Considered to be one of the finest ocean resorts in the country since the 18th century, Cape May boasts the town motto of "The Nation's Oldest Seashore Resort." With over 600 authentically restored and preserved Victorian structures (the town boasts the second largest collection of Victorian-era homes in the nation after San Francisco), the city was designated a National Historic Landmark city in 1976 and has achieved national recognition as one of the best Bed & Breakfast Inn resorts in the country.
Located on the Jersey Cape, situated at the southernmost tip of New Jersey, Cape May juts out between the Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Because of its excellent location, the Jersey Cape is naturally warmed by the ocean and bay in the fall and winter, and cooled by gentle breezes in the spring and summer. During the summer months the average air temperatures along the Jersey Cape range from the low 70's to the mid 80's, creating a perfect climate for the beach or any outdoor activity. The temperature in the inland areas can be as much as ten degrees warmer than the temperature along the shore line.
The ambiance of Victorian architecture, intricate gingerbread trim, old-time gas lights, cozy rocking chairs and colorful stained glass will sweep you up into the magic and romance of this one-of-a-kind Victorian Resort. Tours of the historic district and many of the Victorian Inns are scheduled daily through the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts. Cape May is also a world-famous location for the observation of migrating birds in autumn—the Cape May Bird Observatory is based nearby at Cape May Point.
The beautiful beaches and picturesque architecture are certainly not the only things that bring people back again and again to Cape May. Fishing, sight-seeing, whale watching, kite flying and sailing are a few of the outdoor activities available on a Cape May vacation.
Another favorite is the Cape May County Park & Zoo, located just one mile north of the Cape May Court House. The Park & Zoo is considered to be one of the best full-system parks in the state, offering plenty of recreational facilities such as playground areas, tennis and volleyball courts, baseball fields, fresh water fishing and nature, walking, jogging, and bike trails. While many visitors go to the Park & Zoo to find something to do, just as many go to just relax and enjoy a leisurely walk or to sit and think among the natural surroundings. A visit to the Park & Zoo is a pleasant alternative to the beaches. There are plenty of benches, shade trees, covered pavilions, picnic tables, open-pit barbecues and clean restrooms available for family outings.
Events and attractions are enjoyable year-round—from the local favorite of the annual Tulip Festival held every spring, to the Victorian Week held every fall, to the Christmas festivities which begin after Thanksgiving each year. The Cape May Convention Center, located on the promenade, also hosts a variety of events for children and adults. Cape May is also the home of the only U.S. Coast Guard Training Center.
