14 Date Night Ideas in Ocean City, Maryland

Looking to spice up your date nights in Ocean City? Whether you’re a local searching for fresh date night ideas or a visitor eager to explore the charm of our coastal town, you’re in for a treat! Ocean City offers a variety of fun experiences perfect for couples seeking romance and adventure. From strolls along the boardwalk and seafood dinners to playing mini golf or enjoying the boardwalk arcades, Ocean City is the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments with your special someone. Join us as we dive into a curated list of date night ideas guaranteed to ignite the spark and create lasting memories in Ocean City.

1. Mini Golf

Ocean City boasts all kinds of outdoor mini golf during the season, but there are two great indoor mini golf courses by Old Pro Golf on 68th and 136th, so no matter the weather you can enjoy some friendly competition with your date.

2. Arcade Fun

Channel your inner child and challenge each other to classic arcade games along the boardwalk. The boardwalk features two extensive arcades – Sportland and Marty’s Playland! Make sure to check their hours because they have different hours depending on the time of year.

3. Ax Throwing

For an adventurous twist, try your hand at ax throwing. It’s a unique and thrilling experience that will surely get your adrenaline pumping and maybe even vent some stress. Ocean City has two great ax throwing places: one in West Ocean City, OC Battle Axe, and the other, OC Axe on 23rd Street in the Embers complex.

4. Bowling

Keep the fun rolling with a night of bowling at Ocean Lanes on 72nd Street. It’s a classic date night activity with a competitive edge.

5. Paint Night

Get creative together at OC Paint Experience. Choose from painting your pet, one of their gallery pieces, or even paint your partner for a memorable and artistic date.

6. Art Classes

Explore your artistic side together at an Art League class. From watercolor and pottery to drawing and jewelry making, there’s something for every couple to enjoy. Check out the selection of classes at artleagueofoceancity.org.

7. Trivia Night

Put your heads together and test your knowledge at a trivia night. Several restaurants and venues in town do off-season trivia nights – Taphouse Tavern, Harpoon Hanna’s, and Ocean Downs, just to name a few.

8. Karaoke

Let loose and serenade each other with your favorite tunes at The Sandbar on 33rd Street. It’s a great way to bond over your favorite music and have a blast together.

9. Escape Room

Put your problem-solving skills to the test with an escape room challenge. Whether you’re in downtown, midtown, or uptown, Captive Ocean City and Escapomania have plenty of great themed options inspired by pirates, witches, and even Dracula, so you’re sure to find something that fits you and your dates’ interests.

10. Ocean Downs Casino

Feeling lucky? Spend a glamorous evening trying your hand at gambling at Ocean Downs Casino off of Route 50. 

11. Catch a Show

The Ocean City Performing Arts Center has a great lineup of upcoming events from theatre productions and musicals to live game shows and stand up comedians and even a symphony orchestra. Catching one of their shows is a fun and unique way to spend an evening.

12. Watch a Movie

Cozy up together and enjoy a movie night at one of Ocean City’s theaters that feature luxurious recliners: Flagship Cinemas in West Ocean City or Fox Gold Coast Theater on 113 Street. It’s a classic date night option that never disappoints.

13. Ice Skating

Embrace the winter season by going ice skating together at the Carousel Hotel. It’s a romantic and playful way to spend time together on the ice.

14. Bonfire on the Beach

End your date night with a romantic bonfire on the beach. Snuggle up together under the stars and enjoy the sound of the waves crashing nearby. Make sure to get a permit before setting up! You can apply at ocbonfires.com.

Bonus Idea 

Balcony Dinner

For the ultimate date night, treat your special someone to a romantic getaway complete with dinner on your private balcony overlooking the ocean. We’ve got plenty of oceanfront accommodations perfect for any budget. But if you want to take it the next level, check out our hotels with in-house restaurants (Hilton, Doubletree, Holiday Inn & Suites, and Courtyard) and get your food delivered right to your room!

No matter which activity you choose, these date night ideas are guaranteed to make your time in Ocean City unforgettable. So grab your special someone and get ready for a night of romance and adventure in our charming coastal town.

Upcoming Events

Winterfest of Lights

Nov 21, 2024 - Dec 31, 2024

Everyone's favorite light show is back and better than ever!

