One of America’s oldest seaside towns, Cape May has long been a favorite among vacationers. Its beautiful beaches, quaint historic homes, and bustling shopping malls offer something for everyone. The region is also a popular destination for nature lovers, with a variety of bird and whale watching opportunities. There are also several historic lighthouses, preserved Victorian mansions, and WWII-era plane hangers.
While in Cape May, you can also enjoy the historic district, where you can see buildings from the colonial era. Many of these buildings are in excellent condition, offering a glimpse into Cape May’s early days. You can also visit the Cape May Bird Observatory, which houses a variety of birds and animals.
The town’s beachfront offers several opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and other activities. If you want to get more hands-on, there are several boat tours that you can take. You can also join a dolphin-watching cruise. The Cape May Whale Watcher takes tourists on three-hour tours of the bay. The American Star, which offers tours with marine biologists, is another option.
Another great place to visit is the Nature Center of Cape May, which offers an up-close look at the wetlands, gardens, and aquaria. It also has a three-story observation deck, which you can climb after touring the grounds. You can even tour the greenhouses and learn about the local flora and fauna. Other things to do in Cape May include visiting the Harriet Tubman Museum. Though the museum is relatively new, it is already one of the most popular points of interest in the area.
Sandy Beaches
Cape May’s sandy beaches are a popular spot for families. It’s also a popular spot for surfers and kayakers. This area also offers a great daytime view of the Cape May Lighthouse. The harbor also features great waterfront dining, a marina, and whale-watching tours.
The City of Cape May holds Movies on the Beach on Gurney Street, near the Convention Hall. Bring snacks and blankets to enjoy a movie on the beach. Anne Hathaway and others have been spotted enjoying these events. Getting to the beach early is a great way to make the most of the day.
Cape May County is located on the southern tip of New Jersey. It features thirty miles of clean, white-sand beaches connecting the towns of Ocean City, Avalon, and Wildwoods. The beaches are considered some of the best on the Atlantic coast. Residents and visitors alike share in the cost of keeping these beaches clean.
During your visit to Sandy Beaches Cape May, be sure to visit the boardwalk, which is lined with fun activities and amusement rides. In addition, there are several restaurants serving local cuisine and fresh seafood. This iconic beach is a great destination for families and vacationers alike. You’ll find a wide variety of activities to entertain the entire family.
The boardwalk is two miles long and features concrete walkways and wooden boards. There are several amusement parks in the area, including the Morey’s Piers. You’ll find more than 100 rides and a water park. The boardwalk is also lined with historic Victorian homes and grand hotels.
Sunset Beach is an excellent place to take a walk in the late afternoon on West Cape May. Sunset Beach is a great place to take in the last golden rays before it goes dark. From Memorial Day through August, Sunset Beach holds a flag ceremony every evening.
Cape May Historic District
Cape May is a seaside city that is home to a large collection of Victorian-era buildings. This area has a rich history and architecture, but the town still maintains a relaxed atmosphere. If you’re looking for an easy day trip, consider taking a guided tour of the historic district. These tours are offered throughout the year and feature narrated walks through some of the most significant buildings.
In 1976, the entire city was designated as a National Historic Landmark. This designation ensures the architectural integrity of buildings in the area. Many of the structures were constructed by carpenters who were highly creative and innovative. Tours of the historic district are offered by the Cape May MAC. While you’re visiting Cape May, be sure to visit the Harriet Tubman Museum, which pays tribute to the antislavery activist. The museum will also educate visitors on the role of the African-American community in the town.
Another place to visit in Cape May is the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum. The museum is located near the town’s airport. Inside, you can view a collection of vintage aircraft and other equipment pieces. There are also interactive exhibits about flight history. You can also visit West Cape May, which was primarily used by European colonists.
There are hundreds of Victorian-era buildings in the Cape May Historic District. These buildings are beautifully preserved and offer a peek at the town’s past. This district also has quaint stores and boutiques and vintage and antique hotels.
The Historic District can be explored by walking or biking. It is worth stopping to admire the “Painted Ladies”, Victorian houses with intricate facades. You can find many beautiful old houses on Washington Street at the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities’ guided walking tours.
