Travel FAQ list for Ocean City

Ocean City

Question: Parking near Talbot Street

Answer: Parking near Talbot Street in Ocean City during August, especially on weekends, can be challenging because it’s a very popular area close to the Boardwalk and the beach. However, arriving around 10:30–11:00 am on a Sunday or Monday is generally manageable, as it’s just before the peak crowds hit for beachgoers and tourists.

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Ocean City

Question: Fireworks

Answer: Good question. I checked — for Ocean City, Maryland the regular public fireworks displays are usually limited to certain summer dates (primarily Mondays or Tuesdays in July–August, plus special-event nights).

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Ocean City

Question: Any locals or frequent flyers on board?

Answer: The situation you’re describing at the north end of Ocean City has been a concern for some local residents and frequent visitors for several years. While the presence of individuals living on the beach can be distressing, it’s important to approach the matter with a combination of community awareness and official channels.

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Ocean City

Question: Calypso Cond

Answer: The Calypso Condominiums in Ocean City, Maryland, are generally regarded as a solid choice for vacation rentals, especially for families or groups looking for beach access and convenient location. Reviews tend to highlight the proximity to the beach, spacious units, and quiet atmosphere compared to some of the more crowded boardwalk areas.

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Ocean City

Question: Hilton Garden Inn - Please help

Answer: The Hilton Garden Inn in Ocean City has generally been a reliable choice for travelers who like consistent amenities, comfortable rooms, and a central location near the beach and boardwalk. However, as with many hotels during peak summer months, recent reviews have been mixed, particularly regarding cleanliness and management responsiveness.

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Ocean City

Question: french onion soup

Answer: Hi there! If you're looking for some great French onion soup in Ocean City, aside from Bull on the Beach, there are a few other places where you can enjoy a delicious bowl. Here are some recommendations:

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Ocean City

Question: Favorite restaurants

Answer: Ocean City is known for its fresh seafood, and there are several casual restaurants that are local favorites, especially for crab cakes. Visiting right after Labor Day is a great time as the summer crowds start to thin out but the restaurants are still serving fresh seafood.

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Ocean City

Question: Sunday traffic- leaving

Answer: Leaving Ocean City on a Sunday in August can be quite congested. This is one of the peak times for summer traffic as many visitors are heading home after weekend stays. Traffic typically builds on the main routes out of town, especially US-50 west toward the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, and can slow significantly through bottleneck areas.

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Ocean City

Question: Anniversary dinner

Answer: For a special anniversary dinner in Ocean City, you have several excellent options depending on the type of cuisine and atmosphere you prefer. Ocean City is known for its seafood, but there are also great spots for steak, Italian, and contemporary American fare.

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Ocean City

Question: Safety

Answer: Walking in Ocean City late at night, especially after a large event like Country Calling, requires some caution. The area around the venue can be crowded during the concert, but once it ends around midnight, the streets are quieter and may not be as well-lit in all areas.

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Ocean City

Question: Pool Table Help

Answer: Finding a pool table in Ocean City that allows children can be a bit tricky since most traditional bars enforce a 21+ rule. However, there are a few family-friendly spots and entertainment centers where kids can play.

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Ocean City

Question: Post COVID: Fish Tacos Recommendations

Answer: Ocean City, Maryland, has seen a resurgence in dining options post-COVID, and fish tacos remain a popular menu item at several local spots. Whether you’re looking for a casual beachside eatery or a more restaurant-style setting, there are a few places consistently recommended by locals and visitors alike.

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Ocean City

Question: Holiday Inn & Suites

Answer: The Holiday Inn & Suites on 17th Street in Ocean City is generally considered a solid choice for travelers looking for a beachfront property with convenient access to the boardwalk and central attractions. Recent reviews suggest that the property has been updated and maintained well, offering modern amenities and comfortable accommodations.

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Ocean City

Question: Melvins Steak House

Answer: Good question. I couldn’t find any reliable evidence that was ever located directly on the boardwalk in Ocean City. Rather, the sources that document its history suggest a different location.

