Finding Solace in Spring Break Travel

Putting the 'Break' in Spring Break 

When planning Spring Break vacations, students, families and 9-to-5’ers alike find themselves packing their bags and driving south to soak in some Vitamin D. While mapping out your adventure, keep in mind what Spring Break is all about—relaxation and escaping the winter doldrums. Be sure to make time for pit stops to relax and stretch your legs, grab a bite to eat, and (if you’re lucky) enjoy a view that doesn’t include the highway. This can be easier said than done as you travel south through the Mid-Atlantic region, home to some of the most congested highways around the Philadelphia, Baltimore and DC region.

The solution: take the scenic route. 

Consider taking the Ferry, which offers reduced Spring Fare rates through May 31. The 85-minute escape across the Delaware Bay between Cape May, NJ and Lewes, DE allows you to bypass crowded roadways, park the car, and catch fresh spring breezes. If the air still has a chill, you and your crew can duck inside for warm on-board refreshments while still spotting Gannets, the Delaware Bay bird also considered the harbinger of spring.

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Family friendly travel aboard the Cape May Lewes Ferry

Popular Spring Break Destinations

Some popular Spring Break destinations Ferry passengers often travel to when heading south include:

Spring Break means different things to different people. College students view it as a time to let loose at popular beach resorts. Secondary school students often are just happy to be out of school, but parents frequently save their precious time off to use for an annual family vacation to warmer weather.

Increasingly, families are again taking to the roads to save money for spending at their final destination instead of on airfare. The Ferry is a great gateway to start the vacation experience early while still on the road, putting the entire family in vacation spirits well before they’ve hit the warmer climates.

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Top 7 Sojourns for Snowbirds Heading North

Ways to Enjoy the Journey: Cape May & Lewes Travel Stops

As the weather warms up, snowbirds who have headed south for winter begin to once again venture north. For many, the Ferry is a welcomed mid-point to relax and restore energy with a variety of waterside activities. There are plenty of opportunities for rejuvenation in the Lewes and Cape May areas—below we’ve outlined some of our top recommendations.

Lewes

Embrace History

Embrace the history of our nation’s first state by touring the Ryves Holt House, the oldest standing structure in Delaware, built in 1665 by Dutch settlers. Today the house is home to the Lewes Historical Society and part of the First State National Park.

Parks & Trails

A five-mile trail perfect for a bike, hike or stroll, the Junction and Breakwater Trail winds through forests and open fields along a former section of the Penn Central Railroad between Lewes and Rehoboth Beach. Or explore nearby Cape Henlopen’s three-mile trail looping around the park and experience the scenic landscape and history by climbing to the top of the WWII Observation Tower.

Shopping

A short bike or car ride from Lewes, Rehoboth is home to some of the region’s best shopping, including three Tanger Outlet Centers as well as boutique shopping downtown. Even better, all stores are tax-free!

Cape May

Home Tours

America’s first seaside resort, Cape May has one of the largest collections of late 19th-century frame buildings left in the U.S. and more than 600 Victorian era homes. Take a private guided tour or trolley tour throughout Cape May’s Historic District.

Cuisine

A trip to Cape May wouldn’t be complete without savoring the local coastal cuisine. Take a walking food tour to experience multiple restaurants, local culture, sights, and stories. Or for a romantic feel, stay at the Peter Shields Inn, a romantic seaside getaway, with nine guest rooms, breathtaking oceanfront views, and gourmet dining.

Spas

Relax and rejuvenate from your travels at Spa at Congress Hall or the Cape May Day Spa. Or bring a luxurious spa experience to you by requesting in-room spa service at one of the many B&Bs located in town.

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Ideas For a Ferry Happy Valentine’s Day

Valentine's Day Around the Delaware Bay

What better way to spend Valentine’s Day than on the Delaware Bay! Plan your getaway with us and experience amazing opportunities available in both Cape May and Lewes. Escape your busy work schedule and take time to relax and enjoy some alone time with the one you love.

