Best Cities

Traveling to Ocean City? Check Out These Resorts

Choosing the best accommodation among the broad selection in the mid-Atlantic paradise is quite a challenge. Here’s a list of the best resorts in Ocean City to help you easily make the decision.

With white beaches hugging the ocean for miles and breathtaking views everywhere you look, Ocean City sounds like the ideal Maryland summer destination. Many excellent hotels will make your vacation all but perfect, adding to the atmosphere and natural beauty you’ll surely love.

But if you’re unsure about where to stay, check out these Ocean City resorts – you’ll certainly find what you’re looking for among them.

1. Hilton Garden Inn Ocean City Oceanfront

While located on the 28th Street boardwalk, this resort is conveniently distanced from the crowded epicenter of Ocean City. The hotel is somewhat tucked away but it is still close enough to all of the main attractions.

Among the many amenities of Hilton Garden Inn Ocean City Oceanfront are a hot tub, three restaurants, a room for exercising, and, of course, a swimming pool.

2. Atlantic Hotel

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Located right on the Ocean City boardwalk, this Victorian-style resort has been serving customers for almost a century. Besides being a wonderful sight on its own, the Atlantic Hotel also boasts a gorgeous balcony ideal for watching the ocean at sunrise.

The resort is a great scenic location at the heart of the city that offers an excellent view and instant access to the lively Ocean City streets.

3. Francis Scott Key

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Affordable and full of amenities, this hotel provides some of the best family accommodations in the city. There’s a pirate-themed outdoor swimming pool kids will absolutely love and an indoor pool available for all guests throughout the whole year.

That’s why if you’re looking for one of the best family hotels in Ocean City, look no further.

Francis Scott Key resort also has a mini-golf course, as well as a playground, beach volleyball court, a movie theater, and many more fun amenities.

4. Grand Hotel & Spa

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Suitable for all visitors, the Grand Hotel and Spa is located on the boardwalk and right at the beach. It doesn’t matter whether you’re on a family vacation, a holiday for two, or a business retreat. This resort will meet all your needs.

If you aren’t up for dinner in the city, there’s a great restaurant on-site, and the coffee shop will satisfy your craving for a soothing hot beverage. The hotel also has indoor and outdoor swimming pools and, of course, an amazing spa.

5. Princess Royale

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With two-room suites and family-friendly amenities, the Princess Royale resort is ideal for families with kids looking for fun and parents looking for a real vacation. After all, the Creative Day Spa located in the hotel will ensure everyone has a great time.

The hotel features an atrium with a pool and glorious palm trees. And the relaxing experience gets even better with an open view of the ocean.

6. Atlantic House

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Among the more unique hotels in Ocean City, the century-old Victorian home housing this resort is a sight to behold. Inside, the rooms are uniquely decorated in a variety of styles. While on the outside, the hotel boasts wonderful architectural features.

Although Atlantic House B&B has an old-timey charm, rooms include all modern luxuries like cable TV, WiFi, and AC. Hotel guests will also enjoy complimentary towels and beach chairs and be treated to the perfect breakfast to start their day.

7. Commander Hotel & Suites

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This resort has counted among the best resorts in Ocean City ever since its opening in 1930.

It has direct access to both the boardwalk and the beach, with many restaurants and shops within walking distance. Two pools, indoor and outdoor, are available to guests, and you can grab phenomenal donuts or a pizza in the hotel’s on-site eateries.

Those interested in golf will find Commander Hotel & Suites ideal, as the resort’s concierge service offers a selection of golf packages.

8. Frontier Town

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If you’re looking for an unusual experience, Frontier Town will give you just that. This resort has wonderful cabins and campgrounds with an immersive Old West theme that will give your vacation a unique twist.

Without revealing too much of the surprises waiting here, we should mention that there are real horse-ridden stagecoaches on the premises.

9. Residence Inn

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The comfortable Marriott hotel provides possibly the best view of the bay. The suites are expansive and contain everything you could need to feel at home – there are a fully equipped kitchen and living areas in each suite.

Guests get to enjoy complimentary breakfasts, seafood lunches, or even outdoor barbecues. And if you can’t resist extending your stay at the Residence Inn, you’ll be in luck – the resort is perfect for a long vacation.

10. Park Place Hotel

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This downtown resort has a 125-year-long tradition of welcoming visitors in search of a memorable Ocean City holiday.

With the boardwalk and the beach right by, Park Place offers the perfect accommodation for those who wish to experience the city and the ocean at the same time. And if you’re not up for going on a night out, the hotel boasts an amazing pool deck and an outdoor barbecue bar.

