Cape May Seaside Tours: Discover Coastal History, Victorian Architecture, and Oceanfront Charm
- Tony Albert
- Jun 9, 2025
- 6 min read
Cape May, located at the southernmost tip of New Jersey, is often called the crown jewel of the Jersey
Shore—not for its beaches alone, but for its rich history, Victorian architecture, and tranquil seaside beauty. As one of the oldest resort towns in the United States, Cape May has evolved into a beloved destination for travelers seeking more than just sun and surf. Cape May Seaside Tours bring this unique coastal story to life.
Through walking tours, trolley rides, lighthouse climbs, and nighttime ghost stories, visitors can dive deep into centuries of maritime lore, architectural heritage, and curious legends. Whether you're a history buff, a romantic traveler, or a curious wanderer, Cape May's seaside tours promise an unforgettable experience.
Cape May Seaside Tour Options
Cape May’s tour programs are operated through a combination of private tour companies and the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). They include a variety of walking, trolley, and boat tours focused on local history, architecture, and folklore.
Victorian Architecture Walking Tour
This tour brings visitors through the town’s nationally recognized Historic District. Guides walk you past iconic Victorian homes while explaining the different architectural styles—Gothic Revival, Italianate, Queen Anne—and the social history behind each estate. Many of these homes were once summer retreats for wealthy Philadelphians.
Built in 1859, the lighthouse stands 157 feet tall and remains operational. The climb includes 199 steps, and the reward is a 360-degree view of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay. Interpretive panels at the base share stories about shipwrecks, maritime trade, and local lighthouse keepers.
Inspired by the books of psychic medium Craig McManus, this tour covers local legends and documented ghost sightings. Stops include haunted inns, churches, and the eerie Emlen Physick Estate. This tour is one of Cape May’s most popular, often selling out in summer.
Air-conditioned trolleys offer narrated tours of the entire historic district and beyond, including the Cape May Point area. Specialty options include the “Spirits & Oddities” tour, a holiday-themed ride in December, and architecture-focused circuits.
These boat tours combine dolphin and birdwatching with narration about Cape May’s maritime history. Some cruises are scheduled around sunset for stunning views and photo opportunities.
Lodging: Themed Hotels, Historic Inns, and Unique Accommodations
Cape May is famous for its Victorian B&Bs and boutique hotels—many of which are attractions in their own right. Here are some of the most notable places to stay:
America’s first seaside resort hotel, Congress Hall once served as the Summer White House for President Benjamin Harrison. The hotel retains its grand Colonial Revival style and features navy-and-white striped beach cabanas, vintage furnishings, and an on-site farm called Beach Plum Farm, which supplies its restaurants. The hotel often offers seasonal themed events such as jazz brunches, Christmas tree lightings, and historic reenactments.
An adults-only boutique hotel featuring 24 elegant rooms in a restored 1879 landmark. Rooms are decorated in soft, romantic hues, with antique chandeliers and modern amenities. Its on-site Ebbitt Room restaurant is one of the top fine-dining experiences in Cape May and includes live piano on weekends.
This award-winning B&B is made up of four restored 1880s Victorian buildings. Every room has a unique theme, ranging from nautical to royal decor, and afternoon tea is served daily in the parlor or garden. The inn provides complimentary bikes and beach chairs and hosts occasional Victorian-themed social gatherings for guests.
A pink-painted, gingerbread-trimmed Victorian mansion just steps from the ocean. Known for its romantic rooms with clawfoot tubs, stained-glass windows, and wraparound porches. It also offers evening wine & cheese events and morning breakfast on the veranda.
Originally built in 1863 and lovingly restored, this Italianate mansion offers 24 luxurious rooms and suites with period antiques and oriental rugs. Set on 1.5 acres of formal gardens, it offers a more secluded and stately experience.
Camping & RV Options Near Cape May
For travelers seeking a more rustic experience, Cape May offers several highly-rated campgrounds within a few miles of the city center:
Located just 4 miles north of Cape May, Beachcomber offers cabins, tent sites, and full RV hookups. The resort features private lakes for swimming and fishing, three pools, a mini-golf course, and themed weekend events for families.
Nestled in a wooded area, this campground includes over 600 shaded sites with electric and water hookups. It features a pool, playgrounds, general store, and easy access to downtown Cape May via trolley service.
Smaller and quieter, this park is ideal for those looking to stay close to town without the larger resort vibe. Located about 3 miles from the beach, it includes full-service RV sites and shaded picnic areas.
Dining & Themed Dinner Experiences
Cape May’s culinary scene blends fresh seafood, farm-to-table fare, and historical ambiance. Many restaurants are housed in restored homes or inns, adding charm to your meal.
One of the most iconic waterfront restaurants in New Jersey. Features a dockside raw bar, indoor dining room, and boat-restaurant called the Schooner American. Fresh catches are brought in daily and prepped in view of diners. No reservations accepted—arrive early.
Located in the Carroll Villa Hotel, this longtime favorite is housed in a Victorian building and known for its literary-themed atmosphere and creative dishes. Breakfast is particularly famous, and in the evenings the space often hosts poetry nights and live music.
A fine-dining staple set inside a restored plantation-style home. The inn has a speakeasy-style wine bar and offers five-course pairing menus with locally sourced ingredients. Perfect for a romantic or celebratory dinner.
Modern American cuisine in the Washington Street Mall. A cozy, upscale spot with white tablecloths and candlelight ambiance. They often offer seasonal prix fixe menus that pair well with local wines.
This restaurant embraces its colonial roots, offering dishes made from ingredients grown on Congress Hall’s own farm. The dining room has a tavern-like atmosphere with fireplaces and vintage portraits. Try the signature "President’s Pot Pie" or the cast-iron cornbread skillet.
Other Things to Do Near Cape May Seaside Tours
Cape May isn’t just for guided tours. Here are top nearby attractions to enrich your trip:
An outdoor, brick-lined pedestrian mall with boutique shopping, candy stores, art galleries, and ice cream parlors. No vehicles allowed, which makes it perfect for evening strolls after dinner.
Visit the remains of the SS Atlantus concrete ship, browse local gift shops, and witness one of the best sunset views in the Mid-Atlantic. Also known for “Cape May Diamonds”—smooth quartz pebbles that polish naturally in the surf.
Cape May’s only Victorian house museum, furnished with authentic 1879 décor. The property includes a carriage house, tea room, and seasonal ghost tours.
Free admission and over 550 animals in beautifully maintained exhibits. Includes picnic areas, a playground, and nature trails. Located a short drive from downtown Cape May.
A 22-acre living history village featuring buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. Staff in period clothing demonstrate blacksmithing, printing, quilting, and more. Offers hands-on activities for kids and seasonal festivals.
Plan Your Visit
Cape May’s seaside tours and surrounding experiences can easily fill a weekend or an entire week. Whether you're looking to climb lighthouses, photograph ornate porches, camp near the coast, or enjoy a five-course wine dinner inside a Victorian mansion, Cape May delivers on all fronts.
For those planning a trip during the high season (June–September), advance reservations for lodging and tours are highly recommended. Off-season visits offer a quieter, cozier version of Cape May—complete with gaslit streets and fewer crowds.
Exciting News! Check it out below!
Bonus: The Way Back Tours Experience
Cape May is one of the featured destinations in the upcoming Way Back Tours mobile app—your personal driving and walking guide to American history. As you approach the lighthouse or wander Washington Street, the app will tell stories of old shipwrecks, Victorian love affairs, and unexplained hauntings—all GPS-triggered and narrated by AI.
To learn more, visit www.WaybackTours.com and sign up to be notified when the Cape May tour goes live.
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