Ocean City, New Jersey, is a charming coastal town with a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and family-friendly attractions. Known for its pristine beaches and iconic boardwalk, this seaside gem has much more to offer than meets the eye. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, here are twelve fun facts that highlight what makes Ocean City so special.

1. A Family-Friendly Paradise

One of the defining features of Ocean City is its commitment to being a family-friendly destination. Unlike many other beach towns, Ocean City is a dry town, meaning that the sale of alcohol is prohibited within its limits. This unique characteristic helps maintain a wholesome and welcoming environment, where families can enjoy their time without concerns about nightlife distractions.

A Community Effort: The dry town status isn't just a legal restriction; it's a reflection of the community's values. Many residents and business owners actively support this policy to maintain the town’s family-friendly atmosphere. As a result, Ocean City attracts families looking for a safe and serene environment to spend their vacations.

Family Activities: In line with its family-friendly ethos, Ocean City offers a plethora of activities geared towards all ages. From miniature golf courses and go-kart tracks to family-oriented events like movie nights on the beach and fireworks displays, there’s always something fun for families to do together.

Happy woman and kids relaxing on a deck chair by the sea

2. The Iconic Boardwalk

Stretching approximately 2.5 miles along the beachfront, the Ocean City Boardwalk is one of the town’s most iconic attractions. This vibrant promenade is not just a place to take a leisurely stroll; it’s a bustling hub of activity.

A Hub of Entertainment: The boardwalk is home to amusement parks like Gillian’s Wonderland Pier and Playland’s Castaway Cove, where visitors can enjoy classic rides, roller coasters, and arcade games. There's also the Ocean City Music Pier, which hosts concerts, theater productions, and other live events, adding to the boardwalk's lively atmosphere.

Shopping and Dining: The boardwalk features a variety of shops selling everything from beachwear and souvenirs to unique local crafts. Food lovers will enjoy the diverse dining options, including iconic boardwalk fare like funnel cakes, soft pretzels, and fresh seafood. Don’t miss the chance to try local favorites such as Johnson’s Popcorn and Kohr Brothers Frozen Custard.

Scenic Beauty: Aside from the attractions, the boardwalk offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, making it a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll or a scenic bike ride. Sunrises and sunsets viewed from the boardwalk are particularly breathtaking, providing ample opportunities for memorable photos.

3. Historic Carousel Rides

Among the many attractions on the boardwalk is the Gillian’s Wonderland Pier carousel, a cherished piece of Ocean City’s history. Installed in 1929, this wooden carousel is one of the oldest in the country and continues to captivate visitors with its vintage charm.

Preserving History: The carousel features intricately carved horses and other animals, each painted with vibrant colors and meticulous detail. The music from the carousel's vintage organ adds to the nostalgic experience, making it a beloved attraction for both children and adults.

A Nostalgic Experience: Riding the carousel offers a sense of stepping back in time. It’s a reminder of simpler days when such attractions were the centerpiece of family outings. Many visitors have fond memories of riding the carousel as children and now bring their own kids to share the experience.

4. A Legacy of Safety

The Ocean City Beach Patrol has been a cornerstone of the community since 1898. This dedicated group of professionals ensures the safety and well-being of beachgoers, maintaining a vigilant presence on the town’s shores.

Highly Trained Lifeguards: The Beach Patrol is known for its rigorous training programs, which include regular drills and emergency response training. Lifeguards are well-prepared to handle a variety of situations, from minor first aid to major rescues.

Community Engagement: The Beach Patrol also plays an active role in community education, offering programs on beach safety and water awareness. Their efforts include organizing junior lifeguard programs for young beachgoers, fostering a sense of responsibility and safety awareness in the next generation.

Recognition and Awards: The Ocean City Beach Patrol’s commitment to excellence has earned them numerous accolades over the years. Their dedication ensures that Ocean City remains one of the safest beach destinations on the Jersey Shore, providing peace of mind for visitors and residents alike.

5. The World’s Greatest Family Resort

Ocean City is proud of its title as the “World’s Greatest Family Resort,” a designation that reflects the town’s dedication to providing a range of family-oriented activities and attractions.

