Top 9 Things to do in Ocean City, Maryland with kids

Considering a beach trip with your kids this summer? Why not head to Ocean City, Maryland?

There are so many reasons why we loved this beach. It was the perfect family road trip if you’re from Toronto and looking to spend some time at the ocean. 

Our family of four loves finding new places to have an adventure. We decided July was the perfect time to embark on an epic road trip from Toronto to the sunny shores of Ocean City, Maryland.

It is about ten hours of driving from the Toronto area, which you can totally do all at once, but we made an overnight stop along the way. 

There is something so relaxing about being near the ocean. 

I have included a list of all the fun activities you can do on a  summer getaway in Ocean City. I hope you will give this beach visit a try with your kids!

Why Ocean City?

Spread along the eastern coast of the United States, Ocean City, Maryland is so inviting with its sprawling beaches, soft sands, and an abundance of activities tailor-made for families.

Our decision to make the 10-hour drive from Toronto was fueled by the desire for a beach vacation that offered more than just sun and surf. Ocean City, with its reputation for family-friendly attractions, seemed like the perfect destination.

Accommodations: A Word of Caution

As we eagerly searched for a home away from home, we unfortunately found that not all accommodations are created equal. While Ocean City boasts an array of hotels, our personal experience left us with reservations about where we stayed.

As a family, it’s crucial to carefully research and choose accommodations that align with your expectations and preferences.

List of Things to do in Ocean City, Maryland with Kids!

Once we settled into Ocean City, the real fun began. The array of activities catered to every member of the family ensured that our days were filled with laughter, excitement, and a sense of wonder.

1. Bike Rental and Quad Biking:

Exploring the town on four wheels became a highlight of our trip. With numerous rental shops in the area, we discovered the joy of pedaling along the coastline and taking in the salty breeze. Renting a quad bike is a super fun and fast way to see all Ocean City has to offer. You can ride along the boardwalk for miles! We rented from https://www.bikeworldoc.com/ for 2 hours and had a really positive experience. 

2. Amusement Park Extravaganza:

Thrill-seekers in the family will enjoy the lively Jolly Roger amusement parks. One is right on the boardwalk in Ocean City. The other is slightly further north on 32nd Street. From roller coasters to whimsical rides for the little ones, there is no shortage of heart-pounding fun against the backdrop of the Atlantic horizon. Check out all the rides and games at https://jollyrogerpieroc.com/ 

3. Lifesaving Station Museum:

Delving into the maritime history of Ocean City, the Lifesaving Station Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the heroic tales of ocean rescues and the evolution of coastal life-saving techniques. It is a perfect blend of education and entertainment for the whole family. Plus kids are free. https://www.ocmuseum.org/ 

4. Ropewalk Restaurant and Playground:

Indulge in delicious seafood at Ropewalk Restaurant while your kids hang out in the pirate themed playground or play yard games in the sand! We also enjoyed a game of ring toss here. We first came across this game in Treasure Island, FL and liked it so much we built 1 in our own backyard!

This restaurant makes for a perfect family dining experience. The combination of delicious dishes and a play area ensures that you could savor your meal while the kids burn off some energy. It’s also in a beautiful location right on the Assawoman Bay. https://oceancity.ropewalk.com/ 

5. Isle of Wight Nature Park/Fishing:

For nature enthusiasts, the Isle of Wight Nature Park beckons with its scenic trails and opportunities for fishing. It provides a serene escape from the bustling beach scene, allowing you to connect with nature and try your hand at a bit of fishing. An added bonus would be to go at sunset, it’s really beautiful! Make sure you have a walk along the rocky shore line, there was tons of crabs when we were there!

6. Mini Golf Extravaganza:

Ocean City is renowned for its mini golf courses. There are many different themes and places to choose from. Our family enjoyed the challenge of navigating the amazing landscapes of Jurassic Golf. It was such a fun way to spend quality time together, with each hole bringing its own unique set of challenges. Our son always seems to hit a hole in one!

7. Boogie Boarding and Swimming:

Of course, a trip to the beach wouldn’t be complete without some water play. Boogie boarding offers endless thrills as you ride the waves. You can purchase an inexpensive boogie board at any of the nearby souvenir shops and if you can’t bring it with you, just leave it with another family when it comes time to leave. We have been gifted things like this in the past and it’s always a nice way to start or end a vacation.

8. Sand Castles and Seashell Hunts:

If you have kids anything like mine, then creativity will flourish as you spend lazy afternoons building sand castles and scouring the shoreline for seashells. Some people even found shark teeth! These simple yet memorable activities will highlight the essence of your beach vacation. Bring along some buckets and shovels (or plastic cups) for hours of fun!

9. Boardwalk Bliss: Shopping and Eating:

No trip to Ocean City is complete without a stroll along the iconic boardwalk. Lined with an array of shops offering beachwear, souvenirs, and unique treasures, it will provide the perfect opportunity for some retail therapy.

And when hunger strikes, the boardwalk’s diverse eateries satisfy every craving, from classic boardwalk fare to gourmet delights. Don’t forget to enjoy an ice cream!

Take Your Family Vacation in Ocean City!

Our family vacation to Ocean City, Maryland, proved to be a blend of sun-soaked relaxation and exhilarating adventures. From the thrill of amusement park rides to the tranquility of nature parks, Ocean City truly offered something for everyone. 

However, the key to a seamless vacation lies in careful accommodation selection. This will help ensure that your family’s retreat is as enjoyable as the destination itself. Don’t forget to read hotel reviews! 

So, pack your bags, hit the road, and let Ocean City be the backdrop to your family’s next unforgettable adventure.

Head over to our Instagram page for even more ideas on family adventures, travel tips and destination ideas.

If you are taking a road trip to Ocean City, consider stopping in Philadelphia on the way!