Firsr week if April-Kid friendly hotel /location
First time to Maryland. Traveling wirha 9 and 12 year old. I see online theres a huge Boardwalk. Trying to find a kid friendly hotel with Indoor pool. There's soooo many places online but not sure what area would be best with kids. Also is anything open along the Boardwalk or is it too early in season. Greatly appreciate any ideas of where to take the kids to explore as well. Thanks!
Ocean City, Maryland, is a fantastic destination for families with kids, offering a combination of beach activities, the famous Boardwalk, and a variety of kid-friendly attractions. Since you're traveling with a 9 and 12-year-old, you'll want to stay in a location that's close to the Boardwalk, offering plenty of fun activities for kids, and providing easy access to indoor pools, which can be a great option if the weather is cooler during your visit.
Regarding your question about the Boardwalk, while the majority of businesses on the Boardwalk start to open around late March to April, it’s important to note that the area is less crowded in the early season. Some businesses may not fully open until Memorial Day or later. However, there are still a few attractions open for early visitors, and it’s a good time to enjoy a more relaxed experience without the summer crowds.
As for kid-friendly hotel recommendations with indoor pools, here are a few options:
- Carousel Resort Hotel & Condominiums – Located near the northern part of the Boardwalk, this hotel offers an indoor pool, a kid-friendly atmosphere, and is right by the beach. The resort also features ice skating, which can be a fun activity for kids.
- Grand Hotel & Spa – This hotel has an indoor pool and is located near the Boardwalk, making it easy to walk to attractions. It’s great for families, with spacious rooms and various amenities like a kids' pool and a spa for adults.
- The Dunes Manor Hotel – This is a great family hotel with an indoor pool and an easy walk to the Boardwalk. The rooms have a comfortable setup for families, and it's in a quieter area of Ocean City, perfect for a peaceful stay.
- Holiday Inn Ocean City – A well-known option with an indoor pool, close to the Boardwalk, and it’s highly rated for families. They offer activities and amenities that cater to children, and it’s located near restaurants and entertainment options.
If you're looking to explore other attractions with your kids, here are some great suggestions:
- Jolly Roger Amusement Park – This is a great spot for families, featuring a range of rides and games for kids of all ages. It’s open year-round, but some attractions may be limited in the off-season.
- Assateague Island National Seashore – Just a short drive from Ocean City, this nature reserve is home to wild ponies and offers great trails for family-friendly hikes. You can also enjoy beach time here, especially if you're looking for a quieter spot than the main Ocean City beach.
- Ripley's Believe It or Not! – Located along the Boardwalk, this quirky museum is fun for kids with its interactive exhibits, optical illusions, and oddities that will keep them entertained.
- Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum – Located at the southern end of the Boardwalk, this museum offers a peek into Ocean City's history with kid-friendly exhibits on shipwrecks and the town's history as a life-saving station.
In April, while some attractions might not be fully operational, the weather should still be pleasant enough for outdoor activities like walking along the Boardwalk, enjoying the beach, and visiting local parks. Be sure to check ahead for any seasonal schedules or events, and consider planning some indoor activities for the cooler days.
Overall, the Seaport area is a good location for walking around and enjoying the Boardwalk, with many hotels offering indoor pools for the kids to enjoy after a day of exploration.