Some of the most stunning Victorians in town live on Lafayette Street, Hughes Street, and Columbia Avenue. The Stockton Row Cottages, located on Gurney Street, are famous.
Another fun way to experience the historic district is by taking a trolley tour. The tour can be themed to help you learn more about the town’s history. Tours are an excellent way to learn about Cape May’s unique past.
Underground Railroad Trolley Tour
A trolley tour is one of the best ways to see Cape May. It’s a fun way to experience the city and learn about its history. Several trolley tours are offered by the Mid-Atlantic Center for Arts & Humanities. These tours provide a brief history of Cape May as well as tips for first-time visitors.
Cape May has a quaint historic district filled with Victorian-era homes. The buildings are beautifully preserved and offer a window into life during the 1800s. At that time, the concept of leisure was still in its infancy. The area is now home to several museums and historical sites.
The Mid-Atlantic Center for Arts and Humanities sponsors the “Network to Freedom” tour. The tour is free to the public and can be taken any time. Donations are welcome to offset the cost of the tour. If you plan to take the tour, make sure you take some time to visit the Center for Arts and Humanities’ office. It is open 24 hours and can provide information about tours.
A trolley tour in Cape May is a great way to learn about the city’s history. Guides explain the history and architecture of the area, as well as the reasons it served as a stop along the Underground Railroad. You’ll also learn about local legends and ghost stories. There are even tours based on paranormal activity.
Bird-Watching
If you’re looking for an excellent birding destination in New Jersey, Cape May is a great choice. With its abundant wildlife, Cape May offers plenty of opportunities for birding enthusiasts. You’ll find a variety of species to observe, including songbirds, hummingbirds, and migratory birds.
Higbee Beach is a one-and-a-half mile stretch of beach along Delaware Bay that has long lured nature lovers. The natural beauty of the surrounding area has been the scene for some of the world’s most spectacular bird watching. In addition, the area has been a favorite haunt of botanists.
Jesse Dawson has been interested in birds since he was a young child. His passion for birds led him to study the migration patterns of various bird species and eventually became a professional birder. He has led educational hikes for kids and has worked as a hawk counter at the Montclair Hawk Watch in New Jersey. He is currently studying for his Master’s degree in Environmental Science at the University of Pennsylvania.
If you’re visiting Cape May during migration, you may be lucky to catch some migratory birds during the spring or summer months. In addition, you can enjoy a variety of species on Cape May’s beaches. In the winter, the beaches are a haven for thousands of wintering ducks, gulls, and loons. Also, you can catch a glimpse of the Northern Gannet, a large seabird that dives for fish.
Cape May Point State Park
Located in Lower Township, New Jersey, Cape May Point State Park is a 244-acre state park. The park is home to nature trails, hiking trails, and beaches. It also has an exhibit gallery and the Cape May Light. The park is a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors should plan their visit accordingly, depending on the time of year. While spring begins in late March, temperatures don’t really reach a high until mid-April. This time of year is perfect for strolling the Cape May beaches. However, visitors should be aware that summer is hot in Cape May, and the humidity can make it feel even hotter. That’s why it’s a good idea to wear lightweight clothes and comfortable shoes.
As part of the Atlantic Flyway, Cape May Point is a prime spot for birdwatching. It is home to the largest number of Peregrine Falcons in North America, and you can see ospreys and other species of birds while you’re there. The park also features scenic lighthouses and trails, white sandy beaches, and covered picnic areas. In addition, free nature programs are also available to give visitors an insight into the local wildlife.
Cape May Point State Park has a history that goes back to the early 19th century. The park has numerous Victorian structures that have been restored. A trip here is definitely worth a day of relaxing on the beach or checking out the lighthouse.
Schellenger’s Landing
The Fisherman’s Wharf, Cape May, Schellenger’s Landing gives a glimpse into the town’s maritime history. Three marinas are available in Schellenger’s Landing – Utsch’s Marina (South Jersey Marina), and Miss Chris Marina.
Schellenger’s Landing’s marinas are great for boating or recreational fishing trips. Many shops rent paddleboards and kayaks. They also sell fishing equipment. You can fish with anglers at Utsch’s Marina and Miss Chris Marina. Miss Chris Marina is the start point for boat cruises to bird-watching boats.
