Ocean City, Maryland, is famous for its beach and boardwalk—yet a host of fun and exciting educational activities abound throughout the region.
1. Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center
Located in nearby Dorchester County, the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center is experiencing an unexpected level of visitors since its opening last spring. It provides an excellent historical and cultural learning experience on the self-emancipation of enslaved African-Americans and Harriet Tubman’s role.
2. Blackwater Wildlife Refuge
Known as the “Everglades of the North,” Blackwater Wildlife Refuge was once part of the landscape where Harriet Tubman was born and raised. Now a sanctuary for migratory birds, the refuge is home to plants and animals in three major habitats: forest, marsh and shallow water. Educational and interpretive visits allow students to learn about the environment.
3. Delmarva Discovery Center & Museum
Located on the Pocomoke River in downtown Pocomoke City, the Delmarva Discovery Center & Museum is a living museum with immersive exhibits that take students on a journey through the Delmarva and Cypress Swamp. The exhibits focus on the river ecology and the human history of the area.
4. Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum
Tours of the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum offer students a look through time at shipwrecks, rescues and other fascinating tales of Ocean City’s history—particularly the characters who made the town and surrounding area what it is today.
5. The Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art
The Ward Museum of Wildfowl Art in Salisbury features artworks that allow students a glimpse at the beauty of wildfowl, including the world’s largest collection of decorative and antique decoys. The museum offers programs from journaling to painting and environmental art. Many of the programs can be held off-site and brought to Ocean City for a group’s needs.
6. Assateague Island National Park
The wild ponies of Assateague Island National Park offer a fun and environmental experience. Park educators offer standards-based activities and programs for all grade levels, including beach and bay walks.
Courtesy of Norma Dobrowolski, Ocean City Convention and Visitors Bureau. Visit ococean.com, or contact 410.289.2800 or ndobrowolski@ococean.com to start planning.
Photo Courtesy of National Park Service.
