Best Things to Do in Cape May, New Jersey

Best Things to Do in Cape May, New JerseyNew Jersey - Cape May offers something to please families with young children and adult visitors seeking adventure. It offers miles of pristine beaches, charming shopping districts, and an idyllic lighthouse overlooking Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Have horse-drawn carriage rides always been at the top of your bucket list? Cape May offers several carriage companies that provide this classic experience.


Best Things to Do in Cape May, New Jersey

Wineries

Cape May offers something special for wine enthusiasts and casual sippers - numerous vineyards and wineries where you can discover and sample some of the wines that have made the area famous.

Turdo Vineyards & Winery of North Cape May is a small family-owned winery offering delicious wines at reasonable prices. Cape May Winery, however, provides more space with ample outdoor seating.



Add fun and exploration to your trip by visiting a brewery, distillery, or winery near you. Take an in-depth tour to witness how your beverage is produced while picking up one or two bottles to take home with you!

Beaches

Attractions include sandy beaches and lively Atlantic surf that invite visitors to swim, surf, or relax on the beach. For added excitement, take a boat to spot dolphins and whales or kayak inland salt marshes where wildlife awaits discovery.



Emlen Physick Estate and Cape May Lighthouse both provide tours that give visitors a glimpse into life in late 1800s Cape May while shopping and dining is popular activities - particularly on Washington Street Mall. This open-air strip features numerous shops and eateries.

Historic District

Cape May's historic district, situated on New Jersey's Cape May Peninsula, is an unforgettable journey through history. From exploring its iconic warship, SS Atlantus, to enjoying breathtaking sea views, this Victorian beachside city has much to offer visitors.

Washington Street Mall provides shoppers with an outdoor walking experience spanning three blocks, offering everything from jewelry and creative art pieces to antiques, clothing, and much more! Shoppers will love this three-block walk.

Fire Control Tower 23

As their latest restoration project, MAC recently completed restoration on this World War II tower near Sunset Beach. The tower features a spotting gallery, memorial plaques, and the Eternal Flame Monument - making for an enjoyable visit.



Cape May's most beloved activities for kids are sure to please - this attraction features stairs for climbing and exploring various displays, not to mention an iconic 1928 fire truck! Children will undoubtedly have a blast.

History lovers will appreciate visiting this museum to learn more about its significant achievements in local history. Entry is free, but donations are highly encouraged!

Harriet Tubman Museum

The Harriet Tubman Museum--originally scheduled to open last June but postponed due to the pandemic--shares the inspiring story of an American hero while also detailing Cape May's history as an epicenter of abolitionist activism. Tours are available, and children will love its interactive exhibits.

Time travel backward at the Emlen Physick Estate, an 1892 Victorian-style house turned museum. There are guided tours available of this house.

Shop the iconic Washington Street Mall for some of the best shopping and sightseeing in Cape May, New Jersey, before scaling 199 steps of Cape May Lighthouse at Cape May Point State Park for breathtaking bayside views.

Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours

Navigating Cape May on a horse-drawn carriage is one of the best ways to experience its Victorian heritage. Tour options for 15, 30, and 60 minutes are available.

Emlen Physick Estate offers tours every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of its historic block where anti-slavery activists once lived. Additionally, the Harriet Tubman Museum can be found there. Their exhibit tells a fascinating tale of her bravery during her involvement in the Underground Railroad.

This trolley tour, co-sponsored by Cape May MAC, includes wine tasting with cheese and crackers at Jessie Creek Vineyards free access to Natali Vineyards, and complimentary tours, glasses, and tastings at Lighthouse.

Fishing

Cape May offers anglers plenty of fishing opportunities from beachside and jetty fishing spots. Summer months provide prime conditions as the water warms, drawing out various species.

Cape May offers miles of beaches boasting a diverse marine ecosystem. Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area is a favorite among surf fishermen for catching striped bass, bluefish, and weakfish.

Historic Cold Spring Village is a living museum that recreates life from the 1700s with classic buildings. Or take an unforgettable kayak or paddleboard tour around Cape May's backbays and natural habitats!