Are you planning a family trip to Cape May, New Jersey, but struggling to find fun things to do to keep the entire family entertained during your stay? You’re not alone. As parents, we all know the challenge of planning a vacation that caters to all ages and different interests while balancing fun with a touch of education. So I’m here to help you out and give you my list of the top family-friendly things to do in Cape May, NJ.
Cape May is a special place located on the southern tip of New Jersey, known for some of the best beaches in the area, charming Victorian architecture, and a rich historic district. It’s the perfect destination along the Atlantic Ocean coast for a family vacation as it has something for everyone.
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This area is filled with unique treasures for families with older children and teenagers ready to explore. With activities ranging from exhilarating water sports to enriching historical tours, there’s an adventure for every family member waiting around each sunlit corner. Let’s unlock eight experiences bound to leave your crew with stories they’ll tell for years.
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Things to Do in Cape May, NJ For Active Families
This is a delightful destination throughout the year, but many visitors to this south Jersey destination visit during the warm weather months. Summer, from June to August, is the peak season when the town buzzes with activity. The sunny weather allows for beach days, water sports, and outdoor activities.
Spring and fall are also great times to visit, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making it perfect for leisurely strolls around town or along the waterfront. Winter can be quieter, but the town’s charm remains, offering a cozy atmosphere for a relaxing getaway.
Sandcastles and Surf: Family Beach Day at Cape May Point
And what’s a seaside excursion without sand beneath your toes? At Cape May Point State Park, families find their slice of paradise. Here, the Atlantic greets you with open arms—ideal for budding surfers and sand architects alike.
There are miles of pristine shoreline where you can let your imagination run wild and create the ultimate sandcastle masterpiece. And with the warm Atlantic waters just steps away, you can take a break from building to cool off in the ocean or search for seashells along the shore. With stunning views of the ocean and unique wildlife sightings, the natural beauty here is not to be missed.
Indulge in a day where building towering castles or plunging into cool waves isn’t just encouraged but celebrated. Not forgetting, the beach’s proximity to natural wonders like dunes and bird-rich trails adds layers to an already vivid experience. Cape May is home to some of the best waves on the East Coast, making it a perfect spot for surfing lessons.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, there are plenty of surf schools and rental shops along the beach that offer lessons and equipment for all ages and skill levels. The beaches here are family-friendly, with lifeguards on duty (July 1 to Labor Day) and plenty of space for everyone to enjoy the sun, sand, and waves.
Related – For those looking to explore beyond the beach, take a stroll down the Washington Street Mall, a pedestrian-friendly street filled with unique shops, boutiques, and restaurants.
Wildlife Wonders: A Safari at the Cape May County Park & Zoo
A vacation in New Jersey promises more than just beachside bliss. At the Cape May County Zoo, a safari awaits to whisk your family away on an adventure among giraffes, zebras, and other exotic fauna. Free admission opens the gates to a remarkable wildlife encounter that’s both educational and thrilling.
Amidst the 85 acres of exhibits and natural habitats, your family’s connection with nature will flourish as you traverse paths of discovery together—without straying far from the comforts of the coast.
As you walk through the park, keep an eye out for the iconic animals of Africa, including majestic lions and graceful giraffes. Learn about their habitats and behaviors as you observe them in their spacious enclosures. Don’t forget to snap a photo or two!
But it’s not just African wildlife that calls this zoo home. You’ll also find playful monkeys, colorful parrots, and even North American favorites like bald eagles and river otters. With over 500 animals from more than 250 species, there’s no shortage of wonder at this incredible zoo. Be sure to check the zoo’s special events calendar, as they often host educational talks and interactive experiences with the animals.
After your safari adventure, take a break at a picnic area or grab a bite to eat at the zoo’s food court.
Related: Find the best campgrounds near Cape May at Campspot.
