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Ocean City

America's Greatest Family Resort

Ocean City operates as a "dry town"—no alcohol sales since Methodist ministers founded it in 1879. This creates a unique BYOB restaurant culture and contributes to its wholesome, family-centered atmosphere that has earned the town its "America's Greatest Family Resort" designation.

The 2.5-mile boardwalk is the heart of Ocean City, with year-round population of 12,000 swelling to over 1 million visitors during peak season. MAJOR NEWS: Gillian's Wonderland Pier permanently closed October 2024 after 95 years—the 144-foot Giant Wheel, hand-carved 1926 carousel, and Canyon Falls Log Flume are gone. Playland's Castaway Cove continues operating with 30+ rides including GaleForce roller coaster.

Food traditions run deep: Manco & Manco Pizza (sauce swirled ON TOP of cheese), Johnson's Popcorn (hand-tossed caramel corn since 1940), Shriver's Salt Water Taffy (since 1898), and Kohr Bros Frozen Custard (since 1919, eggs prevent melting in shore salt air). The famous Night in Venice boat parade attracts approximately 125,000 spectators each July. Family Night runs every Thursday in July/August with free entertainment.

family-friendlyboardwalkdry townclassicwholesome

What Makes Ocean City Special

Family Resort

Known for its family-friendly and boardwalk atmosphere

Perfect For

families, kids, boardwalk lovers

Local Legend

Ocean City has been dry since 1879—before Prohibition even existed. Ironicall...

Must-See

Ocean City Boardwalk - 2.5-mile boardwalk with amusement pier, classic food stands,...

Did You Know?

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Did You Know?

Ocean City has been dry since 1879—before Prohibition even existed. Ironically, a CDC study found it has the highest rate of excessive drinkers of any county in New Jersey.

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Did You Know?

Ocean City's boardwalk has never allowed the sale of alcohol or tobacco, maintaining the town's founding Methodist values for over 140 years.

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Did You Know?

Ocean City hosts the annual Miss Crustacean beauty pageant for hermit crabs, complete with a runway and a tiny crown for the winner.

Historical Note

Founded by Methodist ministers in 1879, Ocean City was designed as a Christian family resort. The town's strict 'dry' policy has remained in effect continuously for over 145 years, creating its unique BYOB restaurant culture.

Beach Badge

$10/day

Parking

~$15/day

From NYC

2hr 30min

Transit

Bus

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Don't Miss in Ocean City

Ocean City Boardwalk

Must See

2.5-mile boardwalk with amusement pier, classic food stands, and ocean views. Family Night every Thursday in July/August with free magicians, music, face painting.

Playland's Castaway Cove

Must See

30+ rides including GaleForce roller coaster, Python looping coaster, and Double Shot rising 110 feet. Free entry, pay-per-ride. Tickets never expire—look for half-price spring sales.

Manco & Manco Pizza

Must See

"THE definitive Ocean City pizzeria" since 1956. Signature style: sauce swirled ON TOP of cheese. Watch pizza tossing. Lines run long but move quickly. Slice $3.28, plain pie $24.15.

Also Worth Checking Out

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Congo Falls Adventure Golf — THREE mini golf courses at $9.50/person: Congo Queen and Solomon's Mine outdoors, plus 100% air-conditioned Lost City indoors for rainy days. Giant animatronic King Kong, waterfalls, caves.

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Shriver's Salt Water Taffy — The boardwalk's oldest business since 1898. 30+ taffy flavors plus homemade fudge (pumpkin, Irish mint, Black Forest cherry). Watch candy being made.

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Night in Venice — Annual July boat parade attracting ~125,000 spectators. Elaborately decorated boats lighting up the bay—tradition since 1954. Philly sports celebrities and mascots often serve as grand marshals.

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Downtown Asbury Avenue — "Where the locals go" with 100+ locally-owned boutiques away from boardwalk crowds. The Shoppes at The Asbury in restored 1920s Crown Bank building. 100-year-old Boyar's Food Market for cold subs.

Where to Eat in Ocean City

See All 10 Restaurants →

Manco & Manco Pizza

pizzaboardwalk

Try: Cheese slice with zeppoles

• boardwalk location• counter service

Johnson's Popcorn

boardwalk

Try: Caramel corn bucket

• iconic• takeaway

Shriver's Salt Water Taffy & Fudge

boardwalkice cream

Try: Assorted taffy box

• historic• candy making

See All 10 Restaurants →

Where to Stay in Ocean City

See All 6 Options →

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The Flanders Hotel

Hotel • Beachfront

$$$

Iconic 1923 Spanish-style hotel with 4 stars. Spacious suites with kitchens, Ocean City's largest heated outdoor pool, on-site spa. $199-$410/night.

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Watson's Regency Suites

Hotel • 1 block

9.4/10 rating excelling for families. Indoor pool "great for any weather," in-room kitchens, free cribs. $160+/night.

indoor poolkitchens

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Port-O-Call Hotel

Hotel • Boardwalk

Exceptional 9.6/10 Expedia rating for oceanfront views and year-round availability. "Beautiful, prices reasonable" with connecting rooms at no extra cost. $200+/night.

oceanfrontconnecting rooms

Looking for more options? Search all available accommodations.

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