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What to Do Year-Round in Cape May, NJ

May 30, 2017 by administrator

Experience Cape May All Year Long with the Ferry

Traveling to Cape May for a vacation or just a day trip? Don’t miss out on these mostly free and definitely fun activities that you and the rest of the family can enjoy not only in the summer, but any time of year! If coming during cooler months, take your car so you can stop off at more than one of these great attractions.

Cape May County Park & Zoo

Everyone has their favorite zoo animal and it’s a good bet you’ll find your favorite at The Cape May County Park & Zoo. Known for its endangered species and wildlife, this zoo is a great place for all ages to enjoy a day of the beaches. The zoo is free, but donations are recommended to help take care of all the animals.

Pair of African Lions at the Cape May County Zoo

Cape May Point State Park

It’s free to enter the park and see the Lighthouse from the outside. But, if you want to enjoy the scenic view from the top of the 157-foot tall Cape May Lighthouse, it’s worth paying the entrance fees.* Besides the lighthouse, there are three trails on the property for hikers to enjoy and see all the different habitats, birds, wetland marsh, and other wildlife along the shore. Each trail is a different distance. The Red Trail is .5 miles long and is wheelchair accessible. The Yellow Trail is 1.5 miles long and the Blue Trail is 2.0 miles long. Each trail offers different unique sightings for all to enjoy! For more information regarding the lighthouse or trails, visit their website.

*Lighthouse Entrance Fees: Adults $8 | Children (3-12 years) $5 | Younger Children (<3 years) $Free

Washington Street Mall

Photo Credit

www.cookecapemay.com

Enjoy the wonderful shops and restaurants Cape May has to offer at the Washington Street Mall, considered the heart of Cape May. Window shopping is always free, but you may be lured in to the aromas from local restaurants or enticing boutique offerings from the many stores on the brick paved walking mall. Although the mall and most stores are open year round, some businesses are seasonal, so double check particular store sites if you have your heart set on one particular shopping experience.

Sunset Beach

The name of this beach is self-explanatory with the best sunsets only juxtaposed against the odd shape of a sunken ship. But, it’s not just any sunken ship. It’s the historic Atlantus, considered the most famous of 12 concrete ships built during WWI. The ship was purchased and brought to Cape May to build construction of a Ferry dock, but during a storm, the ship sunk. You are able to see the tip of the ship that is still sticking out above water. On the beach, you can explore and find many famous “Cape May Diamonds” in the sand. If you pick up a raw diamond on the beach, it’s yours to keep for free, but you may want to wander inside the gift shop and buy a polished one ready to wear.

This is just a taste of all that Cape May has to offer. Other popular activities include bird watching, bike riding, and definitely overnight stays in the town’s iconic Victorian bed and breakfast homes. The Wildwoods are just a few miles up the road, as are Historic Cold Spring Village, and many more wonderful, hidden attractions. For more on Cape May museums check out our post on the Emlen Physick estate house tour.

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Waterfront Watering Holes Around Cape May

May 30, 2017 by administrator

Special Summer Pub Spots with Water Views

Cape May has some great watering holes, and by that we mean both drinking sites and water views! Most are only open during the season, so plan accordingly. Here are some to consider during your next visit.

Stowaways Dockside

The Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal has Stowaways offering beautiful views and great fun. Live music on Wednesday during the Summer Concert series, or just a great place to enjoy the water, the view and people watching.

What to drink? Orange or Grapefruit Crushes.

What to eat? Anything! Everything is delish!

Address: 1200 Lincoln Blvd, North Cape May, 08204

Stowaways Website

Why It’s Special: You get to watch the boats come in!

The Ferry Lido Bar

The ultimate waterfront dining experience is actually on the water! Only open during the summer, look for the blue and white striped awnings on the top deck.

Lido Bar View on the Upper Deck of the Cape May-Lewes Ferry

What to drink? Creamsicle Crush or Coconut MaiTai.

What to eat? Any preferred snack, sandwich, or salad from the Galley.

Address: On the water! Board at Cape May terminal.

Phone: Our regular sailings often sell out, so we strongly recommend reservations for the Ferry. However, they are not required and you can board as a walk-on passenger without a prior reservation.

Why It’s Special: You’re literally sailing ON the water!

Harry’s Ocean Bar

Live music every night throughout the summer and a gorgeous wooden bar looking out over the ocean.