New Jersey Destinations

Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery

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Hawk Haven doors

Looking for a fun and festive way to celebrate Valentine’s Day? Bring your sweetheart to romantic Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery for an afternoon of adventure! You’ll be able to sip wines, taste organic chocolate and listen to live music all while supporting local wine growers. For more information, visit their website.

The Ebbitt Room

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Romantic candle-lit dinner at Ebbitt Room

Share a romantic evening with someone special at the Ebbitt Room this Valentine’s Day! Located on Jackson Street in Cape May, the Ebbitt room is rooted in a farm-to-table and farm-to-glass dining philosophy featuring fresh ingredients from their very own Beach Plum Farm. A special Valentine’s menu will be offered, visit the Cape Resorts website for more information and to make your reservation!

Cape May Brewing Co.

They say you can’t buy love, but luckily you can buy beer. And at CMBC’s Take A Bite Out of Love, Valentine’s Day Bash, you can have both! They’ll have all kinds of fun and games, sweets for your sweet, special Valentine’s-inspired pint glasses, a featured Lover’s Flight of some incredible CMBC beers, and much more.

Delaware Destinations

The Inn at Canal Square

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View of the beach in Delaware

The Inn at Canal Square is just a short drive from our terminal and is in the heart of historic Lewes, DE. Facing the Lewes Canal, guests have an amazing seaside view when they wake up. While in Lewes, you and your loved one can explore historic museums, enjoy unique shops downtown and dine at one-of-a-kind restaurants. No matter your interest, their 22 beautifully decorated rooms turn any weekend into a romantic retreat. For more information about the Inn at the Canal Square, give them a call at (302) 644-3377, or visit their website.

The Avenue Inn and Spa

Located right in the heart of downtown Rehoboth, this inn and spa offers special couple packages including message therapy, facial treatments and more! Their staff is dedicated to educating clients on a healthier and better lifestyle by using all natural products. Their top notch amenities provide guests with complimentary breakfast as well as cheese and wine. Their luxurious rooms are perfect for you and your loved one to obtain optimal relaxation. To learn more about The Avenue Inn, you can reach them at (302) 226-2900, or check out their website.

For more Delaware and New Jersey fun check out our travel inspiration page including wineries, breweries, shopping and historic treasures.

Summer Family Friendly Travel

Family Fun On the Delaware Bay

Whether the Ferry is one stop on your journey or the main adventure, there are plenty of activities throughout the summer to entertain families.

Go Treasure Hunting on Lewes Beach

Lewes Beach is renowned for its cobalt blue and emerald green sea glass, as well as pottery shards from shipwrecks off the coast. If you’re up for an adventure, it’s a great place to go treasure hunting! The best times to search are during a low tide after a storm. If you’re not up for the hunt, check out the Mid-Atlantic Sea Glass & Coastal Arts Festival held every June featuring sea glass artists, decoy carvers and waterfowl artists from all over the East coast and even the Virgin Islands.

A Fun & Efficient Way to Cross the Bay

Cut hours off a trip from New Jersey to the Delaware Beaches, while allowing the kids to burn off energy. Experience the playground and mini golf at the Cape May terminal. You might even catch one of the live, waterfront events that happen throughout the year. While on the boat, the kids are free to explore and check out the snack and gift shops. Meanwhile, parents can relax in Adirondack chairs, take in the sights and indulge in a drink from the bar. And guess what? The Ferry is pet-friendly, so you’re more than welcome to bring your fur-kids on board with you (provided they’re well-behaved and leashed, of course)!

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Traveler relaxing aboard the Cape May Lewes Ferry

Experience Two Historic Cities in One Day

Lean about the early 17th-century Dutch settlement of Lewes and the attack on the city during the War of 1812. Take the 85-minute journey on the Ferry across the Delaware Bay to soak in the Victorian appeal of Cape May, full of restaurants, a boardwalk and shops.

