Looking for the best things to do in Cape May? You are on the correct article.
Cape May is one of the best beaches on the east coast of the United States. Therefore, it attracts thousands of beach lovers annually.
Located at the tip of southern New Jersey, Cape May’s most significant feature is its miles of pristine beaches that stretch along the Atlantic coast.
Also, it is home to a National Historic District with over 600 impressive 19th-century Victorian cottages and buildings. Therefore it considers as one of the oldest seaside resorts in the United States. So, if you are fed up with busy modern beach towns, try this classic beach getaway instead.
Apart from Cape May beaches, the top things to do in Cape May, NJ are visiting Cape May Point State Park, Cape May Historic District, Emlen Physick Estate, Naval Air Station Wildwood (NASW) Aviation Museum, and Washington Street Mall.
Here’s the list of the best and fun things to do in Cape May, New Jersey, with your family.
Things to Do in Cape May
1. Things to Do in Cape May: Cape May Beaches
As mentioned in the introduction, Cape May is a paradise for beach lovers, especially during the summer.
Stretching for over two miles, Cape May beaches are always on the top of every travel list. Here are the reasons for that.
These fine and spectacular sandy beaches are some of the cleanest and safe beaches on the East Coast too. Also, they have all the amenities to ensure a comfortable beach vacation for the visitors.
Obviously, these shores offer you the most enjoyable things to do in Cape May. Surfers can head to Cove Beach, Poverty Beach, South Queen, and Surfing Beach.
Also, Steger Beach, Poverty Beach, Higbee Beach, and Sunset Beach are ideal for families looking for fun picnics, beach sports, building sandcastles, and breathtaking ocean views.
Almost every beach in Cape May allows fishing. (pets are not allowed on these beaches during the summer)
Address: Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ 08204, United States Phone: (609) 884-9525
Recommended hotel near Cape May Beaches: Montreal Beach Resort
Things to do in Cape May
2. Cape May Historic District
Welcome to the country’s oldest seashore resort.
Spreading for 380 acres, the Cape May Historic District contains over 600 victorian style buildings built in the 19th century. Therefore this area was designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1976.
Located along Cape May’s coastline, these buildings served as charming summer cottages at that time. Now many of them have converted to luxurious bed-and-breakfast hotels. So, still, you can have an old-fashioned beach vacation while enjoying the sea breezes and scenic ocean views sitting on their front porches or verandas.
The Victorian architecture of these cottages is unique and impressive. So, it is totally worth taking a walk, a bike tour, or a segway tour around and exploring more.
For example, Emlen Physick Estate, Washington Street Mall, Painted Ladies (Victorian houses with unique patterns), Lafayette Street, Columbia Avenue, Hughes Street, and Gurney Street’s Stockton Row Cottages are some of the most famous areas in the Cape May Historic District.
Try to visit there in October to catch the Victorian Weekend that features special house tours and many entertaining events.
Address: Cape May, NJ 08204, United States Phone: (609) 884-9525
Recommended hotel near Cape May Historic District: Congress Hall. Established in 1816, this hotel is an authentic Victorian-style summer cottage. Although it is modified, you can still get that authentic experience for sure.
Address: 200 Congress Pl, Cape May, NJ 08204, United States Phone: +1 888-944-1816
Things to do in Cape May
3. Cape May Point State Park
Cape May Point State Park is located in Lower Township, New Jersey.
Spreading for 244 acres of land area, this park features exciting hiking trails, beaches, a gallery, and the most famous Cape May Lighthouse.
Cape May Lighthouse attracts thousands of visitors to climb up 199 steps and get breathtaking views of the Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. As it was built in 1859, this is a historic lighthouse too.
It features an informative Visitors Center in the Oil House to tell you about the functions and the historical stories. Also, there’s a souvenir shop too.
On the other hand, Cape May Point State Park contains unique natural attractions. For example, attractive shorelines, dunes, ponds, coastal marshlands, and forests.
For example, the Monarch Trail is famous for spotting monarch butterflies, birds, and wildflowers. And the Plover Trail is ideal for viewing more shorebirds like oystercatchers and plovers.
