In Ocean City, Maryland, the real fun starts after dark. Known for its stunning ocean views and lively boardwalk, this quintessential beach town transforms into a bustling party hub as the sun sets. So whether you’re in the mood for a night of dancing, sipping cocktails by the shore, or simply people-watching under the stars, Ocean City’s nightlife scene has something for everyone.
Bars, Restaurants & Clubs
Cowboy Coast Saloon is the first and only country bar and eatery in Ocean City with live music and the star of the show – the bar’s mechanical bull. Known for its high-energy atmosphere, you can play a game of cornhole, hit the dance floor for line dancing, and every night of the week, there’s a special event such as karaoke and ladies’ night hoe-downs. Of course, good grub and cocktails are available nightly. Try the popular beer can chicken and sip on the saloon’s infamous Cowboy Juice – a combination of seven different rums, pineapple, coconut, and other fruit juices served in a souvenir boot cup.
Take in the ocean views from the beachfront patio at Coconuts Beach Bar & Grill. Enjoy the sway of the lush palm trees in the cool breeze and the vibrant tropical flowers surrounding the terrace as you dine al fresco. Try their popular Jamaican grilled mahi mahi sandwich and wash it down with their award-winning signature rum punch drink, the Tipsy Turtle. If you’re a guest at the Sand Hotel, they offer poolside food and beverage service.
You’ll dance the night away to local musicians and dine on delicious seafood at Hammerheads, just off the boardwalk. Sip on freshly squeezed fruit crushes from the bar or one of their signature cocktails like the shark tank or rum punch bucket. Hungry? Chow down on a steamer pot packed with snow crab, shrimp, clams and mussels. After dinner, groove to the heart-pumping beats of the live entertainment as you soak up the cool ocean breeze.
Make a splash at Seacrets, an Ocean City spectacle that combines a nightclub with a waterfront bar for an incredible evening of entertainment. Rock out to local musicians at the beach stage, dance to the latest hits under the neon lights of the Morley Hall Nightclub or sip fruity cocktails while lounging in the bay. Don’t skip out on the food either – the fish tacos paired with their signature drink, the Seacrets Sunrise, makes for the perfect bite.
If you’re looking for delicious surf ‘n turf in Ocean City, Fager’s Island Restaurant & Bar is where it’s at, offering fine dining as well as live entertainment. Visiting on a Monday? Let your hair down at one of Fager’s iconic nighttime deck parties after you’ve feasted on scallops and steak. A nightclub also features live music from local DJs and cover bands like Collective.
Arts & Entertainment
Beyond the bars and nightclubs, Ocean City is home to various entertainment venues and events. Recently, Ocean City has opened a new state-of-the-art performing arts center offering an intimate setting for concerts, musicals and dance performances. Enjoy inspirational classical music from the Mid-Atlantic Symphony Orchestra or modern stylings from The Doo Woop Project.
If you’re looking for a fun and creative night with friends, try a paint night with a twist at T.C. Studios Art & Entertainment. Pick a painting from the studio’s gallery, select your canvas and start creating. You can even choose other objects to paint on, from glassware to wood pallets. Check the calendar of events for themed paint nights, such as Paint Your Pet and Wine and Paint nights – after a few glasses of red, you’ll feel like Bob Ross.
Ocean Downs Casino is just a ten-minute drive from Ocean City, Maryland, and has live table games, over 900 slot machines, dining, and a lively bar. After testing your luck with Blackjack or Ultimate Texas, Hold’em, or place your bets with live horse racing. Once you’re done playing, you can enjoy a quick bite at Waves or have a sit-down dining experience at Pacers or Poseidon’s Pub. If you’d prefer a cocktail or something on tap, head to The Clubhouse Turn for a drink.
For more family-friendly fun, check out Sundaes in the Park every Sunday evening at Northside Park starting in June. Enjoy free live music from rock to country, oldies and tribute bands as you enjoy a delicious ice cream sundae. Even better, the event always closes with a spectacular fireworks display.
