cape may tours trolley

Cape May Trolley Tours

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Cape May Trolley Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

Cape May Trolley Tours

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Cape May Trolley Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Open Year-Round: Your All-Season Retreat at The Inn of Cape May!

Getting Around Cape May

There are more ways to get around Cape May than you may think! Here are a few ways to get around town other than on foot!

If you’d rather have someone else do the driving, take advantage of one of Cape May’s number of different tours available, including walking tours, trolley tours, and bus tours.

Cape May is a very bike-friendly town, with designated bike lanes and a number of bike rental shops. Rent a traditional bike or electric bike, and for larger groups, surreys can accommodate up to six people and are a great way to see the sights and take in the fresh air!

Golf Carts & Mokes:

These low-speed vehicles are perfect for getting around Cape May. Cape May Carts offers four- and six-person carts, including Mokes, all of which are great options for groups or families, and perfect for exploring the town’s many shops and restaurants.

Kayaks & Paddleboards:

If you’re looking for a more adventurous way to explore Cape May, rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the waterways. Get out and enjoy the cool breeze of Cape May Harbor with a rental or tour!

7 Ocean Street, Cape May, NJ 08204

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HISTORIC CAPE MAY TOURS

The perfect way to see Cape May is to take one of the many tours offered.  Tours vary with the season from historical tours, bike tours, Horse & carriage tours to food tours, winery tours and brewery tours.  There are tours geared to every age and interest with themed tours added during the holidays.

Cape May Carriage Tours

Cape May Carriage Tours are a “not to be missed” adventure.  No two tours are the same – each take a different route with many stories and historic information provided by the driver.  Enjoy the Victorian architecture that makes Cape May famous as you relax in a horse-drawn carriage and listen to your guide as they take you back in time.  Get in the holiday spirit by taking a romantic Christmas lights tour and enjoy the holiday lights on a crisp evening nestled under the warm blanket in the carriage.

Trolley Tours

Step onto a red and green MAC trolley and take a tour the easy and comfortable way.  You will learn everything you want to know about Cape May, America’s first seaside resort.   Tours include the Historic District Trolley Tour, the Combination Trolley/Physick Estate Tour and the “Best of the Shore in 2018” Ghosts of Cape May Trolley Tour to name just a few.  Stop by the information booth at the end of the Washington Street Mall for a complete list of trolley tours and for tickets.

Cape May Downtown Bike Tours

Enjoy a leisurely bike ride around historical downtown and the less traveled side roads stopping along the way for stories about the past.  This tour last approximately 2 hours while biking approximately 4-5 miles at a leisurely pace.

Cape May Food Tours

Treat your taste buds for a tour through one of America’s most beautiful Victorian resorts while sampling the best of Cape May’s cuisine at the many local restaurants, ethnic eateries and specialty food stores.  Tour guides share a wealth of information about the architecture and hisotry of the area as you enjoy a leisurely stroll through Cape May. You get so much information and food for our money as you will learn about Cape May and sample tasty treats along the way.  We suggest touring at the beginning of your stay since you will want to go back to the places you visit time and time again.  We found many of the places to be our favorites of Cape May.

We loved the Historical Cape May Food Tour and our guide so much that the following year we took the West Cape May Tour where you learn about all of the hidden gems to dine and shop in West Cape May.

Christmas Candlelight Tour

Experience the “most wonderful time of the year” during this self-guided walking tour featuring homes, inns, hotels & churches specially decorated for the holisdays while enjoying Christmas caroling and strolling musicians and festive holiday cheer.  Admission to the Emlen Physick Estate, Cape May’a only Victorian house museum  and limited trolley service is included.

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From Trolley Tours to Whale Watching, Discover All the Things to Do in Cape May, NJ

• Danyelle Addesso
• September 19, 2023

Looking for the best things to do in Cape May? This charming seaside town is filled with unusual attractions, activities, and adventures for an unforgettable vacation. Take trolley tours showcasing Cape May’s history, visit wineries and enjoy wine tastings, scream your heart out at Morey’s Piers amusement park, find your zen with yoga on the beach, and go whale watching to witness these majestic marine creatures. This guide covers all the top things to do in Cape May, NJ for an itinerary packed with fun. Start your Cape May getaway by hopping aboard the MAC trolley for unique tours around America’s oldest seaside resort. These Cape May trolley tours offer a lively overview of the city’s top sights with guides sharing stories and trivia about this historic town. Check the Cape May trolley schedule for daily departure times from the Ocean Street stop.

After getting your bearings, head to Cape May Winery, one of several excellent wineries in Cape May NJ . Sip vintages straight from the vine at this charming locale housed in a restored 19th century carriage house. Don’t miss their award-winning Cabernet Franc. For family-friendly thrills, enjoy amusement rides galore at Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks . Brave rollercoasters, plunge down water slides, and create memories to last a lifetime. When you’re ready to unwind, Cape May yoga classes offer a dose of zen. Try yoga on the beach for an invigorating session surrounded by ocean views and breezes. Of course, you can’t visit this oceanside oasis without going whale watching in Cape May NJ. See these aquatic giants up-close with a cruise on Cape May Whale Watcher .