Money Saving Tip: Find great deals on all things travel and family fun at Groupon. I’ve been using the site for years to help me save money on family outings and activities. It’s easy to use and there are always new deals popping up. If you’re planning a vacation or just looking for something fun to do on the weekends, Groupon is a great resource. You can search by location and find deals in your area, or even plan ahead for trips by checking out deals in other cities.
Not only does Groupon offer discounts on tickets and events, but they also have great deals on restaurants. I’ve found some amazing local restaurants through Groupon that I may not have tried otherwise. And with the savings from using Groupon, I feel like I can splurge a little more on the menu!
Nautical Narratives: Exploring the SS Atlantus Sunken Ship
But for a gripping tale etched in maritime history, direct your compass to the remains of the SS Atlantus. Known as one of the most famous concrete ships of World War I, its hull now rests just off Sunset Beach, offering a stirring glimpse into the past.
As waves lap against this relic, families find a unique backdrop for sunset spectating and imaginations run wild conjuring stories of sailors and sea voyages. An afternoon here serves as both a history lesson and an unforgettable beach experience.
If you are a scuba diver, the SS Atlantus is an incredible dive site. Descend into the ocean and explore this eerie shipwreck first-hand. The rusted hull and twisted metal provide a hauntingly beautiful sight, and you may even spot some marine life taking shelter within its crevices.
For those who prefer to stay on dry land, there are still plenty of ways to experience the SS Atlantus. Take a stroll along Sunset Beach and see for remnants of the ship. Or visit local museums to learn more about its history and significance in World War I.
Related: Get our Ultimate Tried & True Items To Pack For Beach Camping + Packing List Printable
Sky-High Discoveries: Climbing the Cape May Lighthouse
Traveling with family often means looking for experiences that elevate your perspective—literally. The Cape May Lighthouse at Cape May Point State Park offers just that, a chance to ascend its 199 steps to breathtaking views.
While adults appreciate the panoramic vistas of the Atlantic, children marvel at the spiral staircase and the beacon’s mechanics. A visit here merges history with horizon-expanding wonder, ensuring each family member leaves with a heightened sense of place and a dash of accomplishment after reaching the top together.
Related: Find the best rates for lodging in Cape May on Expedia.
I highly recommend visiting Cape May Point State Park even if you don’t visit the historic lighthouse. The park offers excellent opportunities for walking and hiking along three nature trails, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and is a great place for birdwatching of migratory birds. This day-use park is free to the public and offers ample parking, making it an easy and convenient choice for a family day trip.
Marine Life Mysteries Unveiled at the Nature Center of Cape May
So, curious minds seeking out the secrets beneath the tides find solace at the Nature Center of Cape May. At this engaging refuge, interactive exhibits and touch tanks teeming with sea stars and crabs pull back the curtain on local marine life’s enigmas. Visitors can even participate in guided tide pool walks to discover the fascinating creatures that call the tidal zone home.
But the Nature Center of Cape May offers more than just a glimpse into ocean life. With various educational programs and events, visitors of all ages can learn about conservation efforts and ways to protect our oceans. From beach cleanups to talks on marine debris, this center is dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and advocacy.
After exploring the nature center, make sure to take a stroll along the adjacent beach for some sun, sand, and sea. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at kayaking or paddleboarding in the calm waters of Cape May Harbor. You may even spot some dolphins swimming alongside you!
Related: The area has excellent opportunities for whale watching and unique wildlife encounters. From May to October, visitors can take a boat tour to see humpback whales breaching and feeding in the nearby waters. The coast is also home to a diverse range of marine life, including seals, dolphins, and seabirds.
Time Travelers’ Quest: Historic Cold Spring Village
Just a few miles from the hear of Cape May, you can delve into the 19th century at Historic Cold Spring Village, an open-air museum that comes alive with artisans. Here, families watch and interact as blacksmiths, weavers, and woodworkers demonstrate their venerable crafts. Children delight in historical play, from chasing livestock to dipping candles, crafting an engaging tableau where learning and fun intertwine. Here, every path walked is a shared step back in time, bringing history’s tapestry alive for all ages.