Clean and Inviting Beaches: Ocean City's beaches are consistently rated among the best on the East Coast, known for their cleanliness and accessibility. The town’s beach tag program helps fund maintenance and safety initiatives, ensuring a pleasant experience for all visitors.

Family-Friendly Entertainment: Beyond the beaches, Ocean City offers a variety of entertainment options, including the Ocean City Theatre Company’s family-friendly productions, the Ocean City Pops Orchestra, and special events like family movie nights and children’s shows.

Inclusive Atmosphere: The town’s inclusive atmosphere is evident in its accessibility features, such as beach wheelchairs and ramps, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the beauty and fun of Ocean City’s beaches and boardwalk.

Boy and girl during Cloudy day at Atlantic city beach

6. Year-Round Events

Ocean City’s event calendar is brimming with activities throughout the year, ensuring that there’s always something happening in town.

Summer Highlights: The summer season is packed with events like the Ocean City Baby Parade, one of the oldest baby parades in the country, and the Night in Venice boat parade, where beautifully decorated boats and bayfront homes light up the night.

Off-Season Fun: Even in the off-season, Ocean City offers plenty of activities. Fall brings the annual Fall Block Party and Fireworks Spectacular, while winter features events like the Christmas Parade and First Night, a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration with entertainment and activities for all ages.

Cultural Festivals: Ocean City also hosts a variety of cultural events, including the Indian Summer Weekend with its seafood festival and the Spring and Fall Classic Car Shows, attracting car enthusiasts from all over.

Fireworks light up the sky over the beach in Scheveningen, Holland with spinning Ferris Wheel at the pier

7. A Birdwatcher’s Dream

For those who enjoy birdwatching, Ocean City offers a prime location for observing a diverse array of shorebirds and other coastal wildlife.

Prime Viewing Spots: Key locations for birdwatching include the Ocean City Welcome Center, Corson's Inlet State Park, and the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. These areas provide habitats for a variety of bird species, from ospreys and herons to migratory shorebirds.

Birding Events: Ocean City hosts events like the annual Welcome Birders Weekend, where enthusiasts can participate in guided birding walks, educational programs, and special exhibits. These events highlight the importance of bird conservation and the natural beauty of the area.

8. Rich Historical Heritage

The Ocean City Historical Museum is a treasure trove of local history, offering visitors a chance to delve into the town’s past.

Exhibits and Artifacts: The museum’s exhibits include a wide range of artifacts, from antique beachwear and vintage photographs to historical documents and memorabilia. Special exhibits often focus on different aspects of the town’s history, such as its development as a resort destination and its maritime heritage.

Educational Programs: The museum also offers educational programs and events, including lectures, guided tours, and workshops. These programs provide deeper insights into Ocean City’s history and culture, making history come alive for visitors of all ages.

9. Fishing Adventures

Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty to love about Ocean City, thanks to its prime location along the Atlantic Ocean.

Diverse Fishing Opportunities: Ocean City offers a variety of fishing experiences, from surf fishing along the beaches to charter boat trips for deep-sea fishing. Anglers can target species like striped bass, bluefish, flounder, and more.

Fishing Tournaments: The town hosts several fishing tournaments throughout the year, including the annual Ocean City Fishing Club’s Surf Fishing Tournament and the Night in Venice Fishing Tournament. These events attract anglers from near and far, providing exciting competition and camaraderie.

Supportive Community: Local bait and tackle shops, along with charter services, offer everything anglers need for a successful trip, from equipment rentals to expert advice. The supportive fishing community in Ocean City makes it a welcoming destination for both novice and experienced anglers.

10. Green Initiatives

Ocean City is committed to environmental stewardship and sustainability.

Beach Cleanups: The town regularly organizes beach cleanups, encouraging residents and visitors to participate in keeping the beaches clean and free of litter. These efforts help protect marine life and ensure a pristine environment for everyone to enjoy.

