Ocean City Boardwalk | Ocean City

The Ocean City Boardwalk is one of the most iconic seaside attractions on the East Coast of the United States. Stretching for just over 3 miles along the Atlantic Ocean in Ocean City, Maryland, this bustling wooden promenade blends beachside recreation, nostalgic Americana, modern amusements, and local flavor into a vibrant, year-round destination.

Historical Background

The boardwalk’s origins trace back to 1902, when a simple wooden walkway was constructed by hotel owners so guests could enjoy the ocean without tracking sand into their accommodations. It was seasonal and removable at first, but by the 1920s, Ocean City had committed to building a more permanent promenade.

Throughout the 20th century, the boardwalk grew alongside the town's transformation from a sleepy fishing village into a major vacation hub. Rebuilt multiple times due to storms-most notably after Hurricane Gloria in 1985-it is now a wide, resilient structure built from a combination of durable wood planks and reinforced concrete base sections, designed to endure coastal weather.

Layout and Features

The boardwalk begins at the Inlet at South First Street-home to panoramic views of Assateague Island and the Ocean City Inlet-and continues north to 27th Street. Along its length, it offers a rich variety of attractions:

Amusements & Rides

Trimper’s Rides and Amusements (at the southern end) has been entertaining families since 1893 with classic carousel rides, spinning teacups, and newer thrill rides.

Jolly Roger at the Pier features a Ferris wheel, roller coasters, bumper cars, and carnival-style games.

Many arcades line the boardwalk with both modern video games and retro-style pinball machines.

Shops & Boutiques

From souvenir stores and surf shops to jewelry stands and apparel outlets, the boardwalk has countless locally owned businesses offering gifts, home décor, beachwear, and more. Small kiosks and open-air vendors offer artisan crafts and tourist keepsakes.

Food & Dining

The culinary atmosphere is unmistakably coastal and nostalgic:

Thrasher’s French Fries – A legendary stand known for vinegar-drenched, crispy boardwalk fries.

Fisher’s Popcorn – Hand-stirred caramel popcorn in signature tubs, a staple since 1937.

Dolle’s Candyland – Fudge, taffy, and old-fashioned sweets.

Numerous pizza joints, ice cream parlors, funnel cake stands, crab shacks, and bars line the way, offering both casual eats and sit-down meals.

Cultural & Seasonal Events

The boardwalk is not only a physical attraction but also a central venue for public events, including:

OC Air Show (early summer): U.S. military jet teams and stunt pilots perform over the beach.

Sunfest and Springfest (fall and spring): Artisans, food tents, and live music bring a festival atmosphere.

OC BikeFest: Draws motorcycle enthusiasts for a multi-day celebration each September.

Beach fireworks and movie nights occur frequently in the summer season.

Street performers, magicians, musicians, and sand sculptors contribute to the energetic, often spontaneous atmosphere during warm months.

Recreation & Accessibility

Biking: Bicycles are allowed on the boardwalk from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. daily (hours may vary by season).

Tram Service: The Ocean City Boardwalk Tram runs seasonally along the length of the promenade, offering a relaxing alternative for exploring.

Benches & Pavilions: Plentiful resting spots with views of the ocean, as well as shaded pavilions and gazebos.

Lifeguard Stations: Located along the adjacent beach every block during the summer season.

The boardwalk is fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, with frequent ramps to and from the beach, and many businesses accommodate ADA standards.

Atmosphere & Experience

The Ocean City Boardwalk offers a blend of old-fashioned charm and modern energy. It’s a place where families push strollers past arcades, couples ride tandem bikes at sunrise, and teenagers queue for roller coasters after sunset. The boardwalk comes alive especially in the summer evenings, lit by vintage-style streetlamps, glowing ride lights, and neon storefronts. The smell of salt air, popcorn, and funnel cake fills the air, and the Atlantic’s waves crash just beyond the wooden railings.

Despite its growth, the boardwalk has preserved a nostalgic identity. Generations of families return year after year, creating a sense of tradition and continuity woven into the very boards beneath their feet.

Conclusion

The Ocean City Boardwalk is more than a path by the sea-it’s a living piece of Maryland’s coastal history and culture, filled with joy, movement, and sensory richness. Its combination of amusements, local treats, history, and seaside beauty make it a must-visit attraction not just in Ocean City, but along the entire East Coast. Whether you’re seeking thrills, a sunset stroll, or a bite of caramel popcorn, the boardwalk captures the essence of a classic American beach town.