Getaway Guide: Weekend Guide To Cape May, N.J.
Getting There
Getting to Cape May is a bit of an adventure as it is an island. All who wish to experience the blissful destination must cross one of the two main bridges. The majority of travelers drive to the island taking the New Jersey Turnpike out of the Big Apple and later head south on the Garden State Parkway. The estimated driving time is 3.5 to four hours. Those relying on public transportation should plan ahead as travel times will significantly affect your trip. The New Jersey Transit offers non-direct bus service to Cape May with arrivals and departures back to New York near the Cape May Welcome Center.
Click here to plan your trip. Type "Cape May Bus Terminal" in your search for the best possible routes. Once you arrive on the small island, all visitors may enjoy causal strolls as walking is one of the main modes of transportation. There are also bike rentals and taxi services available.
What To Do
Cape May City Beaches
251 Beach Ave.
Cape May, NJ08204
www.capemay.com/Click here to view prices
Winner of awards including top 10 U.S. beaches by The Travel Channel, Cape May is full of sanded glory for your personal enjoyment. The most popular series of beaches are located in Cape May City with instant access to food, shopping and entertainment. While the beaches do not have an exact address — they run alongside Beach Avenue — finding these family friendly play places is never hard. Popular destinations include The Cove, a small, surf-friendly spot that changes with the tide, and Decatur Street, a hot spot for young adult locals.
Turdo Vineyards
3911 Bayshore Road
North Cape May, NJ 08204
(609) 884-5591
www.turdovineyards.com
As Cape May rests along the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay, it is a perfect location to harvest a vineyard. As New Jersey's only sustainable winery, Turdo Vineyards is a family owned business that operates on 100 percent solar energy. Visitors are welcome to sample award-winning wines and relax out on the patio. Snacks are available for purchase. Those who enjoy a fine glass of red wine should try the Nero D'Avola, a continually praised wine once grown in Italy and now in Cape May. The No. 1 attraction in Cape May, this is definitely a place to visit on your vacation.
Related: New York Area Vineyards: A Guide To The Best Local Wine
The Southern Mansion
720 Washington St.
Cape May, NJ08204
(800) 381-3888
www.southernmansion.com
Click here for room specials and packages
Cape May's historic architecture absolutely must not be missed. Built in 1863, the Southern Mansion is a luxury accommodation that offers guests a bed and breakfast experience like none other. Nestled on 1.5 acres of gardens, the mansion features a variety of charming rooms with great architectural detail and character. Amenities include gourmet breakfast and private bathrooms. Those who stay at the Southern Mansion may enjoy surrounding Cape May activities that range from private beaches to sailing to gourmet dinners.
Washington Street Mall
401 Washington St.
Cape May, NJ08204
(609) 884-0555
www.washingtonstreetmall.com
No vacation would be complete without a shopping expedition. Celebrating 40 years, the Washington Street Mall boasts a collection of historic shops, making it a popular destination amongst visitors. In addition to the opportunity to shop in quaint stores (not to mention sample classic ice cream from Uncle Charley's Ice Cream), tourists may also enjoy casual walking tours and art galleries. Take a stroll down the mall after a fine meal at A Ca Mia Ristorante or any other sit-down establishment. Those planning a trip in the fall canmayalso enjoy local sidewalk sales and art shows. Click here to view events.
Dining
Backstreet Simply Delicious
600 Park Boulevard
West Cape May, NJ 08204
(609) 884-7660
www.backstreetcapemaynj.comOnce you're settled on the cape, be sure to stop by Backstreet. Backstreet Simply Delicious keeps locals and tourists coming back for more. Favorite must-try meals include the pan-fried fish, and corn and crab chowder. This is a casual venue to take the family for dinner or that special someone for an enjoyable date. Its laid back atmosphere and friendly environment make it a must for any traveler.
