My family has vacationed in Ocean City, New Jersey for many years and I've made a lot of memories there and seen a lot of what it has to offer. So here are some things you should make sure to do if you plan on visiting this summer.
1. Eat Manco & Manco Pizza
If you're already a vacationer of Ocean City, this one is probably a no-brainer. But for newcomers and even for the very few vacationers who haven't tasted Manco & Manco yet, this is an absolute must. It's the number one thing everyone in my family looks forward to when visiting Ocean City. And I won't try to describe how delicious it is, but I will say there's a reason it occupies three locations on the boardwalk and more often than not, has a line going out the door.
2. Stop by The Flander's Hotel
The Flander's Hotel is Ocean City's Empire State Building. It's a clear landmark and you really can't miss it, but many people walk right by. It was built in 1923 and has a lot of history behind it. If you go in, you'll quickly notice that the hotel feels timeless and regal. But if you're not into appreciating old buildings so much, at least stop by to be a fly on the wall and watch the wedding reception that's most likely taking place.
3. Go for breakfast at Ready's Coffee Shop
Don't let the name deceive you. Ready's Coffee Shop offers much more than just coffee. It's actually a breakfast and sandwich shop with really delicious food and reasonable prices. Definitely stop by this place for breakfast or lunch; and it's important to note that they say they make the best milkshakes in town.
4. Mini Golf at Pirate's of the Golden Galleon
It's not truly a summer vacation without a game of mini golf and Ocean City has plenty of places to choose from. Pictured here is one of my favorites, "Pirates of the Golden Galleon," and it has two golf courses that give you a pretty good shot of walking away with some hole-in-ones and fun memories for everyone.
5. Explore and relax at Corson's Inlet
This is where the bay meets the ocean and it's right at the end of the island of Ocean City. Corson's Inlet is actually a state park and includes some great hiking trails and beautiful scenery. I recommend going when the sun is setting because the beach is often less crowded then. And so the peace and quiet, along with an amazing view, is perfect for relaxing.
6. Spend a day at Gillian's Island Water Park
This water park is right on the boardwalk and a nice change of pace if the beach gets too crowded. It has a variety water attractions like a lazy river, plenty of fun slides, and even a section for toddlers. Try out all this water park has to offer and when you're tired you can relax on some of the lounge chairs and soak up the sun.
7. Buy a dozen doughnuts from Fractured Prune
When someone in my family brings a dozen Fractured Prune doughnuts back, there's no doubt that they'll be gone in a few minutes. They're the best doughnuts I've ever had and if you're in Ocean City, make sure you go to Fractured Prune. They have so many varieties of doughnut choices and trust me, you'll find it difficult to eat just one.
8. Dine at the Hula Grill
The Hula Grill has many delicious foods, but the reason it made this list of must-do's is because of their Firecracker Shrimp and their Huli Cheese Fries. Really, really good! It's important to note that it's kind of on the boardwalk. You have to make a turn, but if you know where the Go-Kart Racing or Curly's Fries is, the Hula Grill is hidden right down that walk way.
9. Ride some rides at Castaway Cove
Playland's Castaway Cove has a lot of different rides to offer and some of my favorites are the Gravitron and the classic pirate ship. However, they just installed a new roller coaster and it looks like quite the thrill. Be sure to go to this park and try the rides for yourself. It's always a blast.
10. Get desert at Yoasis Frozen Yogurt
Frozen Yogurt has taken over the east coast in the past few years and it certainly has made a home in Ocean City. This is my favorite place to grab some froyo. It's located on Asbury Ave, but it's less expensive than the froyo on the boardwalk and has a clean and simple look with some delicious flavors to choose from too. If you like frozen yogurt this is the place to go.
11. Grab a drink from Ocean City Coffee Co.
You're only in Ocean City for so long, so why not try something local like Ocean City Coffee Co. It has multiple locations, but each place serves up great coffee according to reviews. And sometimes they provide live music while you sit and enjoy a drink. It also has a great atmosphere and menu and certainly a place to stop by while on vacation.
12. Go to a show at the Music Pier
This is a venue right on Ocean City's Boardwalk and it holds concerts and other great shows. This summer the Music Pier is hosting a lot of shows including Jason Mraz in June and "The Beach Boys" in July. Check out the Music Piers schedule and see if any of the shows catch your interest. You might find something you love.
It's all of this and so much more that makes Ocean City the great vacation spot it is. From delicious food and the beaches to water parks and mini golf, Ocean City has a lot to offer and if you plan on vacationing there this summer, make sure you put these on your list of things to do.