Have the Best Ocean City Vacation

Ocean City offers a wonderful, fun holiday experience for visitors of every kind. Whether you’re vacationing alone or with kids, you’ll likely find the perfect resort overlooking the gorgeous ocean shore. It doesn’t matter whether you’re to spend the whole day on the beach or stroll through the lively city streets – your ideal accommodation will always be waiting for you at the end of the day. Choose one of the best resorts in Ocean City and you’ll get a vacation of a lifetime.

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Trip Ideas

New York on a Budget: Tips for Affordable Fun

Dreaming of NYC but worried about the price tag? You’re not alone. While the Big Apple consistently ranks among the world’s most expensive cities, experiencing its magic doesn’t require a trust fund. With insider knowledge and smart planning, you can savor iconic sights, world-class culture, and delicious eats without breaking the bank. Here’s your roadmap to an unforgettable, affordable New York adventure.

Conquer the Classics for Free (or Almost Free)

New York is overflowing with iconic experiences that cost nothing but your time.

Explore Central Park — Bstatic.com. (2025). Available at: https://cf.bstatic.com [Accessed 4 Jul. 2025]

Walk Famous Landmarks: Stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge for breathtaking skyline views and photo ops. Explore Central Park – visit Sheep Meadow, Bethesda Fountain, and hidden waterfalls. Wander through Times Square at night to soak in the neon energy, marvel at Grand Central Terminal’s architecture, and admire the Rose Reading Room at the New York Public Library.
Seek Out Spectacular Free Views: Skip the expensive observation decks. Ride the Staten Island Ferry (FREE, 24/7) for stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Lower Manhattan skyline. Walk the High Line, an elevated park with unique city vistas and art. Head to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade for that classic postcard view of Manhattan.
Discover World-Class Museums for Less: Many major museums offer “pay-what-you-wish” admission or free hours:
- The Met: Pay what you wish for NY, NJ, CT residents; suggested admission others
- American Museum of Natural History: Pay what you wish for NY, NJ, CT residents
- MoMA: Free for all every Friday evening (5:30 PM – 9:00 PM)
- Museum of the City of New York: Pay what you wish for NY residents; free for all Wednesdays
- National Museum of the American Indian: Always free
- Bronx Museum: Always free
- Others: Guggenheim (pay-what-you-wish Sat evenings), Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum (free Fri evenings), and Brooklyn Museum (free first Saturday of the month)
Embrace Parks & Green Spaces: Beyond Central Park, explore Prospect Park (Brooklyn), Brooklyn Bridge Park (free kayaking in summer!), Bryant Park (free events year-round), Washington Square Park, and the unique Little Island.

Eat Like a Local (Without the Tourist Markup)

NYC’s culinary scene is legendary, and you don’t need a fancy reservation to enjoy it.

New York slice — Islands.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.islands.com [Accessed 4 Jul. 2025]

The Almighty Slice: Grab a classic $1-$3 New York slice from spots like Joe’s Pizza, 2 Bros Pizza, or countless neighborhood pizzerias.
Street Food & Food Trucks: Fuel up with affordable breakfast tacos, bagels with cream cheese, hot dogs, pretzels, and legendary halal cart plates.
Global Delights in Ethnic Enclaves:
- Chinatown: Inexpensive dumplings, dim sum, noodle soups
- Queens (Flushing, Jackson Heights): Authentic and affordable eats from around the world
- Arthur Avenue, Bronx: Authentic Italian far superior (and cheaper) than Little Italy
Happy Hour Deals: Milk happy hour for discounted drinks and sometimes food at popular bars.
Groceries & Markets: Grab picnic supplies for park lunches. Explore food halls like Chelsea Market (sample affordably) or Essex Market.

Smart Savings on Accommodation & Transportation

These two areas often eat the biggest chunks of your budget. Fight back!

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Stay Beyond Manhattan: Consider Brooklyn, Queens, or even New Jersey for significantly better hotel rates and more space.
Book Early & Compare: Use comparison sites. Winter offers the lowest prices, while spring/fall provide good balance of cost and comfort.
Master Public Transit: Ditch the expensive cabs!
- Subway & Bus: The $2.90 single ride is your lifeline. A 7-Day Unlimited MetroCard ($34) pays for itself after about 12 rides
- Walking: NYC is incredibly walkable
- Citi Bike: Great for short hops
- Ferries: Besides the FREE Staten Island Ferry, the NYC Ferry offers scenic routes

Score Deals on Entertainment & Experiences

Culture and fun in NYC don’t have to come with a sky-high price.

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Broadway & Theater:
- TKTS Booths: Get same-day tickets for up to 50% off
- Lotteries & Rush Tickets: Many shows offer deeply discounted tickets via digital lotteries or in-person rush sales
Free Festivals & Events: NYC’s calendar is packed!
- Shakespeare in the Park: Summer performances in Central Park
- SummerStage & BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn!: Free concerts in parks
- Holiday Magic: Rockefeller Tree, Macy’s Parade, Dyker Heights lights
Comedy & TV Tapings: Find free or low-cost comedy shows and apply for free audience tickets to TV shows.

