All About Berlin, MD
Photo Credit: Berlin Welcome Center/Berlinmainstreet.com
Mural Artist: John Donato
Ocean City, Maryland, is a gorgeous vacation destination. With miles of beautiful beaches, a world-famous Boardwalk to wander, delicious restaurants, and plenty of things to do like swimming, surfing, and fishing, you’ll never run out of things to do here!
If you’re an Ocean City regular, though, perhaps you’re looking for somewhere new and different to explore during your vacation this year. The familiarity of the boardwalk and all your favorite restaurants will always be here, but what if you added something new to the itinerary? Berlin, Maryland, lies just 20 minutes from Ocean City, and it has a whole new world of activities and events to explore.
Whether you want to check out local history, see some amazing art pieces, or go on a ghost walking tour, you’ll find Berlin has a lot to offer. Read on to learn all about Berlin, MD!
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In this article:
- A Storied History
- Designated Arts & Entertainment District
- Local Events in Berlin
- Explore the Shopping Scene
- Book Your Ocean City, MD Stay Directly with Century 21 New Horizon!
- Frequently Asked Questions About Berlin, MD
A Storied History
History is everywhere in Berlin! Now, normally, when folks say that, they’re referring to the capital of Germany. But we are referring to Berlin, MD, the namesake of this piece. For being such a small town (with a population of about 5,000), Berlin, MD, has quite a storied history.
As you stroll down Main Street, you’re walking the very same paths taken by Native Americans (the Assateague and Pocomoke tribes specifically) before colonial times began. Berlin was settled as a village in the 1790s but was not incorporated until after the Civil War in 1868. Over time, the town grew and became a popular spot for tourists on their way to Ocean City (like you!) and those who enjoyed hunting and fishing on the East Coast.
The architecture and people here are also historically significant! Berlin boasts 47 structures on the National Register of Historic Places and is the birthplace of Reverend Charles Albert Tindley (who penned “We Shall Overcome”) and famed US naval hero Stephen Decatur. Downtown Berlin itself is a National Register Historic District and has survived three devastating fires over the years.
Want to learn even more about Berlin’s history? Check out the city’s downloadable self-guided walking tour here!
P.S. If history isn’t your thing, but you still want to go on a walking tour, don’t fret! Berlin has an engaging walking tour of all of the locations where Paramount Pictures filmed Gary Marshall’s romantic comedy “Runaway Bride”. Rom-com fans, unite!
Designated Arts & Entertainment District
There’s more to Berlin than its history (though that’s fascinating in and of itself). The town is also a Maryland State Arts Council-designated Arts & Entertainment district, so there’s always something exciting going on! Getting that designation isn’t easy, so it’s safe to say that Berlin is a pretty big deal.
With a walkable downtown chock full of creativity, it’s no wonder the state designated Berlin as a hotspot for the arts. Most of the shops downtown feature art, and you can pass by the Little Art Gallery with the tiniest creations from The Merry Haven on your downtown adventures, too.
As you walk through town, you’ll see impressive murals all around you, like the Dr. Reverend Charles Albert Tindley Mural, the Pollinator Way Interactive Mural, and the Berlin Welcome Center Murals. We love that they’re beautiful pieces of art that also provide education!
Beyond the murals, there are local shops and museums to support that would love to see you! Check out these spots to see the coolest art in town:
- Berlin Mermaid Museum
- Jeffrey Auxer Blown Glass and Fine Art
- Henry Fine Arts Studio
- Velda’s Creative Designs
- Wooden Octopus
Local Events in Berlin
The fun doesn’t have to stop at the Ocean City limits! These events in Berlin are sure to keep you busy:
Berlin Farmers Market
- Every Sunday from May to October, 9 AM-1 PM
- Voted the best Small Event in Maryland!
Berlin Ghost Tours
- Typically Thursdays-Saturdays at 7 PM, but additional times are added as Halloween approaches!
- Berlin has many haunted sites, including the Atlantic Hotel, where it’s said a ghostly little girl is still interacting with guests to this day!
Oktoberfest
- October 18th, 2025
- Listen to live music, eat some brats and knockwurst, and check out the annual Berlin Fall Sidewalk Sale.
All events in Berlin are free to attend. See the full list of annual Berlin events here.
Explore the Shopping Scene
USA Today has named Berlin the Best Town for Shopping twice (2018 and 2020), and we couldn’t agree more! No matter what kind of shopping you want to get into on your trip, Berlin has a store for it.
If thrift shopping/antiquing is your thing, you’re in luck—Berlin is the antique capital of the Eastern Shore. There are also plenty of clothing stores, trading posts, boutiques, museums…shops of all kinds! Click here to see a full list of all the stores you can explore in Berlin, MD.
Book Your Ocean City, MD Stay Directly with Century 21 New Horizon!
Wow! We already knew there were plenty of things to do in Ocean City, but who would have guessed there was a whole other world of entertainment just a few miles away? Now that you’ve learned about all the amazing things Berlin has to offer, your stay in Ocean City is sure to be even more spectacular.
When it comes to booking a stay in Ocean City, MD, Century 21 New Horizon stands out as the top choice. Our trusted team has been serving the area since 1982, so it’s safe to say we know what we’re doing.
Search by amenity to find the perfect property for you, whether you’re seeking an oceanfront stay or want to stay in a specific condo community. No matter where you stay, we’re confident you’ll have a great time when you spend your time in a Century 21 Property!
Browse our available Ocean City, MD vacation rentals now and book your next trip to the beach directly with Century 21 New Horizon!
Frequently Asked Questions About Berlin, MD
How far is Berlin, MD from Ocean City?
Berlin is only about 20 minutes from Ocean City, making it an easy day trip or quick getaway during your beach vacation.
What is Berlin, MD known for?
Berlin is famous for its historic downtown, thriving arts district, ghost tours, annual events, and being voted “Best Town for Shopping” by USA Today.
Are there family-friendly activities in Berlin, MD?
Yes! Families can enjoy farmers markets, art galleries, shopping, and fun tours like the Runaway Bride walking tour and seasonal festivals.
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