The Best Things to do in Cape May
Content Produced in Partnership with Hotels.com
The Jersey Shore’s reputation often precedes itself. With a namesake MTV reality show showing off the “party side” of the New Jersey shoreline, it’s hard to believe an idyllic family-friendly beach getaway like Cape May exists on the same coast.
The southernmost point of the Jersey Shore, Cape May is famous for being home to “America’s First Seaside Resort.” While the land was discovered in 1621, it became a popular tourist destination due to its accessibility from Philadelphia, with visitors like Abraham Lincoln and Ulysses S. Grant making waves in the 1850s. The textbook definition of “quaint,” Cape May features pastel edifices, coastal architecture, lapping waves, and a town small enough to explore by foot. Many visitors say it still feels like you’re in a different decade entirely. Here’s everything to know about visiting this surprising beach town.
How to Get to Cape May
The closest major city to Cape May in Philadelphia, making the Philadelphia Airport the most accessible destination for visitors traveling by plane. For other east coast jumping-off points, Baltimore is three hours away, and New York City is about four, depending on traffic getting out of NYC. Cape May is located at the very end of the Garden State Parkway for a relatively easy/self-explanatory drive. Another option that can doubles as a fun excursion if you are already in one of these other places is the Cape May-Lewes Ferry that runs across the Delaware Bay.
Where to Stay in Cape May
Cape May is home to America’s “oldest seaside resort,” called Congress Hall. Over 200 years old, you can still stay in some of the iconic rooms that made the town famous, after a bit of updating, of course.
Beyond that, many of the best places to stay in Cape May are b&bs and guest houses. Refurbished Victorian homes like the Peter Shields Inn, The Mason Cottage, and The Virginia are three to check out if you’re searching for a romantic getaway. If you are looking for something a bit more stylish, the Beach Shack is where it’s at. Previously known as The Coachman’s Motor Inn, the Beach Shack has a very coastal vibe and modern amenities.
Guest Houses are another popular way to stay in Cape May. With all the amenities of a bed and breakfast and the freedom of a hotel, it’s the best of both worlds. Such accommodations are available in local Victorian homes such as The Columbia House and Stockton Manor.
Things to do in Cape May
The town’s rich history is a significant selling point, whether or not you consider yourself a history buff. The coastal town is home to the second most Victorian buildings in the United States, behind just San Francisco and its famous “Painted Ladies.” There are over 600 pastel beauties, some residences, some refurbished inns, and B&Bs. Perry St. and Jackson St. are home to some of the most notable buildings, making for a great place to walk and sightsee. If you want the full experience, you can also take a trolley tour to see the historical landmarks with a guide.
Emlen Physick Estate is the only Victorian House that’s been turned into a museum. Cape May is supposedly one of the most haunted places in America, and Emlen Physick comes with many ghost stories. Some visitors have reported hearing an old Victrola playing, while others have seen four-legged ghosts, aka. one of Mr. Physick’s dogs who stuck around. But don’t let that scare you away, they’re all friendly…we think.
On a less spooky, swirlier note, Cape May is also known for its wineries, making great day trips around town. Cape May Winery and Willow Creek Winery are great places to imbibe and waste away the day over a glass or flight.
Cape May Beaches
As a coastal town, we have to state the obvious that you should spend some time at the beach. For a spot to spend the day, check out The Cove or Steger Beach. After the beach, you can head over to Washington Street Mall for a bit of window shopping along the boardwalk. There’s everything from your typical souvenir stores to higher-end galleries. Or head to Cape May Point State Park to photograph the lighthouse.
Toward the end of the night, head to Sunset Beach for sunset views and other mysteries. Home to literal hidden gems called “Cape May Diamonds,” these small pieces of quartz that are rubbed smooth by the ocean and come out looking similar to a natural diamond. Another fun side note: at low tide, you can see train tracks in the sand several times a year from over a century ago. One set of tracks is said to be from World War I, while the other set can be traced back to hauling sand from the shore to the local glass factories.
Restaurants in Cape May
Cape May has a great food scene with everything from upscale indoor dining to quintessential seaside shacks. For breakfast, head to Mad Batter or Uncle Bill’s Pancake House. For a family-style farm-to-table meal, make sure to check out Beach Plum Farm, where everything you eat comes directly from the land you’re dining on. For more of a swanky date night, there’s 410 Bank Street or Aleathea’s. And whether you are staying there or not, the Washington Inn and the Peter Shields Inn both have fantastic restaurants. Finally, for seafood by the water, head to The Lobster House for tasty fresh catches and views on Cape May Harbor.
Note: as travel today remains uncertain, please keep your safety and the safety of others in mind. If you are comfortable hitting the road, please be responsible as any travel is at your own risk. It’s recommended to wear a face mask, bring hand sanitizer, wash your hands frequently, know the local guidelines, and book a hotel with flexible cancellation policies in case you need to change your plans last minute.
That was a fascinating read! Aside from beach hopping, there is a long list of exciting activities for visitors to do in Cape May. With a profusion of hotels and reconstructed Victorian houses, I can assure you that your vacations in this well-known seaside holiday destination in America will be exceptionally spectacular.