Pro Tips for Maximum Savings

Travel Off-Peak: Visit in winter or early December for lowest prices
Embrace Free Walking Tours: Cover neighborhoods like Greenwich Village, SoHo, and Chinatown
Hydrate Smart: Carry a reusable water bottle – NYC tap water is excellent
Seek Out Local Alternatives: Skip tourist traps for authentic neighborhood experiences

The Takeaway:

New York City on a budget isn’t just possible; it can lead to a richer, more authentic experience. By focusing on free attractions, eating locally, staying strategically, mastering the subway, and seeking deals, you unlock the true vibrancy of the city without draining your savings. Remember, the best things in New York – the energy, the people-watching, the iconic skyline views – are often free. So pack your walking shoes, grab a MetroCard and a dollar slice, and get ready to fall in love with the Big Apple on your own terms! What’s your first budget-friendly NYC adventure going to be? Share your tips in the comments!

Trip Ideas

New Orleans’ Haunted History: A Ghost Tour

New Orleans, the Crescent City, is renowned for its vibrant music, delectable cuisine, and unique cultural blend. But beneath the surface of jazz-filled streets and colorful balconies lies a darker, more mysterious side: a history steeped in tragedy, Voodoo, and countless restless spirits. If you’re looking for an adventure that will send shivers down your spine and ignite your imagination, a ghost tour in New Orleans is an absolute must-do!

Imagine walking through the dimly lit cobblestone streets of the French Quarter, the gas lamps casting long, dancing shadows, as a seasoned storyteller regales you with tales of centuries-old hauntings. This isn’t just about jump scares; it’s an immersive journey into the city’s past, where every building seems to hold a chilling secret.

What Makes New Orleans So Haunted?

New Orleans Street — Visittheusa.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.visittheusa.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

The city’s tumultuous history has created fertile ground for paranormal activity. From devastating fires and rampant epidemics like yellow fever to the brutal realities of slavery and violent crimes, New Orleans has witnessed its share of profound suffering. This rich, often tragic, past has left an indelible mark, and many believe the spirits of those who lived and died here still linger.

Iconic Haunted Locations You Might Encounter:

A good ghost tour will take you to some of New Orleans’ most infamous spectral hotspots. Here are a few you’re likely to hear about:

The LaLaurie Mansion — Al.com. (2025). Available at: https://www.al.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

The LaLaurie Mansion (1140 Royal Street): Perhaps the most notorious haunted house in America, this grand mansion was once home to Madame Delphine LaLaurie, a wealthy socialite infamous for her horrific cruelty towards her enslaved people in the early 19th century. The tales of torture and suffering within its walls are truly unsettling, and many claim the tormented spirits of her victims still haunt the property.

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 — Cemeterytourneworleans.com. (2025). Available at: https://cemeterytourneworleans.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1: As the oldest cemetery in New Orleans, established in 1789, it’s a labyrinth of above-ground tombs and crumbling mausoleums. It’s the final resting place of many notable figures, including the legendary Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau. Visitors often report seeing ghostly figures, hearing whispers, and feeling an eerie presence among the ornate tombs.

The Ursuline Convent — Tripadvisor.com. (2025). Available at: https://dynamic-media-cdn.tripadvisor.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

The Ursuline Convent: This imposing building, dating back to the 1750s, holds tales of mysterious deaths and sightings of ghostly nuns. It’s also famously associated with the “Casket Girls” legend – young French women who arrived with small chests, rumored to be vampires by some, though history tells a less sensational story of their belongings.

Hotel Monteleone — Phgcdn.com. (2025). Available at: https://phgcdn.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

Hotel Monteleone: This luxurious hotel has a long history and a reputation for being exceptionally haunted. Guests and staff have reported encounters with spectral children, including a young boy named Maurice who is said to roam the 14th floor, still searching for his parents.

Muriel's Jackson Square — Thevendry.com. (2025). Available at: https://thevendry.com [Accessed 23 Jun. 2025]

Muriel’s Jackson Square: This restaurant is reportedly haunted by its former owner, Pierre Antoine Lepardi Jourdan, who committed suicide upstairs after losing the property in a poker game. Diners have reported moving objects, disembodied voices, and a general feeling of being watched.

