Attractions and Places To See around Cape May - Top 6

Cape May offers a variety of natural attractions. You can visit Cape May Coastal Wetlands, which features coastal and freshwater wetlands, forests, fields, and dunes, and is world-famous for its migratory bird populations. Another excellent spot is Higbee Beach, known for birdwatching among its dunes and diverse wildlife. Cape May Point State Park also provides beautiful ocean views and numerous trails for nature enthusiasts.

Yes, Cape May is rich in history. The Cape May Lighthouse, a National Historic Landmark built in 1859, offers panoramic views and insights into its role as a navigational aid. You can also explore the Emlen Physick Estate, a beautifully restored 1879 Victorian mansion, or the World War II Lookout Tower, which provides historical context of the region's military past. The Harriet Tubman Museum highlights Cape May's connection to the Underground Railroad.

Cape May has many options for families. The Cape May Coastal Wetlands and Higbee Beach are great for nature exploration and birdwatching. The Cape May County Park & Zoo is a popular choice, featuring over 400 animals and educational programs with free admission. Additionally, the Historic Cold Spring Village is an open-air living history museum where costumed interpreters demonstrate traditional skills.

Absolutely. The Cape May area offers several hiking opportunities. You can find trails through the Cape May Coastal Wetlands, known for its diverse ecosystems. Cape May Point State Park, home to the Cape May Lighthouse, also has numerous trails. For more options, explore the easy hikes around Cape May in our dedicated guide: Easy hikes around Cape May.

Cape May is a great destination for road cycling. Routes like the 'Cape May – Cape May Lighthouse loop' offer scenic rides. You can also find longer routes such as the 'Higbee Beach – Cold Spring Bike Path loop'. For detailed information and more cycling options, refer to our guide on road cycling routes: Road Cycling Routes around Cape May.

Yes, the Boardwalk is wheelchair accessible, offering good views of the beach and ocean, along with numerous shops and rides. While specific accessibility details for all attractions vary, the boardwalk provides a great option for everyone to enjoy the coastal atmosphere.

Cape May is a popular destination, especially in the summer when it's usually packed with visitors enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities. However, many attractions, like the Cape May County Park & Zoo, are open year-round. Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) can offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, while still allowing access to most sites.

Beyond its historical landmarks, Cape May offers unique cultural experiences. The Washington Street Mall is a charming pedestrian area with boutiques, antique stores, art galleries, and eateries, often featuring street performers. You can also visit the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum, housed in a restored WWII hangar, or enjoy live performances at venues like Cape May Stage and East Lynne Theater Company. The area also boasts Cape May Wineries for tastings.

Visitors particularly enjoy the panoramic views over Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean from the top of the Cape May Lighthouse after climbing its 199 steps. The historical significance of the 1859 structure and the nearby World War II bunker also add to the experience. You can also marvel at it from the beach for free.

For those seeking less-known spots, the Cape May Coastal Wetlands and Higbee Beach offer serene natural retreats, especially for birdwatchers, away from the main tourist hubs. The Historic Cold Spring Village provides a unique immersive historical experience, and the Harriet Tubman Museum sheds light on an important, often overlooked, aspect of the region's past.

The Washington Street Mall is the primary destination for shopping and dining in Cape May. This pedestrian mall features a variety of unique boutiques, antique stores, art galleries, and numerous eateries, creating a vibrant atmosphere for visitors to explore and enjoy.

Cape May is renowned for its birdwatching opportunities. Key locations include Higbee Beach, known for its dunes and diverse wildlife, and the Cape May Coastal Wetlands, which is world-famous for its migratory bird populations. Cape May Point State Park and the Nature Center of Cape May also offer excellent birdwatching experiences.