Hop on the Garden State Parkway and head south all the way to exit zero, and you will find a quaint yet adventure-filled beach town studded with Victorian architecture. Residential homes and Bed and Breakfasts with elaborate woodwork painted in pastel hues welcome visitors to New Jersey’s southernmost point, where you can find something to do around every corner!
WASHINGTON STREET MALL
Get ready to shop ’til you drop! Washington Street Mall is in the heart of Cape May and boasts dozens of high-end shops, eateries, and local businesses. Visitors can find everything from upscale women’s clothing to cute flip-flops at the five and dime. Top it off with an ice cream cone from one of the many creameries. Find a comprehensive map of Washington Street Mall here.
Want to avoid crowds? Visit during the winter!
DINE IN STYLE
Cape May has delicious dining options, from pubs like the Ugly Mug to more luxe establishments such as Black Duck and the historic Washington Inn. An all-time favorite restaurant is The Blue Pig Tavern which is attached to Congress Hall and serves local farm-to-table cuisine fresh from Beach Plum Farms.
CONGRESS HALL
Speaking of Congress Hall, this place is rocking year-round. Congress Hall is a historic beachfront resort with luxurious rooms overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Don’t be discouraged by its glitz and glam. Congress Hall’s doors are open to everyone, not just hotel guests! You’ll find delectable dining options such as The Boiler Room, The Ebbitt Room, and The Blue Pig Tavern. Outside, you’ll find a covered patio with a bar and nightly summer events, such as Carnival on the Lawn Mondays. Take a few steps off the grass and dig your toes into white sandy beaches with impressive views.
Stop by in the off-season when Congress Hall turns into a Winter Wonderland with a sky-high Christmas tree, pop-up shops, and warm libations to keep you toasty.
CAPE MAY COUNTY PARK AND ZOO
This beautiful zoo is massive and FREE! Spend the day exploring exotic animals and learning about conservation efforts, stroll around the park, or get wild and climb their new aerial adventure course, complete with zip lines, swings, and obstacles for the whole family. Don’t forget to pick up the quintessential stuffed animal at the gift shop on your way out!
BEER AND WINE TRAIL
You can’t drive far in Cape May without passing one of its many wineries, breweries, and even a distillery. The wine trail starts with Natali Vineyards, then heads down to Jessie Creek Winery, Hawk Haven Vineyard, Cape May Winery, Turdo Vineyards, and Willow Creek Winery. If beer is more your forte, you are in luck with Cape May Brewing Co., Cold Spring Brewery, 7 Mile Brewery, Bucket Brigade Brewery, and Slack Tide Brewing Company. Finally, sample a cocktail made with local spirits at Cape May Distillery. Cheers!
HISTORIC COLD SPRING VILLAGE
Historic Cold Spring Village is a living history museum. Stroll 22 acres of paths lined with 18th-century buildings. Step inside each one to see reenactors dressed in Victorian garb weaving baskets and forging iron. Grab a farm-to-table lunch at the Cold Spring Grange, and end the day with a cold beer flight at Cold Spring Brewery.
CAPE MAY LIGHTHOUSE
No trip to the shore is complete without climbing a lighthouse, and the Cape May Lighthouse is a spiraling 199 steps to the top! That climb is worth every penny because the view from the top is stunning. Peer over acres of forested park, trails, and of course, shining sea.
Cape May is a wonderful place to stay, from white sandy beaches to museums, bike trails, whale-watching sails, and more!