Beyond the Ghosts: A Historical Perspective

New Orleans ghost tours are more than just spooky stories; they offer a unique way to delve into the city’s complex history. You’ll learn about the origins of Voodoo in New Orleans, the impact of significant historical events, and the lives of the colorful, and often tragic, characters who shaped this remarkable city. The guides are often captivating storytellers, blending historical facts with local legends to create an unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, a New Orleans ghost tour promises an evening of intrigue, history, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s a chance to see the city in a different light, to feel the echoes of its past, and perhaps, to even encounter a friendly (or not-so-friendly) spirit.

Punta Cana

Beach Bliss in Punta Cana: Top All-Inclusive Resorts

Punta Cana, with its endless stretches of powdery white sand, swaying palm trees, and turquoise waters, is the quintessential Caribbean escape. And what better way to experience this slice of paradise than with the ease and luxury of an all-inclusive resort? From romantic adults-only havens to fun-filled family adventures, Punta Cana offers a resort for every type of traveler.

If you’re dreaming of a hassle-free vacation where your every whim is catered to, look no further. We’ve rounded up some of the top all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana, designed to deliver unforgettable beach bliss.

For the Romantic Escape: Adults-Only Serenity

Couples seeking tranquility and romance will find their perfect match in Punta Cana’s adults-only resorts. Imagine candlelit dinners by the sea, relaxing spa treatments, and uninterrupted moments with your loved one.

Secrets Cap Cana Resort & Spa: Tucked away in the exclusive Cap Cana enclave, this resort promises opulent luxury with Unlimited-Luxury® inclusions. Think gourmet dining, endless top-shelf spirits, and impeccable service, all set against a backdrop of pristine beaches.
Excellence Punta Cana: Known for its refreshing child-free ambiance, this resort in northern Punta Cana offers a myriad of dining and drinking options. Indulge in poolside and beachfront wait service, and consider a couples’ spa day in an ocean-view massage cabana.
Meliá Punta Cana Beach Wellness Inclusive – Adults Only: For those seeking a holistic approach to relaxation, this resort offers a unique wellness concept designed to rejuvenate body and mind. Enjoy upscale accommodations, diverse restaurants, and a serene spa.
Hyatt Zilara Cap Cana: Located on the stunning Juanillo Beach, this five-star adults-only resort boasts an impressive array of amenities, including a swimmable beach, multiple pools, and world-class dining.

For the Ultimate Family Fun: Adventures for All Ages

Punta Cana also shines as a fantastic destination for families. Many all-inclusive resorts here go above and beyond to provide entertainment and activities for kids of all ages, ensuring parents can relax while the little ones have a blast.

Nickelodeon Hotels & Resorts Punta Cana: If your kids are fans of SpongeBob or Paw Patrol, this playful, all-inclusive resort is a dream come true. With character breakfasts, slime parties, and the huge Aqua Nick water park, it’s non-stop fun for the whole family.
Barceló Bávaro Palace: This sprawling beachfront resort is a family favorite, offering a private beach, a golf course, and a casino. Kids will love the children’s pool, kids’ club, playground, arcade, and even a bowling alley!
Dreams Macao Beach Punta Cana: One of Punta Cana’s newer family resorts, Dreams Macao boasts a fantastic water park with slides, a lazy river, and splash pads, all set on a swimmable beach. Spacious family suites ensure comfort for everyone.
Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Punta Cana: This mega-resort brings the energetic Hard Rock vibe with a plethora of family-friendly amenities. Featuring 13 pools, waterslides, a kids’ club, an arcade, bowling alley, mini-golf, and even a FlowRider, boredom is simply not an option.

For the Thrill-Seekers: Resorts with Epic Water Parks

Want to make a splash? Several Punta Cana resorts are renowned for their incredible on-site water parks, promising exhilarating fun for guests of all ages.

Royalton Splash Punta Cana, An Autograph Collection All-Inclusive Resort & Casino: Home to one of the largest water parks in the Caribbean, Royalton Splash offers towering slides, a wave pool, and splash zones, making it a paradise for water lovers.
Grand Sirenis Punta Cana Resort & Aquagames: Located on the beautiful Uvero Alto Beach, this resort features a fantastic water park with a variety of slides and attractions suitable for families.
Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino: Their “Splash Island” water park spans an impressive 1,500m², with palm trees, marine life, and a mix of gentle fun for little ones and thrilling elevated slides for the adventurous.

Read More: Hidden Gems in Orlando

Planning Your Punta Cana Escape

When choosing your all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana, consider what’s most important to you:

Travel companions: Are you looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly adventure?
Desired atmosphere: Do you prefer a lively, energetic resort or a more serene and relaxed environment?
Specific amenities: Are water parks, golf courses, or extensive spa facilities a priority?

No matter what your ideal beach vacation looks like, Punta Cana’s all-inclusive resorts are ready to deliver an unforgettable experience. Pack your swimsuits, leave your worries behind, and get ready for some true beach bliss!