12 Unforgettable Things to Do in Cape May New Jersey This Year

Cape May stands apart from typical Jersey Shore beach towns with its picture-perfect Victorian mansions, pristine beaches and historic lighthouses.

This National Historic Landmark city holds the distinction of being America’s oldest seaside resort.  The perfectly preserved Victorian architecture sets it apart from other coastal destinations.  Visitors can enjoy whale watching adventures, wine tasting sessions and beautiful beaches throughout the year.  They can spend time learning about historic estates that add to Cape May, New Jersey’s charm.

The 12 most unforgettable activities await travelers planning a romantic getaway, family vacation or solo adventure.  Each attraction provides a special window into this charming coastal destination’s rich history and natural beauty.

Visit the Historic Cape May Lighthouse

The Cape May Lighthouse stands proudly at Cape May Point State Park, a true icon of the Jersey Shore.  This historic beacon has safely guided countless ships through the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean since it first lit in 1859.

Cape May Lighthouse History

The lighthouse we see today is actually the third beacon at this historic spot.  Time and erosion claimed the first tower built in 1823.  The second lighthouse didn’t fare much better – poor construction led to its demolition around 1859.  The current structure reaches 157 feet into the sky and features a remarkable double-wall design that helps it weather the harshest storms.

Cape May Lighthouse Admission and Hours

The lighthouse welcomes visitors daily from April through November, with weekend visits possible during shoulder seasons.  Admission Prices:

• Adults: $12
• Children (ages 3-12): $8
• Veterans: $8
• Active Military: Free

This beautifully restored lighthouse gives visitors more than just a chance to climb.  The original Oil Storage Building now houses a Museum Shop and visitor displays that are available to everyone.  The lighthouse has welcomed more than 2.5 million adventurous souls who have tackled its 199 steps since opening to the public in 1988.

Cape May Lighthouse Photography Tips

Photography lovers will find plenty of perfect shots here:

• The top observation area reveals breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, Delaware Bay and Cape May Point
• Golden hour brings dramatic silhouettes and warm lighting that photographers dream about
• The surrounding nature trails and marsh areas add depth to wider environmental shots
• The hawk watch platform provides unique angles from above

Nature trails wind through the property, complementing the lighthouse experience.  A spacious parking area and easy beach access make visits convenient.  New interpretive panels tell fascinating stories about lighthouse keepers and the structure’s rich history, making this spot a treasure trove for history enthusiasts.

Explore Washington Street Mall

Washington Street Mall sits right in Cape May’s historic district.  This pedestrian-only shopping spot perfectly captures the spirit of our beloved seaside resort town.  Tourists flock to this three-block outdoor shopping district that has grown into a must-visit destination.

Washington Street Mall Shopping Guide

You’ll find more than 50 shops here, each with its own character.  The retail mix includes something for everyone:

• Fashion & Accessories: Cash and Clive, Sunflowers Boutique and Making Waves
• Home & Gifts: Winterwood Gift & Christmas Shoppe, D’May Home Gallery
• Specialty Shops: Cape May Cigars & Wine, The Original Fudge Kitchen and Cape Atlantic Book Co.

Washington Street Mall Dining Options

Food options range from laid-back cafes to fancy restaurants.  Some local favorites include:

• Fine Dining: The Ebbitt Room serves fresh farm-to-table dishes straight from their Beach Plum Farm
• Casual Spots: Delaney’s Irish Pub serves great food at reasonable prices
• Sweet Treats: Uncle Charlie’s Ice Cream and Madison’s Bakery stand out.  Madison’s is one of the country’s oldest continuously running bakeries

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Washington Street Mall Events

The mall comes alive with events throughout the year that boost Cape May’s charm:

• “Tunesday Tuesdays” Summer Music Series runs June through August with live music from 5-7 PM
• Seasonal celebrations include:
  • Halloween Parade
  • Christmas Parade
  • Summer sidewalk sales
  • Holiday shopping events

This place keeps its historic character while adding modern touches.  The mix creates a special spot where old meets new.  Summer brings crowds and excitement, while off-season shopping lets you take things slow and easy.

Take a Victorian House Tour

Second only to San Francisco in Victorian architectural preservation, Cape May boasts an extraordinary collection of 19th-century masterpieces.  The city’s remarkable Victorian heritage helped it earn National Historic Landmark status in 1976, which covers the entire town.

