Get Answers from the OC Insiders

Michelle,
The Fenwick Inn is a great hotel with a great indoor pool.  It is inexpensive and a short 3 blocks to the ocean.  It would be perfect for a family of 2.

Patti,
I just want to echo the benefits of a beach caddy for making the walk easier.  They are under $30 at Roses or Sunsations.

Amanda,
Also be sure to visit Fager's Island for some night life.  It offers live music or a DJ.  The Fenwick Inn has great rates for that week and they offer a nice indoor pool.  Have a great time.

Molly,

For that large of a group, definitely check out Sunset Island.  It's a private community which has large 3-story townhouses which would be perfect for your group.  The community offers an indoor and outdoor pool, fitness room, private bayside beach, and gated/security.  The area is quiet and the amenities of this community are fabulous.

Ideally for lesser crowds you will want to stay closer to north OC.

Hope this gives you a starting point.  Have a great time planning the group getaway!
Anna G.

Tiffany,

The great thing about Ocean City is the boardwalk and much of OC are open all year round.  Weather permitting, you will see many of the boardwalk shops open during the weekend (limited operating hours), bike rental companies in full force, and lots of people taking advantage of the boardwalk.

We will be leaving the day you arrive, but every year we are in OC for their St. Patrick's Day festivities and there is always something to do or see.  Plenty of open restaurants, attractions, and our family is on the boards at some point almost every year.

Have a wonderful time!
Anna G.

Sue,

My best suggestion would be to contact the Art League of Ocean City (http://www.artleagueofoceancity.org/) or the OC Chamber of Commerce (http://www.oceancity.org/). 

The other Insider's may have additional information as well.

Thank you,
Anna G.

Maudeena,

First, accommodations.  If you book your hotel through www.ocean-city.com they are offering free certificates for restaurants, attractions, etc. just for using their site.  Great resource to book based on dates and you can select your hotel based on amenities. 

Since weather could still be "iffy" in April, may I suggest a hotel with indoor pool for your son.  Suggestions would be Holiday Inn Suites, Tidelands Caribbean, Princess Royale, or even better Carousel (your son can ice skate!).

For activities, the Spring Arts & Craft Show is at the Convention Center and normally they have lots of fun activities for the kids throughout the day.  You can get more information by visiting www.oceanpromotions.info. 

Indoor mini golf - my children loved playing mini golf at that age.  Other places to check out, FishTales will be open.  This is a child-friendly restaurant located on the bayside.  They have a great fenced in play area for kids so parents can sit back and enjoy the bay views (FYI - I request a table close to the play area and the staff tries to accommodate as best as they can).

Bowling - what kids doesn't like to bowl.  OC Bowling has 2 bumper lanes - I believe.  We haven't been there in about 4 years, so can't confirm it's still 2 lanes.

Boardwalk - grab a bike built for 3 and explore.  Beach - best time to walk on the beach and find all kinds of seashell treasures. 

Hope this helps in beginning your planning.  Definitely check out www.ococean.com as there is tons of information available to assist in your planning as well.

Enjoy,
Anna G.

Dale,

Unfortunately the weather is very unpredictable at this time of the year.  Can be warm, sunny and very nice springlike weather; other times it is rainy, cold, and makes being outside difficult.

With that said, remember there is always something to do in OC - no matter what the weather.  If sunny - take in the boards, shops, and all the exciting outdoor attractions.  If rainy or cold - there is indoor mini-golf, great restaurants, movies, bowling, ice skating, etc.

We visit OC all year and there is never a shortage of things to do.  Don't forget to check out the events which happen at the convention center - www.ococean.com/events.  Like 3/18 - 3/20 there is a Home, Garden, and Condo Show which is really great for ideas on getting your home ready for spring and summer.

Thank you,
Anna G.

Hi Lori,
The Hilton is a very good choice. It is one of OC's best and newest hotels and is right on the ocean and off of the boardwalk.  You can also try the Grand Hotel on 21st St or the Holiday Inn Suites on 17th St.  Both are on the boardwalk but far enough away from the rides and arcades at the inlet end.  Be advised that that time of year is still in what's considered Senior Weeks which is when graduating seniors (both college and high school) decend on OC for partying, so my advice is to stay no closer than 17th to avoid the noise and chaos. The Holiday Inn and the Grand are both close to some very good restaurants as well.  But you can't go wrong with any of the three mentioned.

Karen,

Personally I like to try different places and since you will be there for just about 3 days, I would recommend one of each.  Try something different each day/night.  We enjoy Seacrets and their menu is great for all palates, as well have great entertainment, bar drinks, and the atmosphere is so relaxing and tropical.

Fager's Island as well has various foods but I've eaten here before and had grilled chicken and an appetizer (I don't like seafood) and it was great.  But plan your visit to Fager's Island around sunset.  It's so beautiful overlooking the bay and there is a pier and pavilion area that you can walk out.

I personally think you will enjoy both restaurants;  Seacrets probably has more of the casual type fare your husband will enjoy, but give Fager's Island a try.  I don't think you will be unhappy with either location.

Thank you,
Anna G.