Visitors of these trails can see the World War II Gun Battery (bunker) as a bonus.
Further, Duck Pond Trail features bald eagles, ducks, river otters, and turtles.
So, if you are looking for birdwatching, hiking, and other nature-friendly activities rather than being on the beach, plan your tour to Cape May Point State Park.
Address: Light House Ave, Cape May Point, NJ 08212, United States Phone: +1 609-884-2159
Recommended hotel near Cape May Point State Park: Elaine’s Cape May Boutique Hotel
Planning for a beach vacation? Just check for the best beaches on the East Coast.
4. Things to Do in Cape May: Jersey Shore Alpacas
New Jersey has plenty of alpaca farms. When you drive for 15 minutes from downtown Cape May, you will find many alpaca farms along the road.
One of the most famous and consistently five-star-rated alpaca farms in Cape May is Jersey Shore Alpacas. Usually, no one misses this wonderful farm on their Cape May tour.
Jersey Shore Alpacas farm has around 15 alpacas running freely on their large farmland. And these alpacas are friendly with the visitors. So, if you are looking for things to do in Cape May with kids, try this farm. Kids will love it.
These alpaca fleeces use for making comfortable socks, sweaters, hats, and scarves. If it is the trimming time, you can see trimmed fleeces too. Also, the farm’s store sells you these comfortable garments.
Saturday is the public tour day of Jersey Shore Alpacas, and you can visit for free of charge. Also, you can feed carrots to alpacas. But the private tours allow you to go inside the pen and get closer to cute alpacas.
Address: 521 South Route 47, Cape May, NJ 08204, United States Phone: +1 609-889-4957
Recommended hotel near Jersey Shore Alpacas: Aztec Motel
Things to do in Cape May
5. Bird Watching in Cape May
Welcome to North America’s premier birding destination, Cape May, New Jersey. Since this spectacular beach town is located on birds’ migratory paths, it attracts diverse bird varieties annually.
Also, as there are diverse ecosystems like grasslands, swamps, marshes, forests, ponds, and lakes, birds easily inhabit Cape May. Therefore, Cape May’s undisturbed natural environment attracts over 450 bird species every year, including summer tanagers, orioles, Cape May warbler, plovers, oystercatchers, and sandpipers.
That’s why the famous American naturalist John James Audubon appreciated Cape May as one of the best bird-watching destinations in the country.
Therefore, Cape May Bird Observatory was established by New Jersey Audubon Society in 1975. It encourages bird conservation, conducts research, and organizes educational and recreational birding activities.
Apart from Bird Observatory, West Cape May is more famous among bird watchers. Also, South Cape May Meadows, Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area, and Cape May Hawkwatch are perfect too.
If you visit there in May, you can spot many shorebirds. Or, if you visit in September, you may spot many songbirds.
Address: Cape May Bird Observatory, 701 E Lake Dr, Cape May Point, NJ 08212, United States Phone: +1 609-400-3868
Recommended hotel near Cape May Bird Observatory: The Carroll Villa Hotel
Things to do in Cape May
6. Things to Do in Cape May: Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
Naval Wildwood Aviation Museum is a famous aviation museum located at Cape May Airport (inside the historic Hangar #1).
NASW did a great job by providing an active dive-bomber squadron facility for World War II training sessions. Now, it has converted into an Aviation Museum that features engines, aircraft, and interactive displays representing the history of WWII.
Display with 26 helicopters and planes is the most highlighted thing in Naval Wildwood Aviation Museum.
Also, you are allowed to sit inside the cockpit of an aircraft, climb to a real air traffic control tower, and try flight simulator games like fantastic interactive things.
Are you excited? Surely take your kids too. They will love it.
Address: Cape May Airport, 500 Forrestal Rd, Cape May, NJ 08204, United States Phone: +1 609-886-8787
Recommended hotel near Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum: ICONA Diamond Beach
Things to do in Cape May
7. Washington Street Mall, Cape May
Washington Street Mall is a historic outdoor shopping district with many restored Victorian Buildings. Located in Cape May Historic District, Washington Shopping Mall offers you a chance to buy anything you want while experiencing the old Victorian-era style.