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Dec 31, 2024

Enjoy a fireworks display to welcome the New Year!

Ocean City Film Festival

Mar 6, 2025 - Mar 9, 2025

Experience the Ocean City Film Festival, an annual celebration of independent cinema showcasing diverse films.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Mar 15, 2025

Join the fun at Ocean City's St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Maryland's largest celebration of Irish heritage! Enjoy festive floats, music, dancing, and community spirit along Coastal Highway March 15th, 2025.

Easter Egg Hunt at Northside Park

Apr 19, 2025

Enjoy a classic egg hunt with carnival style games and visits with the Easter Bunny.

Springfest 2025

Apr 24, 2025 - Apr 27, 2025

New Dates! Same Great Springfest!

Anime Ocean City

Apr 26, 2025

Celebrate Japanese pop culture at the Ocean City Anime Festival! Enjoy cosplay, anime screenings, guest panels, artist alley, and interactive activities in a fun seaside setting.

34th Annual Cruisin’ Ocean City

May 1, 2025 - May 4, 2025

A 20+ year car show that will feature over 3,000 Hot Rods, Customs, Classics, and Trucks participating in events at the OC Convention Center, Inlet Parking Lot, and various car shows throughout town.

Ocean City Jeep Week

May 8, 2025 - May 11, 2025

Gear up for Ocean City Jeep Week! Enjoy beach crawls, off-roading, Show & Shine contests, and a vibrant Jeep community. Don’t miss this ultimate Jeep lover’s event!

Boardwalk Rock Festival

May 17, 2025 - May 18, 2025

Ocean City's Newest and Biggest Music Festival!

Experience the Ocean City Air Show, a thrilling display of aerial performances by top military teams and stunt pilots.

Ocean City Air Show

Jun 14, 2025 - Jun 15, 2025

Experience the Ocean City Air Show, a thrilling display of aerial performances by top military teams and stunt pilots!

Celebrate July 4th in Ocean City, MD, with stunning fireworks, live music, and family fun on the beach and boardwalk. A perfect patriotic getaway!

July 4th Celebration

Jul 4, 2025

Celebrate July 4th in Ocean City, MD, with stunning fireworks, live music, and family fun on the beach and boardwalk. A perfect patriotic getaway!

White Marlin Open

Aug 4, 2025 - Aug 8, 2025

Join the excitement of the White Marlin Open in Ocean City, MD, the world's largest billfishing tournament with thrilling weigh-ins and big prize money!

Oceans Calling

Sep 26, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025

Experience the Oceans Calling Festival in Ocean City, MD – a multi-day celebration of live music, local food, and coastal vibes on the iconic boardwalk!

Country Calling

Oct 3, 2025 - Oct 4, 2025

Sing along to top country artists at the Country Calling Festival in Ocean City, MD. Enjoy live music, local food, and a scenic beachside atmosphere!

Endless Summer Cruisin’

Oct 9, 2025 - Oct 12, 2025

Rev up your engines at Endless Summer Cruisin' in Ocean City, MD! Enjoy classic cars, hot rods, motorcycle shows, cruises, and more in a scenic beachside setting!

Sunfest

Oct 23, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025

Experience Sunfest in Ocean City, MD – a vibrant festival featuring live music, local arts, delicious food, and family-friendly fun along the beautiful waterfront!

Ocean City Running Festival

Oct 31, 2025 - Nov 1, 2025

Join the Ocean City Running Festival for a scenic race along the iconic boardwalk and beautiful coastal views. Choose from a marathon, half marathon, 5K, and more!

2025 Winterfest of Lights

Nov 20, 2025 - Dec 31, 2025

Experience the magic of the holidays at Winterfest of Lights in Ocean City, MD. Enjoy over a million twinkling lights, festive train rides, and seasonal fun for all ages!

Ocean City Christmas Parade

Dec 6, 2025

Celebrate the holiday season at the Ocean City Christmas Parade! Enjoy festive floats, marching bands, and a special appearance by Santa Claus along Coastal Highway.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Dec 31, 2025

Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Ocean City with a spectacular fireworks display by the sea! Ring in the new year with vibrant lights, music, and festive fun.

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