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Gift Ideas for a Ferry Merry Holiday Season

Great Gift Ideas for the Ferry Fan on Your List

Whether you’re a savvy Christmas gift giver, an experienced bargain hunter or a last-minute procrastinator, somehow there’s always that one person that’s tough to shop for. If you find yourself stuck, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are a few Ferry fun solutions for any gift dilemma. 
 
Cape May Lewes Ferry Gift Certificates

Idea #1 – Gift Certificates for Ferry Travel

If you have a Ferry fan in your life, but you’re not sure exactly when they’ll be traveling next, gift certificates are a great idea! Ferry gift certificates come in any amount you choose, have open travel dates, and even come in a gift envelope! Use them for normal Ferry travel, for a Wine Cruise, a Beer Dinner or just go for a relaxing ride across the Delaware. To purchase, buy online ($25 increments), visit us at the Cape May or Lewes Terminals, or call (800) 643.3779.

Idea 2: Outfit Your Favorite Ferry Fan in New Ferry Merch!

interior view of Exit Zero's Cafe 64 inside the Cape May terminal

Who doesn’t love a great hoodie, or a new t-shirt? Stuffed animals? We’ve got ’em. Trinkets? Yep, those too. Check out our online store for something that’s sure to delight the Ferry fan in your life.

Onboard Only Shop Items: Sailing Advantage

Did you know some Ferry Shop items are only available on board the Ferry! Shop in person for the best gifts on a Ferry!

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Outlet Shopping Tip: Start with a Ferry Ride

Shop Til You Drop!

If a shopping trip is in your future either to help bring out the new you, have a fun day away with shopping buddies, or to bring the kids for dreaded school, camp or general clothing updates (they just don’t stop growing!) here are three tips to make the day extra special.

We especially like Tip #2, because the Ferry ride over to Lewes, DE from Cape May, NJ helps keep kids preoccupied and takes a lot of their nervous energy away before and after shopping. It gives you a fighting chance to keep them trying on clothes in dressing rooms rather than chasing them from unscheduled hide ‘n go seek games under clothing racks.

If you’re going with some adult buddies, stop for Margaritas in Lewes (Agave is a favorite), or sip on our famous Orange and Grapefruit Crushes during your Ferry ride back. It’s the ultimate celebratory end to a great shopping day!

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Tip #1: Tangier Outlets in Rehoboth Beach houses hundreds of retail brands where you can outfit the soon-to-be school crew and save! Click on this box for the full list of stores.
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Tip #2: Riding the ferry to Delaware is a great family excursion. Not only do you reap the benefits in savings, but you get to relax on the ferry, look for fun marine wildlife, and distract the shopping naysayers.
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Tip #3: Make a day of it! Hit the outlets, then take some time to explore the historic town of Lewes before heading back home. Click the box for some great ways to explore Lewes

Climb aboard the Ferry to take advantage of these great discounts before they sail away!

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Lewes Day Trips and Weekend Excursions

There's Always a Reason to Travel!

Whether you’re looking for a quick day-trip, a weekend-excursion or something in between, there’s always a reason to hop aboard the Cape May – Lewes Ferry and check out the beaches and towns surrounding Lewes. Take a look at a few options below, make some plans, book your Ferry travel and we’ll see you on board!


Take the DART Shuttle Into Lewes

Year-Round | Lewes, DE

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Lewes downtown trees

Lewes offers a wide variety of year-round activities, from shopping and dining in the quaint downtown area, to historical tours, museums and more. You can even take the Ferry over as a foot passenger, and hop aboard the DART shuttle to get into town. The Route 204 bus conveniently picks up and departs from in front of the Lewes Terminal every half hour, seven days a week in the summer. View the schedule, here.

For more information about Historic Lewes, DE: visit Lewes.com or HistoricLewes.org.