Its Victorian-style storefronts, architecture, gas lamps, old fountains, and brick-paved streets are unique and attractive.
Washington Street Mall features delicious restaurants, live music, gift shops, ice cream parlors, and many other entertainment opportunities.
Are you looking for fun things to do in Cape May tonight? Washington Street Mall is the ideal place for it.
Address: 401 Washington St, Cape May, NJ 08204, United States Phone: +1 609-884-0555
Recommended hotel near Washington Street Mall: Boarding House Cape May
Things to do in Cape May
8. Things to Do in Cape May: Schellenger’s Landing
Schellenger’s Landing is the Fisherman’s Wharf of Cape May. It is the ideal place to experience the old seafaring culture of the city.
Having several marinas like South Jersey Marina, Miss Chris Marina, and Utsch’s Marina, Schellenger’s Landing features recreational fishing and boating tours. Therefore, the shops near the wharf sell or rent all the fishing gear, kayaks, boats, and other equipment.
Miss Chris Marina is a famous departure of Bird-watching boat cruises. And Utsch’s and Miss Chris Marinas features deep-sea fishing trips and sportfishing charters.
Apart from those adventures, Schellenger’s Landing is a perfect place for seafood lovers. It has many waterfront restaurants that serve fresh seafood dishes.
First, take a cruise you like, then fill your guts with your favorite seafood fish.
Address: Schellengers Landing Rd, Cape May, NJ 08204, United States
Recommended hotel near Schellenger’s Landing: Sea Crest Inn
Things to do in Cape May
9. Cape May Carriage Company
Cape May Carriage Company is an old carriage service company founded in 1983. Still, you can see the Victorian-style vintage carriages pulled by excellent horses along the city’s historic streets.
You can also take a ride on them. Usually, a ride lasts for half an hour. And it takes you to see the city’s historical wonders starting from the corner of Washington Street Mall.
Cape May Carriage Company hosts rides every day during the summer and Christmas season. But, if you are in Cape May in fall or spring, you can catch rides only on weekends.
People hire it for weddings, engagements, photoshoots, and other special events as well. Therefore, it is better to reserve your ride in advance.
Address: 315 Ocean St, Cape May, NJ 08204, United States Phone: +1 609-884-4466
Things to do in Cape May
10. Cape May County Park & Zoo
Opened in 1978, Cape May County Park & Zoo is an amazing zoo located in Cape May Court House, New Jersey. It spreads over 85 acres of land and exhibits over 550 animals representing 250 species.
No matter what the age, both adults and kids love animal animals.
Notable animals in Cape May County Park & Zoo are golden-headed lion, American bison, African lion, and two snow leopards named Vijay and Himani.
And the most highlighted exhibits in this museum are Reptile House and Amphibian House, African Savanna, and World of Birds Aviary.
Apart from observing these creatures, Cape May County Park & Zoo features some fun outdoor activities too. Ex: scavenger hunts, adventure camping, and sleepovers in the zoo.
Cape May County Park & Zoo offers you free entrance. So, come along with your whole family to enjoy time with these wonderful animals.
Address:707 U.S. 9 North, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210, United States Phone: +1 609-465-5271
Recommended hotel near Cape May County Park & Zoo: ICONA Avalon
Things to do in Cape May
11. Cape May Whale Watch and Research Center
Cape May is a wonderful destination to spot whales and dolphins. No need to sail more than 10 miles from the coastline to spot them.
Therefore, the Cape May coastline features plenty of local companies that organize whale-watching cruises for you.
Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center is one of the best cruise planners in Cape May, NJ. Located at the South Jersey Marina, it offers bird-watching cruises and whale-dolphin watching cruises.
Their Sunset Dolphin Cruise is more famous as it provides a chance to experience a relaxing boat trip while seeing whales, dolphins, Cape May lighthouse, and many other Cape May beaches.
