Things to do in Cape May

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A marina with several boats docked, a wooden pier, and residential buildings in the background.
A street lined with lush greenery, a historic building labeled "COLUMBIA HOUSE GRAND VICTORIAN SUITES," and a pedestrian pathway.
A vintage-themed caf�é interior with colorful furniture, bicycles, and neon signs.
A marina with several boats docked at wooden piers during sunset.
A beachfront hotel with multiple balconies and a beach in the foreground.

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 { 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.

Things to do

Cape May Personalized Self-Guided App Tour

Cape May Personalized Self-Guided App Tour

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Cape May Personalized Self-Guided App Tour
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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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A town square with a prominent green clock, brick-paved streets, and various storefronts.

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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A large, rusted shipwreck partially submerged in calm water.

3. 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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A red lifeboat named "Cape May" on a sandy beach with a lifeguard tower and people in the background.

4. 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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A country store with a porch, American flags, and a sign that reads "Country Store."

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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A wooden boardwalk leading to a tall concrete tower with a metal railing, surrounded by dense green trees.

Recommended things to do in Cape May

Number of things to do
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
:
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

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!

 

 

Stay near popular Cape May attractions

A town square with a prominent green clock, brick-paved streets, and various storefronts.

Washington Street Mall

9.4/10 (1,619 reviews)
Charming pedestrian district in Cape May with independent shops and eateries along brick pathways. Browse unique boutiques, savor local cuisine, and admire the historic Victorian architecture in this seaside shopping haven.
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Where to stay in Cape May

Find the best Cape May areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Cape May
Learn more about Cape May
A row of historic buildings with a prominent red and white tower in the center.

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.

A coastal town with a prominent lighthouse, a river, and a residential area.

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.

A coastal town at sunset with a lighthouse, snow-covered houses, and a frozen lake.

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.

A lighthouse, beach, parking lot, and residential area.

Village Green

When in Village Green, you can plan a visit to Cape May Beach and Washington Street Mall, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

A beach with a rocky breakwater and waves crashing onto the shore.
Photo by Viola Skye
Open Photo by Viola Skye

Admiral Estates

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

 

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

A large brick building with a white facade, a clock tower, and a blue roof.

Cape May Court House

A shopping center with a Michaels The Arts & Crafts Store and a Famous Footwear store.

Rio Grande

An aerial view of a tropical island resort with overwater bungalows and a clear turquoise sea.

Villas

A wooden observation deck with a metal telescope overlooking a lake and dense greenery.

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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