By MADDY VITALE
A romantic weekend getaway or a daytrip among friends for a shopping spree, whatever the reason to come to Ocean City this Valentine’s and Presidents Day weekend, there will be plenty to do.
“Valentine’s and Presidents Day Weekend is a great opportunity for people to get out and support our local merchants,” Michele Gillian, executive director of the Ocean City Regional Chamber of Commerce, said Friday.
That is because there is an array of shops for all tastes and a host of casual to upscale eateries to choose from.
Shops in the downtown and Boardwalk feature jewelry, candy, flowers, candles, soaps, clothing and more.
“There are so many options in Ocean City,” Gillian said. “Stop in and browse at some of the unique boutiques to find that perfect something.”
Gift cards are also available if you aren’t sure what to get that special someone. They can be purchased in $10 increments at the City Hall Welcome Center and the Route 52 Causeway Welcome Center.
Over the weekend, both Boardwalk and downtown merchants noted that businesses are open and ready to invite guests in to enjoy the holiday at the shore for a day or the entire weekend.
The Flanders Hotel, located at E. 11th Street and the Boardwalk, is offering weekend hotel packages that includes breakfast and dinner.
Cousin’s Restaurant, located at 104 Asbury Ave., is offering two, three-course meals for $60 for pickup over the holiday weekend. Customers can choose from several dishes, including Maryland crab cakes and chicken. All entrees come with a salad, dessert and bread.
Stores throughout the island are offering discounts on merchandise and meals.
And, of course, arcades and amusements, which top the reasons visitors flock to the Boardwalk, are also offering a host of discounts.
City Councilman Jody Levchuk, co-owner of the Jilly’s Boardwalk and downtown shops, said that Jilly’s Arcade at 11th Street and the Boardwalk has an exciting holiday weekend discounts for the guests.
And, he noted, despite the projected chilly temperatures, once inside Jilly’s Arcade, the weather will be forgotten.
“There is never a bad time to come to Ocean City, cold out or not. It doesn’t matter. There is a lot open year-round. It is very majestic this time of year and it is easy to get around town,” Levchuk said. “The snow really creates an ambiance. It really looks pretty out on the streets and the Boardwalk. It is definitely a good time to visit. It is easy to park. The streets and sidewalks are clear and a lot of businesses are open.”
He added that visitors who like amusements should take advantage of some fun things going on at Jilly’s Arcade.
A special called “Bring Your Honey and Save Some Money” for Valentine’s Day weekend gives couples two fun cards and two hours of unlimited play for $25.
“And we give $5 on top of it to use at the photo booth for a Valentine’s picture,” Levchuk said, adding that the special can be purchased on the Jilly’s website jillysocnj.com or in person throughout the weekend.
Danielle Guerriero, president of the Downtown Merchants Association, said visitors have to take a stroll downtown to check out some of the specials.
“There are tons of Valentine’s sales. I have seen a lot of different things. Everyone is ready for Valentine’s Day weekend,” she said.
Guerriero continued, “The stores are staying open during the week. No one really shut down after Christmas. We are excited. We are ready for this weekend. The downtown is ready for 2021.”
