15 Best Things to Do in Cape May County, NJ

Cape May County is a top choice for tourists and locals alike when it comes to recreational activities by the coastline.

The county is found at the southern end of New Jersey.

It is surrounded by water, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean in the south and the waters of Delaware Bay in the west, making Cape May County an ideal place for waterfront activities.

The area was officially established as a county in 1690, although indigenous people had settled there well before that date.

The United States Census Bureau states that the county has a total land area of 251.42 square miles and 368.99 square miles of water.

Cape May County offers many exciting places for you to visit.

To help guide you, here is a list of 15 best things to do in Cape May County, New Jersey:

Ride the Sea Serpent at Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Water Parks

If you’re on the lookout for amusement parks to visit, Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Water Parks at Boardwalk should be on your list.

Morey’s Piers is a family-owned seaside amusement park in New Jersey that opened in 1969.

It boasts over a hundred rides and attractions within its grounds.

Many people come to Morey’s for their Ferris wheel, where you can get an amazing view of the New Jersey coastline.

Another highlight is the sea serpent roller coaster, but expect long lines for this one.

There is a tram car that circles around the pier so you won’t tire yourself out trying  to explore everything the place has to offer.

Other points of interest include arcades and carnival games where you can win prizes.

There are go-karts and monster truck rides for the gearheads out there.

A zip line is also available for you to try out.

Come to Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Water Parks for the premier amusement park experience.

Witness the Wildlife at Cape May County Park and Zoo

Cape May County Park and Zoo is an outdoor green space in New Jersey with animal exhibits.

Cape May County Park and Zoo is located along US-9 North Highway.

This park is popular for their zoo.

Their zoo has an extensive collection of more than 500 animals that represent 250 different animal species.

The park is 200 acres wide, with many areas covered by forests.

It has many facilities, such as their walking and biking paths.

Families can eat meals together in their picnic areas and pavilions.

For play areas, there is a disc golf course and several playgrounds.

If you love animals, then Cape May County Park and Zoo needs to be included in your plans.

Experience Scenic Views at Cape May Lighthouse

Cape May Lighthouse is a historic landmark in Cape May County, New Jersey.

You can find it on Light House Avenue.

Cape May Lighthouse was built in 1859 at the tip of Cape May.

The lighthouse was built under the guidance of US Army Engineer William Raynolds.

This spot is famous for its beautiful view of the beach, especially if you manage to go up and see the elevated view at the lighthouse.

It is also an excellent spot for birdwatching, as there are numerous swans in the nearby ponds and many migratory birds passing by.

Another spot of note is a nearby World War 2 era bunker that you can enter and explore.

A gift shop is available in the area for any souvenirs that you might want to get to commemorate your visit.

Take Your Kids to Gillian’s Wonderland Pier

Gillians’ Wonderland Pier is one of the many amusement parks that you can opt to go for along the coast of Cape May County, New Jersey.

You can visit Gillian’s along the Boardwalk.

Many Cape May County locals have made special memories at Gillian’s, as the park has been operational since 1929.

Locals and tourists alike frequent Gilian’s Wonderland Pier for its Ferris wheel, which towers over the amusement park.

A favorite among park visitors is the log flume.

Another attraction that you need to try is their Giant Pirate Ship Swing.

If you are visiting Gillian’s Wonderland Pier with your kids, you’ll also be delighted to find a wide variety of attractions for children.

Ride the Waves at Splash Zone Waterpark

Splash Zone Waterpark is the destination of choice when it comes to water slides in Cape May County.

Splash Zone can be found along the Boardwalk.

This particular water park is famous for its winding lazy river.

In terms of attractions, make sure to ride the FlowRider to simulate surfing strong ocean waves.

If you don’t want to get wet, there is a full bar for adults to have a good time.

Private cabanas are available for rent if you need a place to get some rest while the kids are on the water rides.

If you love water slides, make your way to Splash Zone Waterpark.

Sit in the Cockpits at Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum

The Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum is a museum near the Cape May Airport that specializes in aviation history.

You can find the museum along Forrestal Road.

This aviation museum is famous for its spacious aircraft hangar filled with different types of airplanes and engines that have been utilized by pilots throughout history.

You can request for a guided tour from museum staff to learn more about the history of planes.

These planes have been used during World War 1, World War 2, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and other US military operations that utilized aircrafts.

There are a couple of aircrafts on display where you are allowed to sit in the cockpit and grab a photo.

Make sure to grab a snapshot of their famous F-14 Tomcat aircraft.

If you love flying and learning about aviation history, visit the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum.

Win Big at Gateway 26

Gateway 26 is a popular casino and arcade for Cape May County locals and tourists.

Gateway 26 can be found along the Boardwalk.

Adults can enjoy the casino and join in the blackjack and poker tables in the establishment.

While you are playing some cards, you can leave the children in their fun-filled arcade.

The arcade has a wide variety of prizes that they can win.

If you love collecting stuffed animals, claw machines line the walls of the arcade.

Head to Gateway 26, where both adults and children can win big.

Learn about Victorian Architecture at Emlen Physick Estate

The Emlen Physick Estate is a museum that showcases the Victorian houses in Cape May County.

The estate is situated on Washington Street.

Physick Estate was founded in 1879.

People often come here to take the Halloween tour of the several houses said to be haunted in Cape May.

Guests can also admire the Victorian architecture by going on their trolley tour.

