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Ocean City, New Jersey, offers a calmer, gentler take on the Jersey Shore. A visit here is all about family friendly relaxation and laid-back fun. Think arcades, mini-golf, and classic boardwalk treats. While the closing of Gillian’s Wonderland Pier will change what summer feels like here, there is still plenty to keep everyone entertained.
Nicknamed “America’s Greatest Family Resort,” Ocean City draws big crowds from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning fan, there’s something special about soaking up the sun in this South Jersey town. Here’s a look at what we love to do most.
Wander the boardwalk
The Ocean City boardwalk is the place to be. The famous wooden walkway stretches nearly 3 miles, hugging the sand along Wesley Avenue. There are amusement park rides, shops, and restaurants, but, honestly, just wandering your way down the boardwalk is half the fun. We love snacking while we walk and people watch. If we’re not sharing a funnel cake from Tater’s Fries (add the strawberry sauce!), it’s some of Johnson’s famous caramel corn.
The boardwalk is always open, but early mornings are a favorite time for walkers and runners to enjoy the peace before everyone else has rolled out of bed. Important to know: for the last two summers, there has been an 11pm curfew for those under 18 and a backpack ban for everyone after 8pm.
Hang out on the beach
The 8-mile stretch of coastline that is the city’s beach is the main draw. One of the top beaches in the area, the most popular section is to the north of the boardwalk near the sand dunes. Beaches are guarded June through Labor Day, and beach tags are available for purchase at information centers and other nearby lifeguard venues (they’re discounted before June 1). All you need to do is grab a towel, cue up a soundtrack on your phone, and enjoy the breeze.
Try a Kohr Brothers frozen custard
Frozen custard served in a napkin-wrapped cone is a summertime tradition at Kohr Bros. Flavors range from traditional vanilla and chocolate to a vast rainbow of natural fruit flavors. Four local stores to choose from help make sure you’re never too far away from a treat. We’ve stopped at Kohr Bros. from Ocean City to Cape May and even down to Rehoboth, and we always opt for peanut butter and chocolate twist. (We may have a slight addiction.)
See a show at Music Pier
There’s always something to see at Ocean City Music Pier. The beachfront venue hosts everything from stand-up comedy to can’t-miss musical productions like Broadway on the OC Boardwalk. Big names hit the stage, too — The Beach Boys are playing a series of shows in June, and The Wailers are set to perform in July.
From July through October every year, Music Pier hosts a concert series by the Ocean City POPS, with a mix of music styles and special guest performances. It’s a special part of every season at the shore. And with ocean views on three sides, plus great seats all around, there’s really no bad spot to sit and enjoy the show.
Grab a slice at Manco & Manco
Manco & Manco is a must. Over the years, they have made a name for themselves as one of the best spots serving the tastiest pizzas in town. Some of their signatures include cheesesteak pizza and the Philly Special, named after the legendary Eagles’ Super Bowl victory play. Don’t miss it! You can find them at three spots along the boardwalk at 8th, 9th, and 12th Street.
Shop local at the farmers market
One of the sweetest parts of summer is shopping for local fresh produce at the weekly farmers’ market. Every Wednesday from June 4 to September 3, 2025, the Tabernacle Grounds come alive with fresh fruits and veggies, plants, homemade foods, and more. It runs from 8 am to noon, and it can get busy, so arriving early is your best bet for the freshest picks!
Buy a sweet treat at Shriver’s Taffy
Several shore towns have a classic saltwater taffy spot that’s not to be missed, and Shriver’s Taffy is that anchor in Ocean City. The oldest business on the boardwalk, this brightly lit corner store focuses on all things sweet and welcomes thousands of visitors every day during the summer. Shriver’s has fudge, macarons, chocolates, and 47 kinds of saltwater taffy. We’re partial to the chocolate nut fudge and orange taffy.
Play around at Playland’s Castaway Cove
Playland’s Castaway Cove is now the amusement destination on the boardwalk. Its dozens of rides include classics like the Tilt-A-Whirl and Ferris wheel and the more cutting-edge Gale Force, a 125-foot-tall coaster with a 90-degree drop. In past years, we never had to wait too long for a ride, but things are likely to be even busier this year now that it’s the only game in town.
Castaway Cove also has two mini-golf courses and a go-kart track. Plus, the brand new arcade has finally reopened. The park is open daily from late March to early October, so it’s great even if you’re not visiting in summer. Pro tip: if you have the luxury of planning far in advance, you can score ride tickets for half-off from late March through early April. They never expire and can be used year after year, so it’s definitely worth stocking up.
See a ghoul at Haunted Golf
If you like a little bit of humor with your haunting, the 18-hole indoor minigolf course Haunted Golf is one of the top attractions in Ocean City. The haunted wedding reception and macabre piano player are favorites, but I’ll keep the rest a secret so you can enjoy the surprises. The course is open year-round and is rated PG, so it’s great for kids and adults.
Visit JiLLy’s Arcade
JiLLy’s Arcade is another year-round spot worth visiting. If you’re into pinball, air hockey, racing games, or something else, there are over 100 choices here. Visiting JiLLy’s is a tradition for many families, whether it’s piling into the photo booth for the annual goofy snapshots or playing games for hours without breaking the bank. Skeeball, a mainstay of JiLLy’s Arcade, is still just 20 cents to play.
Get in on the fun of Funtastic Tuesdays
Mid-summer Tuesdays offer lots of free fun for kids. From July 1 through August 26, free magic shows and pony rides enchant some of Ocean City’s smallest visitors. There’s also music, face painting, and characters to meet. The fun happens on Asbury Avenue between 6th and 10th Streets.
Enjoy nature at Corson’s Inlet State Park
Corson’s Inlet State Park covers a little more than 340 acres, offering a peaceful escape into nature. See the park’s sand dunes, spot birds in the estuaries, and see what you can find in the tidal pools. This section of New Jersey coast is also perfect for outdoor recreational activities like boating, saltwater fishing, hiking, and kayaking. Just make sure to bring your mosquito repellent–those suckers are mean!
Explore the Ocean City Historical Museum
Another fun activity is visiting the Ocean City Historical Museum. History buffs will enjoy seeing the collection of shipwreck items, religious history items, and artifacts related to the city’s unique cultural heritage.
Ocean City was founded in 1879, but the history museum dives even deeper sharing stories of the area’s Native American past all the way to modern times. You’ll even learn about Grace Kelly’s love of the city. There’s truly a little something for everyone.
Have you visited Ocean City NJ? Do you have a favorite memory from your childhood or a favorite activity?
Angelo’s has the best pizza.
Pictured Barefoot Trading Company in the first picture and i highly recommend you stop in. Great clothes Jewelry and trinkets from Bali and beyond at great prices.
I remember a summer when Santa was on the boards having his picture taken with kids across from the Christmas Shop. While we were waiting in line, my husband snuck up and told him our girls names, and when it was their turn and Santa greeted them by name, their jaws dropped! They are now 20 and 17 and still talk about it!