What to drink? Any of the specialty sangrias or margaritas. Or, try the Sang-Arita putting two greats together!

What to eat? Harry’s signature Clam Chowder, or a Lobster BLT!

Address: 1025 Beach Ave., Cape May, NJ 08204

Phone: 609.884.2779

Why It’s Special: It’s a rooftop bar named one of the best places to drink outdoors by Philadelphia Magazine.

The Rusty Nail

Originally a surfer bar, it’s a beach bar with the rumored longest wood bar in all of Cape May.

What to drink? Pineapple Jawn

What to eat? If it’s fried, it fits.

Address: 205 Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ 08204

Phone: 609.884.0017

Why It’s Special: You’re right across from the beach!

Schooner American

A boat at the back of the Lobster House.

What to drink? Grapefruit Crush or the drink of the day.

What to eat? The raw bar.

Address: 906 Schellengers Landing Rd., Cape May, NJ 08204.

Phone: 609.884.8296

Why It’s Special: You get to be on a boat, but never have to take sail!

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Where To Capture Fall and Winter Sunset

May 30, 2017 by administrator

Get The Shot: Winter Sunsets

Stunning sunsets and the Delaware Bay go hand in hand, and – despite the cold weather – winter offers some incredible opportunities to snap a postcard worthy photo of your own. Whether you’re using the latest and greatest DSLR, or pulling your phone out of your pocket and snapping away, here are some locations you can check out to get the shot!

In Cape May

After the clocks fall back on November 1, there isn’t a regularly scheduled crossing departing from Cape May that will allow you to catch the sunset from aboard the vessel. However, you can catch an amazing sunset with your feet firmly on the sand right down the road from the Cape May terminal at Douglass Park. To get there, simply pass the Ferry terminal entrance on Lincoln Blvd until it comes to a T with Beach Drive in North Cape May. From there, hang a left onto Beach Drive and head into Douglass Park, where you can catch stunning sunsets from the jetty where the Delaware Bay flows into the Cape May Canal.

Sunset from Douglass Park in North Cape May, NJ

Aboard the Vessels

After the clocks fall back, the 4:15pm departure from Lewes is the go-to for sunsets during the winter months. Bring your camera, a warm jacket, and head out to the exterior decks to snap some incredible photos as the sun falls behind the horizon.

Sunset over the Delaware Bay from the Cape May - Lewes Ferry

In Lewes

Pull up a table at Grain On the Rocks, where you can watch the Ferry depart and the sun set over the Bay with a drink in hand. Head to Cape Henlopen State Park, just down the road from the Lewes terminal. With plenty of beach access and a number of different spots to choose from, there are plenty of ways to find a space for your own private sunset show!

Catch the Best Sunsets in the World

Delaware Beaches – Biking Trails

May 30, 2017 by administrator

Biking Options at the Delaware Beaches

If you like to cycle, the Delaware Beaches have a plethora of options for all types of riders. Whether you’re a beach cruiser or a serious pedal pusher, below are just some of the resources you can use to plan an epic biking adventure.

Why is biking in Southern Delaware such a popular experience? Watch this video from Southern Delaware Tourism to learn why these bike trails are so well suited to any level of bicyclist.

Bike & Stay in Southern Delaware

There’s a new program to encourage biking and staying in Southern Delaware. You’ll find discounts, offers and more to make your Delaware vacation experience even more unforgettable. To learn more, just visit the Bike & Stay page.

Trail Resources

Delaware State Parks – Cape Henlopen Trails: Information about the 8 biking trails in Cape Henlopen State Park, including surface type, difficulty, and length.

Visit Delaware – Biking Information: Searchable trail database with information on trails and maps.

TrailLink Biking Trails: Map-based interface with detailed route information, trail information, and reviews.

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May 25, 2017 by administrator

Not Your Average Travel Guide

Take a break from the ordinary and travel to Lewes with us!

Bike or Hike The Gordons Pond Trail

Avoid the traffic and travel from Lewes to Rehoboth the easy way! Take a left turn once you leave the terminal and arrive at the Cape Henlopen State Park. The Gordons Pond trail begins at the Herring Point parking lot and guides viewers through 2.65 miles of scenic beach landscapes.

The elevated boardwalks are perfect for nature lovers and bird watchers.

