Cape May Travel Guide: Things to Do, Best Time to Visit & Itinerary

Cape May is not just a beach town; it is a National Historic Landmark that feels like a living movie set. With its pristine beaches, gas-lit streets, and one of the largest collections of 19th-century Victorian frame buildings in the United States, this New Jersey gem offers a sophisticated retreat from the modern world. It manages to balance high-end culinary experiences with the nostalgic fun of an American seaside resort.

Beyond the gingerbread architecture and rocking chairs on wrap-around porches, Cape May is a nature lover’s paradise. Situated at the tip of a peninsula where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, it serves as a world-class destination for birdwatching and features stunning sunsets that rival those on the West Coast. Whether you are climbing the lighthouse or sipping local wine, the pace here is refreshingly slow.

A Victorian Time Capsule

What makes Cape May truly unique is its resilience and commitment to preservation. After a devastating fire in 1878 destroyed much of the town, it was quickly rebuilt in the modern style of the time, Victorian. Today, that tragedy is the reason visitors can walk past nearly 600 preserved Victorian buildings.

The town isn’t a museum behind glass; it’s a vibrant community where history is lived daily. You can stay in these historic inns, dine in their parlors, and tour their gardens. The “Painted Ladies,” as the colorful houses are often called, provide a colorful backdrop to a vacation that feels both luxurious and quaintly old-fashioned.

The Icons You’ll Want to See

Cape May Lighthouse - A beacon since 1859, this lighthouse is located in Cape May Point State Park. Visitors can climb the 199 steps for a view that stretches to Delaware. Admission is $12 for adults, and it is located about 2 miles from the center of town.

Emlen Physick Estate - This 18-room mansion is the town’s only Victorian house museum. It offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of a wealthy family in the late 1800s. Tours cost approximately $20, and the estate is located on Washington Street, just a mile from the beach.

Washington Street Mall - An open-air pedestrian mall spanning three blocks in the heart of town. It features brick pathways, fountains, and dozens of independent shops and eateries. Access is free, and it is the central hub for dining and shopping.

Sunset Beach - Located at the very end of Sunset Boulevard, about 3 miles from town. It is famous for the concrete ship SS Atlantus visible just off the coast and the nightly flag ceremony. Parking is free, though it fills up quickly before sunset.

Congress Hall - Even if you aren’t staying here, a visit to America’s oldest seaside resort hotel is a must. Located right across from the beach, its Great Lawn and Blue Pig Tavern are open to the public. It is the centerpiece of the historic district.

Planning Your Visit

Cape May is easily accessible by car via the Garden State Parkway, which ends right in town. For a more scenic arrival, travelers coming from the south can take the Cape May-Lewes Ferry from Delaware, a relaxed 85-minute voyage across the bay. Once you arrive, the town is extremely walkable and bike-friendly. Many visitors park their cars at their hotel and don’t touch them again until they leave.

Packing for Cape May depends on the season, but