From Sunsets to Surfing: 10 Free Things to Do in Ocean City, Maryland

Northside Park is one of the best places in Ocean City to watch the sunset. The park is located on the bay side in North Ocean City and is best known as the location for Winterfest of Lights.  There’s a great playground, ponds, and walking paths. The view from this park over the bay is simply breathtaking. 

Ocean City’s iconic boardwalk is a must-visit spot. The boardwalk is more than two miles long, and it’s the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll or a bike ride. You can also check out the street performers, grab some snacks, or just people-watch.

There’s free movies on the beach at the Carousel Hotel on 117th Street every Wednesday evening all summer long! Just bring a blanket or chair, maybe a sweatshirt, a few snacks and a drink, and head to the beach at the Carousel Hotel for some free entertainment. Check out the movie line up here.  

Our favorite neighbor, Berlin, has a Farmer’s Market every Sunday from 9am – 1pm, rain or shine, from May to September! You’ll find the market, which is a producers only market featuring 35+ farmers, food cultivators, bakers, distillers, seafood, meat, eggs and so much more, on Pitts Street, Commerce Street and Main Street, Berlin Md.

The Ocean City Art League’s gallery is located in North Ocean City, Maryland, and it’s a must-visit spot for art lovers. The gallery is housed inside the Ocean City Center for the Arts,  a beautiful building that’s located on the bay.  Just look for the water tower with their logo on the bayside at 94th Street.  Turn there and head to the bay where you will see their building on the right.  Step inside and you’ll find a wide variety of artwork created by local artists. The gallery is spacious and features multiple rooms filled with paintings, sculptures, photographs, and other types of artwork. The pieces on display are rotated regularly and they host a First Friday reception each month so there’s always something new and interesting to see.

In addition to the artwork on display, the gallery also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, such as artist receptions, lectures, and demonstrations. These events provide a great opportunity to meet local artists and learn more about their work.

Overall, the Ocean City Art League’s gallery is a wonderful place to visit for anyone who appreciates art. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply enjoy admiring beautiful artwork, you’re sure to find something to love in this vibrant gallery.

Put on your dancing shoes and make your way to Northside Park every Sunday evening during the summer season for an incredible family concert series. Enjoy a diverse range of FREE music genres from country to rock, featuring tribute bands and oldies hits. There’s FREE kids’ activities and entertainment, and don’t forget to indulge in ice cream and refreshing drinks available for purchase! Bring your own chair or blanket, kick back, and savor the performance while treating yourself to a sundae. Witness the sunset over the bay and stay for the fireworks display! Sundaes in the Park offers the perfect Sunday experience for all ages—it’s simply the sweetest way to spend your weekend! Music schedule available here.

There are lots of ways to fish in Ocean City where it doesn’t cost any money.  You will need a fishing license for surf fishing and fishing from the bridge, docks or boats.  If a boat has a license, it covers everybody on the boat.  However, there are a few places to fish in Ocean City without a license:  

•  the “Oceanic Pier” or “Ocean Pier” as they have a Blanket Pier License.
• The Free Fishing Pier from 2nd to 4th Street (Chicago Ave) and
• the Northside Park at 125th Street.

According to the Town’s website, “You do not need a license in these two places but you do need a “free registry”. This is free and can also be done over the phone during daytime hours of 7am-7pm at 1-855-855-3906. If you go fishing on a party or charter boat you do not need a license or free registry. You can also go crabbing and clamming in Ocean City without a license.”

Of course, no trip to Ocean City is complete without a visit to the beach. The town has ten miles of beautiful beaches, and there’s no fee to access them. Just pack a beach towel, sunscreen, and enjoy the sun and the waves.  Try boogie boarding, or if you’ve already mastered that, get yourself a surf board and try to catch some waves! The beach is fun and free in wild weather too.  Watch the waves, feel the wind and sand beat against you, but get off the beach if you see lighting or hear thunder!

Visit Assateague Island and be sure to keep an eye out for the wild ponies that roam the island. You can often see them grazing or taking a dip in the ocean.  There is an entrance fee to get onto Assateague, but you can buy an annual pass and visit often which keeps your cost low.  Details are available here.  You can also see them from Ocean City by looking across the inlet.

Riding your bike on the boardwalk is fun and free, but be sure to follow the rules regarding hours that bikes are allowed on the boards.  You can find that information in the FAQs on this site.

These are just a few of the many free outdoor activities you can enjoy in Ocean City during your visit. Whether you’re a beach bum or a music lover, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful seaside town. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Ocean City vacation today and get ready to explore!