How OC Are You?

From the Pages of the Metropolitan

August 31, 2021

We want to know... how much have you seen? You might be a local that stays away from the resort town in the summer, giving tourists ample room to explore. Or maybe you frequent prime spots right along with them. Maybe you’ve explored a little bit in the off-season or for special events. Perhaps you’ve only been once or twice, or you come every year and don’t realize the laundry list of experiences you’re missing. 

We’ve gathered a list of memorable experiences and “must-dos” that scream “OCMD.” Use this list as a scorecard, or take it as a challenge. Give yourself one point for each listed place you have visited, restaurant where you have eaten or experience you’ve had. Total it up to see “How OC” you are. Perhaps you’ll see some things you still need to do.

How OC are you?

46 to 71 points

You're a Trophy-Winning White Marlin: You could be an OCMD spokesperson. You are all things OC all the time. You’ve seen it all, done it all, and then some.

23 to 45 points

You're a Fry-Snatching Seagull: You tend to hang out around the same places, just picking and choosing the highlights. You swoop in and dart out, missing out on some of the richness of your surroundings. 

0 to 22 points

You're a Boardwalk Hermit Crab: You’ve only had a "sheltered" experience of Ocean City. It’s time to “bust out” of your shell! Take this list as a challenge to experience OCMD for all that it has to offer year-round.

First, a little history. How did this little town become the resort hot spot it is now? 

Ocean City has been providing entertainment for locals and tourists since around 1900. What began as a sleepy fishing village in the 1500s lasted until 1875 when The Atlantic Hotel became a frequent destination for visitors. The original Ocean City Boardwalk was constructed in 1900 from old wooden boards. Soon after, Trimper’s Amusements was established. The inlet and shops came shortly thereafter.

With ten miles of beach, three miles of boardwalk and activities for every type of visitor, you’ll definitely have to keep coming back. If you’re a local, take a weekend to experience OC like a true tourist. If you’re a visitor, welcome back and we hope to see you again soon.

Experience Historical OC

Going back to the roots of anything is always eye-opening. Ocean City has a rich history, some of which still exists in its original state (or only slightly modified). 

Shantytown Village, West Ocean City by the Drawbridge: This quaint, “reminiscent of the olden days” village was developed in 1976 by Daniel Trimper IV, and was modeled after a photo he took of a New England fishing village during a trip to Nantucket Island. Stroll through to experience what living in the “old school” Ocean City would have been like.

Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum: The U.S. Navy had a thick presence in Ocean City and this now-museum was in active use until 1964. 

The Haunted House on the Boardwalk: An OC staple since the 1960s, all modifications have stayed true to the original feel and experience. As their motto goes, “Ride if you dare.”

Ferris Wheel on the Pier: Your trip isn’t complete if you haven’t taken a ride to see the sweeping views of the town, the beach, the Pier and the Inlet.

Ocean Gallery World Center: This building houses some of the most unique artwork. The whole structure is entirely made of art. There’s not one empty square inch… It’s a sight you have to see for yourself.

OC Photo Spots

Every tourist town has a list of “must-do” photo spots. Key West has the Mile Zero marker. New York City has the Statue of Liberty. Paris has the Eiffel Tower. OCMD has them too, and there’s many to choose from.

The North Jetty: Have you even “OC’d” if you haven’t walked the wet, rocky terrain of the jetty for that ultimate photo-op? (Do so with caution!)

The shark piercing through “Ripley’s Believe It or Not!” on the Boardwalk: It’s definitely not hard to find this one. Grab some friends, put a terrified look on your face, get the angle just right and … Photo-op! The result will be hilariously priceless.

The oversized anchor at the Life-Saving Station Museum: Anchors away, matey! Share this spot with some friends, there is plenty of room on this massive anchor.

The Pier: On the pier, under it, next to it. However you want to pier, it’s a must for a visit.

The Boardwalk Arch: Nothing says OCMD like the beautiful arch on Second Street.

Dock-n-Dine

Surrounded by water, there are plenty of restaurants accessible by boat. Grab your friends, weigh anchor and drift away to dinner.

Macky’s Bayside Bar & Grill on 53rd St.: You’ll find their laid-back atmosphere, tucked away overlooking the Assawoman Bay. Tie up the boat to nosh on bar bites and fresh catch-of-the-day.

Fish Tales on 22nd St. Bayside in Bahia Marina: Hang out where the locals hang. There’s even a play area for the kids while you watch the boats come in. They are famous for their fresh-caught fish tacos (so delectable!). Dock up and enjoy a casual dining experience with your whole family.