As you wander the village’s 30 acres, marveling at the reconstructed buildings and authentic artifacts, imagine yourself as a time traveler. Take part in daily activities like farm chores or attend special events such as Civil War reenactments. Don’t forget to stop by the General Store for some old-fashioned treats before heading back to present day.
The onsite restaurant, Cold Spring Grange Restaurant, is set to reopen Spring 20204 and will offer traditional American fare with a historical twist. The menu features dishes inspired by recipes from the 18th and 19th centuries, giving visitors a taste of what life was like for early settlers in America.
Creative Currents: Art Lessons by the Sea
Artistry flows as freely as the ocean breeze at Cape May’s art lessons by the sea. In this alfresco studio, imagination meets reality through paintbrush and canvas. Local artists guide families, from novices to aspiring Picassos, fostering a love for creation against the backdrop of rolling waves.
These sessions not only bestow relaxation but also leave each participant with a personal masterpiece—a tangible memory of their coastal holiday to treasure long after the vacation tan fades.
Theater Under The Stars: Family Performances at Rotary Park
As daylight wanes, the Cape May stage lights up at Rotary Park for family-friendly performances under the stars every summer. Whether it’s a lively music, free concerts, or a whimsical play, these evening events are the perfect way to wind down a sun-soaked day.
With cozy blankets and open skies above, families relish in cultural experiences that spark laughter and joy. These shared moments in the park forge connections through the universal language of performance, enriching your family’s vacation narrative with enchanting memories.
Cape May Chronicles: Every Moment a Memory
Concluding your Cape May adventure, each day spent is a chapter of shared joy and discovery, crafting stories that will echo in your family’s hearts forever. From the vibrant downtown area, bustling with quaint shops and inviting restaurants, to the serene beaches and breathtaking sunsets, the memories you make doing these family activities in Cape May are priceless.
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to create unforgettable moments with your loved ones. Book your trip to Cape May today. Your family will thank you for it.
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Ready to Start Planning Your Trip? Use These Helpful Links to Book Your Trip!
- AIRFARE
- Find low fares with airfarewatchdog, Skyscanner, and WayAway.com.
- Get airfare deal alerts up to 90% off from Dollar Flight Club (free & paid membership options)
- Book your plane ticket with Expedia or Kayak
- Book your Airport Parking Reservations and save money.
- ROAD TRIP/CAR RENTAL
- Take the scenic route and rent an RV from RVShare
- Get packed for an epic road trip and don’t forget the Road Trip Games to Play in the Car Need more space? Get a rental car thru Discovercars.com.
- LODGING
- From hotels to private homes, find the perfect accommodation with Hotels.com or booking.com.
- For camping and RV campgrounds, find the ideal location with Campspot.
- PACKING
- Travel in style with a suitcase, carry-on, backpack, or handbag from Away and Eagle Creek.
- For packing cubes, we love these from Eagle Creek and these reusable silicon bags for a 3-1-1 bag from Stasher.
- TRAVEL PLANNING
- Looking to start travel hacking and want a place to keep track of it all? There’s the free TravelFreely site.
- For budgeting help, get our road trip budgeting tips here.
- ATTRACTIONS/ACTIVITIES
- Save on tickets to attractions, sightseeing tours, and more with
- Tiqets for cultural events, museums, Broadway shows, etc.
- CityPASS for multi-day attraction passes at up to 55% off in select cities
- Get Your Guide and Viator for guided tours/excursions, day trips, and activitties
- Groupon for discounted local attractions and event tickets
- Undercover Tourister for discounted theme park tickets
- Find guided outdoor activities led by local guides at 57Hours.
- Find information on local trails with the AllTrails App.
- Save on tickets to attractions, sightseeing tours, and more with
- LEARN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE
- We use and recommend Rosetta Stone to learn a new language. We bought the $179 lifetime option with unlimited access to ALL 25 of their languages.
- Need something else to plan your perfect trip? Visit my travel resources page for more trusted partners.
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