250,000 Expected To Visit Ocean City Over Memorial Day
OCEAN CITY, Md. (WJZ) -- A quarter of a million people are expected to visit Ocean City this Memorial Day weekend, kicking off the start of summer and the city's busiest season.
Tracey Leong explains how crucial the summer is for Ocean City's economy.
Ocean City relies heavily on tourism. During these summer months, they expect to bring in about $2 billion.
It's a destination overflowing with memories.
"Coming here our whole lives," said one.
"It's become a big family tradition," said another.
From the sandy shore to the charming boardwalk, Ocean City offers something for everyone.
"Tourism is our economy. It's our only industry down here. It's our smokestack, if you will," said Donna Abbot, OC Tourism.
For businesses, this is their time to shine, making sure these tourists keep coming back.
"It will really set the tone for the summer. If this weekend is great, the rest will be perfect," said Dolle's Candyland owner, Anna Dolle Bushnell.
This shop has attracted generations of fans for more than a century.
"And they're all enjoying the same thing their ancestors enjoyed. Definitely a tradition," said Bushnell.
This resort town gives beachgoers endless options.
"First thing I do is got to get a hoop tea from Hammerhead up on the boardwalk between 11th and 10th Street," said Mike Cammarata.
"Just even the smell of fries and waiting in the line and even if I say Thrashers, they get excited," said Laura Rossi.
Tourists pumping money into this iconic town, helping it to survive and thrive.
"Continue to invest in our infrastructure because that's what keeps people coming back," Abbott said.
During the entire summer, Ocean City expects more than six million visitors. The peak is typically July.
For a list of events this weekend in Ocean City, click here.