Discover Top Things to Do in Ocean City, NJ for Families

Ocean City, NJ:  America’s Greatest Family Resort—
Where beach memories begin

Ocean City, NJ is a beloved Jersey Shore getaway proudly known as “America’s Greatest Family Resort.” This charming dry town features a spotless beach and a vibrant boardwalk packed with amusement rides and family fun.

A model city for wholesome family fun, this resort fervently upholds its deep-rooted Christian heritage, underlining the absence of bars and nightclubs. It further emphasizes its family-friendly atmosphere, by authoritatively managing boardwalk attractions to ensure safety and wholesome fun.

Positioned 65 miles from Philadelphia and 125 miles from New York City, Ocean City is an attractive vacation spot for families in the tri-state area seeking affordable, wholesome fun.

Loaded with a myriad of reasonably priced, family-friendly attractions, the city offers an array of comfortable, budget-friendly accommodations.

Not forgetting the festivals, whose unique blend of culture and family fun inevitably draw in fascinated tourists and locals alike.

Even in quieter times, Ocean City never loses its charm, maintaining a vibrant atmosphere that captivates both first-time visitors and regulars.

Guide to Ocean City NJ’s Best Summer Activities

• Morning Bike Rides: Start your day like a local! Rent a surrey or a classic cruiser and enjoy a ride on the boardwalk. Bicycles are permitted until noon during the summer season, offering a less crowded way to see the sights before the afternoon crowds arrive.
• Beach Day Fun: Spend the afternoon boogie boarding in the waves or building sandcastles. Beach tags are required for ages 12 and up and can be purchased for daily, weekly, or seasonal access. Numerous surf shops along the boardwalk and downtown offer board rentals and lessons.
• Mini-Golf Championship: A family vacation isn't complete without a friendly game of mini-golf. Ocean City boasts a variety of whimsical and challenging courses, many located right on the boardwalk. It’s an affordable activity for all ages and a perfect way to spend an evening.
• Weekly Family Nights: Entertainment including jugglers, music, characters and more on the boardwalk !

Exploring the Ocean City Boardwalk

The 2.5-mile Ocean City Boardwalk is the vibrant heart of the town and a treasure trove of family fun.
A key tip for families is to take advantage of the morning bike hours (until 12 PM in-season) for a breezy and less crowded tour.
As the day progresses, the boardwalk transforms into a pedestrian paradise, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Navigating with a stroller is generally easy, but it gets crowded in the evenings.
Key Ocean City NJ attractions line the planks, from the classic rides at Gillian's Wonderland Pier to the thrilling water slides at OC Waterpark.
Be sure to stop for a famous tub of Johnson's Popcorn and watch the taffy-pulling machines in the window at Shriver's.
On a rainy day, the arcades offer hours of entertainment. End your perfect boardwalk day by catching a concert or simply enjoying the sunset from the iconic Music Pier, a central landmark that juts out over the ocean.

Ocean City Calendar of Annual Events

• Spring Block Party (Early May): Kick off the summer season with this massive festival that closes down Asbury Avenue for a day of live music, delicious food, and hundreds of craft vendors. It's a must-do event to experience local culture before the peak season begins.
• Night in Venice (Late July): Ocean City's premier summer event, this spectacular boat parade lights up the bay with fantastically decorated vessels and bayfront homes. Thousands gather to watch the show, making it a highlight of the year. Plan ahead for a good viewing spot!
• Fall Block Party & Corvette Show (Early October): As the summer crowds thin, this autumn festival offers another chance to enjoy a downtown block party. It often coincides with a classic car show, filling the boardwalk with hundreds of pristine Corvettes for a stunning display.
• First Night & First Day (December 31st - January 1st): Ring in the New Year with Ocean City's family-friendly, alcohol-free celebration. First Night features dozens of performers at various venues across town, culminating in a fireworks display. The fun continues with the First Day 5k and the chilly First Plunge into the Atlantic Ocean on New Year's Day.

Spend a Day in Downtown Ocean City, NJ

For a charming break from the beach, dedicate a day to exploring downtown Ocean City along Asbury Avenue. This walkable shopping district is filled with over 100 unique, family-oriented boutiques, surf shops, and art galleries.
Start your morning with a coffee and pastry from a local cafe before browsing the stores for souvenirs, beachwear, and home decor.
In the afternoon, explore the Ocean City Arts Center or catch a movie at the historic Moorlyn Theatre.
As evening approaches, treat the family to a cone from a beloved ice cream parlor.
Metered street parking is available, but the lots are often a better choice. In summer, consider using the Jitney trolley service to easily move between downtown and the boardwalk, making it a stress-free part of your Ocean City NJ travel itinerary.

Enjoy the Natural Beauty Around Ocean City

Beyond the bustling boardwalk and sandy shores, Ocean City offers serene natural escapes perfect for families seeking tranquility.
A prime example is Corson’s Inlet State Park, located at the southern end of the island. This beautiful, undeveloped area features pristine beaches, rolling dunes, and vital marshlands, making it a haven for anglers, hikers, and nature lovers. It’s one of the best bird-watching spots on the Jersey Shore, especially during the spring and fall migrations.
For spectacular sunset views, head to the bayside; the 5th Street marina or the Bayside Center offer picturesque vantage points.
These natural attractions provide a peaceful contrast to the high-energy boardwalk, offering a chance to reconnect with nature.
Most locations have free or metered parking, but it can be limited during peak times. The golden hours of early morning or late afternoon are best for photography and wildlife spotting.

3-day itinerary for a family-friendly adventure —
perfect for kids and grown-ups alike

Day 1: Boardwalk Bonanza
Morning: Start with breakfast at Brown's Restaurant — their famous donuts are a must!
Midday: Head to Playland's Castaway Cove for classic amusement rides and mini-golf fun.
Afternoon: Cool off with retro games at Jilly’s Arcade— from pinball to air hockey, it’s a blast from the past.
Evening: Enjoy dinner with ocean views at Clancy's by the Sea — casual, kid-friendly, and right on the boardwalk.
Day 2: Splash & Explore
Morning: Grab a hearty breakfast at Jon & Patty's Coffee Bar & Bistro — their creative menu has something for everyone.
Midday: Dive into the Totally Tubular Aqua Park — a floating playground on the bay for ages 6 and up.
Afternoon: Visit Encounters Ocean City for a quirky alien-themed mirror maze and interactive fun.
Evening: Stroll the boardwalk for treats like saltwater taffy and popcorn, then catch a sunset from the Music Pier.
Day 3: Chill & Chow Down
Morning: Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at Jon & Patty’s again or try Augie's Omelette & Waffle.
Midday: Hit the beach for sandcastle building and boogie boarding.
Afternoon: Take a break with a family bike ride or surrey rental along the boardwalk.
Evening: Wrap up with a cozy Italian dinner at Mario's Italian Restaurant — perfect for a post-beach feast.

Things To Do and Attractions in Ocean City, NJ

Ocean City, NJ: A Charming Mix of Places to Stay

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