This Small New Jersey Town Has The Best Downtown

When you think of Cape May, sunny beaches and nature preserves probably pop into your mind. And while the coastline is definitely a big draw, this town has plenty to offer no matter the season. In addition to its beloved Promenade, Cape May is home to museums, galleries, and Victorian inns that make a rainy day just as enjoyable as a sunny one. And traveling in the off-season also comes with perks, like smaller crowds! If you are looking to visit some of New Jersey’s most notable downtowns, Cape May should be on your list.

Cape May Promenade

The shoreline of Cape May, New Jersey. — The shoreline of Cape May, New Jersey, showcasing the Promenade.

At the heart of Cape May is the Promenade, a two-mile path that runs parallel to Beach Avenue. Although you might hear it called a boardwalk, the path is actually paved, with the last wooden boardwalk destroyed during the Storm of 1962. Along the Promenade, you will find plenty of benches and public restrooms to ensure a comfortable walk or jog. The route also passes some of Cape May’s most popular beaches, including Broadway, Jefferson Street, and Madison Beach, before ending at The Cove Beach.

You’ll be able to enjoy some incredible views of the ocean and stop into some local businesses along the way! Travelers enjoying a trip along the Promenade in the morning can pop into Bagel Time Cafe, located right off of Beach Avenue, which serves fresh-baked bagels, breakfast sandwiches, omelets, and more. The Oceanview Restaurant is another great spot for a bite, a family-owned restaurant specializing in breakfast and lunch. For a really tremendous ocean view along the Promenade, meanwhile, head to PRIMAL by Mia, an elegant steakhouse serving ribeye, New York strip, and pork chop, among other cuts.

Cape May Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC)

The Emlen Physick Estate in Cape May, New Jersey. Editorial credit: EQRoy / Shutterstock.com

There are numerous museums and galleries throughout Cape May’s downtown district, so it is worth setting aside a day to explore its cultural attractions. The Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC) is one of the town’s main cultural institutions, hosting a range of events and helping preserve the city’s historic landmarks.

This organization is particularly known for its trolley tours, many of which are offered seasonally. On a MAC trolley tour, visitors can hop aboard a red-and-green trolley to learn about Cape May’s resort history, Victorian heritage, and maritime past from a knowledgeable guide. The MAC also manages the Emlen Physick Estate, the town’s only Victorian house museum. Dating back to 1879, this 18-room mansion was built by famous architect Frank Furness, wonderfully exemplifying Victorian Stick Style architecture. Guided tours are offered on the first and second floors of the home.

Harriet Tubman Museum Of New Jersey

The Harriet Tubman Museum in Cape May, New Jersey. Editorial credit: Rosemarie Mosteller / Shutterstock.com.

Harriet Tubman resided in Cape May in the early 1850s, working to earn money for her missions to help enslaved people reach freedom. Today, Cape May honors her legacy through the Harriet Tubman Museum, situated on a block that was historically home to anti-slavery activists. At the museum, visitors can learn about both the abolitionist history of the block and Cape May’s broader role in the fight for freedom. It is open year-round on select days of the year, depending on the season, and has self-guided and guided tour options available for guests.

Other Museums, Galleries, and Studios

Boutiques and galleries in Cape May, New Jersey. Editorial credit: JWCohen / Shutterstock.com

Beyond the MAC, you’ll find several independent museums and galleries that further contribute to Cape May’s lively art scene. The Museum of Fine Arts & Pop Culture is a must-visit for art fanatics, exhibiting European and American artwork, folk art, Hollywood costumes, classic film posters, animation art, and more. D'May Galleries is another beloved arts establishment, operating for over 27 years in the community and exhibiting the work of local, regional, and international artists. Want to create your own art? Stop by Art&Soul Studio, where you can make your own clay creation or paint a ceramic piece to take home with you.

Local Inns

If you haven’t already noticed, Cape May takes pride in its local businesses, and its accommodations are no exception! The Inn of Cape May has been a pillar in the town’s hospitality industry since 1894 and continues to welcome guests today. There are 51 guest rooms and suites on the property, along with an on-site cafe and restaurant. Beauclaires Bed and Breakfast Inn is another historic option, set in a Queen Anne Victorian-style home that was built in 1879. Just half a block from the ocean, the location couldn’t be much better, and each room is decorated with Victorian-style antiques that make the stay especially cozy.

See more in New Jersey:Towns on the beach, towns with revolutionary war history, and towns with year-round artists colonies. New Jersey has plenty to see in these cozy, comfy small towns.

Cape May is one of those destinations that offers it all. Not only are the beaches some of the best in New Jersey, but it also has an equally impressive downtown district! Travelers interested in history can take a trolley tour and visit the Harriet Tubman Museum, while art lovers can search for their next piece at D’May Galleries or try their hand at creating something at Art & Soul Studio. Regardless of the attractions you choose to visit, you are practically guaranteed to have a great time downtown in Cape May!

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