In 2025, Ocean City, Maryland, proudly celebrates its 150th anniversary—a milestone that calls for a heartfelt tribute to the businesses and institutions that have been the soul of this beach town for 50 years or more. These iconic spots have woven themselves into the fabric of Ocean City, serving up fries, thrills, and sweet memories that span generations. From boardwalk legends to bayside treasures, let’s dive into the legacies that have made Maryland’s Coast a beloved destination. Grab a bucket of fries or caramel popcorn, and join us on this nostalgic journey!
Restaurants & Bars: Savoring Ocean City’s Flavorful History
Thrasher’s French Fries (Since 1929 – 96 Years)
A trip to Ocean City isn’t complete without Thrasher’s iconic boardwalk fries! Since J.T. Thrasher started this crispy tradition in 1929, they’ve been a staple for 96 years. With stands at the pier, 2nd, and 9th Streets, Thrasher’s fries—served with a side of vinegar—still draw crowds (and seagulls!) just like they did nearly a century ago. The recipe hasn’t changed, and neither has the magic. Grab a bucket and taste the history!
The Harbor Inn (Since 1935 – 90 Years)
Tucked away like a locals’ secret, The Harbor Inn has been Ocean City’s oldest bar since 1935, marking 90 years in 2025. This no-frills gem is all about cold beers, strong drinks, and late-night stories. Pin a dollar to the ceiling, trade laughs with the sassy barkeep, and soak in the vibe of this 90-year-old watering hole—where locals and visitors become fast friends.
The Angler Restaurant (Since 1938 – 87 Years)
A true Ocean City original, The Angler Restaurant opened its doors in 1938, welcoming fishermen and visitors alike for 87 years. With its prime spot by the inlet, this seafood haven has been serving fresh catch and cold drinks to generations of locals and tourists. Whether you’re digging into crab cakes or sipping a beer with a view, The Angler Restaurant’s history makes it a must-visit for anyone craving a taste of OC’s past.
Dumser’s Dairyland (Since 1939 – 86 Years)
Got a craving for nostalgia? Dumser’s Dairyland has been scooping homemade ice cream since 1939, with five locations across Ocean City, MD (123rd St., 49th St., 510 S. Philadelphia Ave., Boardwalk at Caroline St., and Wicomico Street Inlet). For 86 years, they’ve been the spot for classics like Peanut Butter Supreme and Brownie Sundaes. Summer nights mean long lines, but that first taste of mint chocolate chip is pure magic!
The Captain’s Table (Since 1958 – 67 Years)
A locals’ favorite for 67 years, The Captain’s Table started as a small bar and dining room in the Mariner Motel in 1958. Now at the Courtyard by Marriott on 15th Street, it’s still serving succulent seafood and modern dishes with a side of nostalgia. Stop by for a taste of Ocean City’s culinary past!
The Golden Plate (Since 1970 – 55 Years)
Celebrating 55 years, The Golden Plate has been a boardwalk favorite. Back in the day, it was the after-party spot for locals leaving the Paddock nightclub. But in the late 1990s, the family moved to a concession stand at 1st Street and the Boardwalk, adapting to the crowd with cheesesteak subs, gyros, Greek salads, and boardwalk treats like deep-fried Oreos, where it still stands today.
Fager’s Island (Since 1975 – 50 Years)
Hitting the big 5-0 in 2025, Fager’s Island has been a bayside icon since 1975. What began as a small Key West-style bar has blossomed into a fine dining restaurant, nightclub, and hotel, all while keeping its legendary sunset views and lively vibe. Toast to 50 years with a craft cocktail and live music. Fager’s proves that Ocean City, MD, knows how to party with a view!
Bonfire Restaurant (50+ Years)
For over 50 years, Bonfire Restaurant has been a locals’ go-to with its 150-foot buffet of seafood, steaks, and desserts. Blending fresh flavors with a cozy atmosphere, it’s perfect for families celebrating Ocean City’s milestone anniversaries. Dig into the crab legs and raise a glass to Bonfire’s enduring legacy!
Sweet Treats: A Century of Sugar-Coated Memories
Dolle’s Candyland (Since 1910 – 115 Years)
A boardwalk legend since 1910, Dolle’s Candyland will be 115 years old in 2025! This fourth-generation candy company is famous for its saltwater taffy, caramel popcorn, and fudge. For over a century, they’ve been the sweet taste of OC summers—grab some taffy and savor the memories!
Candy Kitchen (Since 1937 – 88 Years)
Another sweet icon, Candy Kitchen, has been crafting homemade confections since 1937—88 years of saltwater taffy, fudge, and chocolates! With multiple locations across Ocean City, their colorful shops are a boardwalk tradition. Whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, Candy Kitchen’s treats are a bite of OC’s past.