Best Victorian Houses in Cape May

The Emlen Physick Estate stands proudly as Cape May’s only Victorian house museum with 18 rooms displaying authentic period furnishings.  The Pink House fascinates visitors with its two-story porch, round-arched windows, and vibrant pink exterior – it has the fanciest porch trim in town.  Built in 1882, the Christopher Gallagher House represents Victorian craftsmanship at its finest.

Victorian architecture enthusiasts should explore these streets:

• Perry Street and Jackson Street – home to the most photographed properties
• Ocean Street – where you’ll find the red-gabled Queen Victoria and Columbia House
• Hughes Street – distinguished by brick sidewalks and white picket fences

Victorian House Tour Prices

These architectural gems offer both guided and self-guided tours.  The Emlen Physick Estate’s themed experiences include:

• Historic Haunts ghost tour
• Magic & Mystery house tour
• Gardens of Cape May house tour

Pro Tip: Book your tours online ahead of time since groups have limited sizes.

Victorian Architecture Photography Tips

Tips to capture Cape May’s Victorian architecture:

• Frame your shots to highlight these historic buildings’ grandeur
• Add foreground elements that create depth and context
• Highlight distinctive features like stained glass windows, decorative trimming, and turrets
• The best lighting conditions appear during early morning or late afternoon

Gas lamps line the streets while horse-drawn carriages add authentic period charm.  Victorian house tours are a great way to get insights into Cape May, New Jersey’s rich architectural heritage.

Go Whale Watching

Cape May’s position at the meeting point of Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean creates a perfect sanctuary to watch marine life.  The nutrient-rich waters draw many marine species.  This makes whale watching one of the most exciting activities in Cape May, New Jersey.

Best Whale Watching Tours in Cape May

The Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center, 36 years old, is the area’s original eco-tour operation.  Their vessel, the American Star, works as a floating marine research center.  Here, certified naturalists and marine biologists give a detailed explanation of marine life encounters.  The custom-built 100-foot vessel will give a comfortable viewing experience with:

• Spacious indoor cabin with climate control
• Multiple shaded outdoor viewing areas
• Seating capacity for 250, limited to 149 passengers to maximize comfort

Whale Watching Season Guide

Marine mammals appear year-round.  Atlantic Bottlenose Dolphins are visible 98% of the time from March through December.  Whales, including Humpback, Fin, Minke, and Right Whales, show up throughout the year with a 68% success rate.  Cape May’s special position allows visitors to spot these creatures within ten miles of land.

Whale Watching Prices and Booking

Tours run for three hours but might go longer if there are late sightings.  The company offers a Marine Mammal Guarantee – guests get a free voucher with no expiration date if they don’t spot any marine mammals.

Captains share local history and marine biology knowledge throughout the trip.  Research interns collect information and run hands-on learning stations.  This lets passengers take part in ongoing marine research.

The vessel comes with ADA-compliant facilities, including boarding ramps and restrooms.  Passengers who get seasick can buy preventative medications at the dock.

Relax at Cape May Beaches

Ranked among the top 10 beaches in the US and top 25 globally, Cape May’s beautiful coastline runs about 2.5 miles along Beach Avenue.  Visitors can enjoy both fun activities and peaceful relaxation here.

Top Cape May Beaches

Each Cape May beach has its own unique charm:

• The Cove – A prime spot to catch waves and watch stunning sunsets
• Steger Beach – A volleyball player’s paradise with permanent nets
• Poverty Beach – The go-to place for experienced surfers
• Congress Street Beach – Calm waters make it great for families
• Broadway Beach – Locals love its wide sandy shores

Beach Access and Facilities

You can get to the beach from 39 different street points.  Beach season starts Memorial Day and ends Labor Day.  Anyone 12 or older needs beach tags between 10:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Beach Tag Pricing:

• Seasonal: $40
• Weekly (8 days): $25
• 3-day: $20
• Daily: $10

The promenade features restrooms every half-mile.  Accessible facilities are at Glenwood, Youngs, and Leaming Avenues.  Most beach entrances have outdoor showers to rinse off sand.

Beach Activities and Rentals

The beach offers plenty to do while following safety rules.  Lifeguards watch over swimming areas until 5:30 PM daily during summer.  Steger Beach Service provides several rental options:

• Victorian-style beach cabanas
• High and low-back beach chairs
• Beach umbrellas
• Beach boxes for storage

Beach Patrol provides free surf chairs for people with mobility needs from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm.  You can bring coolers and packed food, but alcohol and portable cooking devices aren’t allowed on the beaches.

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Visit Cape May Wineries

Wine lovers will be amazed by Cape May’s thriving wine country that boasts New Jersey’s longest growing season.  The region’s unique microclimate and fertile soil make it perfect to produce exceptional wines.