Cape Henlopen State Park

Year-Round | 15099 Cape Henlopen Dr, Lewes, DE

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Cape Henlopen State Park Delaware Beach

Swim in the ocean waves, bike through the sand dunes, fish from the Bayside fishing pier, camp beside historical WWII towers, and explore all 7,000 acres of Cape Henlopen State Park! Located at the point where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Henlopen offers a unique combination of natural wonders and cultural history. Discover the beauty and diversity of Cape Henlopen coastal environment encompassing ocean and bay beaches, maritime forests, and tidal salt marshes. During your stay, be sure to visit Fort Miles, a WWII military base that features the Fort Miles Museum, Artillery Park, and Battery 519 tours. With excellent wildlife-watching, stunning scenery, world-class beaches, and year-round historical and environmental programming, there are endless adventures to discover at Cape Henlopen!

Book Ferry Travel

More information about Cape Henlopen State Park.


Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk

Year-Round | Boardwalk, Rehoboth Beach, DE

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People walking on Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk

Visitors to Rehoboth Beach can enjoy a mile-long boardwalk lined with old-fashioned family amusements, attractions, beach stores, and good eats. The boardwalk is a year-round place for festivals, events, and daily strolls to enjoy the ocean views. The boardwalk is a combination of old-fashioned charm and modern amenities. Bike and surrey rentals are available by the hour or by the day.

For more information about the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk: click here


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Cape May Day Trips and Weekend Excursions

Cape May is Open All Year Long!

Whether you’re looking for a quick day-trip, a weekend-excursion or something in between, there’s always a reason to hop aboard the Cape May – Lewes Ferry.


Diamond Beach, Higbee Beach, All Beaches!

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sunset over the sunken concrete ship

It’s true, most people think of beaches in the summer months, but beaches are extra special in the cooler weather months.  For one, the ocean waters are generally at their warmest in the Fall.  But if you want to stay on shore, and you consider beaches great places for meditative alone time, the cooler months are your ideal time to lay out a chair, open a book and breath in ocean air.

The closest beach to the Ferry is right off aptly named Beach Road.  When leaving the Cape May Terminal, take your first left to turn around and head back to the bay.  Go straight to Beach Avenue and park!  If you’re more prone to looking for treasures, Sunset Beach is your spot to see the partially sunken concrete ship as well as search for Cape May Diamonds!  If you like your jewelry already set and polished, the nearby souvenir shop has a selection of Cape May Diamond necklaces, pendants, rings and more!

Higbee Beach can be tricky to find, but gives the best views of the ferry coming and going. After leaving the Ferry, you start off toward downtown Cape May, but veer off to the right by the Cape May Canal just as you go on the bridge via Seashore Road.

For more information on Cape May Beaches: click here

Washington Street Mall

Year-Round | 401 Washington St, Cape May, NJ 08204

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Busy summer scene of Washington Street Mall Cape May

There’s really something for everyone in this downtown Cape May landmark. Consisting of over 60 shops and 20 restaurants, the Washington Street Mall in the heart of Cape May is an ideal destination for a single day out or an entire weekend excursion. Whether you’re looking to shop or just walk around and take in the atmosphere the Washington Street Mall. People who go once can’t wait to go back again.

For more information about Washington Street Mall: click here

Historic Cold Spring Village

Year-Round | 720 Rt. 9, Cape May, NJ

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Historic Cold Spring Village Cape May

The 1800s come to life when you visit 27 restored, historic buildings on a 30-acre site where interpreters in period clothing demonstrate blacksmithing, woodworking, printing, broom making, bookbinding, pottery, tinsmithing, and basket weaving. The Village is also home to a farm complete with a horse, chicken, sheep and more! Enjoy special weekday family activities including horse-drawn wagon rides, crafts and historic games. In addition to the craft buildings, visitors will find a Welcome Center, Country Store, Bakery, Ice Cream Parlor, Cold Spring Brewery and Cold Spring Grange Restaurant. The Village is open Tuesday – Sunday, 10 am – 4:30 pm, from mid-June through Labor Day. Special events are held every weekend from early June through mid-September.