Harborside Bar & Grill: Experience the historical side of OC, then dock at Harborside for lunch, dinner or just a crush or two. Enjoy fresh ingredients, laid-back atmosphere and menu for both land and sea-faring friends.

Seacrets: An OC original for years, it really is a different world there. With an extensive menu, in-the-bay seating, night clubs and more, there’s certain to be something for everyone on your vessel. They say, “Find Us and Get Lost!”

Hooper’s Crab House / Sneaky Pete’s: The fun begins even before you cross the OC drawbridge. Drop anchor at Sneaky Pete’s for “boat-docked dining” — they promise an “experience to remember.” 

The OC Classics

These classic OC restaurants, the “legends” if you will, have been around town for ages and always provide a spot-on dining experience. Keep in mind these are only a few of the OC legends. 

The Dough Roller: For more than 39 years, they’ve served OC. There’s a reason people come back — it’s the choices. More than a dozen pancake options, French toast or creamed chipped beef are available. Select from numerous pizza combinations, all made with homemade sauces and premium ingredients.

Layton’s Family Restaurant: Since 1959, they’ve been a dominant entity in OC as a family-operated line of service businesses. We’re so thankful Mr. Layton decided one day in 1968 to open a donut shop. Look where it’s taken them today. (This is a hot spot for all the locals.)

Happy Jack Pancake House: It all started over 50 years ago with a simple goal — good food and fast, friendly service. They have more than 14 kinds of pancakes, among many other options.

Dumser’s Dairyland: From the first batch in 1939 to the plethora of flavors in the case today, they pride themselves on super fresh ingredients. Are you a “Basic Betty” when it comes to ice cream? Or are you a “Wild Wendy?”

Phillips Crab House: What started as a simple “crab shack” in 1956 as an outlet for surplus catch, became a prime, powerhouse Ocean City eatery. Make sure you pick your crab the “right way” — the Eastern Shore way.

Sunset Grille: For the perfect OC date night on the town, float into Sunset Grille for creative cuisines and a luxurious atmosphere.

Game break ... 

Are you keeping track of your points? 

Water Works

Check out some of the things to do around OCMD on the water, in the water and without water. 

• Go to the beach!
• Go seashell hunting
• Dig for sand crabs
• Build a sand castle 
• Go off-shore fishing on a charter boat
• Go crabbing or clamming
• Learn to parasail
• Try jet skiing on the Bay
• Take a ride on the OC Rocket
• Take surf or paddle board lessons

Land Excursions

Ice skating at the Carousel: OC isn’t just for the water-bound activities. The Carousel Hotel on 117th St. has an ice skating rink! Check out their summer ice show, cool down inside with an afternoon skate, or come back in the winter to take a spin on the ice.

Mini golf: No matter your age, a good, competitive game of mini golf with some fun friends is sure to bring laughs.

It’s the final stretch to rack up your points. 

Have you had the opportunity to enjoy any of these OC experiences?

• Found seaglass on the beach
• Seen a beach sand sculpture by the talented Randy Hoffman 
• Observed a Boardwalk performer
• Viewed the OC Drone Show
• Discovered a horseshoe crab shell
• Attended to the OC Air Show
• Fed a seagull (You know they love French fries!)
• Had Scopes! take your photo on the beach
• Attended a weigh-in of the White Marlin Tournament (Give yourself a bonus point if you’ve fished the tournament!)
• Visited nearby Frontier Town
• Had a street-front view at Cruise In weekend
• Ridden the Boardwalk train
• Driven through Winterfest of Lights at Christmastime
• Ridden a ride at Trimper’s Amusements
• Seen a beachside movie
• Posed for pics at Flashback Old Time Photo on the Boardwalk
• Attended Sundaes in the Park (complete with ice cream, music, activities and entertainment — great for the kiddos)
• Rented a bike cart on the Boardwalk
• Attended Summer Fest
• Watched fireworks over the Atlantic Ocean
• Checked out Spring Fest
• Boarded a plane departing from the OC Airport
• Spent the day at Jolly Roger Amusement Park
• Powered through an OC ghost walk
• Spent over $50 in the Boardwalk Arcade (to get a $5 prize)
• Been in Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
• Played a game on the Pier
• Played mini golf
• Fished off the Pier or the Jetty
• Picked steamy Maryland blue crabs at a local crab house
• Ventured on the OC Foodie Tour
• Eaten your way through OC Restaurant Week

Alright, game over.

Did you tally all your points? How many White Marlins, Seagulls and Hermit Crabs do we have? Whichever explorer you are, there’s much fun to experience in Ocean City. Go visit soon!