Tour guides can answer any queries you might have regarding the construction and history of the museum.

There is also a tour of the Physick Estate specifically marketed toward children.

Once you finish your tour of choice, a gift shop can be found inside of the carriage house.

History and architecture buffs, drop by the Emlen Physick Estate!

Go Back in Time at the Historic Cold Spring Village

The Historic Cold Spring Village is a collection of buildings preserving and commemorating life during the early years of American independence.

The Historic Cold Spring Village is located along Seashore Road.

The village is famous due to its reputation as a “living museum.”

The museum hires actors to play people who lived during the colonial era of the United States.

The museum also organizes civil war reenactments from time to time.

A popular spot in the village is its Cold Spring Brewery Hop Pin and Go.

Make sure to try the different kinds of beer that they have on tap.

For snacks, you can stop by the bakery to get cookies or ice cream.

If you’d like to get something to remember the place by, their gift shop has many handmade products for sale, such as pots, baskets, and notebooks.

To simulate life during the colonial times, visit the historic Cold Spring Village.

Have Fun with the Whole Family at Playland’s Castaway Cove

Playland’s Castaway Cove is one more amusement park you can visit in Cape May County.

This amusement park is located along the Boardwalk.

Castaway Cove is famous for the many attractions that operate within the grounds.

A favorite among guests is the Gale Force roller coaster.

If you want to risk the chance of getting soaked, take a ride on their log flume.

Families visiting with the elderly can play some Skee-Ball.

Children, on the other hand, can hang out in the arcade and the kiddie rides.

Spend a day at Playland’s Castaway Cove, where people of all ages can have fun.

Try the Tapas at Cape May Winery & Vineyard

If wine tasting is one of your favorite activities, be sure to visit the Cape May Winery & Vineyard in New Jersey.

The winery is located along Town Bank Road.

Cape May Winery is famous for its tap room tastings.

Their tasting rooms allow you to order several wine flights so you can get a taste of their wide selection of locally produced wine.

Their wine is best paired with their mouth watering tapas or side dishes.

This makes Cape May Winery a popular brunch choice in the area.

Order their sliders, hummus, and crackers.

Guests can also enjoy the live music and the outdoor seating in their patios.

You can request for a guided tour of the vineyards and cellars within the grounds of the winery.

Wine enthusiasts, make some time in your itinerary for a meal at Cape May Winery & Vineyard.

Grab Some Souvenirs at Wildwood Boardwalk

Wildwood Boardwalk offers exciting attractions and shops for park visitors.

Wildwood can be found along the Boardwalk.

This location is popular for the old-fashioned rides and games that fill up the area.

Guests flock the many shops and restaurants along the two-mile oceanfront boardwalk.

Get a T-shirt to commemorate your visit to Cape May County in one of the many local family-owned stores.

You don’t have to worry about getting exhausted from walking, as there is a tram that people can ride to get around the boardwalk.

If you are looking for a place to shop for gifts and souvenirs, make Wildwood Boardwalk a priority before leaving New Jersey.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at Ocean City Boardwalk

Ocean City Boardwalk is one of the more historic parts of Cape May County that you can discover.

It has its history as a camping ground all the way back in 1880.

The modern facilities were built in the 1950s.

This beachfront area is popular due to its vintage amusement park with easy access to the beach.

Other facilities include a mini golf course and several arcades.

Ocean City is also a popular choice for people to go seagull watching.

Need some energy after a long day of walking?

Try some classic boardwalk food like fudge, taffy, and funnel cake.

Ice cream stands can be found in the area if the weather gets a bit too hot.

Visit Ocean City Boardwalk to try some of the classic boardwalk food you can find in Cape May County.

Experience Boathouse Dining at The Lobster House

The Lobster House is a place that doubles as a restaurant and a fresh seafood market.

The Lobster house is situated on Schellengers Landing Road.

Guests can dine alfresco in their outdoor raw bar.

Get a serving of their best selling Clams Casino and their famous Crab Soup.

You have the option of eating at their docked Schooner American.

The Schooner is a boat that has been docked in The Lobster House since 1965.

Looking to take home some seafood to grill?

Head toward their fish market to have your choice of fish for take out.

Try the food at The Lobster House if you love seafood and the boathouse ambiance.

Check Out the Healthy Options at Beach Plum Farm

Beach Plum Farm is a beautiful park in Cape May County that is rooted in sustainability and community values.

You can come visit the park on Stevens Street.

Curtis Bashaw and Will Riccio founded the park in 2008 to provide locally grown farm products harvested sustainably.

Check out their market to purchase over a hundred different types of fruits and vegetables.

Animals like chickens and pigs are also sustainably domesticated within the farm grounds.

Their meat and vegetables are also used in their in-house kitchen, where you can try their health-oriented dishes.

If you need a place that provides healthy options, make a stop at Beach Plum Farm.

Final Thoughts

Cape May County in New Jersey is one of the premier recreational destinations in the United States, especially during the summer.

Spoil yourself with the overwhelming number of options when it comes to boardwalk activities. You’ll find that there is no shortage of water parks and amusement parks in the area.

You’ll find that there are great places to grab photos and souvenirs to commemorate your visit to Cape May County. Food options can range from simple carnival food to fine dining.

To make your trip memorable, be sure to stop by the many museums and education facilities in Cape May County.

Before you plan your next trip, make sure you read this list of the 15 Best Things to do in Cape May County, New Jersey!