Popular Cape May Wineries

Cape May’s wine scene features several remarkable establishments:

• Willow Creek Winery – A 50-acre estate that produces thirteen varietals and a 300-seat tasting room you can visit year-round
• Hawk Haven Vineyard – A 100+ acre farm that’s 15 years old and known for handcrafted, limited production wines
• Cape May Winery – The area’s oldest winery that released its first Cabernet Sauvignon in 1996

Wine Tasting Experience

Each winery creates unique tasting experiences that go beyond regular samplings.  Willow Creek lets you try their signature “3 sip system” that awakens your palate.  Expert wine educators guide you through fine wines and sangrias while sharing their knowledge.

Hawk Haven stands out because they do everything on-site – from harvesting to bottling.  You’ll love their sparkling wines and beach-friendly canned options.  Most places have live music on weekends, and Willow Creek hosts performances every Friday through Sunday.

Winery Tour Prices

You can pick from several tour options:

• Group Wine Tastings: $55 per person at Willow Creek with private educational sessions
• Wine Trail Experience: $165 per person lets you visit three wineries with complimentary tastings
• Table Flights: Self-guided tastings with three 3-oz pours served in stylish tasting trees

The Garden State Wine Growers Association mobile app helps you track visits to all seven wineries in the region.  These places pair their wines with delicious food options – from cheeseboards to full grill menus that create an exceptional tasting experience.

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Explore Naval Air Station Museum

The Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum gives visitors a fascinating experience through aviation history from its home in an authentic World War II hangar.  This 92,000-square-foot facility trained dive bomber pilots from 1943 to 1945 and now stands as one of Cape May’s most educational attractions.

Museum Exhibits Guide

You’ll find over 26 aircraft displays in the museum’s impressive collection, featuring both military and civilian aircraft.  Notable exhibits include:

• TBM Avenger and F6F-3 Hellcat from WWII era
• Military jets of all types from T-33 to F-16
• Rotary-wing aircraft including the iconic “Huey” helicopter
• Coast Guard’s retired HH-52A

The fascinating “1940s room” recreates wartime life, and visitors can climb inside an authentic air traffic control tower.

Museum Admission and Hours

The museum opens daily from March through December, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.  Admission Prices:

• Adults: $16.00
• Children (ages 3-12): $12.00
• Active Duty U.S. Military: Free
• Children under 3: Free
• Military Veterans receive a $2.00 discount

Museum Tour Highlights

The historic hangar provides unmatched interactive experiences.  Visitors can try hands-on exhibits and climb into various military vehicles.  The museum offers free 30-minute guided tours every Thursday at 11 a.m. with regular admission.

This space serves as more than just a museum.  Regular community events bring the facility to life:

• Aviation festivals
• Big band concerts
• Swing dances
• Veterans’ ceremonies
• Educational field trips

The museum’s growing collection makes it an engaging destination for both first-time visitors and returning guests who love military and aviation history.

Take a MAC Trolley Tour

The red and green trolleys of MAC provide one of the best ways to find Cape May’s rich heritage.  Visitors get an up-close view of America’s first seaside resort.  Expert guides share amazing stories about the town’s history and architecture during these rides.

Trolley Tour Routes

MAC runs several specialized tours that highlight different parts of Cape May’s character.  The Historic District Tour winds through the Victorian heart of the city.  The Maritime Tour tells stories of the town’s seafaring past.  Ghost enthusiasts will enjoy the Ghosts of Cape May Tour with tales of hauntings that psychic Craig McManus found.  The Underground Railroad Tour shows Cape May’s significant role in helping enslaved people escape to freedom.  This tour belongs to the National Park Service’s Network to Freedom.

Trolley Tour Prices

Tour prices depend on what you choose:

• Welcome to Cape May Tour: Perfect introduction for first-time visitors
• Historic District Tour: Complete architectural exploration
• Combination Tours: Options to pair trolley rides with mansion visits

Special Accommodations: Tours are available for those needing special access with two weeks’ notice.  Each trolley bench fits two adults comfortably. Staff can make special arrangements if you need extra space.

Best Time for Trolley Tours

Tours run all year, but each season offers something different. Summer has the most tour options.  Spring and fall bring pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds.  Early morning tours work best to beat the heat and get your preferred seats.  Large groups should arrive early since sitting together isn’t guaranteed.

The Ocean Street trolley stop serves as both starting and ending point, with plenty of parking nearby.  Getting there early helps you find parking and check in on time.  This way, you won’t miss any of the fascinating stories that make these trolley tours a must-do activity in Cape May, New Jersey.

