Ocean City, Maryland – (April 7, 2025): The Maryland Tourism Coalition (MTC) and Ocean City Tourism are proud to announce the Ocean City 150th Anniversary Historic Walking Tour, a special event held in honor of Ocean City’s remarkable 150-year legacy in tourism, hospitality, and community building. The event will take place on May 8, 2025, in celebration of National Travel and Tourism Week.
This guided walking tour will take participants on a journey through Ocean City’s vibrant past—beginning with the “Petticoat Regime” and spotlighting the pioneer women whose vision and resilience helped shape the town into the beloved resort destination it is today.
The tour will kick off at the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum, where Curator Christine Okerblom will introduce the Museum’s special exhibit: “A Feminine Touch: The Story of the Women Who Had a Hand in Shaping a Town.” Attendees will then be led by an experienced museum guide, who will provide captivating narration and historical insights as guests visit several key sites throughout downtown Ocean City.
“This walking tour is a unique opportunity to celebrate Ocean City’s rich history and the women and people who made it the cherished tourism destination it is today,” commented Ruth Toomey, Executive Director of the Maryland Tourism Coalition. “This event demonstrates how tourism drives our state and local economies and tells the stories of the people and places that make Maryland special.”
Additional stops along the walking tour will include:
· Henry Hotel, where volunteer and Henry Hotel Foundation President Nancy Howard will share the building’s history, focusing on former owner Pearl Bonner.
· Plim Plaza Hotel, where museum staff member Debbie DeFressine will share stories of Rosalie Tilghman Shreve, a driving force behind the construction of the original Plimhimmon Hotel.
· Dolle’s, a nostalgic stop beloved by generations of visitors.
· The new Museum of Ocean City, where museum staff will offer insight into its evolving role in preserving Ocean City’s cultural heritage.
“Ocean City’s 150th Anniversary is a milestone worth celebrating—not just for the town, but for the entire state,” commented Ocean City Tourism and Business Development Director Tom Perlozzo. “We are excited to partner with MTC, as we believe this event is a powerful way to honor the women who built the foundation for Ocean City’s future.”
This immersive and educational event is $35 for MTC Members and $50 for nonmembers. For more information about the Ocean City 150th Anniversary Historic Walking Tour, visit https://mdtourism.org.
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