Fisher’s Popcorn (Since 1937 – 88 Years)
Popping onto the scene in 1937, Fisher’s Popcorn has been a boardwalk favorite for 88 years. Their caramel popcorn, now with flavors like Old Bay and chocolate-drizzled, is a must for any beach stroll. Third-generation owner Donald Fisher Jr. keeps the tradition alive, ensuring every handful is a taste of Ocean City’s history.
Attractions & Amusements: Thrills That Stand the Test of Time
Trimper Rides (Since 1890 – 135 Years)
The granddaddy of Ocean City attractions, Trimper Rides, has been spinning memories since 1890—135 years of fun! This family-owned amusement park on the boardwalk is home to the 1912 Herschell-Spillman carousel, the oldest operational merry-go-round in the U.S.! From the Haunted House (a staple since 1964) to the Fairy Whip, Trimper’s has entertained generations. Take a ride and celebrate OC’s oldest amusement park!
The Angler Charter Fishing (Since 1941 – 84 Years)
Set sail with The Angler, a charter fishing operation that’s been reeling in adventure since 1941, just a few years after its namesake restaurant opened. For 84 years, this charter has specialized in deep-sea fishing for seabass, tautog, flounder, and bluefish, offering a variety of experiences throughout the year. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a first-timer, The Angler’s legacy on the water is a catch worth celebrating!
Telescope Pictures (Since 1945 – 80 Years)
Capture a piece of Ocean City history with Telescope Pictures, a beach photography tradition since 1945—celebrating 80 years in 2025! With locations in South and North Ocean City, they’ve been snapping timeless photos of families against the backdrop of our sandy shores. Stop by for a keepsake photo and become part of their 80-year legacy of preserving OCMD memories!
Marty’s Playland (Since 1955 – 70 Years)
A boardwalk arcade legend, Marty’s Playland has been lighting up smiles since 1955—70 years of Skee-Ball, Pokerino, and classic games! This arcade is a nostalgic haven for kids and adults alike. Grab some tokens and play your way through history.
Jolly Roger Amusements (Since 1964 – 61 Years)
Jolly Roger has been thrilling visitors since 1964, marking 61 years in 2025. With locations at the Pier and 30th Street, plus Splash Mountain, Speedworld, and mini-golf, Jolly Roger offers rides, go-karts, and water slides for all ages. From the slingshot to the Giant Wheel, this amusement park is a cornerstone of Ocean City fun!
Old Pro Golf (Since 1944 – 61 Years)
Putt-putt perfection since 1964, Old Pro Golf has been a mini-golf mainstay for 61 years. With multiple locations across Ocean City, their themed courses—like the pirate ship and dinosaur adventures—have challenged families for decades. Grab a club and swing through 61 years of memories!
The Kite Loft (Since 1975 – 50 Years)
Flying high for 50 years, The Kite Loft opened in 1975 and has been a boardwalk fixture ever since. Known for its colorful kites, windsocks, and aerial toys, this shop brings the sky to life. In 2020, they celebrated their 45th anniversary, and now they’re hitting the big 5-0—perfect for Ocean City’s 150th!
Community Guardians: Protecting Our Coastal Legacy
Ocean City Beach Patrol (Since 1930 – 95 Years)
For 95 years, the Ocean City Beach Patrol (OCBP) has been keeping our beaches safe, ensuring every visitor can enjoy the surf with peace of mind. Since its founding in 1930, the OCBP has been a steadfast presence, watching over the 8 million annual visitors who flock to our shores. Their lifeguards are the unsung heroes of Ocean City, making it possible for families to create memories worry-free. Dive into the waves and thank the OCBP for 95 years of protection!
Hotels: Where Memories Check In
The Carousel Hotel (Since 1962 – 63 Years)
The Carousel Hotel has been a family favorite since 1962, celebrating 63 years in 2025. This oceanfront gem is famous for its year-round ice skating rink—a unique treat in a beach town! Enjoy a meal at their dining room or catch a rink-side show while celebrating their long-standing role in OC’s hospitality scene.
Flamingo Motel (50+ Years)
The Flamingo Motel has been welcoming guests for over 50 years with its classic Ocean City charm. A staple for families, this hotel offers a front-row seat to the beach and boardwalk action. Check in and celebrate their enduring role in OC’s history!
Missing the 50+ Mark (But Still Iconic)
A few businesses didn’t quite hit the 50-year mark but are worth a shoutout for their contributions to Ocean City’s legacy: Fractured Prune, Seacrets, MR Ducks, The Hobbit, and Endless Summer Surf Shop. They may be younger, but they’re already writing their own chapters in OCMD’s story!
A Toast to 150 Years of Ocean City Magic!
Let’s raise a scoop of Dumser’s ice cream to these timeless treasures that keep us coming back, and here’s to the next 150 years of Ocean City magic! 🌊🎡🍟
Plan Your Visit: Ready to experience these historic spots? Head to Ocean City, MD, and make your own memories with these iconic businesses.
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