Cape May
A charming Victorian seaside town renowned for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and vibrant culinary scene.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Cape May
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming Victorian seaside town renowned for its beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and vibrant culinary scene.
"Cape May is a poor man's Nantucket and a rich man's Jersey Shore, offering something for everyone."
🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility
Consider renting a car for easier exploration of surrounding areas and attractions like the zoo .
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Cape May is very walkable, especially the historic district and Washington Street Mall .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Washington Street Mall
Downtown Cape May
A charming pedestrian mall filled with boutiques, art galleries, and eateries. Perfect for a leisurely stroll and souvenir hunting.
Cape May Beaches
Oceanfront
Relax on the sandy shores, soak up the sun, and enjoy the refreshing Atlantic waters. A quintessential beach town experience.

Victorian Architecture
Throughout the city
Marvel at the stunning, colorful Victorian homes that line the streets, showcasing intricate details and historical significance.

Cape May Zoo
Cape May Court House
A delightful and free zoo offering a fun outing for families with a variety of animals to see.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds in Cape May
Embrace the Victorian Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility
Consider renting a car for easier exploration of surrounding areas and attractions like the zoo.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Cape May is very walkable, especially the historic district and Washington Street Mall.
🍻 Try Local Breweries
Cape May Brewery offers unique flavors, including alcoholic water ice slushies.
🚂 MAC Trolley Tours
A great way to see the historic town and learn its stories.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Rent a Car for Flexibility
Consider renting a car for easier exploration of surrounding areas and attractions like the zoo.
🚶♀️ Explore on Foot
Cape May is very walkable, especially the historic district and Washington Street Mall.
🍻 Try Local Breweries
Cape May Brewery offers unique flavors, including alcoholic water ice slushies.
🚂 MAC Trolley Tours
A great way to see the historic town and learn its stories.
🦀 Seafood Delights
Enjoy fresh seafood, with spots like Two Mile Landing known for blue crabs.
🎟️ Book Rail Bike Tours
Revolution Rail Co offers scenic guided rail bike tours, perfect for all ages.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cape May for its stunning Victorian architecture, beautiful beaches, and charming atmosphere, making it a top Jersey Shore destination. While many enjoy the dining and shopping options, some find parking challenging during peak season and note that beach tags are an additional cost.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cape May is accessible by car, with major routes leading to the southern tip of New Jersey. If you're coming from a city without a car, consider using a car rental service like Turo for convenience. Public transportation options are limited, so driving or renting a vehicle is often the most practical choice for exploring Cape May and its surroundings.
Yes, Cape May is a very walkable city, especially the downtown area around Washington Street Mall and the historic district. Many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within easy walking distance of each other.
While walkable, having a car or using ride-sharing services can be beneficial for reaching attractions slightly outside the main town, such as the Cape May Zoo or wineries. MAC trolley tours are also a popular and informative way to see the sights.
The closest major airports are Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Atlantic City International Airport (ACY). From these airports, you would typically rent a car or arrange for transportation to Cape May.
Absolutely! Cape May is a fantastic destination for a day trip from many parts of New Jersey and surrounding areas. You can experience its charm, beaches, and dining in a single day, especially during the off-season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Many of Cape May's attractions, like the beaches and Washington Street Mall, are free to access. However, specific tours (like the MAC trolley tours or Revolution Rail Co ) and some museums or events may require tickets. It's always best to check the individual attraction's website for current pricing and booking information.
Yes, the Cape May Zoo is a fantastic free attraction! Entry and parking are both free, making it a great option for families looking for an affordable day out.
Trolley tour prices can vary depending on the specific tour and season. It's recommended to check the official Cape May MAC website for the most up-to-date information on ticket prices and schedules.
Beach access in Cape May typically requires a beach tag, especially during the peak summer season. These can usually be purchased daily, weekly, or seasonally from designated booths or vendors.
For popular restaurants, especially during peak season and on weekends, reservations are highly recommended. Some spots, like The Mad Batter, are very popular for breakfast and brunch.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the charming Washington Street Mall for shopping and dining, the beautiful Victorian architecture throughout the city, and the relaxing Cape May beaches. The Cape May Zoo is a great free option, and consider a MAC trolley tour for historical insights.
Families will love the free Cape May Zoo, building sandcastles on the beach, and exploring the shops on Washington Street Mall. The Revolution Rail Co offers a fun rail bike tour suitable for all ages.
Washington Street Mall offers a variety of boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops. You can find unique gifts, clothing, and local crafts.
Yes, Cape May has nature trails, such as the Cape May Nature Trails near the elementary school, offering short, accessible walks with viewing scopes.
Cape May is famous for its well-preserved Victorian architecture, beautiful beaches, and its status as a charming Jersey Shore resort town.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Popular spots include The Mad Batter for brunch, Port Cape May for waterfront dining and cocktails, and Two Mile Landing for seafood and blue crabs. The Virginia Hotel offers fine dining for special occasions.
Two Mile Landing is highly recommended for its seafood, especially all-you-can-eat blue crabs. Many restaurants along the coast offer fresh catches.
Port Cape May is noted for its waterfront cocktails. Cape May Brewery is also a popular spot, known for unique flavors like their red gummy fish water ice slushy.
Try the alcoholic water ice slushies at Cape May Brewery or enjoy the 'crushes' at places like Two Mile Landing. Many restaurants offer locally sourced seafood.
The Mad Batter is a highly recommended and popular spot for breakfast and brunch, known for its great food and fluffy pancakes.
📸 📸 Photography
The colorful Victorian houses are incredibly photogenic. The beaches at sunrise or sunset offer stunning coastal views. Washington Street Mall provides charming street scenes, and the historic Congress Hall is also a picturesque landmark.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer the best natural light for capturing the beauty of the Victorian architecture and the beaches. Midday can be harsh for photography.
Look for the intricate details on the Victorian homes, the charming storefronts on Washington Street Mall, and the expansive ocean views. The Cape May Lighthouse also provides a great photographic subject.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both landscapes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the grand Victorian homes and beach scenes. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant skies and water.
Yes, you can take photos during MAC trolley tours, but be mindful of other passengers and the tour guide's instructions. The trolley provides a unique perspective of the town.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Cape May's Historic Charm
To delve deeper into this history, consider taking a MAC trolley tour. These guided tours offer fascinating insights into the stories behind the grand hotels and charming residences, providing context that enhances the visual experience. Many visitors find these tours to be an essential part of understanding Cape May's unique character and its evolution as a seaside resort.
Culinary Delights of Cape May
For a memorable brunch, The Mad Batter is a perennial favorite, known for its hearty breakfasts and lively ambiance. If you're looking for unique local flavors, don't miss the Cape May Brewery, which offers creative concoctions like alcoholic water ice slushies. For a more refined dining experience, The Virginia Hotel is a top choice for special occasions.
Activities for Every Visitor
For a unique perspective, try the Revolution Rail Co's rail bike tours, which offer a scenic and engaging way to explore the landscape. History buffs and architecture enthusiasts will appreciate the MAC trolley tours, providing a comprehensive overview of the town's Victorian heritage. And for those who enjoy a bit of retail therapy, the Washington Street Mall is a pedestrian paradise filled with charming shops and eateries.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit