Ocean City, MD: A Meeting Destination Designed with Planners in Mind
Meeting planners today face more challenges than ever, from tightening budgets and rising costs to attendee engagement, venue flexibility and logistical hurdles. Finding a destination that checks all the right boxes of affordability, accessibility, high-quality venues and memorable experiences can feel overwhelming.
That’s where Ocean City, MD, steps in. As a premier Mid-Atlantic meeting destination, Ocean City offers a stress-free planning process, competitive off-season incentives, flexible venues and unique attendee experiences that make events truly stand out. Whether you're organizing a corporate retreat, association conference or tradeshow, Ocean City provides solutions to key pain points that planners encounter every day.
Pain Point #1: Budget Constraints & Rising Event Costs
Ocean City Solution: More Value for Your Budget
With rising costs impacting event budgets, planners are looking for destinations that provide great value without compromising quality. Ocean City offers competitive venue pricing, affordable accommodations and exclusive off-season incentives to help planners maximize their budgets.
- The Ocean City Convention Center provides discounted rental rates, with up to 50% savings for Sunday-to-Thursday events from November through March.
- Many hotel partners offer added value, such as discounted room blocks, complimentary meeting space and upgraded amenities for groups.
- Low to no city-wide resort fees or excessive service charges—keeping budgets in check while enhancing the attendee experience.
Pain Point #2: Attendee Engagement & Event Experience
Ocean City Solution: A Destination That Keeps Attendees Engaged
Planners know that engaged attendees mean more successful events. Ocean City offers a diverse mix of experiences that go beyond the conference room, keeping attendees inspired, connected and motivated.
- Waterfront networking receptions, championship golf outings and private rooftop dining experiences create unique and memorable moments.
- Teambuilding opportunities abound, from chartered sailing excursions to hands-on culinary experiences featuring Maryland’s famous seafood.
- Upscale and contemporary accommodations ensure attendees feel comfortable, relaxed and focused throughout their stay.
Pain Point #3: Logistics & Planning Support
Ocean City Solution: Dedicated Support from Start to Finish
Planners need a destination that makes their job easier—not harder. Ocean City’s Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) and Convention Center team work hand-in-hand to deliver a seamless planning experience.
- One point of contact for venue selection, hotel coordination and event logistics, simplifying the entire process.
- Strong relationships with local vendors, caterers and AV teams provide planners with trusted partners to execute their vision.
- Complimentary marketing and promotional support to help drive attendance and visibility for your event.
Pain Point #4: Finding the Right Venue & Flexible Meeting Space
Ocean City Solution: A Versatile Destination with Space to Fit Every Need
Whether you need a state-of-the-art convention center, beachfront hotel conference rooms or unique off-site venues, Ocean City offers a variety of flexible meeting spaces to accommodate any event style.
- The Ocean City Convention Center features over 214,000 square feet of flexible event space, including a waterfront ballroom, exhibit halls, breakout rooms and an onsite performing arts center.
- Many oceanfront hotels and resort properties offer customizable meeting spaces, blending business with the beauty of the beach.
- Unique offsite venues, from historic bayfront estates to contemporary farm breweries, provide alternative settings for special events and receptions.
Pain Point #5: Accessibility & Travel Convenience
Ocean City Solution: Easily Reachable for Attendees from Multiple Markets
Ocean City’s convenient location on the East Coast makes it an accessible choice for attendees traveling from major metropolitan areas:
- A 3-hour drive from Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Philadelphia and within easy reach of New York City.
- Served by Salisbury Regional Airport (SBY), with connections to larger hubs, making it easy for out-of-state attendees to fly in.
- No complicated transportation logistics. Once in Ocean City, everything is within close proximity, with convenient shuttle services and walkable venues.
Make Ocean City Your Next Meeting Destination
At a time when planners are looking for affordability, flexibility and attendee-friendly experiences, Ocean City, MD, delivers. From the stress-free planning process to cost-saving incentives, engaging activities and versatile venues, this coastal destination provides everything needed to host a successful, memorable event.
Ready to explore Ocean City for your next meeting or convention? Contact our team today to start planning!
Sponsored by Ocean City, MD CVB
