10 Things to Do in Ocean City This Fall

When the summer crowds fade, the beaches transform into peaceful sanctuaries. Fall tides bring in pristine, unbroken shells for collectors and admirers. Stroll along the wide-open shore during low tide with a warm coffee in hand and take in the serene Atlantic view.

Starting October 1st, Ocean City official rules shift to welcome four-legged visitors onto the boardwalk and beach. Take advantage of the cooler weather to stroll the 2.4-mile stretch with your dog without worrying about hot pavement.

One of the best perks of shoulder season? Locals’ deals. Neighborhood favorites drop their prices so you can feast for less:

• OC Wasabi: Catch their famous 3 specialty rolls for $25 special—a dream deal for sushi lovers.
• Shotti’s Point: Stop by on Tuesday nights for $10 Taco Night paired with craft brews and great local music.

Skip the heavy boardwalk bike traffic and head to 125th Street. Northside Park features a smooth, paved trail loop winding past tranquil wetland marshes and over an open-water pier. It’s an ideal spot for a crisp morning bike ride, autumn birdwatching, or catching a sunset over the bay.

Just 15 minutes inland lies Berlin, named one of "America’s Coolest Small Towns." Spend a leisurely afternoon browsing charming antique shops and local boutiques. When hunger strikes, head to Forgotten Fifty Distilling for craft cocktails and a menu featuring creative burgers, flatbreads, and gourmet small plates.

Cool autumn evenings call for indoor entertainment. Check the schedule at the Ocean City Performing Arts Center inside the Convention Center on 40th Street. Their fall lineup typically features live touring concerts, comedy shows, and seasonal theater productions.

Nothing says autumn on the coast like sitting by a warm fire on the sand. The Town of Ocean City allows beach bonfires with a standard permit—just apply for your permit through the city, grab a bunch of untreated firewood, and set up your group safely 75 feet back from the dunes for an unforgettable night under the stars.

As twilight falls, discover the darker side of Ocean City’s past. Join a guided Chesapeake Ghost Tour to hear chilling tales about famous landmarks—including haunting legends tied to Dolle’s Candies, the historic Life-Saving Station Museum, and spooky encounters near the boardwalk.

Warm up after a day on the beach by sampling local libations. Sinepuxent Brewery is perfect for grabbing a fresh, locally brewed IPA or seasonal ale alongside tasty pub fare.

Take a relaxing literary scavenger hunt across town! Ocean City and its surrounding neighborhoods are home to several Little Free Libraries. Grab a book you’ve finished reading, take a leisurely stroll through local parks and neighborhoods, and swap it for your next autumn beach read.

Fall in Ocean City is something worthwhile. Book your autumn retreat here.