Memorial Day Weekend Marks Unofficial Start To Summer In Ocean City
OCEAN CITY, Md. (WJZ) -- What better place to enjoy a beautiful holiday weekend than Maryland's number one summer destination.
Linh Bui traveled to Ocean City, where they're ready for a busy season.
Ocean City welcomes you back.
"We love it here. Enjoying every second of it. Soaking up the sun," one man said.
The beaches will be packed. The Boardwalk--extra busy. Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer.
"You wake up Saturday morning and think, 'Where did everybody come from?' Because they're all here," said Ocean City Mayor Rick Meehan.
Ocean City's mayor is excited for this season. After a long, brutal winter he says Marylanders need sun and sand.
"It's time to get out and about. It's time to be with your family and friends. It's time to come to the beach. The sun's going to be out. What better place to be than Ocean City?" said Meehan.
A strong case of cabin fever and steady gas prices could mean big travel numbers this year. It's all about the weather. And since the forecast is good for Memorial Day weekend, they are expecting a lot of visitors.
Ocean City officials estimate around 200,000 visitors this weekend--about the same as last year. Beach businesses are stocked, staffed and ready for the crowds.
"We cannot wait. We have to make some money. We've been waiting all winter," said Matt Unal, the co-owner of Piezano's.
There's plenty to do.
"I love the Boardwalk. I love all the stores. I love the ocean. What isn't there to love about Ocean City?" one woman said.
And all summer to enjoy it.
"This summer is going to be a great summer for the beach," said Meehan.
AAA expects 670,000 Marylanders will travel this holiday weekend--the second highest number since 2000.
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