Winter in Ocean City, MD, may be chilly, but that’s all the more reason to cozy up with a sweet treat! Whether you’re rewarding the kids after a day of winter beach adventures or just craving something delicious, OCMD has plenty of family-friendly dessert spots to explore. Best of all, you won’t be out long enough for anyone to get cranky!
Family Friendly Dessert Options In OCMD
Winter is the perfect time to try new restaurants with kids in tow. So next time family or friends visit, you’ll already know the best spots for a sweet treat!
Annabelle’s BBQ and Creamery
Friends, this is the go-to spot for a family-friendly treat. With easy parking and ample seating at Annabelles and the attached Border Bar and Barrio Taco, there really is something for everyone. Let the kids enjoy crispy fries and a scoop of ice cream while you enjoy a taco, BBQ plate, boozy shake, or cocktail. And if you’re craving something extra sweet, don’t miss Annabelle’s homemade bread pudding (when available) or Barrio Taco’s churros with Dulce de Leche, Tres Leches Cake, or vanilla Flan. A one-stop spot for savory bites and indulgent desserts!
Ropewalk Ocean City
Beyond the beachy vibe and kid-friendly menu, Ropewalk knows how to do dessert right. Indulge in their decadent Raspberry New York Cheesecake, rich Mississippi Mud Cake, or creamy Oreo Cheesecake. While the kids sip on a Souvenir Fishbowl Slushie, parents can enjoy one of their signature adult slushies or craft cocktails. Bonus: Their kids’ meals come with a free frisbee—perfect for an impromptu beach game!
Dumser’s Dairyland
An Ocean City classic! With seven locations around OCMD, Dumser’s is the go-to spot for a grab-and-go soft serve cone dipped in rainbow sprinkles, a thick milkshake or at traditional sundae. If you’re looking to dine in and maybe pair your treats with lunch or dinner, visit the 123rd Street location for a great kids’ menu, easy parking, and a ton of ice cream options.
Alley Oops
With locations in both Uptown and Midtown OC, Alley Oops is the perfect spot for a fun-filled family outing. Play arcade games, watch televised sports, and dive into sweet treats like a Waffle Sundae, Oreo Cheesecake, Mud Cake, Funnel Fries, Root Beer Float, or a simple dish of ice cream. Plus, they have great daily off-season specials to keep the fun affordable.
Surfin’ Betty’s
Ahem, tween and teen parents, take note – this is where they want to go. Grab a Gen Z Chicken or a Pittsburgh Dawg, then wash it down with a shake, float, or Maine Roots Soda and you will win the day. Parents, they’ve got craft beer and solid weekday specials too. We’re pulling for you!
Pablo’s Bowls
Want something on the healthier side? Pablo’s Bowls is a fantastic option for fresh açaí bowls, pitaya bowls, and smoothies. Their nutrient-packed treats are just as satisfying as traditional desserts but come with an extra dose of vitamins and energy—perfect after a brisk winter walk on the beach!
Real Raw Organics
Another great spot for healthy yet sweet treats, Real Raw Organics serves house-brewed kombucha, nutrient-packed smoothies, and açaí bowls loaded with fresh fruit, granola, and natural sweeteners. If you’re craving something refreshing without the sugar crash, this is a great pick.
Blue Fish (Mochi Desserts)
If you haven’t tried mochi ice cream, now’s the time! Blue Fish serves these small, chewy rice cake-wrapped ice cream bites, making for a perfectly portioned, fun dessert. Mochi is a great option if you want to treat the kids but keep portion sizes small.
Thrasher’s Fries (Because Fries Can Be a Treat, Too!)
Okay, so it’s not technically sweet, but Thrasher’s Fries are a must-have OCMD indulgence! Open on many off-season weekends, this Boardwalk favorite serves up piping hot, crispy fries with just the right amount of vinegar and salt. It’s a treat the whole family can share—and if you happen to pair it with a milkshake from Dumser’s, even better!
More Winter Fun Awaits!
Just because it's winter doesn’t mean Ocean City slows down completely! From weekend events to cozy cafés, there’s plenty to do while enjoying fewer crowds and lower prices. Want even more ways to make the most of winter in Ocean City? Follow Explore OC for the latest deals, events, and hidden gems!
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