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Ocean City

Question: What is the nicest section of Ocean City to stay in?

Answer: Ocean City, MD, stretches for about 10 miles along the Atlantic, and the "best" section to stay in depends on what you’re looking for in terms of atmosphere, convenience, and crowd levels. Generally, the quieter and more relaxed areas are at the northern and southern ends, while the central section, especially around the boardwalk, is busier and more energetic.

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Ocean City

Question: Outdoor Waterfront Restaurant with Music Thursday Night

Answer: Ocean City offers several great options for outdoor dining on the water with live music, especially on Thursday nights. These venues typically combine a relaxed waterfront atmosphere with good food and entertainment, making them popular for both locals and visitors.

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Ocean City

Question: Beach chairs

Answer: If you stay near the (or in that general area), you absolutely can rent beach chairs and umbrellas for use on nearby public beaches instead of bringing your own — many locals and visitors do just that. The cost varies depending on the rental company and type of gear.

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Ocean City

Question: Pet friendly

Answer: Finding a pet-friendly rental in Ocean City, especially during the busy summer months like August, can be challenging, but it’s definitely possible with a bit of persistence. Here are some options and tips that might help you in your search:

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Ocean City

Question: 50 vs. 404

Answer: When deciding between Route 50 and Route 404 to get to Ocean City, MD, your choice really depends on your priorities—scenic views versus speed and fewer stops.

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Ocean City

Question: August Air Show

Answer: The Ocean City Air Show in August is a popular event, drawing large crowds along the beachfront. Whether it’s worth buying tickets for a designated viewing area versus finding a spot on the beach depends on your priorities for comfort, proximity, and amenities.

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Ocean City

Question: Princess Royale vs boardwalk hotel

Answer: The Princess Royale Resort and a hotel on the Boardwalk each offer different experiences, and it really depends on what kind of vacation you're looking for. Here's a breakdown of both options to help you make an informed decision.

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Ocean City

Question: GotSpot

Answer: GotSpot is an online platform that offers discount vouchers for a variety of local activities and experiences, including boat trips, water sports, and other tourist attractions in Ocean City, Maryland. It’s similar to a daily deal or coupon site, where you can purchase tickets at a reduced rate and redeem them directly with the tour operators.

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Ocean City

Question: Oceans Calling help!

Answer: Visiting Ocean City, Maryland for the first time can be a lot of fun, especially if you’re attending a music festival like Oceans Calling. Here’s a detailed guide to help you plan your trip efficiently, keeping in mind that you prefer minimal driving once you arrive.

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Ocean City

Question: Drinking water quality

Answer: Ocean City, Maryland, draws its tap water from public water systems that are regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The water is treated and generally considered safe to drink for most people. Many residents and visitors drink tap water without issue.

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Ocean City

Question: Old Phillip’s building

Answer: You’re right — the old building (the “Old Phillip’s building” that you passed on your bike) has had a lot of uncertain years since the restaurant closed.

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Ocean City

Question: Recommendations travveling alone with 15 year old

Answer: Ocean City, Maryland, is a lively beach town with plenty to keep both teens and adults entertained, especially in July when the boardwalk is bustling. For a father traveling with a 15-year-old, you’ll want accommodations that are centrally located, close to the boardwalk, arcades, attractions, and restaurants.

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Ocean City

Question: Golf recommendations near Ocean City

Answer: Ocean City, Maryland has several excellent public golf courses within a short drive, offering a variety of challenges for different skill levels. Since you’ll have a rental car, you can easily reach courses both in Ocean City proper and in the surrounding areas.

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Ocean City

Question: Firsr week if April-Kid friendly hotel /location

Answer: 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.

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Ocean City

Question: The Grand VS Howard Johnson - 11th Street

Answer: When deciding between The Grand and the Howard Johnson on 11th Street in Ocean City for a September stay, several factors should guide your choice beyond just the price difference.

