Cape May

Cape May, situated at the southernmost reach of New Jersey, presents a singular fusion of coastal allure and historical depth. Recognized as America's most venerable seaside resort, its avenues are adorned with an impressive array of Victorian architecture, earning it a designation as a National Historic Landmark. This city, where the Atlantic Ocean converges with the Delaware Bay, delivers a distinctive experience, whether your inclinations lean towards its unspoiled beaches, its profound past, or its lively cultural landscape.

The city's dedication to safeguarding its Victorian heritage is evident in its meticulously maintained residences, often affectionately termed 'Painted Ladies' for their intricate, multi-hued exteriors. Beyond the architectural grandeur, Cape May offers a spirited atmosphere with a variety of diversions, from trolley excursions that delve into its storied past to opportunities for birdwatching that draw enthusiasts from across the globe.

From Indigenous Lands to a Presidential Retreat

The documented history of Cape May extends back to 1620, when Dutch Captain Cornelius Jacobsen Mey explored and named the area after himself. However, the land was inhabited much earlier by the Kechemeche Indians, a tribe of the Lenni-Lenape, who utilized the peninsula for summering and hunting.

European settlement commenced in 1685, with Quakers forming the first government in 1688. Early industries included whaling and farming, attracting families from New York and New England. By the mid-18th century, Philadelphians began to discover Cape May as a vacation spot, and in 1761, it officially became America's first seaside resort.

The Victorian Era and a Fiery Rebirth

The 19th century witnessed Cape May's ascent as a premier vacation destination, earning it the moniker 'President's Playground' as figures like Lincoln, Grant, and Harrison vacationed there. Grand hotels and lavish gatherings characterized the era, with pursuits like yachting, fishing, and croquet. The arrival of railroads in the mid-1860s further solidified its standing as a popular resort.

A pivotal moment in Cape May's history was the destructive fire of 1878, which consumed 35 acres of property in the historic district. The subsequent rebuilding efforts, largely in the prevailing Victorian architectural styles such as Queen Anne, Stick, and Shingle, sculpted the town's recognizable appearance. This concentration of late 19th-century frame buildings is one of the largest in the United States. In 1976, Cape May's historic district was designated a National Historic Landmark, a recognition that spurred preservation efforts and protected its singular architectural heritage.

A Sanctuary for Those Seeking Freedom

Beyond its identity as a resort, Cape May played a crucial part in the Underground Railroad. Its location rendered it a vital link for enslaved people seeking freedom from Confederate Delaware to Union New Jersey. The city attracted both Southern plantation owners and Northern abolitionists, and the area around Lafayette and Franklin Streets was a hub of abolitionist activism. Stories persist of secret rooms and tunnels within many of Cape May's historic homes, remnants of this clandestine network.

Cape May presents a wealth of sights, blending its architectural heritage with natural splendor. A superb starting point is a trolley tour, which offers a narrated journey through the historic district, highlighting the distinctive Victorian architecture and local narratives. The Emlen Physick Estate, an 1879 Victorian house museum, provides a deeper exploration into 19th-century life and is often included in combination trolley tours.

For expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay, ascend the 199 steps of the Cape May Lighthouse, an active navigational aid built in 1859. The lighthouse grounds also feature an Oil House with an orientation center and museum shop.

Cape May's beaches, including popular stretches like The Cove, Congress Beach, and Sunset Beach, offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and observing the sun descend over the Delaware Bay. Birdwatching is another significant draw, particularly in the fall, with Cape May recognized as a premier birding destination. The Cape May Point State Park and South Cape May Meadows offer excellent opportunities for observing diverse bird species and enjoying accessible nature trails.

Cape May offers distinct experiences throughout the year. For warm weather and lively beach activity, June through August marks the peak season, with all attractions open and a spirited atmosphere. However, this period also brings larger crowds, longer restaurant waits, and tighter rental availability. The shoulder seasons of May, September, and October are often considered ideal, providing pleasant weather with fewer crowds and more flexible rental rates. September, in particular, is favored by locals for its warm ocean temperatures and a more relaxed dining scene. Fall also brings jazz festivals, harvest events, and prime birdwatching opportunities. Spring offers blooming flowers and returning migratory birds, making it excellent for nature enthusiasts. Even winter holds its appeal, with festive holiday decorations and a quieter, more tranquil ambiance.

Parking in Cape May operates on a seasonal schedule. Meters are enforced from April 1st to October 31st, daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, costing 25 cents for every 10 or 15 minutes. The city encourages using the ParkMobile app for payment. Free parking is available from November 1st through April 30th. Additionally, complimentary parking can be found at the Cape May Elementary School on Lafayette Street and Madison Avenue during summer break and on weekends when school is not in session. Handicapped persons with a valid placard are exempt from parking meter fees.

Public restrooms are available at various locations throughout the city, including Washington Street and Ocean Street (Washington Commons), Decatur Street and Lyle Lane (Rotary Park), Gurney Street (adjacent to Convention Hall), Second and Beach Avenues, Philadelphia and Beach Avenues, and Kiwanis Park. Seasonally, beachfront restrooms are open from mid-April to mid-November at locations like Beach and Broadway, Beach and Grant, Beach and Trenton, and Beach and Wilmington. The Washington Street Mall also provides full-service restrooms.

Cape May endeavors to be accessible. Wheelchair-accessible trolleys are available with 48-hour advance reservations. Many attractions, including the Emlen Physick Estate (first floor), the Oil House at the Lighthouse, and local wineries, offer wheelchair access and accessible restrooms. Beach wheelchairs are available for free loan during the summer season from beach patrol stations.