Ocean City, Maryland

Ocean City
City
Ocean City, Maryland
Aerial view of Ocean City
Flag of Ocean City Flag Official seal of Ocean City Seal
Nickname(s):  OC
Motto(s):  "The East Coast's Premier Vacation Destination"
Coordinates:
Country	United States
State	Maryland
County	Worcester
Founded	1875
Government
• Type	Mayor-Council
• Mayor	Rick Meehan
Area
• Total	10.52 sq mi (27.2 km2)
• Land	4.43 sq mi (11.5 km2)
• Water	6.09 sq mi (15.8 km2)
Elevation	10 ft (3 m)
Population  (2020)
• Total	7,102
• Density	1,604.06/sq mi (619.33/km2)
Time zone	UTC-5 (Eastern (EST))
• Summer (DST)	UTC-4 (EDT)
ZIP codes	21842-21843
Area code(s)	410, 443
Website	oceancitymd.gov

Ocean City is a city located in Worcester County, Maryland, United States. It is a popular vacation destination on the East Coast, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant boardwalk, and wide range of recreational activities. With a population of 7,102 as of 2020, Ocean City offers a unique blend of natural beauty and modern amenities.

History

Ocean City was founded in 1875 by the Atlantic Hotel Company as a seaside resort. The town quickly grew in popularity, attracting tourists from nearby cities and states. Over the years, Ocean City has undergone significant development and expansion, transforming into a thriving vacation destination.

Geography

Ocean City is situated on a barrier island along the Atlantic Ocean. It is located at . The city has a total area of 10.52 square miles, with 4.43 square miles of land and 6.09 square miles of water. The elevation of Ocean City is approximately 10 feet above sea level.

Attractions

File:Ocean City Boardwalk.jpg

Ocean City Boardwalk

Ocean City is renowned for its pristine beaches, which stretch for miles along the Atlantic coastline. The city's most iconic attraction is its boardwalk, a 3-mile long wooden promenade that offers a variety of entertainment options, including amusement rides, arcades, shops, and restaurants. The boardwalk is a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike.

In addition to the beaches and boardwalk, Ocean City offers numerous recreational activities. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy deep-sea fishing, surf fishing, and crabbing. Water sports such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and jet skiing are also popular. Golfers can choose from several championship golf courses in the area.

Culture and Events

Ocean City hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year. The city is known for its lively nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. The annual Springfest and Sunfest festivals attract thousands of visitors with live music, arts and crafts, and delicious food.

Economy

Ocean City's economy is primarily driven by tourism. The city's hotels, restaurants, and shops cater to the needs of vacationers. The tourism industry provides employment opportunities for many residents during the peak summer season. Additionally, Ocean City is home to a number of year-round residents who work in various sectors, including healthcare, education, and government.

Transportation

Ocean City is accessible by car via the Route 50 bridge, which connects the city to the mainland. The nearest major airport is Salisbury-Ocean City Wicomico Regional Airport, located approximately 30 miles west of Ocean City. The city also operates a public transportation system, known as the Ocean City Transportation Department, which provides bus services throughout the area.

Education

Ocean City is served by the Worcester County Public Schools system. The city has several public schools, including Ocean City Elementary School, Berlin Intermediate School, and Stephen Decatur High School. There are also private schools and educational institutions in the area.

Notable People

• Brooks Robinson - Hall of Fame baseball player
• Pam Shriver - Former professional tennis player
• Jim Mathias - Former Maryland State Senator

External links

• Official website
• Visit Maryland - Ocean City