If there’s one place in New Jersey where opposites not only attract but thrive, it’s Cape May County. Here, neonlit boardwalks melt into quiet salt marshes. Centuryold Victorian homes sit just a short drive from wideopen wildlife refuges. And throughout it all, bustling beach resorts buzz right alongside peaceful pockets of untouched nature.

Most people come for the beaches – but they end up falling in love with something deeper. It’s the character of each town, the culinary surprises tucked into side streets, the creative energy woven through its arts communities, and that unmistakable feeling that every corner of Cape May County has its own story to tell.

In honor of America’s 250th Anniversary, we’re celebrating the Jersey Cape with 250 things to do across Cape May County. Think of it as an invitation to explore the county one vibe at a time – its history, its nature, its flavors, its smalltown charm. Together, these 250 experiences form a colorful, lively mosaic of a place that rewards wandering.

Shore Classics & Boardwalk Icons:
Nothing captures summer like the Jersey Cape shoreline. Picture saltwater taffy, carousel music drifting in the wind, amusement rides lighting up the sky, and the familiar crunch of boards beneath your feet. Ocean City offers wholesome, family friendly fun with an iconic boardwalk that never goes out of style. Wildwood bursts with retro Doo Wop flair and carnival energy. Meanwhile, Avalon, Stone Harbor, and Sea Isle City bring a softer pace—boutique shopping, beautiful beaches, and a refined, relaxed vibe. These towns are the heartbeat of Cape May County’s timeless shore culture.

Historic Streets & Architectural Treasures:
History isn’t just preserved in Cape May County – it’s lived in. Stroll through Cape May’s breathtaking Victorian streetscapes (so stunning they earned National Historic Landmark status), explore centuriesold lighthouses, or wander the museums and historic buildings of Cape May Court House. Smaller bayside and rural communities reveal quieter layers of the county’s past through fishing heritage, maritime traditions, and charming old architecture. These are the places meant for slowing down: sipping coffee on a porch, browsing antiques, or following brick sidewalks into yesteryear.

Creative Corners & Cultural Hubs:
reativity thrives everywhere in the county, from professional theaters and galleries in Cape May to artisan studios sprinkled from Avalon to the bay. The arts here feel woven into everyday life—paint nights, craft workshops, festivals, live performances, and intimate galleries all make the region a haven for handson creatives and cultureseekers alike.

Nature Escapes & Outdoor Adventures:
While the beaches get the spotlight, Cape May County’s natural world stretches far beyond the shoreline. Cape May Point is worldrenowned for bird migrations and breathtaking skies. The Cape May National Wildlife Refuge protects miles of marshes and coastal ecosystems. Corson’s Inlet, Belleplain State Forest, and other natural areas invite you to hike, paddle, fish, or simply breathe a little deeper. This is the vibe for anyone who craves open spaces and a quiet escape into the wild.

Culinary Finds & Coastal Flavor:
The Jersey Cape’s food scene is one of its greatest surprises. In Cape May, innovative chefs transform local seafood into some of the region’s most memorable meals. Across the county, family run wineries and breweries offer tastings with a personal touch, while sweet shops, markets, and waterfront restaurants satisfy every craving. Whether you’re sipping wine in a vineyard, cracking crabs by the bay, or indulging in a gourmet dinner downtown, Cape May County invites you to explore with your taste buds.

Family Fun & All Ages Adventures:
This is one of the best regions in the state for families. The Cape May County Zoo (free and phenomenal) anchors a lineup of kidapproved activities – arcades, amusement parks, aquariums, playgrounds, splash pads, and minigolf galore. Ocean City, Wildwood, Sea Isle City, Cape May, and Cape May Court House all offer memorymaking moments kids will talk about long after the season ends.

Hidden Gems & Off-the-Radar Magic:
Move away from the wellworn paths and you’ll find some of the county’s most rewarding treasures: quiet fishing villages, bayside sunsets, roadside farm stands, peaceful nature preserves, small town festivals, and historic cemeteries tucked between the trees. Lighthouses stand watch over wild stretches of coast, and handpainted signs point the way to momandpop stops you’ll never forget. This is where the Jersey Cape whispers its stories to those willing to slow down and listen.

A County That Loves Wanderers:
One of the most captivating things about Cape May County is its variety. Distances are short, but the experiences feel endlessly different. Start your morning watching dolphins swim off Cape May Point. Spend your afternoon browsing local art in Cape May or wandering the wetlands in Stone Harbor. Finish your evening with live music drifting over the Wildwood Boardwalk. Every turn unveils a new mood, a new pace, a new piece of the Jersey Cape story.

Arriving in Cape May County means stepping into a county that is both deeply rooted in America’s past and vibrantly alive in the present. This year is especially meaningful as our nation commemorates its 250th anniversary milestone that inspires reflection, gratitude, and a renewed sense of possibility. Here at the Jersey Cape, that spirit is woven into every historic downtown, every lighthouse standing watch over the sea, and every community celebration honoring the traditions that shaped us. From historic landmarks to our proud maritime heritage, the Jersey Cape offers living reminders of resilience, ingenuity, and hope – the very qualities that built America.

