Ocean City, Maryland’s 10 miles of beaches and historic boardwalk have drawn families and leisure travelers to the Mid-Atlantic coast for generations. But beyond its reputation as a classic summer getaway, meeting planners are beginning to discover a different side of the destination.
With a modern convention center, walkable layout and easy drive-to access from major East Coast markets, Ocean City is positioning itself as a strategic option for meetings that blend professional focus with a refreshing coastal environment.
“We’ve always had the infrastructure for meetings,” said Kim Mueller, director of sales for Discover Ocean City. “But planners haven’t always had Ocean City top of mind. That’s exactly what the launch of Discover Ocean City is designed to change.”
Launched on January 1, Discover Ocean City is a dedicated business-to-business (B2B) identity under the Tourism Department designed to strengthen Ocean City’s visibility in the meetings market.
“We’re letting planners know that we are pursuing them and we are a serious destination, not just to come and enjoy, but also to bring your attendees to for an amazing convention or meeting experience,” Mueller said. “And we are bringing planners in to see that for themselves.”
So far, the initiative is doing exactly what the Tourism Department hoped: helping planners discover Ocean City for meetings.
“[Ocean City] has a great energy about it,” said Corrine Statia Thomas, a meeting planner who’s recently visited the destination. “I’ve often heard of Ocean City as a great place to vacation. But, as a meeting planner, I can tell you it is more than that.”
“Ocean City is a well-kept secret,” Kim Jones, another meeting planner, reiterated. “There is so much to see and do here that I wasn’t aware of. I think everyone needs to come and see what [Ocean City] has to offer because it’s so much more than I anticipated.”
[Related: All That Makes Ocean City, Maryland a Total Meetings Package]
4 Outstanding Offsites
Eagle’s Landing Golf Course
Set just minutes from downtown, Eagle’s Landing Golf Course offers a scenic retreat surrounded by the Sinepuxent Bay and protected wetlands. The clubhouse and outdoor patio create a relaxed coastal setting for post-round gatherings, small group outings or casual receptions, with sweeping marsh views that showcase Ocean City’s natural beauty.
Spain Wine Bar
Located in the heart of downtown, Spain Wine Bar brings a lively, European-inspired atmosphere to Ocean City’s dining scene. Known for its extensive selection of Spanish wines and authentic tapas, it’s an inviting spot for groups looking to gather, share plates and savor bold flavors just steps from the beach.
Seacrets Distilling Company
Seacrets Distilling Company offers a one-of-a-kind setting for groups looking to mix coastal character with handcrafted spirits. As the production home of Seacrets’ small-batch rums, vodkas and gins, the distillery provides a behind-the-scenes experience complete with tastings and guided tours. Its industrial-meets-island atmosphere makes it a distinctive backdrop for private events.
Art League of Ocean City
Overlooking the bay in North Ocean City, Art League of Ocean City offers a creative coastal setting for meetings and events. Home to rotating gallery exhibitions, working artist studios and hands-on classes, the space blends creativity with waterfront views. Groups can host gatherings surrounded by local and regional artwork, adding a cultural touch to any Ocean City experience.
[Related: Discover Ocean City, Maryland’s Unexpected Charm for Meetings and Events]
Getting There
Ocean City is approximately 139 miles from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, 137 miles from Philadelphia International Airport and 150 miles from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. The closest airport is Salisbury Regional Airport, about 27 miles away.
