12 Fun Things To Do in Ocean City, Maryland in Winter (Updated for 2023)
My husband and I went some years back in December as we really needed a quick vacation. We live in Maryland and so Ocean City was about 2 hours away from us.
Ocean City in Maryland is one of the best spots in Maryland all year round. But there is something extra special about going there during the colder months especially if you do not mind the cold. Plus, things are cheaper in Winter since its off season so you might be able to save a lot.
If you are planning a trip with your family, here are some fun things to do in Ocean City MD, in winter!
Best Things To Do in Ocean City in Winter
Here are some of the best things to do in Ocean City during the winter. If you are spending some time in Ocean City during December, you will have so much fun at any of these events.
1. Winterfest of Lights
This is probably the best thing to do during the winter in Ocean City. The Winterfest of Lights is an annual event held from mid-November until January 1st, located at Northside Park. Here you will find thousands of holiday lights and decorations that will take your breath away.
Santa Claus also makes his appearance here, so you can take your kids to see him and get a nice picture. Kids under 11 years old are free, and adults are $5. There is even a 50-foot Christmas tree filled with beautiful, colorful lights. You can also relax and sip hot chocolate in the heated Winterfest Village pavilion.
November 16 – December 24: 5:30 – 9:30PM Wednesday through Sunday
December 25 – December 31: Everyday 5:30 – 9:30PM
Admission: $6.00 for guests 12 years and older; FREE for those 11 and younger.
2. Ocean City Boardwalk in Winter
The famous Ocean City Boardwalk is a great place to spend some time all year round, even in the off-season. You can take a stroll along the beach or boardwalk and enjoy being in nature. Bundle up, and you’re good to go!
You can also ride a bike ride, rollerblade, or scoot here. The Boardwalk is also home to some of the best places to stay in OceanCity, MD.
3. Take an Art Class
The Art League of Ocean City Center for the Arts holds many significant events and classes to enjoy during the winter season. There are kid and adult classes for all skill levels.
If you would instead not take a class, there are plenty of fun art exhibits to visit. Learn about pottery, knitting, drawing, and just about any art you can think of!
4. Mini-Golf
Even when it is cold outside, you can still enjoy playing mini golf at some of Ocean City’s indoor miniature golf courses! Old Pro Golf has multiple locations and some of the most fantastic designs.
There is an indoor under the sea adventure or a safari course. Kids and adults will love playing mini-golf and having good, quality time together. If you are golf lovers, there are tons of golf courses available in OCMD.
5. Ice Skating
Another super fun thing to do in Ocean City during the winter is ice skating! The Carousel Oceanfront Hotel has an indoor ice-skating rink that is fun! You don’t have to be staying at the hotel to get into the rink; everyone is welcome.
Enjoy some time out on the ice without getting cold! Ice skating is always a blast for all ages. If you don’t know how to skate, why not try while you are there?
6. Life-Saving Station Museum
You can learn some history about Ocean city at the Life-Saving Station Museum! During the wintertime, the museum is open on the weekends all day long, and children under 11 years old get in for free!
At this museum, you will find permanent exhibits and ones that change from time to time. See different sands from all over the world or how the boardwalk has changed. There are even some fun winter events throughout the cold months you will enjoy as well.
7. Performing Arts Center
Want to see a live play? Head over to the Performing Arts Center! You can see plays, shows, and musical performances all year round. Be sure to look at their schedule in advance and grab your tickets as soon as possible.
8. Christmas Parade
Are you heading to Ocean City for Christmas? The Gold Coast Mall puts on a beautiful Christmas Parade on Coastal Highway every December. This has been a city tradition for 40 years now. Enjoy seeing plenty of floats from locals, students, and businesses. You will even get to wave to Santa and Mrs. Clause!
They also give awards to the best parade acts after the parade at the Carousel hotel.
9. Visit Assateague Island National Seashore
Head to Assateague Island and see some stunning wild horses and natural beauty unlike anything you’ve seen before. These wild horses are unique as they can also live through the hot summers and cold winter months.
So while you cannot get close to them to preserve their life, you can enjoy their beauty.
