Cape May, New Jersey is a charming seaside town with a rich history and a variety of attractions. In August, the weather is warm and sunny, making it the perfect time to visit. Here are seven epic destinations to visit in Cape May in August 2024:
Cape May is a great place to learn about American history. The town was founded in 1620 by Dutch settlers, and it played an important role in the American Revolution. Visitors can explore the Cape May County Historical Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts from the town’s past. They can also visit the Cape May Lighthouse, which was built in 1859 and is still in operation today.
Cape May is also home to a number of beautiful beaches. The beaches are clean and well-maintained, and they offer a variety of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. Visitors can also rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore the nearby wetlands.
In addition to its beaches and history, Cape May is also known for its shopping and dining. The town has a variety of shops and boutiques, where visitors can find everything from souvenirs to antiques. Cape May is also home to a number of excellent restaurants, which serve a variety of cuisines. Visitors can enjoy everything from seafood to Italian to American fare.
Cape May is a great place to visit in August. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are a variety of activities to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in history, beaches, shopping, or dining, you’re sure to find something to love in Cape May.
Cape May County Historical Museum
History and Culture
The Cape May County Historical Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Cape May and the surrounding area. The museum houses a collection of artifacts from the town’s past, including furniture, clothing, and tools. Visitors can also learn about the role that Cape May played in the American Revolution.
Exhibits
The museum has a variety of exhibits on display, including:
- The Cape May Story: This exhibit tells the story of Cape May from its founding in 1620 to the present day.
- The Jersey Cape: This exhibit explores the natural history of the Jersey Cape, including its plants, animals, and ecosystems.
- The Victorian Era: This exhibit showcases the Victorian era in Cape May, with a focus on the town’s architecture and fashion.
Events and Programs
The museum offers a variety of events and programs throughout the year, including:
- Lectures
- Workshops
- Tours
- Exhibitions
Cape May Lighthouse
History
The Cape May Lighthouse was built in 1859 and is still in operation today. The lighthouse is 157 feet tall and has a range of 19 nautical miles. It is one of the most iconic landmarks in Cape May.
Tours
Visitors can take a tour of the Cape May Lighthouse and learn about its history and operation. Tours are offered daily from May to October.
Views
The Cape May Lighthouse offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding area. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the Jersey Cape.
Beaches
Cape May is home to a number of beautiful beaches. The beaches are clean and well-maintained, and they offer a variety of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. Visitors can also rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore the nearby wetlands.
Beaches in Cape May
Some of the most popular beaches in Cape May include:
- Cape May Beach: This beach is located in the heart of Cape May and is known for its soft sand and gentle waves.
- Sunset Beach: This beach is located at the southern end of Cape May and is known for its stunning sunsets.
- Higbee Beach: This beach is located on the northern end of Cape May and is known for its secluded atmosphere.
Activities
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities on the beaches in Cape May, including:
- Swimming
- Sunbathing
- Fishing
- Kayaking
- Paddleboarding
Shopping
Cape May is home to a variety of shops and boutiques, where visitors can find everything from souvenirs to antiques. The town’s shopping district is located on Washington Street Mall, which is a pedestrian-friendly street lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Types of Shops
Some of the types of shops that visitors can find in Cape May include:
- Souvenir shops
- Antique shops
- Art galleries
- Clothing stores
- Jewelry stores
Shopping Events
Cape May also hosts a number of shopping events throughout the year, including:
- Sidewalk Sale: This event is held in June and features discounts on merchandise from a variety of shops.
- Christmas in Cape May: This event is held in December and features holiday-themed shopping and activities.
Dining
Cape May is home to a number of excellent restaurants, which serve a variety of cuisines. Visitors can enjoy everything from seafood to Italian to American fare. Many of the restaurants in Cape May are located on Washington Street Mall, which is a pedestrian-friendly street lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Types of Restaurants
Some of the types of restaurants that visitors can find in Cape May include:
- Seafood restaurants
- Italian restaurants
- American restaurants
- Fine dining restaurants
- Casual dining restaurants
Dining Events
Cape May also hosts a number of dining events throughout the year, including:
- Restaurant Week: This event is held in January and features special prix fixe menus at a variety of restaurants.
- Taste of Cape May: This event is held in September and features food and wine tastings from a variety of restaurants.
Culture
Cape May is a town with a rich culture. The town is home to a number of museums, art galleries, and historical sites. Cape May is also known for its Victorian architecture, which can be seen throughout the town.
Museums and Art Galleries
Some of the museums and art galleries in Cape May include:
- Cape May County Historical Museum: This museum houses a collection of artifacts from the town’s past.
- Cape May MAC: This art gallery features contemporary art from local and regional artists.
- The Physick Estate: This museum is a Victorian mansion that was built in 1879. The museum features exhibits on the history of the Physick family and Victorian life.
Victorian Architecture
Cape May is known for its Victorian architecture. The town has a number of Victorian buildings, including homes, churches, and hotels. The Victorian architecture in Cape May is a reminder of the town’s past as a popular summer resort destination.
Best Months to Visit
The best months to visit Cape May are May through October. The weather is warm and sunny during these months, making it ideal for enjoying the beaches, shopping, and dining. However, Cape May is also a popular tourist destination, so it is important to book accommodations and activities in advance.
Nearby Transportation
Cape May is located in the southernmost part of New Jersey. The town is accessible by car, train, and bus.
- By car: Cape May is located about 2 hours from Philadelphia and 3 hours from New York City.
- By train: NJ Transit offers train service from Philadelphia to Cape May.
- By bus: Cape May is served by several bus lines, including Greyhound and NJ Transit.
Local Food
Cape May is known for its seafood. The town’s restaurants serve a variety of seafood dishes, including fresh fish, crabs, and oysters. Cape May is also home to a number of farms, which produce fresh fruits and vegetables.
