Family friendly. Those two words just about sum up the appeal of the Carousel (so don't even THINK about coming here if it's your honeymoon). Not only is the hotel right on the beach, but it also has a myriad of activities and facilities for those days when the weather doesn't cooperate. Foremost among these are an indoor ice skating rink, an indoor pool, an arcade and a staff that never seems to tire of setting up kid-friendly games and activities (many rave about the "Camp Carousel" which takes place every summer).

Yes, the Carousel is one of the oldest hotels among the condo towers of North Ocean City, and the furnishings are dated but where it matters it's been kept up to date: kitchenettes and balconies in every room were  renovated in 2013 and fourth- and fifth-floor rooms got new pullout couches at the same time. The indoor pool has been expanded and is now ADA-compliant. The hotel occupies the first four floors oceanside and five floors bayside of this 22-story building, but don't assume you'll get an ocean view. Atrium rooms overlook the ice rink and another 20 rooms street side overlook only a dreary gray roof. Some condo units are also available, daily off-season and weekly in season. The hotel is located across Coastal Highway from Northside Park, the site of Fourth of July fireworks and Winterfest holiday lights. The Carousel apparently also has a resident ghost, Carol, who haunts the basement.