Labor Day Weekend: Ten Things to do in Cape May
Cape May, New Jersey has long been lauded for its beaches and for its overall charming atmosphere as well. Home to lovely Victorian homes, great restaurants, and more, it’s a spot where many families have vacationed for generations. Summers in Cape May are wonderful. That’s why, when September rolls around – and it always does – it’s so difficult to pack up the kids and the gear and head home. But don’t despair! Labor Day weekend provides a number of last minute opportunities for great fun at the shore.
1. Enjoy the View – Head to Cape May’s World War II lookout tower, now Fire Control Tower #23, and climb the spiral staircase to the top so you can admire Cape May from up high. The small admission fee is worth it, given the view.
2. Go Birding by Boat – Join other nature enthusiasts on a scenic cruise of the Salt Marsh behind the Cold Sprint Inlet, where you’ll observe dozens of species of winged creatures. At sunset, it’s even more beautiful here. Bring your camera and your binoculars!
3. Cruisin’ – If you like boat rides but aren’t into birdwatching, sign up for a Cape May dinner cruise. You’ll enjoy pretty views, good food and drink, and even music and dancing, in some cases. Great way to mark a special occasion or say “Good-bye Summer!”
4. Take a Ghost Tour – A local paranormal enthusiast offers trolley tours through the streets of Cape May, accompanied by stories of poltergeists and other ghostly creatures. (Okay for kids, as long as they’re not easily frightened.) After this, you might be glad that it’s time to wrap up the summer and go home!
5. Visit the Emlen Physick Estate – Head to this lovely Victorian house museum for a look at what life was like in the 1880s-1890s. Considered one of the finest examples of “Stick-style” architecture in the U.S., it’s operated by the Mid- Atlantic Center for the Arts and daily tours by very knowledgeable guides are offered. Beautiful!
6. See a Show – Complete your summer by attending one of the excellent productions offered at the Cape May Stage, a wonderful Equity theater company that brings well-known names to the Jersey shore. Plays and musicals are presented throughout the year, including on Labor Day weekend. Not a bad seat in the house!
7. Get a History Lesson – Pack up the family and take them to Cold Spring Village, a delightful early American living history attraction where you can stroll through historic reproductions, watch artisans at work, and grab a bite to eat at the Ice Cream Shop and Bakery. Wear your walking shoes!
8. Golfing Fun – Break out your knickers and cleats and head to Cape May National Golf Club, where you can play either 9 or 18 holes on a lovely course that surrounds a 50-acre bird sanctuary. Go early to avoid the Jersey summer heat!
9. See the Trains – The newly-renovated Cape May Model Trains exhibit sits in a 1,600-square-foot warehouse on Elmira Ave., where there’s plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the displays. A small fee gets you in the door and keeps you busy for at least an hour or more, no matter what your age.
10.Get a Massage – Getting stressed about the return to work or school? Then take advantage of one (or more) of the many day spas in the area and book a reservation for a massage, facial, mani/pedi, or other treatment. You’ll go back home feeling refreshed and renewed!