Rehoboth Farmers Market

Tuesdays noon-4pm rain or shine, you can find the freshest fruits and vegetables at Grove Park in Rehoboth Beach. The Rehoboth Beach Farmer’s Market is a great way to add some color to your diet as you vacation to the shore. With different recipes weekly, you’ll never leave hungry.

Brewery and Wine Tours

Once off the ferry, take time to relax and enjoy the several local breweries and wineries just minutes away from the terminal. Each distillery offers its own unique tour and tasting experience.

Movies on the Beach

Every Monday night is family night at Dewey and Bethany beach. Every Monday night is family night at these two locations, with all your kids favorite movies starting at 8:30PM. Don’t forget the popcorn! Families can grab a blanket and a lawn chair and watch the film all together. View the 2023 Monday night movie schedule.

Dewey offers S’MORE fun with a bonfire every Wednesday night from 7 – 9pm.

Cape May-Lewes Ferry Firework Cruise

Get the best view in town right aboard the ferry! The ferry departs from Lewes to give passengers a once in a lifetime experience. Listen to live music and watch the fireworks from upper deck. Get your tickets before they sell out!

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4 Must-See Museums In Delaware

May 25, 2017 by administrator

Dive Into Delaware's History!

A day trip on the Ferry can be a fun way to enjoy both sides of the Delaware Bay any time of the year! During the chillier months, you can explore indoors with these unique Delaware museums, all within an easy drive of the Lewes Ferry Terminal.

Zwaanendael Museum – Lewes

Take a unique look at Lewes, Delaware’s first European settlement, and the role it played in the War of 1812. Experience the vast history of southern Delaware through artifacts as well as exhibits featuring shipwrecks and lighthouses. Don’t miss the museum’s most popular attraction, The Fiji Merman, a half monkey, half sea monster that locals call “Monkeyfish.” Free admission.
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 10am-4:15pm
For info: delaware.gov, or 302-645-1148

Johnson Victrola Museum – Dover

Travel back in time to the early 20th century, seeing and listening to real phonographs from that time. At this museum in Dover, DE, you can experience one of the early innovations in recorded sound, the Victor Talking Machine, and learn about the life and work of E.R. Johnson, the Delaware-native who made this technology possible.
Free admission.
Hours: Wednesday-Saturday, 9:30am-4pm
For info: delaware.gov, or 302-739-3262

Air Mobility Command Museum – Dover Air Force Base

Well, some of this museum is outdoors, but plenty of great indoor exhibits! Helicopters, fighters, cargo haulers, and even a presidential aircraft are just some of the amazing things you’ll see at the Air Mobility Command Museum in Dover, DE. You can step inside some of the planes, or test your skills on the flight simulator!
Free admission & parking.
Hours: Wednesday-Sunday, 9am-4pm
For info: amcmuseum.org, or 302-677-5938

Nanticoke Indian Museum – Millsboro

The Nanticoke Indian Museum is home to much of the history and artifacts of the Nanticoke Indian tribe. During your trip, see one-of-a-kind jewelry, pottery and much more, all while immersing yourself in the local history of the Nanticoke Indian Tribe.
Admission: Adults $3, Children $1
Winter hours: Thursday-Saturday, 10am – 4pm
For info: nanticokeindians.org, or 302-945-7022

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What to Bring to Birdwatch on the Ferry

May 24, 2017 by administrator

Delaware Bay: A Birdwatcher's Paradise

The Delaware Bay is a birdwatcher’s paradise because it is one of the greatest places in the country to see a large and diverse collection of birds. Thankfully, the Ferry can put you right in the middle of the beautiful bird wonderland! On the Ferry, we’ve seen egrets, laughing gulls, osprey, gannets, the occasional bald eagle, and much more, since the bay is always flapping with flying wildlife. Whether you’re an experienced birder, or just a traveler admiring the aviary display, here’s what you’ll need to birdwatch on the Ferry.

Beginner

If you’re a beginner birdwatcher, enjoying all the birds that the bay has to offer doesn’t take much at all. But, those summer days will leave you burnt without the proper sunscreen. This is always a necessity no matter what level birder you are! Check out our wildlife scorecard, available on deck, to keep track of all the marine life you see. Information includes what each species likes to snack on, what time of year is best to spot them and even a fun fact or two. Depending on the season, you’ll see a variety of birds. In the springtime, an osprey couple typically lays three eggs by our Lewes Terminal, making for a great attraction! By the time summer comes around, the babies are hatched and ready to take their first flight.

