Explore the Ocean City Boardwalk

At this popular Maryland destination, crowds pack amusements and classic eateries while others find serenity in flying a kite or parasailing along the shore. Kids of all ages come for the fun that doesn't end when the sun says goodnight.

Tasty Treats

After one whiff of the boardwalk's delicacies, you'll be as happy as a clam in the neighboring Atlantic. Few leave without their recommended daily allowance of Thrasher's French Fries, Fisher's Popcorn or Kohr's frozen custard. There are still lots to tempt the tummy even if your boardwalk food groups don't consist of fried and frosty. Just try to resist the aroma of the barbecue pit around the corner from Thrasher's at Boog's BBQ, or pick your choice of fillings such as spinach and feta or chicken fajitas stuffed inside pretzel dough at The Wrapper.

Shopping Beyond Souvenirs

You're not leaving town without some tchotchkes that prove you were on the boardwalk. And while there's no shortage of your standard souvenirs—t-shirts, postcards, key chains, you name it—there are also touches of the artsy and unusual in the boardwalk stores, like the hippie-vibe trinkets and tapestries at Dreamweaver. Mixed in with the jewelry shops and candy stores you'll find art galleries and bookstores. And you likely didn't know so many types of flying banners existed until you stop in at the Kite Loft, where you can get everything from simple cartoon-character kites to advanced stunt models to take to the sand and try out in the ocean breeze.

Get Moving

If you vowed not to consume a vinegar-laced, overflowing cup of Thrasher's fries without working off the calories, you're covered! You can burn off some calories and prepare for your next meal by renting a bicycle—a traditional two-wheeler or a family-friendly pedicab-style bike. But keep in mind there are only certain hours you're allowed to bike on the boardwalk during the peak summer season. Skateboarders can scoot along the boardwalk in the wee hours of the morning—2 a.m. through 11 a.m.—during summer, when the walkway is clear and the tide provides the soundtrack. And if you're traveling to Ocean City with your dog, book your trip between October 1 and April 30 so your pup can stroll with you on the boardwalk without running afoul of local ordinances.

It's Playtime

In the boardwalk's three-mile stretch, you'll stroll through a time machine with amusements that both tap into your inner kid and embrace the fact that you're over 21. Whether you're a pinball wizard or a skee-ball expert, you can hit not only the classic video and carnival games in multiple arcades, but also cash in your winnings for a stuffed animal or two. Pop into a photo booth to get a strip of pictures that date back to the pre-selfie era. Take a spin on the Ferris wheel, collide in bumper cars or take a screaming ride on the rollercoaster. After the sun goes down, relax with the raw bar and cocktails at Harrison's Harbor Watch or get wild with live bands and cold beer at the Purple Moose Saloon.

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