Named as America’s original beach town; Cape May has been a vacation destination for beachgoers for over 200 years. Since 1816, Cape May has been the chosen vacation destination for several United States Presidents, Congressmen, and other famous people. So why spend your vacation in Cape May? Here are a few of our reasons why you should make Cape May your next beach vacation destination.
Visit the Emlen Physick Estate
As a national historic landmark, Cape May is filled with old-world charm and modern-day touches that give this beach town a unique look. One of the more important historic landmarks in town the Emlen Physick Estate. Self-proclaimed as New Jersey’s only Victorian house museum. A day spent at the estate walks visitors through what life was like back in the Victorian-era. The Estate offers many events, activities, and tours through the year, so be sure to check their website for what’s coming up next.
Spend a day at the beach
It goes without saying that when you vacation in Cape May, a day spent at the beach is a must! Often slightly less crowded than other beaches along the Jersey shore, Cape May offers miles of sandy shoreline and pristine ocean waters. The beaches offer a more quiet and serene atmosphere with proximity to amenities like restrooms and restaurants. Enjoy an evening sunset at Sunset Beach or watch the suffers at The Cove.
Walk to the top of Cape May Point
Head to the Cape May Point State Park and discover one of the area’s most diverse natural areas. With sandy beaches, dunes, freshwater wetlands, and waterways – all located on the tip of a peninsula, Cape May Point is one of the most scenic areas in Cape May. The main attraction to this park is the Cape May Point Lighthouse. For a small fee, visitors can hike to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of Cape May.
Read here for other things to do this summer in Cape May.
Cape May Ghost tours
No matter if it’s Halloween or not, taking a Cape May ghost tour is another fun and unique thing to do when vacationing in America’s original beach town. With Cape May’s long history, it’s no wonder this small beachside town has a few ghosts lingering. Dozens of Victorian homes in Cape May have been investigated and well-documented with the presence of spirits of the past.
Take a Victorian house tour
With over 600 brightly colored Victorian-era houses, a popular thing to do in Cape May is to take a house tour through one of the many historic Victorian homes throughout town. While it is fun to admire these colorful structures from outside it is equally enjoyable to view them from the inside and gain a glimpse of what life was like back in the 19th century in Cape May.
Visit here for a list of historic Victorian homes to visit in Cape May.
Stay at a historic bed and breakfast
One of the best ways to vacation in America’s original beach destination is with a stay at a historic bed and breakfast. Recently just featured on the cover of Cape May Magazine, the Southern Mansion is one of the town’s most stoic landmarks. Dating back to 1863, the Southern Mansion was once the home of Philadelphia industrialist, George Allen. Through several valiant efforts over the years, Southern Mansion was saved and restored to the beautiful home it is today.
Guests of Southern Mansion enjoy luxurious accommodations in each one of our uniquely designed Victorian-themed rooms. Mornings are spend enjoying breakfast on our southern-style veranda, while planning out your day in Cape May. In the evening enjoy a glass of wine at our neighboring winery, Willow Creek Winery.