Visit Jersey Shore Alpacas

Jersey Shore Alpacas sits just ten miles north of Cape May’s Victorian charm.  This family-owned farm in Green Creek gives visitors a chance to experience something different from typical seaside activities.  You can get up close with some of nature’s gentlest creatures.

Alpaca Farm Experience

The farm’s family consists of about 20 friendly alpacas.  Each alpaca has its own personality and charm.  Visitors can meet these gentle animals while the knowledgeable team explains their care and traits.  The farm store has amazing alpaca products including:

• Clothing and accessories (capes, socks, sweaters, gloves)
• Warm winter wear
• Cuddly toys
• Various yarn products

Alpaca Farm Prices

Visitors will find the pricing reasonable and straightforward.  Saturday visits from March through December are free and come with carrots to feed the alpacas.  Private appointments let you get a more personal experience with these rates:

• In-season (May-September): $30 for groups of 1-4 people
• Off-season (October-April): $25 for groups of 1-4 people

Best Time to Visit

The farm opens every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. between March and December.  July brings extra visiting hours on Thursdays and Fridays.  Most guests spend 30 to 45 minutes with the alpacas – perfect for a morning or afternoon trip.  Visitors rate their experience highly, and families with children of all ages love it here.

Parking comes free, so grab your camera and capture some special moments with these charming animals.  The farm store’s authentic alpaca products make great souvenirs that remind you of this special Cape May experience.

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Enjoy Morey’s Piers

Morey’s Piers stretches over eighteen acres across six beach blocks and features three amusement piers and two beachfront waterparks.  This East Coast landmark ranks among the largest amusement destinations in the region.

Rides and Attractions

The complex boasts over 100 rides and attractions spread throughout its three unique piers:

• Surfside Pier – Home to Ocean Oasis Waterpark and Beach Club
• Mariner’s Landing Pier – Features Raging Waters Waterpark
• Adventure Pier – Specializes in extreme rides and attractions

Ocean Oasis brings the tropics to life with private cabanas around a fire pit.  The Jersey Shore’s most exciting waterslides make this spot even more special.

Ticket Prices and Packages

Morey’s Piers has ticket options that match everyone’s needs:

Ride Ticket Packages:

• 75 + 5 Ticket Package: $92.06
• 150 + 10 Ticket Package: $170.31
• 280 + 20 Ticket Package: $243.96

Special Deals:

• Winter Sale Wild Pass (2025): $337.50
• Water Park Admission: $51.75
• Midway Games 10 Pack: $40.00

Best Time to Visit Morey’s Piers

Weekday mornings and early afternoons see the shortest wait times.  The water parks keep crowds manageable by grouping attractions in specific zones for easy access.  The park’s cleanliness and smooth operations stand out, especially during daytime hours when lines stay short.

Smart families buy tickets online beforehand to get better deals.  The park runs as smoothly as a Disney attraction.  Its clean environment and friendly staff make it a standout among boardwalk amusement destinations on the East coast.

This destination works perfectly for everyone.  Thrill-seekers and families with young kids will find plenty to enjoy.  Most guests spend about three hours between the water park and rides to get the full experience.

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Tour the Emlen Physick Estate

The Emlen Physick Estate, a magnificent 18-room mansion, stands as the centerpiece of Cape May’s Victorian heritage and serves as proof of architectural excellence and historical preservation.  This remarkable structure, designed by renowned architect Frank Furness in 1879, represents one of America’s finest examples of Victorian Stick Style architecture.

Estate History

Dr. Emlen Physick Jr. started the estate’s legacy by commissioning this architectural masterpiece for himself and his widowed mother.  The property’s beauty became crucial to Cape May’s preservation movement as it faced demolition in the late 1960s.  The Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC) emerged in 1970 with the mission to save this historic treasure, which led the city to acquire the property in 1973.

Tour Options and Prices

The estate offers several themed experiences that bring the Victorian era alive:

• Down the Shore Tour: Showcases summer activities and architectural features designed to curb heat
• Voices from Beyond Tour: Features authentic spirit recordings captured in the last decade
• Historic Haunts House Tour: Breaks down the mansion’s reputation for paranormal activity
• Strange Victorian Obsessions Tour: Explores deeply into Victorian-era fascinations

Admission Prices:

• Adults: $20.00
• Children (ages 3-12): $15.00
• Members receive 25% discount

Estate Photography Tips

Photographers should follow specific guidelines to capture the estate’s grandeur.  The Physick House Museum prohibits flash photography inside.  Best results come from:

• Highlighting architectural details like the distinctive stick-style elements
• Including the property’s nine outbuildings and gardens
• Using natural lighting through the mansion’s period-appropriate windows

Visitors can enjoy more than tours at the estate.  The on-site Vintage Restaurant serves brunch and dinner, while the Carriage House Museum Shop and family-friendly scavenger hunts add to the experience.  With over 8,786 scheduled tours and events annually, the Emlen Physick Estate remains a captivating destination in Cape May, New Jersey.

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Visit Cape May County Zoo

The Cape May County Zoo ranks among the best family spots in Cape May.  This amazing conservation and education center houses over 550 animals from more than 250 different species.

Zoo Exhibits Guide

You’ll find several unique areas throughout the zoo’s collection:

• World of Birds – A rainforest room where you can walk through and spot exotic species
• African Savanna – The home turf of reticulated giraffes and mountain bongos
• Big Cat Complex – Snow leopards live here, and their successful breeding program made the zoo famous in 2010

The zoo earned worldwide recognition after two Snow Leopard cubs were born in May 2010.  The success continued with more Snow Leopard births in April 2012.

Zoo Hours and Admission

The zoo welcomes visitors all year round with different seasonal timings:

• Winter Hours: 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
• Summer Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM

The best part? Admission is completely free.  The zoo welcomes donations to help run its operations.  Both the Zoological Association of America and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums have given their seal of approval to this facility.

Zoo Photography Tips

Here’s how you can snap some amazing photos:

• Lighting Considerations: Animals are most active in early morning light
• Equipment Selection: A 70-300mm zoom lens works best for most enclosures
• Focus Techniques: Eye-level shots create more engaging animal portraits
• Glass Enclosure Tips: Keep your lens close to the glass to cut down reflections

The Safari Café serves up tasty burgers, sandwiches, and pizza.  You can grab quick refreshments at the Savanna Garden kiosk too.  Cape May County Park surrounds the zoo and adds more fun with walking trails, fishing ponds and a disk golf course.

You can reach the zoo easily from Exit 11 on the Garden State Parkway.  Parking comes free.  The zoo keeps a smoke-free environment and allows only service animals to ensure everyone’s comfort.

Comparison Table

Enjoy the Things to Do in Cape May New Jersey

Cape May sets itself apart from other beach towns with its beautiful Victorian architecture, clean beaches, and exciting attractions.  This National Historic Landmark city lets visitors climb the iconic lighthouse and watch magnificent whales break through the Atlantic waters.

The city comes alive in different ways throughout the year.  Summer buzzes with beach activities and trolley tours.  Fall and winter bring peaceful Victorian house tours and wine tasting events.  Cape May’s steadfast dedication to preservation shows in landmarks like the Emlen Physick Estate and Washington Street Mall.  Nature lovers can find amazing experiences at the Cape May County Zoo and Jersey Shore Alpacas.

Budget travelers love the free attractions such as the zoo and alpaca farm visits.  Luxury seekers can enjoy customized wine tours or private mansion visits.  Each spot reveals a piece of Cape May’s story – from its maritime heritage at the Naval Air Station Museum to modern fun at Morey’s Piers.

Cape May creates lasting memories for everyone who walks its historic streets, relaxes on its beaches, or visits its cultural landmarks.  The city’s timeless charm keeps bringing back generations of visitors who want that perfect mix of relaxation, adventure and historic beauty on the Jersey Shore.

FAQs

What are some recommended activities for a day trip to Cape May?
For a day trip to Cape May, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including exploring nature trails, watching whales and dolphins, touring Victorian houses or participating in ghost tours.  Other options include golfing, both real and miniature, fishing, antiquing and visiting art galleries and historical exhibits.

Which street is considered the most famous in Cape May, New Jersey?
The Washington Street Mall is renowned as Cape May’s charming town square, offering a unique blend of shopping, dining and seasonal festivities.  It is a central spot in America’s Original Seaside Resort.

What makes Cape May, NJ, a unique destination?
Cape May is distinguished by its highly rated beaches, exquisite dining options, diverse lodging and excellent shopping opportunities.  It is also recognized globally as a prime location for birdwatching.  The city’s name honors Dutch captain Cornelius Jacobsen Mey, who explored and charted the area between 1611 and 1614.

When is the ideal time to visit Cape May?
The optimal time to visit Cape May is from May to September, when both air and water temperatures are suitable for sunbathing and swimming.  Although summer is the peak season, Cape May offers a plethora of activities throughout the year, making it a vibrant destination regardless of the season.