14 Family-Friendly Things to Do in Cape May That’ll Keep Everyone Smiling
Cape May isn’t just a pretty beach town – it’s a playground bursting with adventures for families of all ages! With its charming Victorian architecture, beautiful beaches, and rich history, this seaside gem offers something special for everyone in your crew. From lighthouse climbs to wildlife encounters, here’s your ultimate guide to creating unforgettable family memories in Cape May.
1. Climb the Cape May Lighthouse
The iconic 157-foot tall lighthouse stands like a sentinel at Cape May Point State Park. Brave the 199 steps with your family and be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views stretching across the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay.
Children love counting each step as they spiral upward, making the climb an exciting challenge rather than a chore. Along the way, informative landings offer fascinating historical tidbits about this 1859 landmark.
Don’t forget your camera – the vista from the top provides perfect family photo opportunities with endless ocean in every direction. Even the journey back down feels magical!
2. Ride the Cape May–Lewes Ferry
Transform ordinary travel into an exciting 85-minute maritime adventure aboard this passenger and vehicle ferry connecting New Jersey and Delaware.
The spacious vessel offers much more than simple transportation – it’s a floating entertainment center with snack bars, comfortable seating, and expansive observation decks. Kids squeal with delight spotting dolphins that frequently swim alongside the boat. The captain occasionally announces wildlife sightings, creating moments of shared excitement.
Feel the refreshing ocean breeze while enjoying stunning views of both coastlines. Many families make the round-trip journey purely for fun rather than transportation!
3. Go Wild at the Cape May County Park & Zoo
Amazingly, this world-class zoo nestled within a 85-acre park doesn’t cost a penny to enter! Home to over 550 animals representing 250 species, it’s a wildlife wonderland where giraffes stretch their long necks and snow leopards lounge just feet away from wide-eyed visitors.
The zoo’s thoughtfully designed habitats create natural environments for everything from tiny prairie dogs to massive African lions. Children particularly love the free carousel rides and the chance to feed friendly farm animals in the petting area.
Shady walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds make this attraction perfect for spending an entire day exploring without breaking the family budget.
4. Pedal Around with Cape May Cycle Cruises
Imagine combining a bicycle with a boat – that’s exactly what these unique cycle cruises offer! Up to 14 passengers sit around a circular bar-like structure, pedaling together to power this unusual watercraft through Cape May Harbor. A captain handles the steering while families chat, laugh, and enjoy spectacular water views.
The gentle exercise feels more like play than work, especially with breaks when the motor takes over. These 1-2 hour tours create perfect opportunities for spotting marine life and coastal birds. No experience necessary – just bring your sense of adventure and prepare for an unforgettable floating family workout that even reluctant teens find surprisingly enjoyable!
5. Take a Trolley or Horse-Drawn Carriage Tour
Clop-clop-clop! The gentle sound of hooves on pavement signals one of Cape May’s most enchanting experiences.
Ornate Victorian carriages drawn by magnificent draft horses transport families back in time while guides share fascinating stories about America’s oldest seaside resort. For those preferring motorized transport, cheerful red trolleys wind through historic districts.
Children love waving to pedestrians from open windows while parents appreciate the informative narration about colorful “painted ladies” – Cape May’s famous gingerbread-trimmed Victorian homes. Both options provide welcome rest for tired feet while creating magical memories. The ghost-themed evening tours add extra excitement for older kids brave enough for spine-tingling tales!
6. Explore Historic Cold Spring Village
Step through the gates of this living history museum and suddenly it’s the 1800s again! Across 30 acres, 27 restored historic buildings house artisans practicing forgotten crafts – blacksmiths pound glowing metal, weavers work ancient looms, and bakers pull fresh bread from brick ovens.
Children’s eyes widen watching costumed interpreters demonstrate how everyday tasks were accomplished before electricity.
Save room for homemade ice cream at the village store! The sweet treat tastes even better when enjoyed on the porch of a centuries-old building while imagining what life was like for children your age long ago.
7. Enjoy the Washington Street Mall
This charming three-block pedestrian haven sits at the heart of Cape May, offering a delightful car-free zone where families can stroll without worry. Brick pathways wind past colorful shops selling everything from handmade saltwater taffy to beach treasures and unique toys found nowhere else. The central fountain becomes an impromptu gathering spot where children toss pennies while making wishes.
Parents appreciate the numerous benches nestled among beautiful seasonal flowers – perfect spots for people-watching breaks. Sweet spots like Kohr Brothers serve legendary frozen custard that’s been delighting visitors since 1919.