Assateague Island has plenty of things to do and is open all year round. You can go hiking, fishing, boating, have a picnic, camp, and explore this beautiful island if the weather permits. This is also a fantastic state park in Maryland to check out with your family.
10. New Year’s Eve Fireworks
If you are in Ocean City on New Year’s Eve, watch the incredible fireworks display. Northside Park will put off fireworks to ring in the new year. This is a free event for everyone to enjoy and is a perfect thing to do in OceanCity Maryland during winter.
The event will begin at 11:00 pm with music and other activities, and the fireworks will go off at midnight.
There are also tons of NYE events in Maryland if you are not just staying in OC Maryland.
11. Penguin Swim
Another fantastic event on New Year’s Day is the Penguin Swim! Located on the ocean city beach at The Princess Royale Oceanfront Hotel, join locals and visitors as they go for a quick swim in the cold Atlantic Ocean.
The Penguin Swim is to honor the healthcare workers and raise money for the Atlantic General Hospital. This is their biggest fundraiser. It helps them continue supporting the community and giving everyone the best healthcare possible.
This winter it will take place on January 1st, 2024.
12. Holiday Shoppers Fair
Grab one-of-a-kind presents this year from the Holiday Shoppers Fair in Ocean City! Here you will find over 150 vendors with tons of handmade items. You can easily find a gift for everyone on your list during the holiday season!
You can also enjoy face painting and other children’s activities at the fair. There will be special prizes throughout the event and plenty of delicious food too. The Holiday Shoppers Fair is located at the Roland E. Powell Convention Center.
You can check out some more fun Christmas Markets in Maryland if you need last minute Christmas gifts.
13. Visit a Winery
There are several nice wineries in Maryland and OCMD is not exempted from having some of them. So even when it’s cold outside, you can still head to one of them to try out some great wine.
14. Grab some good food
Visit some ocean city restaurants and enjoy some fabulous foods. One of my favorite things to do in Ocean City, MD, is eat out, it is perfect for trying out great food with your family. You can check out some of the best seafood restaurants in Oceancity Maryland.
Restaurants open all year round in Ocean city, MD
- Alley Oops
- Bad Monkey
- Sunset Grille
- Liquid Assets
- Longboard Cafe
- Bluefish
- Hooked
- Crab Bag
- Dumsers Dairyland
- Bull On the Beach
- Bayside Skillet
FAQs on things to do in ocean city md in winter
Is Ocean City MD fun in winter?
Ocean City, Maryland, indeed offers a unique charm during the winter months. While it’s a popular summer getaway known for its beaches and boardwalk, the winter season presents a quieter, more tranquil side of this coastal town.
What are winters like in Ocean City MD?
The winters, falling primarily between December and February, can be quite cold with average temperatures ranging between 30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
Snowfall is not as common as some other places but possible, adding a picture worthy layer of white to the beach landscapes.
The boardwalk and some local businesses may have reduced operating hours, but there’s still plenty to enjoy including winter festivals, indoor activities, and quiet walks on the serene, often snow-dusted beaches.
Is Ocean City MD Boardwalk open in winter?
Yes, the Boardwalk remains open throughout the year, including the winter months. However, many of the shops, restaurants, and attractions along the Boardwalk may have reduced hours or may close during the off-season.
What is the coldest month in Ocean City Maryland?
The coldest month in Ocean City, Maryland, is typically January. During this month, winter is in full swing, and temperatures are at their lowest for the year. Average temperatures in January range from around 30°F (-1°C) to 43°F (6°C).
What is the best month to go to Ocean City Maryland?
The most popular time to visit Ocean City, Maryland is during the summer months, particularly between June and August. During this period, the weather is typically warm and sunny, making it ideal for beach activities, exploring the boardwalk, and other outdoor pursuits.
However, it’s worth noting that this is also the busiest season, so early planning and booking is recommended if you’re considering a summer visit.
Final thoughts on Things To Do in Ocean City Maryland in Winter
Ocean City in the wintertime is so much fun. There are plenty of events and activities to keep you busy, even during the colder months. Of course, these are just some of the best things to do in Ocean City in the winter, but I’m sure there are lots more you can find too!
Check out some more amazing things to do with kids in all seasons in Ocean city, MD.