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Ocean City

Question: White Marlin Open

Answer: The White Marlin Open (WMO) in Ocean City, Maryland, is one of the largest and most prestigious billfishing tournaments in the world. Participating in it is an exciting experience, but it requires preparation and understanding of the rules and logistics.

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Ocean City

Question: Hotel Suggestions

Answer: Yes — Ocean City, MD *does* have some high-rise / ocean-front (or near-oceanfront) hotels that check several of your boxes: ocean view, good pool(s), and (in many cases) allow small dogs. How well they meet “fantastic heated pool + dog-friendly + ocean view” depends on the hotel, but there *are* some good candidates. Below are several of the better options based on what’s publicly known about their amenities & pet policies. I also flag trade-offs you should check when booking (pool access for pets, pet fees, beach/boardwalk dog rules, etc.).

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Ocean City

Question: Parking

Answer: Parking near 62nd Street in Ocean City, Maryland, offers several options for both short-term beach access and longer visits. This area is more residential and less crowded than the central boardwalk area, so parking tends to be a bit easier to find, but it’s still popular in summer months.

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Ocean City

Question: Boardwalk Hotel LIKE Lankford?

Answer: Finding a Boardwalk hotel in Ocean City that replicates the charm and feel of the old Lankford Hotel can be a bit tricky, but there are several options that focus on clean rooms, ocean views, and inviting porch or balcony areas where you can sit and watch the Boardwalk traffic.

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Ocean City

Question: Crabmeat

Answer: If you're looking for lump crabmeat in Ocean City without paying a premium at Food Lion or similar stores, there are a few great options that may help you find quality crabmeat at a better price.

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Ocean City

Question: Fall visit

Answer: Good questions — yes, if you're planning to visit Ocean City, Maryland around September 20 or 27, it’s smart to check event schedules ahead of time. The short answer is: there’s no guarantee you’ll avoid “car-rally type” events if you pick those dates, but here’s what recent info suggests — and what to watch out for — to help you choose.

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Ocean City

Question: Trailer parking 8/3 to 8/10

Answer: Finding parking for a utility trailer in Ocean City during the busy summer season can be challenging, especially when some of the common public lots are closed. There are a few options to consider for private or commercial spaces that may accept trailers for a short-term rental.

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Ocean City

Question: Ocean City Fishing Piers And Kid-Friendly Bays For Swimming?

Answer: Ocean City, Maryland offers a variety of options for both fishing enthusiasts and families looking for calm swimming areas. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you plan your visit.

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Ocean City

Question: Rosenfeld's Jewish Deli, Ocean City, Closing.

Answer: It is indeed sad news for Ocean City and fans of Rosenfeld's Jewish Deli. The Ocean City location, which has been a staple at 63rd Street on Coastal Highway, is closing on October 24th. According to the owners, the closure is not due to poor business performance — the deli remains healthy and well-frequented — but rather financial and logistical considerations related to the lease and property.

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Ocean City

Question: November 4-8

Answer: Visiting Ocean City, Maryland during the first week of November is quite different from the busy summer months. Many of the seasonal attractions, such as amusement parks, boardwalk arcades, and waterparks, are closed by early November. The town is much quieter, which can be a plus if you’re looking for a low-key visit, but it does limit entertainment options for teenagers.

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Ocean City

Question: Seafood restaurants

Answer: Ocean City, Maryland is renowned for its fresh seafood, especially blue crabs from the Chesapeake Bay. If you’re looking for the best spots to enjoy local seafood and crabs, there are several restaurants that consistently receive excellent reviews from both locals and visitors.

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Ocean City

Question: Best area for Ocean City

Answer: For your July visit to Ocean City, MD, it sounds like you’re looking for an area that balances oceanfront views, nightlife, convenient access to Jolly Roger Amusement Park, good seafood, and a slightly more adult-oriented atmosphere. Here’s a detailed overview to help you plan your stay.

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