Cape May Tulip Festival 2026
Over 200,000 tulips transform Cape May into a spring wonderland. Victorian garden tours, wine tastings, and photography workshops.
About the Festival
Each spring, Cape May transforms into a living garden as over 200,000 tulips burst into bloom throughout the historic district. The Cape May Tulip & Garden Festival, organized by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC), celebrates this spectacular display with guided tours, wine tastings, and special events.
What makes Cape May's tulip display unique is the setting: tulips planted throughout Victorian neighborhoods, around historic bed & breakfasts, and along the charming streets of America's first seaside resort. The contrast of bright spring blooms against 19th-century architecture creates photography opportunities found nowhere else on the East Coast.
Beyond the tulips, April brings azaleas, dogwoods, and flowering trees into bloom. Combined with Cape May's renowned spring bird migration, the festival marks the start of the town's shoulder season - warm enough for outdoor exploration, before summer crowds arrive.
Festival Highlights
200,000 Tulips
Cape May plants over 200,000 tulip bulbs throughout the historic district. Peak bloom typically occurs mid-April.
Victorian Gardens
Historic B&Bs and private homes open their meticulously maintained Victorian gardens to tour visitors.
Expert Gardeners
Local master gardeners share tips and answer questions during tours. Great for home garden inspiration.
Beyond Tulips
Spring azaleas, dogwoods, and flowering trees complement the tulips for stunning color combinations.
Tours & Experiences
Garden Trolley Tours
$25-35Narrated trolley tours through Cape May neighborhoods showcasing the most impressive tulip displays and Victorian gardens.
Duration: 1.5 hours
B&B Walking Tours
$20-30Guided walking tours of Victorian bed & breakfast gardens, featuring private gardens normally closed to the public.
Duration: 2 hours
Wine & Tulip Events
$35-45Evening garden strolls with local wine tastings, cheese pairings, and access to exclusive garden locations.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Photography Workshops
$40-50Expert-led workshops on garden and flower photography with early morning access before crowds arrive.
Duration: 3 hours
Self-Guided Tours
Free-$10Pick up a map at the Welcome Center and explore at your own pace. Some B&Bs charge a small garden admission.
Duration: Flexible
Best Places to See Tulips
Washington Street Mall
The pedestrian mall features tulip beds and planters throughout.
Congress Hall Grounds
Grand hotel with extensive tulip plantings and manicured lawns.
Victorian B&Bs
Properties along Columbia and Hughes avenues have impressive displays.
Wilbraham Mansion
One of the most photographed tulip gardens in Cape May.
Emlen Physick Estate
MAC headquarters with period-appropriate Victorian gardens.
Tips for Your Visit
Book Early
Popular tours like wine tastings and trolley tours sell out weeks in advance. Book as soon as dates are announced.
Time Your Visit
Mid-week offers smaller crowds. Saturday afternoon is busiest. Early morning light is best for photos.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Walking tours cover considerable ground on sidewalks and garden paths. Leave the heels at home.
Check Bloom Status
Weather affects bloom timing. Follow MAC Facebook for updates. Early April may still have buds; late April past peak.
Combine Activities
Spring migration brings birders too. Combine tulip tours with Cape May Point State Park birding.
Make Dinner Reservations
Festival weekend is busy. Book BYOB restaurants like The Ebbitt Room or Washington Inn in advance.
Where to Stay
Cape May's Victorian B&Bs are particularly special during tulip season - many have their own impressive gardens. Book early as properties with notable tulip displays are most requested.
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