Adding to this extraordinary moment, excitement is building as Philadelphia prepares to host FIFA World Cup™ matches beginning in June. With visitors from across the globe arriving to cheer on their teams, our corner of the country is ready to welcome fans, families, and explorers eager to experience the best of our beaches, boardwalks, wildlife preserves, wineries, arts districts, and thriving culinary scene. Just a short trip from the stadiums, Cape May County offers the perfect coastal escape – whether you crave the thrill of the Wildwood Boardwalk, the timeless elegance of Cape May’s Victorian streets, or the serenity of rows of vines at our award-winning wineries.

Stretching along 30 miles of Atlantic coastline, Cape May County unfolds as a tapestry of seaside charm and unforgettable experiences. At its southernmost point lies Cape May, America’s oldest seaside resort, where Victorian architecture, tree-lined streets, and graceful porches create an atmosphere of timeless beauty. Visitors linger in the historic district, browse the boutiques of the Washington Street Mall, climb the iconic lighthouse, or relax on peaceful beaches where dolphins often glide just offshore. Cape May invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and savor the simple pleasures of coastal life.

Farther up the coast, the Wildwoods burst with color, energy, and pure summer joy. Their wide, free beaches and 38-block boardwalk – lined with amusement piers, waterparks, arcades, and more than 100 rides – create a playground where fun knows no season. Neon lights glow against the night sky, music drifts from open-air venues, and families return year after year to make new memories in a place where the spirit of summer never fades.

Continue north and the mood shifts to the wholesome nostalgia of Ocean City, long celebrated as “America’s Greatest Family Resort.” Since 1879, families have returned for its classic boardwalk, pristine beaches, and year-round calendar of festivals and events. Sunrise bike rides, afternoons in the surf, and the simple delight of a slice of boardwalk pizza capture the enduring charm of this beloved shore town.

No visit to Cape May County is complete without a stroll along its iconic boardwalks. These lively stretches are more than wooden planks – they’re gateways to unforgettable experiences. From the salty ocean breeze and panoramic views to the tempting aroma of fresh fudge and sizzling fries, every turn offers something new to savor. Whether you’re seeking family fun, seaside shopping, or a quiet moment to watch the waves, Cape May County’s boardwalks promise memories that linger long after your visit.

Along the Bayshore, Cape May County reveals a quieter, equally captivating side. Wildlife preserves, scenic waterways, and tranquil Delaware Bay beaches offer peaceful escapes perfect for birdwatching, photography, and reflection. Cultural attractions and a rich agricultural heritage create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels worlds away from the bustle of everyday life.

This year, the Jersey Cape is more than a destination – it’s a stage for history in the making. Join us in celebrating America’s 250th anniversary, cheering alongside the world during FIFA’s global games, and discovering the timeless magic of our shores and towns.

When the summer crowds retreat and the ocean breeze turns brisk, the Jersey Cape reveals a quieter, cozier side – one that’s perfect for a winter escape. Bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay, this coastal haven transforms in winter into a tranquil retreat – where the crackle of fireplaces warms the soul, empty beaches invite quiet reflection, and time seems to slow just enough to truly savor the season.

Winter at the Jersey Cape is not about hibernation – it’s about rediscovery. Picture yourself wrapped in a warm scarf, strolling along a windswept beach with only the gulls for company. The summer buzz gives way to peaceful walks, intimate dinners, and the kind of quiet that invites reflection and reconnection.

Local businesses embrace the season with open arms – and open flames. Fire pits and fireplaces are the heart of many gathering spots, offering a cozy place to sip wine, share stories, or simply warm your hands after a beachcombing adventure. Whether you’re savoring a fresh seafood dinner at your favorite summer haunt or indulging in a spa day, the off-season offers a different kind of luxury: space, calm, and comfort.

If you’ve been dreaming of a romantic getaway, Cape May is calling. Often named one of the most romantic towns in the Mid-Atlantic, this Victorian gem is even more enchanting in winter. Gas lamps cast a golden glow on gingerbread-trimmed B&Bs, and horse-drawn carriages clip-clop through quiet streets. Couples can enjoy wine tastings, lighthouse climbs, and spa treatments before cozying up with cocktails by the fire at the Brown Room in Congress Hall. For an overnight stay, many of the city’s B&Bs offers fireplaces, plush comforts, and warm hospitality that feels like a hug from the past.

One of the best-kept secrets of winter travel? The savings. With off-season rates slashing prices by up to 35% on platforms like Hotels.com, now is the time to book that dream hotel or charming inn. These accommodations still offer top-tier amenities – think indoor entertainment, fine dining, and spa services – without the summer price tag.

Beyond the romance and relaxation, the Jersey Cape offers plenty for the curious and adventurous. Spend an afternoon at a local winery with friends or explore the frosty trails of Cape May Point State Park, where the lighthouse stands tall against a winter sky. Birdwatchers and photographers will find a haven where migratory birds gather to create a stunning natural tableau.

Culinary enthusiasts will also find plenty to savor. Many restaurants remain open year-round, offering seasonal menus that highlight local ingredients. Wineries, breweries, and distilleries throughout the Jersey Cape offer tastings and seasonal events that blend local flavor with winter charm. At Cape May Winery, you can sip bold reds and crisp whites while enjoying the cozy ambiance of a tasting room designed for lingering.

Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of Cape May or the calm of quiet beaches, the Jersey Cape in winter is a destination that surprises and delights. It’s a place where the cold brings people closer, the quiet feels luxurious, and every moment invites you to slow down and savor. www.escapetothejerseycape.com