As planners face rising expectations from attendees demanding memorable experiences, high-end amenities and elevated environments, it’s easy to assume that only major metro areas can deliver. But hidden along the Mid-Atlantic coast is a destination that blends resort-style luxury, modern meeting infrastructure and surprising affordability: Ocean City, Maryland.
Often thought of as a seasonal beach getaway, Ocean City has quietly redefined its group offerings, transforming into a sophisticated, planner-friendly destination that punches far above its weight. Think oceanfront hotels with rooftop lounges, renovated ballrooms with panoramic views and a waterfront convention center with over 200,000 square feet of flexible space, all available at rates that make budget-conscious planning not just possible, but exciting.
Stylish Stays Without the Splurge
Today’s attendees want more than a place to sleep. They want to be inspired, energized and treated to an experience. In Ocean City, that’s exactly what they get. Over the past few years, many of the city’s hotel properties have invested significantly in renovations and rebrands, resulting in an impressive portfolio of upscale accommodations that feel more like boutique resorts than traditional group hotels.
Whether it’s a newly updated oceanfront suite with floor-to-ceiling windows or a beachfront resort with stylish common spaces and rooftop cocktail service, Ocean City’s hospitality scene is full of surprises. Even better—thanks to favorable rates, especially during the Sunday-Thursday window, groups can often book premium accommodations at a fraction of what they’d pay in major cities.
Modern Meeting Spaces with Coastal Flair
Of course, a great meeting destination needs more than beautiful guest rooms, and Ocean City delivers there, too. At the heart of the city’s meetings infrastructure is the Roland E. Powell Convention Center, a state-of-the-art venue with 214,000 square feet of flexible meeting, exhibit and performance space. With waterfront ballrooms, a 1,200-seat Performing Arts Center and modern AV and tech throughout, it’s equipped to host everything from small leadership retreats to major trade shows and association conventions.
But the options don’t stop there. Dozens of full-service hotels and resorts offer onsite meeting space ideal for corporate breakouts, incentive programs and board meetings. Picture a morning session in a newly designed ballroom followed by lunch on a terrace overlooking the Atlantic. Planners also love the walkability of the area, allowing for seamless transitions between meetings, networking and beachside downtime.
Beyond the Ballroom: Elevated Experiences Await
What truly sets Ocean City apart is the way the destination encourages groups to step outside the standard event formula. With more than 250 restaurants, a vibrant craft beer scene, rooftop lounges and offsite venues ranging from farms and waterfront estates to golf courses and bayside marinas, the options for creative programming are nearly endless.
Imagine a sunset welcome reception at a harborfront restaurant, an afternoon teambuilding kayak excursion near Assateague Island or a closing dinner at a local farm brewery. These are the kinds of experiences that attendees remember—and planners appreciate for their built-in value and ease of access.
Value Meets Vision
Ocean City is especially appealing for organizations looking to stretch their budget without sacrificing quality. The town’s tourism team offers special incentives for midweek and off-season meetings, and many hotel partners provide added value through discounts, upgrades and customizable packages. This makes it easy for planners to deliver luxury-level experiences at a smart price point, all while tapping into the city’s supportive network of venues, service providers and destination experts.
An Unexpected Star on the Meetings Map
For many planners, their first visit to Ocean City is eye-opening. They come expecting a quaint beach town, and they find a destination that checks every box on their sourcing checklist: modern infrastructure, high-end accommodations, creative experiences and undeniable value. Add to that the coastal setting, warm hospitality and genuine commitment to group success, and it’s no surprise that Ocean City is fast becoming a favorite among planners looking for a fresh alternative to crowded, high-cost cities.
Make Ocean City Your Next Meeting Destination
Attendees expect more, and with Ocean City, you can give them more without spending more. From luxury-level accommodations and versatile venues to off-season value and coastal charm, Ocean City delivers unforgettable meetings that make sense for your bottom line.
Ready to be surprised? Learn more or start planning today at www.ococean.com/meetings
Sponsored by Ocean City, MD CVB