For more information about historic Cold Spring Village: click here


Cape May Lighthouse

Year-Round| Located in Cape May Point State Park, 215 Lighthouse Ave

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Cape May Lighthouse and Beach

Join over 2.5 million Cape May visitors who have made the journey to the top of Cape May’s most well-known landmark. Once you’ve conquered the 199 steps, you’ll enjoy an amazing view of the surrounding Cape May area that extends all the way across the bay to Cape Henlopen on a clear day. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for children. Tickets may be purchased online or on location.

For more information about the Cape May Lighthouse: click here


Visit the Emlen Physick Estate

Year-Round | 1048 Washington St, Cape May, NJ

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Outside view of the Emlen Physick Estate, Cape May,NJ

Visit Cape May’s only Victorian House Museum and learn about the life of a late 19th century country gentleman. Cape May is known for many historic sites that you just can’t see anywhere else in the world, and the Emlen Physick Estate is one of them.

To Learn More About the Emlen Physick Estate: click here

There is always something to do in Cape May

6 Tips for Driving Your RV on the Ferry

How to Know if Your RV Will Fit on the Ferry

Do you own an RV and enjoy going on adventures?  The Cape May-Lewes Ferry is an easy way to get from New Jersey to Delaware (or vice versa) while relaxing across the Delaware Bay. You may be thinking, “there is no way my RV is going to fit on the ferry!” 

The good news is that we can accommodate almost any size motor home or trailer aboard our vessels. Every day, we welcome all different shapes and sizes of recreational vehicles aboard our vessels, so whether you have a Class A motor home or a fifth wheel trailer, we have space for you!

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RVs loading onto the ferry

After an extended time on the road, the ferry is a great way to unwind, relax and leave the navigation to us. You get a chance to stretch your legs, breathe in the fresh bay breeze, and (hopefully!) see some wildlife as you cross the Delaware Bay!

Before sailing with us, check out our short video below. Then, scroll through our travel tips below to make your ferry experience easy, enjoyable and fun!

Tip #1: Make a Reservation 

**Reservations are currently required!**
Reservations are highly recommended because each ferry is 2,100 feet and long vehicles, including RVs,  are generally held to 20% of the load to allow the most people to cross on any one departure. Whereas a late arriving mini-Cooper or compact car can usually be squeezed on the ferry with some creative staging, an RV’s length requires more planning. RVs are frequently the first loaded on the car deck since they need more space flexibility than a standard vehicle. A reservation ensures that we’ve allotted the needed space for you on your desired departure. This is especially important if you’re caravaning with other RVs. In one case, we had eight Air Streams on board at the same time and got them all on board so they could enjoy the journey together!

Tip #2: Watch Your Height

The car deck is the lowest deck on the ferry with the indoor salon just above it. As a result, there is a ceiling on the car deck and vehicles cannot be higher than 13 feet 6 inches. Most RVs easily meet this requirement, but some larger Class A vehicles with vents or solar panels on the roof can exceed this restriction. In some cases, just releasing a little air in the tires allows the vehicle to meet the height requirement. When you drive your RV up to the tolls, a sensor will alert you and the toll operator if your vehicle meets the height requirement so you won’t get any surprises after you drive on to the Ferry.

Tip #3: Let Us Know Your Width

The Ferry can be more accommodating with wider vehicle than height.  It is not uncommon to see trailers with mobile homes on the Ferry, so wide bodied RVs are usually no problem. If your vehicle is especially wide (greater than 8 feet, 6 inches at any point on your vehicle, including mirrors), you can still come on the Ferry, space permitting, but will be charged for two spaces, as we will not load any vehicles next to your lane. 

Tip #4: Calculate Your Length

There are no length limitations for RVs coming on the ferry, but since the deck is a finite number of feet long, vehicle fares vary by the length of the vehicle.  There are different rates for vehicles over 60’ and three different length classes for RVs ranging from 15-34’, 35-44’, and 45-59’.  If you don’t know your exact length upon booking (although most RVers do), don’t worry.  When you pull up to the tolls, the length is automatically calculated by markers on our entrance lanes. If you booked for the wrong length, adjustments will made upon check in. 

