...

Sensory-Friendly Activities for Kids in Ocean City, MD

Inclusive Beaches, Parks & Attractions Planning a beach getaway with kids who thrive in calmer, more inclusive environments? Ocean City, MD makes it easy with sensory-friendly, autism-friendly, and accessible activities designed for every family. From quiet beaches and nature trails to hands-...

Iconic Tastes of Ocean City: 5 Must-Try Local Favorites

Iconic Tastes of Ocean City: 5 Must-Try Local Favorites   Some flavors are more than just delicious; they’re iconic. In Ocean City, Maryland, a handful of legendary treats have been winning hearts (and taste buds) for decades. Whether you're a first-timer or a lifelong OCMD visi...

Most Nostalgic Gifts to Bring Back from OCMD

Generations of families have been visiting Ocean City, MD year after year, creating golden moments that stick with them forever—and forming deeply cherished bonds with our beach community. Ocean City holds a timeless charm that awakens memories of carefree summer days: salt in the air (and on...

How to Beat the Crowds in Ocean City: Family-Friendly Insider Tips

How to Beat the Crowds in Ocean City: Family-Friendly Insider Tips Ocean City is full of ways to unwind and make memories, even during the busiest days. With smart tips like reserving your beach spot early, exploring Assateague Island, or finding fun indoors, your family can soak up all the charm...

Ocean City, MD Outdoor Adventures: Mini Golf, Bike Rides, Watersports & More

Looking to turn your Ocean City, MD vacation into a high-energy, memory-making family getaway? Whether you're cruising the Boardwalk by bike, chasing thrills at local amusement parks, or soaking up sunshine on the water, Ocean City offers endless ways to stay active and entertained. Here&rsqu...

Beach Day Safety: Lifeguard-Approved Tips for Families Visiting Ocean City, MD

You’ve booked your stay, packed the beach bags, and counted down the days.  Your Ocean City, MD vacation is finally here! But before the kids race toward the waves, take a moment to review some simple (but important) beach safety tips. At Explore OC, we’ve gathered the top lifegu...

Exploring Assateague Island in Early Spring: Your Family Guide

Ready for a spring break adventure? Head to Assateague Island National Seashore near Ocean City, MD, for a fun-filled day with your kids, friends, or family. Early spring brings milder weather and fewer crowds—perfect for exploring this natural gem. Check out this family-friendly guide from Ex...

Springfest in Ocean City, MD

Springfest 2025 in Ocean City, MD, is the ultimate way to welcome summer in our vibrant beach town. Held over four exciting days at the Ocean City Inlet, this beloved festival brings together live music, mouthwatering food, and unique artisan vendors. Discover why Springfest is a can’t-miss ev...

Breweries, Craft Drinks, and More Near Ocean City, MD: A Coastal Sip to Savor

Ocean City, Maryland, and its surrounding Eastern Shore areas are famous for stunning beaches and a lively Boardwalk, but they’re also home to a thriving craft beverage scene. Whether you’re craving bold beers, elegant wines, or refreshing coffee, the region offers a diverse selection of...

Affordable Winter Fun in OCMD: Free and Low-Cost Family Activities

Think Ocean City, MD, is just a summer spot? Think again! More businesses are staying open year-round, making it easier than ever to enjoy the beach, Boardwalk, and local attractions even in the winter months. Whether you're looking for fresh air, indoor fun, or a budget-friendly outing with the...

Winter Sweet Treats for Families in Ocean City, MD

Winter in Ocean City, MD, may be chilly, but that’s all the more reason to cozy up with a sweet treat! Whether you’re rewarding the kids after a day of winter beach adventures or just craving something delicious, OCMD has plenty of family-friendly dessert spots to explore. Best of all, y...

Quiet Spots in Ocean City, MD: Where Families Can Recharge

Ocean City, MD, is packed with family-friendly attractions, lively beaches, and thrilling amusement parks, but sometimes, you just need a quiet moment to recharge. Whether you have an overstimulated toddler in need of a break or just want to unwind between activities, these peaceful spots offer a re...

Winter Comforts: Family-Friendly Foods to Warm Up With in OCMD

Ocean City, MD, is famous for its Boardwalk, sandy beaches, and summer fun, but don’t overlook its off-season charm! Winter in OCMD is the perfect time to explore cozy restaurants, hearty meals, and warm drinks after a brisk walk along the shore or a scenic park visit. Whether you're cravi...

Mark Your Calendar! Top Ocean City, MD Events from January to May 2025

Ocean City, MD, isn’t just a summer destination—it’s a year-round hotspot filled with festivals, restaurant deals, and exciting activities for all ages! Whether you're looking for live music, classic car shows, film festivals, or foodie events, there's something happening...

Winter Wonderland in Ocean City, MD: Best Holiday Activities in OCMD

Ocean City, MD, isn’t just a summer destination—its holiday events prove that there’s magic in the air even in the coldest months. All you need to do is pack your winter coat and visit Explore OC to get ready for an unforgettable holiday experience in Ocean City, MD. Here are some...

Best Crab Chowder in Ocean City, MD

Whether you’re a seafood connoisseur or simply craving a warming bowl of comfort food, the chowder in OCMD is something you shouldn’t miss during the winter months. Each restaurant or to-go shop offers its own take, but all share a common love for fresh, local crab and warm, satisfying f...

Thanksgiving in Ocean City, MD: How to Spend a Long Weekend in OCMD

Visiting Ocean City, MD during the holiday weekend is one of the best ways to spend Thanksgiving. With festive events, great Black Friday deals, and restaurant specials, you can’t go wrong! Get the scoop on Thanksgiving in Ocean City, MD, and how to spend a long weekend in OCMD. Things To D...

Gift Locally: Holiday Shopping Ideas That Support OCMD Businesses

By shopping small this year, you can give big! Choosing to patronize local retailers is a way of giving back to the Delmarva community, ensuring that your gift becomes an investment in our economy. Here’s how to gift locally and our top holiday shopping ideas that support OCMD businesses. ...