1 Day in Cape May
America's Original Seaside Resort
Every stop below is a place in our Cape May listings: George's Place, Cape May City Beach, Victorian District, The Lobster House, Cape May Lighthouse, Rita's Italian Ice-Frozen, Emlen Physick Estate, The Ebbitt Room and Cape May Brewing Company. Swap any of them for another from the town guide; the times are only a suggested order.
Morning
Breakfast: George's Place
"If Nancy Meyers opened a Greek diner" atmosphere. Tiramisu waffles and flaming Saganaki draw crowds.
Tip: Order: Tiramisu waffles or flaming Saganaki.
Cape May City Beach
The main beach stretching along the promenade with views of Victorian architecture. Wide sandy beach with gentle waves.
Tip: Best for swimming, relaxation, families.
Victorian District
Over 600 preserved Victorian buildings. Cape May MAC Trolley Tours depart from Washington Street Mall—45-minute Historic District tours recently updated with Black community history.
Afternoon
Lunch: The Lobster House
Commercial fleet offloads daily for fresh catches, generous portions, homemade bread. No reservations—expect 30-60 minute waits in season. The Schooner American cocktail lounge operates on a 130-foot vessel.
Tip: Order: Fresh catch of the day.
Cape May Lighthouse
157 feet tall with 199 spiral steps. $12 adults, $8 children. 360-degree views across Delaware, Wildwood, and the Atlantic. Special Full Moon Climbs and July 3 Fireworks Climb.
Treat: Rita's Italian Ice-Frozen
Italian ice and frozen custard chain stop.
Emlen Physick Estate
The only Victorian house museum in Cape May. 1879 mansion designed by famed architect Frank Furness with reputed hauntings. Tours available.
Evening
Dinner: The Ebbitt Room
Chef Jason Hanin. Seasonal tasting menus use Cape May scallops and Beach Plum Farm ingredients. Porch dining with live piano.
Tip: Order: Seasonal tasting menu.
Cape May Brewing Company
Cape May Airport location with 20+ taps, free "First Pour Tour," Beer Garden fire pit, and "One-Off Wednesdays" featuring unique kegs.
Advertisement
What we know it costs
- Day parking (tracked lots)
- $15-20/day
- Meters from
- $4/hr
- Beach badge
- $10/day
Food and activity costs vary too much by choice to estimate here. Budget guide · Beach badge prices
Advertisement
Parking in Cape May
Lafayette Street Lot is the cheapest flat rate at $15/day (100 spaces, 3 min walk to the beach). Meters run from $4/hr, so a short visit beats a day rate. Paid parking runs Apr 1 – Oct 31 — it does not stop when beach badges do.
Choose your stay
Choose a place in Cape May, then check the room and full price for your dates.
Compare the full price and cancellation terms
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more
Cape May Day Trip FAQ
How long is the drive to Cape May from New York City?
About 3hr without traffic, or 1hr 30min from Philadelphia.
Do I need a beach badge in Cape May?
Cape May beach badges cost $10 per day or $40 for the season; children under 11 are free.
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more
Advertisement
More Day Trip Itineraries
Planning a Cape May Trip?
The free Shore Insider Guide, then a Thursday email with the weekend ahead and a planning guide on the 1st.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.