Intermediate

If you’ve dabbled in bird watching, bringing a backpack is a great idea to keep your hands free for holding binoculars or a camera. In the Springtime, hundreds of thousands of migrating shore birds feast on new horseshoe crab eggs that line the Delaware Bay shoreline. You may be able to spot the Red Knot that breeds as far north as Canada. In order to spot some of these migrating birds we suggest that any intermediate birder to bring a field guide to spot the variety of species. We also advise birders to wear long pants and closed toes shoes when exploring any wetlands and marshes.

Expert

If you’re an expert birdwatcher, chances are you don’t need us to tell you what to bring along! You may already have one or more field guides and own a pair of binoculars. If you’re bringing a camera, we also recommend a tripod for stability when the boat is rocking.

No matter your skill level, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry provides 360-degree views of Delaware Bay wildlife like you’ve them never seen before. Stop on either side to experience the natural habitat of Cape Henlopen State Park in Delaware or Cape May Point State Park in New Jersey. The biodiversity on the a Delaware Bay attracts visitors from all over to explore our wetlands, beaches and woodlands.

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The Gateways of Lewes

April 11, 2017 by administrator

Get to Know the Gateways of Lewes

The “Gateways of Lewes” are six roads forming a continuous network of greenway leading into the town and out to the ocean. The Gateways also provide an active and enjoyable way to explore the more than three centuries of Lewes history. You’ll definitely want to make a day of traveling these trails by boat, car or bike, leaving plenty of time to take in the natural beauty and interesting stopping points.

Canoeing at Trap Pond State Park near Lewes

The “Gateways from the Land”—Kings Highway, Savannah Road and New Road—run generally east to west, perpendicular to the coast, passing through numerous historically significant areas, including downtown Lewes. The “Gateways from the Sea”—Pilottown Road, Gills Neck Road and Cape Henlopen Drive—run approximately north to south, parallel to the coast. This route follows the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal and the beach.

This route follows the Lewes-Rehoboth Canal and the beach.

Among the interesting places you’ll find along the Gateways from the Land are the Lewes Presbyterian Church (est. 1692) and churchyard, the Zwaanendael Museum (built in 1932 to resemble the ancient City Hall in Hoorn, Holland) on Kings Highway, and Bethel Cemetery and the War of 1812 Memorial Park just north of the Canal Bridge on Savannah Road. Along the Gateways from the Sea are the Cannonball House (with a War of 1812 cannonball embedded in its foundation), historic Victorian homes of Delaware River and Delaware Bay pilots, the Lightship Overfalls (a floating lighthouse built in 1938), and Canalfront Park.

Bike trail in Delaware State Park

At the end of the Gateways from the Sea greenway is the 5,193-acre Cape Henlopen State Park. There, you can hike a three-mile paved loop trail, six miles of beach along the Atlantic Ocean, or the 1.6-mile crushed-gravel Walking Dunes Trail, which ends at the 80-foot-high Great Dune. They’re called “walking dunes” because they actually move slowly across the park.

In the park, you’ll discover a World War II observation tower that was part of Fort Miles and used to spot enemy battleships. It’s a shorter climb up one of the former military bunkers in the park, but the view is still impressive. Be sure to visit the Seaside Nature Center to check out the live Osprey Cam.

Visit www.delawaregreenways.org for more information.

Experience Cape May All Year Long with the Ferry

Cape May County Park & Zoo

Cape May Point State Park

Washington Street Mall

Sunset Beach

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Stowaways Dockside

The Ferry Lido Bar

Harry’s Ocean Bar

The Rusty Nail

Schooner American

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Not Your Average Travel Guide

Bike or Hike The Gordons Pond Trail

Rehoboth Farmers Market

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Movies on the Beach

Cape May-Lewes Ferry Firework Cruise

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Dive Into Delaware's History!

Zwaanendael Museum – Lewes

Johnson Victrola Museum – Dover

Air Mobility Command Museum – Dover Air Force Base

Nanticoke Indian Museum – Millsboro

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The Best Birding in Cape May and Lewes

The Best Birding in Cape May and Lewes