Plan an Off-Season Getaway to Ocean City, Maryland
Last autumn, I learned that Ocean City, Maryland, is a delightful beach destination off-season, even when it’s too cold to swim. I won’t pretend that Thrasher’s on the boardwalk didn’t have a line — it did — but that line was quite short compared to the typical queue for fresh-cut fries during the summer season. Traffic flowed smoothly to and from Ocean City, and we had no issues finding places to eat or fun things to do.
Why not plan your own off-season OC getaway? Here are some ideas to help you get started.
Fun for All
Of course, OC’s main attractions are its beach and boardwalk. Head to the beach to build sandcastles, fly kites, or simply stroll along the sand. During the off-season, you can bicycle on the boardwalk at any time of day except during Sunfest and Springfest.
The Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum is a must-see. Open on weekends during the winter (November through April), this museum tells the story of the U.S. Life-Saving Service, which was created in 1878. Children will enjoy the aquarium room, the display of sands from around the world, and the museum’s whimsical collection of boardwalk memorabilia.
No trip to Ocean City is complete without a taste of the boardwalk’s iconic treats. If you are looking for a sweet snack after visiting Thrasher’s, Fisher’s Popcorn, Dolle’s Candyland, and Dumser’s Dairyland each have two or three locations open during the off-season. Check each store’s website for addresses and hours.
Families/Multigenerational Groups
Regardless of when you visit, Ocean City is famously family friendly. During the winter months, your family will have plenty of room to walk, jog, bike, or rollerblade on the boardwalk. If you’re looking for indoor fun, consider visiting Old Pro Golf’s two mini golf courses, the indoor Underseas Adventure at 68th Street and the indoor Safari Village location at 136th Street.
The Carousel Oceanfront Hotel & Condos has an indoor ice rink. When it’s not being used for hockey conventions, the hotel opens the rink for public skating on off-season weekends. Be sure to call ahead to find out if the rink is open.
If your ankles are too wobbly for ice skating, mini bowling might be a good option. Alley Oops’ two restaurant/mini bowling locations are open during the winter months. Kids will also enjoy Alley Oops’ arcade games, shark tank, and claw machines.
Ocean City for Couples
Who doesn’t love a romantic weekend at the beach? Take advantage of off-season hotel prices and plan a vacation just for the two of you.
Kick off your getaway with a walk on the beach, perhaps at sunset, when the clouds over the ocean turn a peachy pink. After the sun sets, have dinner at a restaurant with a beautiful view — you’ll have plenty of eateries to choose from in Ocean City.
Active couples can rent bicycles on off-season weekends at Bike World if the weather is nice (call ahead). Some Ocean City hotels lend or rent bikes to their guests. Pickleball is another active option for couples; Gorman Park and the Ocean City Racquet Center have pickleball courts that are open to the public (fees apply). Bring your own net and equipment.
Girls Trips
Whether you’re planning a bachelorette weekend or a BFFs getaway, Ocean City is an excellent off-season destination. Enjoy walking or biking together or sign up for a class at one of Ocean City’s yoga studios. Looking for something yoga-adjacent? Yogavibez Studios puts on yoga-themed special events throughout the year, such as stand up paddle boarding “flowga” classes and a yoga experience in a Delaware vineyard.
Not feeling sporty? Shop ’til you drop at Outlets Ocean City. This shopping center is home to many name-brand outlets, from Adidas and Crocs to Michael Kors and Under Armour. This outlet mall is located in West Ocean City, an easy drive from downtown or midtown.
Ocean City for Retirees
Ocean City’s slower off-season pace gives you the chance to experience OC at your own speed. Visit the boardwalk and relax on one of the benches — you can people-watch or enjoy the beach view.
If you’re a music lover, take a trip back in time during an Ocean City tribute concert weekend. The Ocean City Performing Arts Center regularly books tribute artists who perform the music of artists such as Queen, Neil Diamond, and John Denver. The Performing Arts Center also presents musicals, comedy acts, and family-themed performances.
Art lovers will enjoy viewing the exhibits at the Art League of Ocean City’s Center for the Arts. Free gallery tours are offered on Sundays at 1:00 p.m. You can also sign up for art classes (advance registration is recommended). The Center for the Arts presents classes in a wide variety of media, including ceramics, watercolor, mixed media, and silversmithing. Most classes accept beginners.
Tips If You Go to Ocean City Off-Season
Many Ocean City hotels, restaurants, and indoor attractions remain open at least part-time during the winter months. Some have limited or weekend-only hours. Restaurants tend to close early. Be sure to check websites or call ahead before creating your trip plan.
Winter is convention and indoor sports tournament season in Ocean City. Check with your hotel to find out whether a convention or tournament is taking place during your visit.
Be prepared for winter weather. Pack rain gear. Consider buying travel insurance in case a nor’easter pops up and you need to cancel your travel plans.
