What happens when you take two groups of Gen Z teens on back-to-back trips to Ocean City, Maryland? A whole lot of fun, some surprisingly responsible moments, and a few lessons learned (for both me and them). From exploring all the things to do in Ocean City with teens to watching them navigate new situations, these trips gave me a fresh perspective on how Gen Z handles themselves.
Spoiler: They don’t need curfews (though we tried) or a strict itinerary to have the time of their lives.
1. Self-Styled Adventurers: Planning Their Own Path 👩🍳🗺️
These teens know what they want. One morning, they took over the kitchen to create an avocado toast bar, and another mom’s carefully prepared dinner got upstaged by their snack picks from the store. On one trip, we had lunch plans, but they’d discovered an acai bowl spot on Google Maps and were set on it. No need for strict schedules here—they just need space to explore.
Insider tip: Give them some control over the plans. Letting them choose a few meals and activities makes it feel more like their adventure, and they’ll keep things interesting.
2. Connected and Carefree: The New Curfew 🕛📱
Now, about that curfew. After a long day, us moms were ready to call it a night, but the teens were still going strong at Trimper’s Rides on the boardwalk. We set a curfew for after closing—making it their first-ever curfew! We figured they’d have enough time to walk back to our Airbnb, but they needed a bit longer. They kept us updated the whole time with messages like, “We’re almost there! ….It’s faaaaar!” Who needs strict curfews when teens are so connected these days?
The group chat kept us in the loop with photos, check-ins, and updates the whole time. For them, phones aren’t just used for scrolling TikTok—they’re a lifeline for staying connected.
Insider tip: Set up a group chat to keep everyone connected. It makes curfews more flexible and keeps you informed, so you can let go a little.
3. Party, but Make it Sober: Gen Z Knows How to Have Fun 🍹💃
One thing I didn’t have to worry about? Sneaky drinks or wild alcohol-fueled parties. These teens had plenty of fun, but alcohol wasn’t part of the equation. They were all about enjoying the moment—whether hanging poolside or out on the boardwalk—without any need for drinks to amplify the excitement. They didn’t need alcohol to have a blast.
Their idea of a good time? Staying present and enjoying every bit of the experience sober. It’s a way of having fun that lets them stay in control and live fully.
Insider tip: Don’t stress about parties. Gen Z knows how to embrace the moment- el natural.
4. Simple Joys: Making the Most of the Moment 🎭😆
The highlight wasn’t the rides or the arcade. It was them putting on goofy masks and making other vacationers laugh. The spontaneous moments brought the biggest smiles and reminded me that it’s often the simple things that stick.
They love authentic connections and real experiences, finding joy in the little things rather than the flashy attractions.
Insider tip: Embrace simplicity. Give them room to explore, and you’ll see how they turn everyday moments into the best memories.
5. Rolling with the Punches: Flexibility at Its Finest 🌈🧩
We aimed for Ocean City, but thanks to a road closure, we ended up spending our first afternoon in Dewey Beach. The teens didn’t miss a beat—they enjoyed the unexpected stop like it was part of the plan. Gen Z can adapt on the fly, making the best of wherever they end up.
They have an impressive go-with-the-flow attitude, and when plans shift, they adjust, turning what could have been a hiccup into a happy detour.
Insider tip: Be prepared for surprises. Let them take the lead when things don’t go as planned, and they’ll show you how to make the most of the unexpected.
The Bottom Line 🚀💬
Two Ocean City weekends, two groups of teens, and what did I learn? Gen Z is way more responsible than we give them credit for. They don’t need strict curfews, they aren’t sneaking alcohol, and they can cook their own breakfast. They thrive on independence, creativity, and a love for simple, authentic experiences. If you’re gearing up for a trip with Gen Z teens, trust them to take the lead, let them handle the kitchen, and watch them make the experience unforgettable.