One of Cape May’s most loved spots for a seafood meal is Schellenger’s Landing. The waterfront restaurants are known for their fresh-caught fish.
Cruises for Whale and Dolphin Watching
Within 10 miles of Cape May’s coastline, you can see dolphins and whales swimming in the Atlantic Ocean or Delaware Bay. It is an excellent way to see these amazing sea mammals up close while sailing through deep blue water.
Local companies often offer whale-watching tours. The cruise allows you to see finback whales, humpbacks, and minke whales.
This guided whale- or dolphin-watching cruise is sure to be unforgettable. The captain will guide the boat to the best places for the marine animals and will be joined by a certified naturalist guide.
The South Jersey Marina is home to the Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center. The center also offers whale-, dolphin and bird-watching cruises. The center offers Sunset Dolphin Cruises, which take you past Cape May’s beaches, lighthouse and foreshore.
Cape May Harbor
There are a number of reasons to visit Cape May Harbor. This historic port town is the southernmost point of New Jersey and is a popular beach destination. Its tree-lined streets and historic Victorian villas make this a unique place to visit. The town has a vibrant downtown with boutiques, sophisticated restaurants, and a wine and brewery trail. The area is also known for cultural events year-round.
The lighthouse in Cape May was built in 1859, and visitors can climb its 199-foot tower for expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay. The park surrounding the lighthouse features several hiking trails. The Plover Trail, named after the shorebirds that flit about, is a popular destination for bird watching. The Monarch Trail, named after monarch butterflies, is another popular hiking route. There are also trails for seeing geese, golden eagles, and river otters.
There are also a number of restaurants and bars in Cape May that serve delicious seafood and fresh fish. During the high season, visitors can go whale watching, which is a popular activity. Many of these restaurants require you to bring your own wine, but there are liquor stores located near most establishments. If you need to purchase alcohol, you should make sure you buy it in advance.
Cape May offers a variety of other attractions for families and friends. In addition to fishing, you can take a tour of a local museum or take a day trip to Cape May Island. The quaint town center offers a number of arts and film festivals, and many restaurants are known for their authentic local flavors.
Historic Cold Spring Village
Historic Cold Spring Village is a 30-acre living history museum just minutes from downtown Cape May, NJ. They offer a number of different on-site venues for wedding ceremonies and receptions, and they can accommodate up to 150 guests. If you are interested in the history of this area, you can also attend a number of other events held at the historic Cold Spring Village.
Tours at the Historic Cold Spring Village are free of charge, but make sure you visit during the seasons when the buildings are open for the public. There are activities for children, like crafts and holiday treats served by interpreters. Kids can even take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the village grounds. The Country Store will also be open during these times and will be stocked with unique holiday gifts and souvenirs.
The village is home to 27 restored historic buildings from the Cape May County area. You can even get a glimpse of early American life with authentic reconstructions and demonstrations by guides in period clothing. While you’re there, stop by the HCSV Country Store to buy snacks and beverages. If you’re looking for something to eat or drink, you’ll also be able to purchase a homemade treat from the ice cream parlor.
A number of people visit the Village on a daily basis. These visitors include members of the Village, leisure and heritage tourism, and school groups.
West Cape May
Beyond Cape May’s Historic District is a quiet rural community that houses many small farms. The area was first planted by European colonists in 1600s to cultivate agricultural purposes. It was also used for soy bean, lima bean, and Cape May dairy farming.
To honor its heritage, Wilbraham Park hosts an annual Lima Bean Festival every October in West Cape May.
Tourists will love cycling in West Cape May. It is a scenic, easy ride that starts from Cape May’s center. There are 200 acres of wildlife-protected habitat at the South Cape May Meadows. The observation decks are a great place to watch birds and the walking paths will be a delight for bird-watchers.
Beach Plum Farm was established on an old property. It is a 62-acre farm that supplies produce to local restaurants. Beach Plum Farm grows over 100 types of fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers. Beach Plum Farm also has shaded picnic areas that are perfect for sunny days and farm-totable meals. Charming cottages can be found that offer overnight accommodations.
The Country Market sells produce grown on the farm. The Farm Kitchen serves breakfast and lunch using farm-sourced ingredients.
