We know it. We love it. It's Ocean City, Maryland! Chances are, you've got memories of this iconic beach town from your childhood. But we've got a few fun facts about it that you may not have realized! Read on to learn more.
1. 8 million people visit this destination annually
In fact, during the height of the summer season, Ocean City becomes the second-most populated city in the state! Locals and tourists alike swarm the town -- the sun, sand, food and fun are just too tempting for people far and wide.
2. The inlet has only been around since 1933
Before that, Ocean City and Assateague Island were connected. Instead of trying to undo the damage, however, officials decided that this new formation would allow for easier access to the ocean for fishermen, and the inlet stayed.
3. Ocean City was originally known as 'The Ladies' Resort to the Ocean'
Taking a girl's trip to Ocean City is nothing new. Before it was even called Ocean City, it was known as a place where women could relax by the water.
4. Assateague Island is in both Maryland and Virginia
Most of the island is considered part of Maryland, but a third of it belongs to neighboring Virginia. A fence keeps the Maryland and Virginia ponies separate -- the Virginia ponies are the ones who make the famous swim each year.
5. The boardwalk is home to a number of iconic treats
No matter what you're craving, sweet or savory, the Boardwalk has you covered! Enjoy a sugary funnel cake, take home some classic salt water taffy,and cool off with a Dumser's ice cream cone. Prefer to skip the sweets? Chow down on a soft shell crab sandwich or some hot Thrasher's fries instead!
6. Ocean City is moving westward
The water and wind that shape Ocean City are also moving it, slowly but surely, to the west. If you took a time machine hundreds of years into the future, you might find that OC has scooted all the way back up against the mainland of Maryland! Luckily, that change won't happen anytime soon.
7. The Trimpers carousel is the one of the oldest in the USA
Have you ever taken a ride on the Trimpers carousel on the Boardwalk? If so, you've ridden on a piece of history! The gorgeous hand-carved creatures are part of a collection that began its life in OC in 1912. Which of the animals is your favorite?
8. You might spot a spirit on a ghost tour
Ocean City has a long history, and that means there may be a few ghosts hanging out in this beach town! You can learn all about the strange and spooky happenings in your favorite vacation spot when you go on a local ghost tour.
9. Even on rainy days, there's plenty to do
Did one of your beach days get rained out? Never fear -- there's so much fun to be had even when the weather won't cooperate. Play games in the Boardwalk's arcades, compete at indoor mini-golf, solve an escape room's puzzle, be weirded out at Ripley's Believe it or Not, enjoy a tasty meal, or skate at an indoor ice rink, just to name a few!
10. You can learn all about lifesaving in OC
Lifeguards are a huge part of what make Ocean City special-- they're the ones who keep us safe while we have fun, after all. You can learn all about the history of water rescues and lifesaving at Ocean City's Life-Saving Station Museum,located right at the inlet.
11. 10,000 hotel rooms await visitors....
Looking for a place to stay this summer? You've got plenty of choices! This resort town has hotel and motel rooms of all kinds, so budget and luxury vacations alike can be had. What's your favorite Ocean City hotel?
12....and so do over 200 restaurants
What's your favorite Ocean City restaurant? Whether you love steamed crabs or sushi, fine dining or fried fish, Ocean City has you covered. And don't forget about dessert -- with a Candy Kitchen on practically every block, you'll have plenty of sweets to share.