Evening brings a magical atmosphere with twinkling lights strung overhead and occasional live music performances.
8. Rent Bikes or a Surrey
Breezy ocean air feels even better when you’re pedaling along Cape May’s flat, bike-friendly streets! Local rental shops offer everything from standard bicycles to tandem bikes perfect for parent-child teamwork. For maximum family fun, consider renting a surrey – those four-wheeled canopied contraptions with multiple seats that always inspire giggles.
Children as young as five can help pedal these eye-catching vehicles that turn sightseeing into an adventure. The promenade offers stunning ocean views while the historic district reveals architectural treasures around every corner.
Bike baskets make it easy to transport beach gear or picnic supplies, allowing for spontaneous stops whenever something catches your eye!
9. Learn About Birds at the Cape May Bird Observatory
Did you know Cape May sits along one of North America’s most important bird migration routes? This world-famous birding destination draws feathered travelers and human enthusiasts alike! The observatory offers interactive exhibits perfect for curious young minds.
Family-friendly guided walks introduce beginners to the joy of spotting colorful warblers, majestic raptors, and beach-loving shorebirds. Even children too young to use binoculars enjoy the excitement of discovery.
Many families start casual bird-watching during their visit and continue the hobby back home – creating a lasting connection to nature that began during their Cape May adventure!
10. Watch Wildlife Tours
Squeals of delight erupt when the first dolphin fin breaks the water’s surface! Cape May’s wildlife cruises consistently rank among visitors’ most memorable experiences, offering close encounters with marine mammals in their natural habitat.
Knowledgeable naturalists share fascinating facts about bottle-nosed dolphins, explaining their social structure and behaviors. During certain seasons, magnificent whales make appearances too, creating breathtaking moments families talk about for years.
Most vessels provide comfortable seating, snack bars, and restrooms, making these 2-3 hour excursions suitable even for younger children. The gentle rocking motion often lulls tired toddlers to sleep while older kids keep watch with eagle eyes!
11. Catch a Summer Movie on the Beach
As twilight fades to darkness, Cape May’s beach transforms into perhaps the world’s most magical movie theater! Families spread blankets on the sand, unpacking popcorn and treats while the ocean provides soothing background sounds. The free summer movie series features family-friendly films projected onto a giant inflatable screen.
There’s something extraordinary about watching adventures unfold with stars twinkling overhead and gentle waves lapping nearby. Even restless youngsters who might fidget in traditional theaters remain entranced by this unique cinema experience.
Bring sweatshirts for when evening temperatures drop, and consider light-up toys that help parents locate children who wander during intermission!
12. Visit the Emlen Physick Estate
Mystery and history blend perfectly at this magnificent 18-room mansion, Cape May’s Victorian house museum. Built in 1879, its distinctive “Stick Style” architecture with steep gables and elaborate woodwork immediately captures children’s imagination.
Family-friendly guided tours reveal fascinating details about Victorian life – from strange medical practices to children’s toys and games of the era. Young visitors particularly enjoy hunting for the estate’s friendly ghost cat, said to roam the premises!
The Carriage House contains hands-on exhibits where kids can try period clothing and participate in Victorian-inspired crafts. The beautifully maintained grounds provide perfect spots for family photos among gardens designed to showcase plants popular during the house’s heyday.
13. Fly High with Atlantic Parasail & Osprey Birding Trips
Soar up to 500 feet above Cape May’s sparkling waters strapped into a parasail harness! This thrilling yet surprisingly gentle adventure creates unforgettable memories as families float peacefully with seagulls while enjoying bird’s-eye views of the entire peninsula.
Children as young as six can participate when paired with adults, making this an accessible adventure for most families. The boat crew specializes in creating comfortable experiences even for nervous first-timers.
For those preferring to stay closer to water level, Osprey birding cruises offer peaceful alternatives. These specialized eco-tours navigate salt marshes where magnificent osprey build massive nests atop specially designed platforms, allowing close observation of these impressive fishing birds.
14. Visit Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
Aviation history roars to life inside this massive World War II-era wooden hangar! Children’s eyes widen at the sight of real military aircraft they can actually climb into – from helicopter cockpits to fighter plane seats. Interactive exhibits explain aviation principles through hands-on activities like flight simulators and wind tunnels.
The air traffic control tower replica lets kids imagine directing planes safely through stormy skies. Parents appreciate the museum’s thoughtful balance of entertainment and education. Exhibits honor military service while making complex concepts accessible to young minds.