You can surely spot humpback whales, minke whales, finback whales, bottlenose dolphins, and many other unexpected marine creatures on this tour.
So, are you ready to get close-ups of whales and dolphins in Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean with Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center?
Do not forget to book your cruise in advance.
Address: 1231 Route 109 South Jersey Marina, Cape May, NJ 08204, United States Phone: +1 609-898-0055
Recommended hotel near Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center: La Mer Beachfront Resort
Things to do in Cape May
12. Things to Do in Cape May: Willow Creek Winery
Now it’s time to drink world-class wine glass.
Willow Creek Winery & Farm is 50 acres of an excellent winery located in the Outer Coastal Plain of New Jersey. Being the only tasting room in Cape May, Willow Creek Winery & Farm produces some of the best hand-crafted wines in the United States.
So, if you are in Cape May to celebrate your birthday, anniversary, or a lovely date, one of the best places to visit in Cape May is Willow Creek Winery & Farm.
They are always ready to offer excellent wines, delicious food, and scenic views of the sprawling vineyard.
Are you ready to toast?
Address: 168 Stevens St, West Cape May, NJ 08204, United States Phone: +1 609-770-8782
Recommended hotel near Willow Creek Winery & Farm: Grand Hotel Cape May
Things to do in Cape May
13. Emlen Physick Estate
Emlen Physick Estate is a museum house in Cape May Historic District. Actually, it is a charming historic house that helps you go back to the city’s glorious Victorian era.
This museum house features 15 restored rooms that show you the authentic lifestyle and culture of Cape May in the 1800s.
Its vintage furniture and Victorian period unique items (like a magic lantern and button hooks) are interesting to see inside the museum.
Although some people claim that Emlen Physick Estate is haunted, it attracts plenty of visitors all the time. And it is totally worth it visiting to admire the architecture and interior.
Address: 1048 Washington St, Cape May, NJ 08204, United States Phone: +1 609-884-5404
Recommended hotel near Emlen Physick Estate: Marquis De Lafayette
Things to do in Cape May
14. Cape May Harbor
Cape May Habor is a wonderful place to visit families with young children because it is ideal for doing fun water sports. Such as kayaking, paddle boarding, jet skiing, boating, and more.
Also, Cape May Habor and New Jersey Audubon society together present Harbor Safaris to educate visitors about local sea creatures and coastal ecology.
However, Cape May Habor is a must-visit scenic place in the city. So, at least try to catch the marvelous view of yachts and sailboats sailing through turquoise waters.
If anyone into picnicking, there are picnic tables too.
Recommended hotel near Cape May Habor: Cape Harbor Motor Inn
Things to do in Cape May
15. Things to Do in Cape May: Nature Center of Cape May
Nature Center of Cape May is an award-wining nature-focused campus in Cape May, New Jersey. Founded in 1992, it sits overlooking the Cape May Harbor.
This nature center features a three-level observation tower, an indoor observation hall, exhibit aquaria, a gift store, and multiple themed gardens.
Therefore, the Nature Center of Cape May attracts many nature lovers, young learners, and families with kids. It especially organizes nature-friendly hands-on activities for kids.
Also, visitors can enjoy salt marsh boat tours, wildlife-friendly gardening programs, kayak nature tours, cycling tours, and summer science day camps.
That’s why visiting the Nature Center of Cape May is one of the best things to do with kids.
Address: 1600 Delaware Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204, United States Phone: +1 609-427-3045
Recommended hotel near Nature Center of Cape May: Madison Avenue Beach Club
Things to do in Cape May
Things to Do in Cape May
- Cape May Beaches
- Cape May Historic District
- Cape May Point State Park
- Jersey Shore Alpacas
- Cape May Bird Observatory
- Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
- Washington Street Mall
- Schellenger’s Landing
- Cape May Carriage Company
- Cape May County Park & Zoo
- Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center
- Willow Creek Winery & Farm
- Emlen Physick Estate
- Cape May Habor
- Nature Center of Cape May
Things to do in Cape May
