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Cape May itinerary. 3 days on the Jersey Shore this winter.
Don’t be fooled. Even though it’s cool and quiet on the Jersey Shore – in other words, it’s winter – there’s still plenty to do in Cape May. December, January, and February are packed with seasonal events, murder mystery dinners, historic trolley tours, and much more. Yes, Cape May is a little old-fashioned, but that’s what makes it a fun and interesting place to visit.
Below, you’ll find an updated three-day itinerary we made in partnership with Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities. It’s perfect for anyone planning a weekend trip to Cape May.
Book Montreal Beach Resort for your three-day vacation in Cape May.
Day One
Get to know Cape May.
5 p.m. | Explore Downtown on the Ghosts of Cape May Trolley Tour
Take an evening trolley tour with an experienced guide who has the inside scoop on all the paranormal activity in Cape May. We promise you’ll begin to wonder what lies beyond this world when you hear what resident psychic medium, Craig McManus, has found. Begins and ends at the Ocean Street trolley stop.
6:30 p.m. | Dinner at Hemingway’s
Hemingway’s is an award-winning restaurant featuring modern American cuisine with a full bar and sports programming. Favorite menu items include comforting classics like warm lobster Newburg dip, roast chicken breast, and tenderloin with crab.
7:30 p.m. | Check out a Temperance Tempest Debate
Did we mention that Cape May is a little old-fashioned? Well, maybe the right way to put it is that in Cape May there are many opportunities to honor and celebrate American history. For example, in the late Victorian period, temperance and prohibition were hot topics in several American cities, especially Cape May. This hilarious living history program illustrates a debate between a local saloonkeeper and a representative of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union, moderated by Dr. Physick.
Day Two
Shopping and sightseeing.
8 a.m. | Breakfast at Hotel or Local Restaurant
There are many Cape May restaurants that serve breakfast. Harry’s (in the summer), Madd Batter, George’s, and Coffee Tyme are just a few.
9 a.m. | Tour the Physick Estate
Start the day with a tour of the Physick Estate. The 1879 Emlen Physick Estate is Cape May’s premier Victorian showplace, featuring 15 rooms that are authentically restored and decorated. Many tour options are available including combination trolley tours and tours with live reenactments.
10:15 a.m. | Shopping and Free Time
Take it to the streets and spend some time shopping at the Washington Street Mall. Enjoy lunch at any exceptional restaurant in the area, there are many.
2 p.m. | Trolly Tour from a Different Perspective
Jump on a quick 30-minute trolley tour of Cape May’s Historic District, then visit one of Cape May’s famous Victorian inns. Cape May trolley tours are not only fun, they’re a great way to get to know the area and learn more about what makes our Victorian village so special. Not to mention…the trollies are adorable.
3:15 p.m. | Return to your Hotel for a Little Down Time.
6 p.m. | Have Dinner at the Washington Inn
The Washington Inn is often described as a romantic establishment with an easy-going elegance that will satisfy anyone’s craving for fine dining. A thoughtfully crafted menu offers the best American cuisine with an upscale edge. It’s a great place to eat if you’re looking for great food, service, and a lovely ambiance.
7 p.m. | Music History 101: MAC’s More About Music Lecture Series
Join this series designed to increase your knowledge and enjoyment of classical music presented by cellist Brenda Leonard with the Bay Atlantic Symphony. Brenda has a doctorate in cello from the University of South Carolina, a master’s degree in cello and a bachelor’s in music history. She’s taught cello at Clemson University, North Greenville University, Anderson University, and the University of South Carolina, as well as for 30+ years in her private studio.
Day Three
History and performances.
9 a.m. | Cape May Point and West Cape May
Spend some time outdoors in West Cape May. Follow the step-on guide to Cape May Point and take the motorcoach through West Cape May to the tip of Cape May’s peninsula, one of the most celebrated migratory locations in North America. Then, visit Cape May’s fully restored lighthouse, built in 1859. Only 199 steps to the top! Next, it’s on to Sunset Beach where the sunken concrete ship Atlantus is still visible.
10:45 a.m. | Harbor History
Take a guided tour of the Cape May Lobster House and learn about the history of the harbor, the fishing industry and life at sea.
11:30 a.m. | Lunch at the 1876 Carriage House Café & Tearoom
Enjoy lunch at the 1876 Carriage House Café & Tearoom, located on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate. Here, you’ll dine from an a la carte menu that includes salads and signature sandwiches, as well as homemade soups and quiche. Also on the menu is the Classic Tea Luncheon, a Cape May favorite, as well as Afternoon Tea.
1:30 p.m. | More Shopping and Sightseeing
Enjoy shopping and sightseeing downtown. Take in the beautiful Victorian Streets, visit locally owned and operated shops at the Washington Street Mall or have a stroll on the beach.
6:30 p.m. | Murder Mystery Dinner
Round out your trip with a Murder Mystery Dinner. Talk to the cast of suspicious characters and solve the mystery while enjoying a three-course dinner at the Inn of Cape May.
As you can see, Cape May is bursting with rich history, special events, and fascinating group tours all year long.
Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille is Cape May’s premier oceanfront restaurant. To book your table, visit our Reservations page or call (609) 884 2779.
Originally published November 1, 2018. Updated December 15, 2022.