Travel guide
The Ocean City Boardwalk
Three miles of rides, arcades, fudge shops, and ocean air — the boardwalk is the heart of Ocean City, Maryland.
How long is the boardwalk?
The boardwalk runs about 3 miles, from the Inlet at the southern tip of town up to 27th Street. It's the spine of "Downtown" Ocean City — the busiest, oldest, most walkable stretch of the whole town, running along the beach the entire way.
What's on the boardwalk
- The Inlet, south end: historic amusement rides and games, arcades, and the southern anchor of the boardwalk, with the fishing pier just beyond it.
- Arcades & amusements: scattered the length of the boardwalk, from classic skee-ball rooms to modern prize arcades.
- Food: boardwalk fries, fudge and saltwater taffy shops, soft-serve stands, and pizza by the slice are the local staples — grazing your way up the boardwalk is a rite of passage.
- Shops: beachwear, souvenirs, and novelty stores line both sides for most of the 3-mile stretch.
- The tram: an open-air tram runs the full length of the boardwalk in season for a small fare — useful if you're staying at one end and exploring the other.
Tips for visiting
- Go early morning or after dinner in July/August to avoid the worst of the midday crowds and heat.
- Most rides, arcades, and shops operate seasonally — many close or cut hours after Labor Day.
- Bikes are allowed on the boardwalk only in early morning hours (typically before 10am) — check posted signage.
- Check the Ocean City forecast before you go; boardwalk crowds thin out fast in rain but the arcades stay open.
Deciding where to stay? See the Ocean City hotel guide for how close each part of town is to the boardwalk.
Business names, hours, and seasonal operations change year to year — this page describes the boardwalk generally rather than listing specific current vendors.