Ocean City is located in the state of New Jersey and has a lot of culture to offer as well as great sights and interesting destinations. So if you’re planning a trip to Ocean City (New Jersey), you’ve come to the right place!
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Vacation in Ocean City (New Jersey)
Situated along the Jersey Shore, Ocean City is a lively beach town that’s especially popular with families. The main thoroughfare, Asbury Avenue, is packed with souvenir shops, ice cream parlors, and seafood restaurants. The Boardwalk is a classic seaside promenade lined with carnival rides, game stands, and eateries. To escape the hustle and bustle, take a stroll down one of the town’s quiet side streets lined with charming Victorianstyle houses.
When it comes to choosing a place to stay, there are plenty of hotels, motels, and vacation rentals to choose from. For a more authentic Ocean City experience, stay in one of the beach bungalows that have been passed down through generations of families.
If you’re looking for things to do, you’ll find no shortage of options. Soak up the sun on one of the town’s many beaches, or take a short drive to Cape May for a day of whale watching. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the wetlands at the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge. And don’t forget to try your hand at fishing – Ocean City is known for its great fishing spots.
When night falls, the town comes alive with live music and entertainment. There are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from, or you can simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Boardwalk.
Whatever your vacation style, you’re sure to find something to love in Ocean City, New Jersey.
Sights in Ocean City (New Jersey)
1. The boardwalk is the place to be in Ocean City, New Jersey. Stretching for eight miles along the beach, it’s the longest boardwalk in the world. With an abundance of shops, restaurants, and hotels, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the Opportunity Plaza at the northwestern end, where you can indulge in some people watching or take a turn on the world’s tallest Ferris wheel.
2. The beach is the main attraction in Ocean City and it’s easy to see why. With nearly four miles of clean, sandy beaches and a moderate surf, it’s the perfect spot to relax, build a sandcastle, or catch a wave. The beach is open from early May to late September and lifeguards are on duty daily during peak season.
3. For a break from the beach, head to historic Asbury Avenue. This is the main drag in town and home to a variety of shops and restaurants. Be sure to check out the Midway Arcade, an iconic spot for some oldschool fun. Asbury Avenue also leads to the boardwalk, so you can easily make your way back to the beach when you’re ready.
4. Another great spot for shopping and dining is at the Tanger Outlets. With over 70 stores, there’s something for everyone. You’ll find brand name clothing, accessories, and home decor at a fraction of the regular price. The outlets are located just off Route 52, so they’re easy to get to no matter where you’re staying in Ocean City.
5. No trip to Ocean City would be complete without a ride on the worldfamous tram car. The cars have been in operation since 1896 and they’re still the best way to see the sights. From the boardwalk to Asbury Avenue and beyond, the tram car will give you a unique view of the city.
History of Ocean City (New Jersey)
Founded in 1879, Ocean City, New Jersey is the nation’s oldest seaside resort. The community was established on July 1, 1879, when nine men from Philadelphia chartered a train to the seashore, ultimately purchasing 16 acres of land along the southern end of Absecon Island for $500. The purchasers were William H. Crooks, Charles K. Landis, Alexander Badgley, George C. Stockton, Richard M. Wood, Samuel W. Park, Isaac K. Stokes, William C. Bates and Edward B. Knight.
Today, the City of Ocean City occupies a much larger footprint, having annexed nearly all of the island in the early 20th century. The resort is approximately 10 miles long and averages about two miles wide, with a population of just over 11,000 yearround residents.
While the city is best known as a summer destination, with an influx of visitors each year totaling close to 8 million, Ocean City has a rich history that predates its reputation as a beach resort.
The island on which Ocean City sits was originally inhabited by the Lenape Native Americans. The first recorded European explorer to visit the area was Italian Giovanni da Verrazzano, who noted the island’s lush vegetation in his journal in 1524.
The island remained largely undeveloped over the next few centuries, used primarily as hunting and fishing grounds by the Lenape. In 1782, during the American Revolutionary War, British and American troops battled for control of Absecon Island in what came to be known as the Battle of Absecon Inlet.
After the war, the island remained largely untouched until the mid19th century, when a small community known as “The Ladies’ Retreat” began to take shape. The Ladies’ Retreat was a summertime only community for uppermiddle class families from Philadelphia and other nearby cities.
In 1878, a group of businessmen from Philadelphia bought a large tract of land on the southern end of the island with the intention of creating a seaside resort. The following summer, the first batch of vacationers arrived by train, and Ocean City was officially open for business.
Over the next few decades, the city slowly began to take shape. The first boardwalk was built in 1889, and a number of large hotels and businesses were constructed along the oceanfront. By the early 1900s, Ocean City had established itself as a premier summer destination on the East Coast.
In 1912, the city underwent a major expansion when a large portion of Absecon Island was annexed. This land was used to build a new section of the boardwalk, as well as a number of parks and playgrounds.
Following World War II, Ocean City continued to grow in popularity, aided in part by the construction of the Garden State Parkway, which made the drive to the shore much easier for families from northern New Jersey.
In the second half of the 20th century, Ocean City evolved from a sleepy seaside resort into a bustling community. A number of highrise hotels were built along the boardwalk, and the downtown area was revitalized with new shops and restaurants.
Today,Ocean City is a thriving beach resort that offers something for everyone. Visitors can enjoy the city’s worldfamous boardwalk, take a ride on the historic roller coaster at Playland’s Castaway Cove, or simply relax on one of the many beaches. No matter what brings you to Ocean City, you’re sure to create lasting memories in this special place.
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