Day Trip to Ocean City, New Jersey

Perhaps no other seaside town in the Garden State best illustrates the appeal of a happily wholesome, family-friendly destination than Ocean City, New Jersey. Officially known as America’s Greatest Family Resort, Ocean City lies ten miles south of Atlantic City; an easy ride down the Garden State Parkway for a fun day trip, a relaxing weekend, or a vacation that can span a week or an entire summer. Ocean City beckons visitors of all ages, offering something for everyone to enjoy, not just during the summer months but at other times of year, as well. 

During the summer season, the usual year-round population of around 15,400 swells to more than 150,000 people who flock there to take in the thriving downtown shopping district, picturesque neighborhoods, 100+ eating establishments, eight miles of beautiful beach, and a lovely bay front area. The more peaceful off-season, November through March, offers seasonal sales, special holiday events, and a slower pace that locals and savvy visitors alike are sure to savor.

New out-of-towners who may be more familiar with the party image of some Jersey Shore communities may be astounded when they realize that the enormously popular Ocean City is also a dry town – meaning that no alcohol is allowed to be sold, served, or consumed anywhere in public, including at the restaurants, although package stores and eateries where one may enjoy adult beverages are just a short ride away. This policy, the pros and cons of which have been debated by business owners and individuals alike on and off for years, hearkens back to the city’s establishment in the late 1800s as a Christian retreat. The most obvious upside of this is the tranquility and family-friendly aura that exists in Ocean City – which is not to say that there is any shortage of fun and excitement on any day or night of the week!

Ocean City’s famed two-and-a-half-mile boardwalk, recognized year after year as one of the best in the country, is a haven for bikers, walkers, joggers, and casual strollers. The central portion of the boardwalk, between 6th and 14th Streets, boasts two family amusement parks with Ferris wheels, rollercoasters, go-carts, bumper cars, water rides, and a water park to cool off on those hot afternoons.

Want to escape the heat or find entertainment on a rainy day? Two movie theaters offer a full lineup of Hollywood hits, and there are games galore in the arcades. And if miniature golf – always a popular recreational diversion – is your thing, don’t miss the miniature golf theme parks, creatively designed with pirates, sharks, waterfalls, and more.

Also lining the boardwalk are a myriad of shops showcasing such Jersey Shore favorites as homemade fudge, salt water taffy, popcorn, pizza, ice cream, resort apparel, novelty items, and vacation essentials (don’t forget the sunscreen and sand shovels!) Other specialty stores offer souvenirs, ornaments, antique collectibles, books (perfect for reading in the lounge chair), and more. The boardwalk is also perennial favorite starting and ending point for numerous walkathons, marathons, bike races, triathlons, and other events to support charitable causes.

Ocean City’s immaculate white sand beaches have garnered repeated awards, including being named by The Travel Channel as the best in the region. Depending on where you choose to lay down your beach blanket, you may find yourself amid the peace and quiet of the Gardens District at the north end, watching the hustle and bustle of the boardwalk amusements, lounging in the dunes alongside the magnificent homes of the southern end, or seeing the fishermen and rare seabirds that populate Corson’s Inlet.

On the west side of the city is the Bay and Marina District, drawing enthusiastic boaters, water skiers, fisherman, sailors, and those who simply yearn to take in the sight of awe-inspiring, picture-perfect sunsets. Centered roughly in the middle of the island, you may also want to explore Ocean City’s state-of-the-art Cultural Community Center, which houses the free public library, the Ocean City Arts Center, the Historic Museum, and the Aquatic and Fitness Center.

Celebrations and parades are another trademark of Ocean City. The Fourth of July is, of course, the biggest event on the boardwalk, culminating with fantastic fireworks. There are also Easter parades, a “Doo Dah Parade” to celebrate the end of tax season, a parade of Miss New Jersey contestants (the pageant is held at the Ocean City Music Pier), high school marching band parades, baby parades, and parades of vintage and classic cars! The Annual Auto Show draws a large crowd of automotive enthusiasts, and the Spring and Fall Family Fun Fests are the ideal way to start and end the high season. Night in Venice, the annual boat parade, is one of the largest in the world. For the 2009 season, Ocean City will host its 46th Annual Boardwalk Art Show and its 100th Anniversary Baby Parade. In September, there is an Acrobatic Air Show and the beginning of fall hayrides. Ocean City is also the site of one of the Garden State’s most popular First Night New Year’s Eve celebrations, followed by the New Year’s Day Polar Bear Plunge. 

Shopping is a special experience here, too. Along with wonderfully diverse businesses that are scattered throughout the neighborhoods, Ocean City’s business and retail district is centered primarily on Asbury Avenue between 6th and 11th Streets, featuring more than 100 shops, galleries, and restaurants that are open year-round. The offerings here are quaint and unique, with boutiques that sell one-of-a-kind merchandise that pop with personality. And of course, hungry shoppers will be able to feast on the delicious fare served in the many quality eateries.  

Live entertainment abounds in Ocean City, also, and almost all of it is free! Weekly Family Nights and other regularly scheduled festivities invite guests to listen and dance to the music of classical tunes, pop, oldies, string bands, and barbershop quartets. You’ll find face painting, magic shows, flower shows, children’s activities, character appearances, crab races, and all sorts of interesting performances, demonstrations, and contests, plus block parties and sidewalk sales. Yet more entertainment is presented at the Ocean City Music Pier, founded in 1929 as a concert hall for the community. Each year, the venue hosts a great variety of plays and shows, from standup comedy to musicals, from nationally renowned musicians to the Ocean City Pops Orchestra, which performs a summer concert series from July through October. 

Want to plan a perfect day trip at the genuine Jersey Shore? Head to Ocean City, New Jersey! Look for everything you need to know at www.oceancityvacation.com or www.ocnj.us.