When I think of iconic Maryland, scrumptious crabcakes, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, and Baltimore Orioles baseball are just a few things that immediately come to mind. Maryland also has an abundance of iconic natural views like waterfalls, gorgeous state parks, and scenic byways. But there is also a manmade state view that is equally as recognizable. The Ocean City Boardwalk in Ocean City is a nostalgic site filled with years of interesting history.

While there is some debate over when the boardwalk was first created, we do know that it is well over 100 years old. Historians estimate the original boardwalk was built somewhere between 1892 and 1902. Some believe the first boardwalk was a movable structure that could be rolled up and stored away for the season or when tides became high. The boardwalk was originally called Atlantic Avenue. 

Over time, the Ocean City Boardwalk became the victim of numerous disasters, including devastating fires, hurricanes, and coastal storms. It has been rebuilt, restored, and expanded many times. Today it spans 2.5 miles.

People now come to the Boardwalk to frequent amusements, arcades, and souvenir stands, but visitors once traveled here to stay and play at seaside hotels. Instead of wearing board shorts and graphic tees, they sported fancy clothes. Visitors walked down the wooden promenade by day and spent nights partying at the local dance halls. 

Much of the Ocean City Boardwalk has changed throughout the years, but the iconic charm remains. Dolle’s Candyland, which has been in operation since 1910 still sells saltwater taffy. The Dough Roller, a nostalgic 40-year-old Ocean City business, also continues to bake delicious pizzas. Fisher's Popcorn and Thrasher's French Fries are also popular throwbacks.

And you can also visit Trimper's Rides (originally the Windsor Resort), which dates back to 1893. Take a spin on the historic 1912 Herschell-Spillman carousel, the oldest operational merry-go-round in the country. A ride on these gorgeous painted animals will definitely take you back in time.

If you really want to immerse yourself in Ocean City's history, I suggest booking a stay at the historic Atlantic Hotel. This nostalgic boardwalk treasure was the town’s first major hotel and is still an iconic local attraction.

What other views do you associate with Maryland? Are they manmade or natural images? You can find out more about visiting the Ocean City Boardwalk on the Ocean City, Maryland, website, and the Ocean City, Maryland Tourism Facebook page. If you are looking to treat yourself to some iconic local eats, I suggest taking our Ultimate Iconic Maryland Foods Road Trip to these seven yummy establishments.