Recycling Programs: Ocean City has implemented comprehensive recycling programs, making it easy for residents and visitors to recycle materials like plastics, glass, and paper. The town also promotes waste reduction initiatives, such as encouraging the use of reusable bags and containers.

Conservation Projects: In collaboration with local environmental organizations, Ocean City supports various conservation projects aimed at preserving the local ecosystem. These projects include dune restoration, wildlife habitat protection, and educational programs on environmental awareness.

11. Sweet Traditions

A visit to Ocean City wouldn’t be complete without indulging in its famous salt water taffy.

Local Treats: Several local shops, like Shriver’s and Fralinger’s, have been making salt water taffy for over a century. These family-owned businesses offer a wide variety of flavors, from traditional favorites like vanilla and chocolate to unique options like peanut butter and watermelon.

Taffy-Making Demonstrations: Some shops offer taffy-making demonstrations, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at how this beloved treat is made. Watching the process of stretching and cutting the taffy is a fun and educational experience for all ages.

A Taste of Nostalgia: Salt water taffy is more than just a sweet treat; it’s a taste of Ocean City’s history and tradition. Many visitors have fond memories of enjoying taffy during their childhood trips to the shore, making it a nostalgic part of their Ocean City experience.

Gingerbread on traditional festival or Beer Fest

12. Well-Maintained Beaches

Ocean City takes great pride in its beautiful, well-maintained beaches.

Beach Maintenance: The town’s Public Works Department works tirelessly to ensure that the beaches are clean and safe for visitors. This includes regular grooming of the sand, trash removal, and maintenance of beach facilities like restrooms and showers.

Accessibility: Ocean City is dedicated to making its beaches accessible to everyone. The town provides beach wheelchairs and has installed ramps and walkways to make it easier for people with mobility challenges to enjoy the beach.

Beach Tags: Ocean City’s beach tag program helps fund the maintenance and preservation of the beaches. Visitors purchase beach tags to access the beaches during the summer season, and the revenue generated goes directly into keeping the beaches in top condition.

Whether you're drawn to its family-friendly atmosphere, rich history, or natural beauty, Ocean City, New Jersey, has something special to offer everyone. From its iconic boardwalk to its well-maintained beaches, this charming coastal town is a place where unforgettable memories are made. Whether you're spending your days soaking up the sun, exploring historical sites, or enjoying delicious treats, Ocean City promises a delightful experience that will leave you coming back for more.

Conclusion

Ocean City, New Jersey, offers a unique and captivating blend of family-friendly charm, historical richness, and natural beauty. From its iconic boardwalk and historic carousel to its pristine beaches and vibrant events, there is something for everyone in this delightful seaside town.

If you’re considering a stay in Ocean City, our modern condo provides the perfect vacation retreat. Located just a few steps from the boardwalk and the beach, our condo’s central location allows for easy walking access to a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions. At the same time, it offers the privacy and comfort you desire in a vacation home. Whether you’re planning a fun-filled family getaway or a relaxing escape, Ocean City and our condo offer an ideal setting for an unforgettable experience. Embrace the charm and beauty of Ocean City, and make your next vacation truly special.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. How Old is Ocean City?

Ocean City was officially founded on May 19, 1879. The town was established by a group of Methodists as a family-oriented resort community. Its development as a popular seaside destination began in the late 19th century, and it has since grown into one of New Jersey's most beloved beach towns.

2. What is Ocean City Named After?

Ocean City is named after the Atlantic Ocean, which borders the town. The name reflects the town’s primary attraction—the expansive and beautiful oceanfront that draws visitors to its shores. The name emphasizes the town’s connection to the sea and its role as a seaside resort.

3. Can you drink alcohol in Ocean City?

No, you cannot drink alcohol in Ocean City, New Jersey, as it is a dry town. This means that the sale and public consumption of alcohol are prohibited within the town limits. This regulation is in place to maintain a family-friendly and wholesome environment for residents and visitors. If you're planning to visit, you can enjoy the town’s attractions, boardwalk, and beautiful beaches without the presence of alcohol in public spaces.

12 Fun Facts about Ocean City, New Jersey