Things to Do in Cape May
America's Original Seaside Resort. Discover beaches, attractions, dining, and local experiences.
The top things to do in Cape May are Victorian District, Cape May Lighthouse, Sunset Beach Flag Ceremony, plus 3 beaches — details, hours, and local tips for each below.
3
Beaches
40
Restaurants
9
Must-See Spots
4/5
Family Rating
Don't Miss in Cape May
Victorian District
Must Seeattraction
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.
Cape May Lighthouse
Must Seeattraction
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.
Sunset Beach Flag Ceremony
Must Seeattraction
Nightly summer ceremony at Sunset Beach as the sun sets. Search for Cape May diamonds—quartz crystals polished by waves.
Emlen Physick Estate
Must Seemuseum
The only Victorian house museum in Cape May. 1879 mansion designed by famed architect Frank Furness with reputed hauntings. Tours available.
Cape May County Zoo
Must Seeattraction
Free admission zoo in nearby Cape May Court House with 550+ animals. African savanna, snow leopards, red pandas. Perfect family day trip. Zoo Boo and Winter Lights events.
Explore by Category
All Attractions
🎢Attractions
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.
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.
Sunset Beach Flag Ceremony
Nightly summer ceremony at Sunset Beach as the sun sets. Search for Cape May diamonds—quartz crystals polished by waves.
Cape May County Zoo
Free admission zoo in nearby Cape May Court House with 550+ animals. African savanna, snow leopards, red pandas. Perfect family day trip. Zoo Boo and Winter Lights events.
Ghosts of Cape May Tours
Evening Cape May MAC tours based on medium Craig McManus investigations. Explore the haunted side of this historic town.
Whale Watching
See humpback whales, dolphins, and marine life on boat tours from the harbor.
🏛️Museums
Emlen Physick Estate
The only Victorian house museum in Cape May. 1879 mansion designed by famed architect Frank Furness with reputed hauntings. Tours available.
🍻Bars & Nightlife
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.
🛍️Shopping
Washington Street Mall
Pedestrian shopping district with boutiques, galleries, and The Original Fudge Kitchen's handmade sweets.
Beach Highlights
View all beaches →Cape May City Beach
The main beach stretching along the promenade with views of Victorian architecture. Wide sandy beach with gentle waves.
Poverty Beach
Quieter beach at the east end of town near the inlet. Less crowded with a more natural feel.
Sunset Beach
Famous for spectacular sunsets and Cape May diamonds. Home to the nightly flag ceremony and SS Atlantus concrete ship wreck.
Cape May Vibe
Primary Vibe
Victorian Elegance
Family Friendly
4/5 Stars
Nightlife
3/5 Stars
Quietness
4/5 Stars
Cape May is Best For
Events & Festivals
Cape May Tulip & Garden Festival
Mid-AprilOver 200,000 tulips bloom throughout town. Garden tours, B&B walking tours, wine tastings, and trolley tours past colorful displays.
Cape May Spring Birding Festival
Mid-MayWorld-renowned birding festival celebrating spring migration. Guided walks, workshops, and 175+ species possible at one of North America's premier migration sites.
World Series of Birding
May 9-11, 2026Cape May's legendary 24-hour birding competition where teams race to identify the most species. Birders from around the world compete in this premier event.
Cape May Music Festival
May 9 - June 21, 202636th annual chamber music festival featuring world-class classical and jazz performances in intimate Victorian venues throughout Cape May.
Exit Zero Jazz Festival
May 15-17, 2026World-class jazz performances across multiple Cape May venues. Indoor and outdoor concerts featuring well-known jazz artists in intimate Victorian settings.
Cape May Restaurant Week
May 31 - June 7, 2026Prix fixe menus at participating restaurants offer a chance to experience Cape May's acclaimed dining scene at special prices.
Victorian Week
Mid-OctoberCape May's signature celebration of Victorian heritage with house tours, vintage baseball, murder mystery dinners, and themed events.
Cape May Christmas
DecemberCandlelight house tours, Victorian caroling, holiday events, and festive decorations throughout the historic district.