Tip #5: Check Your Propane 

No more than two (2) five-gallom cylinders of propane are allowed on a vehicle at a time. Propane tanks must be safely secured to the vehicle in an upright position with valves closed and tagged. In addition, propane-powered refrigerators must have the thermostat control turned to the “off” position.

Cape May Museums

Cape May History: Step Back in Time

Whether you’re looking for an escape from the brisk autumn winds or need a rainy day activity, Cape May Museums offer intriguing options for keeping everyone in your traveling party engaged. Here are a few worth visiting, even on the most colorful and crisp fall days.

Historic Cold Spring Village

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Cold Spring Brewery, built in 2016 with old barn wood in an 1804 barn style

720 Route 9 South
Cape May, NJ 08204

609.898.2300

This interactive museum lets you travel back in time to the “age of homespun” between 1789 and 1840. A visit can include a walk around 30 acres of land, or a visit to one or more of  26 restored historic buildings. During your visit, you will have the chance to meet historically clothed interpreters who educate you about the lifestyle and issues of the time. Children can join in the festivities, trying on costumes, making crafts, and playing the games of that time. Many visit just to dine at the Cold Spring Garage Restaurant, the only building standing in its original site, imbibe at the “new” Cold Spring Brewery built in an 1804 styled barn, or just treat themselves at the on site bakery, ice cream parlor, or country store.  

For more info: https://hcsv.org/

Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum

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Jet fighter on display at Naval Air Station Wildwood museum.

500 Forrestal Road
Cape May Airport, NJ 08242

609.886.8787

Stop inside Hanger One to see dozens of historic airplanes, helicopters, jet aircrafts, and more. Carefully curated to reflect the naval history of the South Jersey, Naval Air Station Wildwood (NASW) is now celebrating its 20th anniversary. Interactive exhibits include airplanes from WWII, the watch tower from Bader Field (Atlantic City’s original and the nation’s first airport), and exhibits dedicated to the Coast Guard. Everyone from vets to budding pilots and historical buffs love exploring every nook and cranny of this memorable space. Make sure to test your docent’s knowledge when inside and find out why it’s called Naval Air Station Wildwood, but is located on the property of Cape May Airport, and is really located in Erma! You’ll be sure to come to the conclusion that someone was imbibing at nearby Cape May Brewery, long before the brewery was there!

For more info: usnasw.org

Cape May Fire Department Museum

643 Washington Street
Cape May, NJ 08204

609.884.9512

This small museum is filled with powerful stories and history. It is free and open to the public for all to enjoy. Learn the history of the Cape May Fire Department and see their antique 1928 American La France Fire Engine.

Emlen Physick Estate

1048 Washington Street
Cape May, NJ 08204

609.884.5404

Travel back into Victorian times as you walk into the Physick Estate. Admire the architecture and decorative arts, and learn about this notable Cape May family. This estate gives you an insight on the changing lifestyle of the past and is a unique place to visit. Operated by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC), the estate includes a Carriage House Cafe and Team Room and is part of area trolley tours. If coming from points south, consider a Ferry day trip excursion in the summer directly to the estate. 

For more info: capemaymac.org

The Museum of Cape May County

504 Route 9 North
Cape May Court House, NJ 08210

609.465.3535

Learn about the county’s original settlers in the 1600s into the 1800s as you walk through the museum. Catch a glimpse of what a doctor’s office looked like in the 1700s with all the different tools and pharmaceuticals that were used. You will also be able to see what a family’s home that was built in 1704 was like, and the changes that were made into the 1800s. Stop to see their new room that pays honor to those who have served, from the Revolutionary War to the current. The museum also serves as a genealogical research area to help people explore their Cape May County roots. 

For more info: cmcmuseum.org

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