Things to do in Cape May

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

Cape May
Cape May
Cape May
Cape May
Cape May

Cape May Attractions

There's something rather special about smaller cities. Whether you're traveling to Cape May for a weekend or you're staying a little longer, it won't take you long to fall in love with this destination. In fact, with so many fantastic things to do and awesome sights to take in, you probably won't want to leave!

Explore the best sights in Cape May with some popular tours & day trips, or check out our list of {17 fun activities in Cape May fun activities in Cape May}. We have free cancellation and no added fees, so you can relax and focus on planning the perfect vacation.

Cape May must see attractions

1. Washington Street Mall

The Washington Street Mall sprawls across three blocks in the center of Cape May. Browse an array of family-run stores and independent restaurants. A day at the mall here could include purchasing handcrafted soaps, shopping for delicacies at high-end grocers and finishing with a meal in one of the popular restaurants.
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Washington Street Mall showing street scenes and a small town or village

2. Sunset Beach

Come to Sunset Beach at dusk to find out how this section of shoreline earned its name. The gorgeous stretch of sand on the west side of Cape May Point is one of the best places in New Jersey to watch the day’s light fade away across the waters of Delaware Bay. You can also take part in a reverent flag-raising ceremony each night during summer. Stop by the beach during the day and discover lots more to see, from a World War I curiosity, to diamond-like quartz scattered across the sand.
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Sunset Beach showing general coastal views and a sandy beach

3. Historic Cold Spring Village

Historic Cold Spring Village makes for an unforgettable trip back in time to the beginnings of southern New Jersey. Set across more than 30 acres (12 hectares), the site is an open-air museum with recreated buildings and a brewery. Visit the village on a tour with a docent to get a better understanding of local history.
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Cape May

4. Poverty Beach

Poverty Beach is a long stretch of sand popular with surfers that runs for about 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) along the Atlantic Ocean. It provides stunning views and ample sunbathing opportunities. Work on your tan in the seclusion and serenity of this bay.
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Poverty Beach featuring general coastal views and a sandy beach as well as a large group of people

5. World War II Lookout Tower

A recent restoration of the World War II Lookout Tower in Cape May has transformed it into a fascinating museum about the history of the town and its involvement in global conflicts. Find out more about local military history on your journey up its many levels, before admiring expansive views of Cape May Point and stunning Sunset Beach from the top.
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World War II Lookout Tower which includes interior views and heritage elements

What to do in Cape May

Free Things to Do in Cape May

There's no need to dig deep into your pockets in Cape May. The following won't even cost a penny.

Cape May Bird Observatory - Get close to the animal world and learn a thing or two.

Cape May Beach - Practice skipping stones, watch the sun come up or just revel in the views from the shore.

Things to Do in Cape May with Kids

There are plenty of memorable experiences in Cape May that the entire gang will love. Here are some of the top family friendly experiences in the area.

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Cape May? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Cape May

Cape May

Cape May Beach

4.5/5(93 reviews)

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Cape May Beach during your trip to Admiral Estates?

Cape May Beach
Washington Street Mall showing street scenes and a small town or village

Washington Street Mall

4.5/5(335 reviews)

In the center of Cape May, stroll around an expansive outdoor mall filled with charming independent shops and stylish restaurants.

Washington Street Mall
Sunset Beach showing general coastal views and a sandy beach

Sunset Beach

4.5/5(494 reviews)

Find serenity on one of New Jersey’s best beaches, where glistening jewels lie hidden in the sand and an old wreck is part of an unusual and beautiful view.

Sunset Beach
Cape May Winery

Cape May Winery

4.5/5(16 reviews)

You can enjoy a tasting or tour at Cape May Winery during your travels to Cape May. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

Cape May Winery
Cape May

Historic Cold Spring Village

Learn about the history of the homespun era in this recreated village, while your kids enjoy ice cream and watch woodworking demos.

Historic Cold Spring Village
Cape May Convention Hall

Cape May Convention Hall

4/5(52 reviews)

Learn about the events happening at Cape May Convention Hall during your trip to Cape May. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.

Cape May Convention Hall
Poverty Beach featuring general coastal views and a sandy beach as well as a large group of people

Poverty Beach

4.5/5(19 reviews)

With its rich history and unusual name, this stretch of sand is one of Cape May’s most intriguing, serene and picturesque sunbathing spots.

Poverty Beach
World War II Lookout Tower which includes interior views and heritage elements

World War II Lookout Tower

3/5(1 review)

Ascend a tower that was designed to defend America against enemy ships and learn about the military history of the region on your way to the top.

World War II Lookout Tower
Emlen Physick Estate showing interior views, heritage elements and a house

Emlen Physick Estate

Marvel at a beautifully constructed and preserved Victorian house in scenic Cape May. It features period decorations and original artifacts.

Emlen Physick Estate

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Cape May

Washington Street Mall featuring a small town or village

Cape May Historic District

If you're spending some time in Cape May Historic District, Washington Street Mall and Cape May Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Cape May Historic District
Cape May Terminal

North Cape May

While there might not be top attractions in North Cape May, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Cape May Terminal and Cape May Winery.

North Cape May
just tranquility and rest

Village Green

4.5/5(4 area reviews)

When in Village Green, you can plan a visit to Washington Street Mall and Emlen Physick Estate, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Village Green
Cape May

Admiral Estates

When in Admiral Estates, you can plan a visit to Poverty Beach and Washington Street Mall, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Admiral Estates
Default Image

Cold Spring

When in Cold Spring, you can plan a visit to Historic Cold Spring Village and Cape May Winery, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Cold Spring
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Cape May

Cape May

Cape May Court House

Rio Grande

Rio Grande

Whitesboro

Whitesboro

Cape May

Cape May Point

Frequently asked questions

Is Cape May worth visiting?
From retail therapy to outdoor adventures and history, there are loads of great things to do in Cape May. Make sure to experience the area's blend of cool sights, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Cape May?
When you've checked off key attractions like Wildwood Boardwalk and Wildwood Beach, spend some time experiencing Cape May's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Cape May?
Wildwood Boardwalk is one of the top tourist attractions in Cape May and should be high on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Cape May?
Three days in Cape May is more than enough to enjoy the city's major attractions. Many travelers book for two days on average. Cape May Beach, Sunset Beach and Cape May Winery are top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Hang around a bit longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Rehoboth Beach.
Is Cape May a walkable city?
Some major attractions in Cape May, such as Cape May Beach and Sunset Beach, are within walking distance. You can also visit several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Only 1 mile from central Cape May is Village Green and Admiral Estates is 1 mile away.
What are some activities to do in Cape May with kids?
Whether you're traveling with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes a big difference. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Cape May with kids.

What to do in Cape May for adults?
Cape May Winery and Hawk Haven Vineyard and Winery are just a couple of the things to do in Cape May. With lots of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Cape May?
One of the top ways to discover free things to do in Cape May is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on cool neighborhoods, parks and other highlights you can visit without taking your wallet out. Cape May Beach is one spot that doesn't have an admission fee.

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