As summer fades and the crisp autumn air settles in, Cape May, New Jersey, transforms into a charming fall destination. This historic seaside resort town offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and seasonal events that make it an ideal getaway. Here are the top 10 things to do in Cape May during the fall season:
1. Explore Victorian Architecture
Cape May boasts the largest collection of Victorian buildings in the United States outside of San Francisco. Fall is the perfect time to explore these architectural gems without the summer crowds. The Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC) offers several guided walking tours of the historic district.
For a more in-depth experience, visit the Emlen Physick Estate, a fully restored 18-room Victorian house museum. Tours are available daily from 12:15 PM to 3:15 PM. Adult tickets are $20, and children (3-12) are $10. For more information and to book tours, visit www.capemaymac.org.
2. Climb the Cape May Lighthouse
Standing tall at 157 feet, the Cape May Lighthouse offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline. On clear fall days, you might even spot migrating monarch butterflies from the observation deck. The lighthouse is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM through October, with reduced hours in November and December.
Climbing the 199 steps to the top costs $12 for adults and $8 for children (3-12). Even if you don’t climb, the grounds and small museum at the base are worth exploring. Check www.capemaymac.org for current hours and special events.
3. Go Bird Watching
Cape May is renowned as one of North America’s top bird-watching destinations, and fall is prime time for migration. The Cape May Bird Observatory offers daily walks, workshops, and programs throughout the season.
Popular spots include Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area and Cape May Point State Park. The annual Cape May Fall Festival, typically held in October, features guided bird walks and lectures. Visit www.birdcapemay.org for a schedule of events and more information.
4. Indulge in the Cape May Food & Wine Celebration
Food lovers shouldn’t miss the Cape May Food & Wine Celebration, usually held in mid-September. This multi-day event showcases the best of local cuisine and wines. Activities include wine tastings, chef demonstrations, gourmet dinners, and food-themed tours.
Local restaurants and wineries participate, offering a true taste of Cape May’s culinary scene. Check www.capemaymac.org for exact dates and ticket information, as they vary year to year.
5. Enjoy the Cape May Fall Festival
The Cape May Fall Festival, typically held over two weekends in October, is a celebration of all things autumn. The festival features a variety of events including a crafts and antiques show, lima bean festival, Halloween parade, and family activities like pumpkin carving contests.
This event is a great way to immerse yourself in local culture and seasonal fun. Most activities are centered around the Washington Street Mall area. Visit www.capemaymac.org for specific dates and a full schedule of events.
6. Take a Ghost Tour
As the nights grow longer, Cape May’s spooky side comes to life. Several companies offer ghost tours that combine local history with eerie tales of the town’s supposedly haunted locations.
Cape May MAC’s Ghosts of Cape May Trolley Tour runs nightly at 7:30 PM and 8:30 PM through Halloween, with additional tours on weekends in November and December. Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for children (3-12). For a different perspective, try the Ghost Writer Trolley Tour or one of the walking tours offered by other local companies like Ghost Capers.
7. Visit Wineries and Breweries
Fall is harvest season, making it the perfect time to visit Cape May’s wineries and breweries. Willow Creek Winery offers tours and tastings daily from 11 AM to 6 PM, with special fall harvest events on weekends in September and October.
For beer enthusiasts, Cape May Brewing Company is open daily for tastings and often releases seasonal brews in the fall. Their tasting room is open Monday to Thursday 12 PM to 8 PM, and Friday to Sunday 11 AM to 8 PM. Check individual websites for special events and updated hours. Be sure to see our blog post The Nine Best Wineries and Breweries in Cape May (Plus a Wine Trail) for more recommendations.
8. Go Whale and Dolphin Watching
While many associate whale watching with summer, fall can actually be an excellent time to spot these majestic creatures. Several companies, including Cape May Whale Watcher and Spirit of Cape May, offer tours into November.
Fall is a great time to spot humpback whales as they migrate south, and the cooler weather can make for a more comfortable boat ride. Most tours last 2-3 hours and cost around $40 for adults and $25 for children. Be sure to bring warm clothes and binoculars!
9. Explore Cape May Point State Park
Cape May Point State Park offers a perfect fall outdoor experience. The park features hiking trails, a beach, and ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. In autumn, you can see monarch butterflies gathering before their migration and enjoy the changing colors of the foliage.
The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset, and admission is free. Don’t miss the World War II Lookout Tower and Gun Emplacement, which offers a unique glimpse into Cape May’s wartime history.
10. Shop at West End Garage
For a break from outdoor activities, head to West End Garage. This year-round indoor market features over 50 vendors selling antiques, vintage items, handmade crafts, and local art. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs or early holiday gifts.
West End Garage is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. Its indoor setting makes it a perfect activity for cooler or rainy autumn days.
Cape May in the fall offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and seasonal events. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, food and drink, or just relaxing in a charming seaside town, Cape May has something for everyone. The cooler temperatures and smaller crowds make it an ideal time to explore this jewel of the Jersey Shore. Remember to check websites or call ahead for the most up-to-date information on events and activities, as schedules may change. For other recommendations on everything our area has to offer, check out our things to do page. Don’t miss the most commonly asked questions and answers on our FAQ page about Cape May too. Enjoy your fall adventure in Cape May!