As America’s oldest seaside resort, Cape May exudes history and charm around every corner. Take a peaceful stroll along the pristine beaches and boardwalk, the same shores where Cape May’s first tourists arrived back in the 1600s. Wander the tree-lined streets to admire gorgeous Victorian architecture, beautifully preserved from the late 19th century. The Washington Street Mall presents a shopping mecca full of boutiques, galleries, and eateries housed in these colorful historic buildings. Beyond the beaches, discover Cape May Point State Park, where you can climb the 157 steps of the Cape May Lighthouse for panoramic views of the seashore. Or opt for a more leisurely bike ride through the park’s diverse coastal habitats, perfect for birdwatching and wildlife viewing. In spring and fall, don’t miss the spectacular sight of migrating birds and butterflies stopping by Cape May in droves. Over 400 avian species pass through during migration seasons as weary winged travelers rest and refuel. Late summer brings another remarkable natural phenomenon – the annual Monarch butterfly migration. Stand in awe as thousands of vibrant orange and black Monarchs blanket Cape May, transforming trees and skies as these delicate creatures make their incredible multi-generational journey south for the winter. Peak migration occurs around early September. In addition to its natural beauty, Cape May overflows with rich history. Learn about the Victorian era while touring the Emlen Physick Estate, the restored 1879 home of a prominent Cape May family. See how sea captains and other affluent citizens lived during Cape May’s heyday as a posh resort destination. The estate offers guided tours as well as cheerful carriages rides around town pulled by draft horses. For maritime history, visit the Cape May Lighthouse mentioned above, as well as the World War II Lookout Tower, once used to watch for enemy ships nearing the coast. Cape May even played an intriguing role in the Underground Railroad, with numerous homes serving as safe houses for slaves escaping to freedom.

Walking tours and exhibits at the MAC Museum detail this unique legacy. From its origins with indigenous peoples and European settlement, through Victorian times, world wars, and into today, Cape May offers an engaging look into New Jersey’s storied past.

Hop Aboard a MAC Trolley Tour for the Ultimate Introduction

For an easy and entertaining overview of Cape May’s top sights, join a trolley tour with the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). Knowledgeable guides will regale you with stories spanning history, culture, architecture, and nature as you make your way past landmarks and hidden gems. These 90-minute tours depart daily from the Ocean Street stop.

If you’re staying here at the La Mer Beachfront Resort, enjoy hassle-free tour bookings right at the front desk , based on availability. Their convenient central location by the beach puts you just steps from the trolley stop. Grab a cup of free coffee before heading out to learn about all this enchanting town has in store!

Sip Local Vintages and Nibble Tapas at Cape May Winery

After getting your initial overview from the trolley tour, delve deeper into Cape May’s food and drink scene. Quench your thirst at the Cape May Winery , an area staple housed in a restored 19th century carriage house. Sample award-winning vintages like Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc complemented by tapas plates expertly crafted to pair with each wine. Savor bruschetta, charcuterie, cheese flights, and more. If there’s a particular vintage you fancy, take home a bottle to enjoy on Cape May’s pristine beaches.

The winery is open daily, with hours as follows:

• Sunday: 12am – 5pm
• Monday thru Thursday and Saturday: 12pm – 6pm
• Friday: 12pm – 8pm (21+ only 5pm-8pm)

The winery offers a laid-back, first come first served seating arrangement perfect for a relaxing visit. Reservations are advised, especially for groups. The intimate space can only accommodate parties of 6 or less. Outside food and beverages aren’t permitted, but the tasty tapas have you covered! As a guest of La Mer Beachfront Resort, guests can purchase wine tasting tickets to enjoy a tasting flight at the winery. Sip and savor delightful discounts as one of the many perks of being a guest of La Mer Beachfront Resort!

Enjoy Thrills, Nostalgia, and Water Fun at Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Waterparks

No trip to Cape May is truly complete without a visit to the iconic Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Waterparks . Named by locals one of the best attractions in Cape May, enjoy classic boardwalk fun alongside modern scream-inducing rides across three amusement piers: Surfside Pier, Mariner’s Pier, and Adventure Pier. At family-friendly Surfside Pier, experience favorites like the carousel, Ferris wheel, log flume and Wave Swinger. Get your adrenaline pumping on roller coasters like the Nor’Easter, which reaches speeds of 50 mph. Mariner’s Pier evokes childhood nostalgia with bumper cars, teacups and the Giant Wheel with stunning ocean views. Adventure Pier thrills with the SkyCoaster, SkyScraper, and SlingShot as well as the legendary Great White wooden coaster.

When you’re ready to cool down, the two massive beachfront waterparks offer even more aquatic fun. Speed down slides like the Sea Serpent, get soaked under a giant tipping bucket, float the lazy river, or let the kids play in splash pads and wading pools. Rates for the amusement park, waterparks, or combination tickets can be found on their website. Special for La Mer Beachfront Resort guests – receive exclusive discounted passes when booking your Morey’s Piers tickets directly through the hotel! It’s the perfect perk to an already ideal beachfront location near all the rides and excitement.

Recharge Body and Mind with Cape May Yoga

When you’re ready for some zen, recharge with yoga in beautiful Cape May. Salute the sun with beachfront classes offering stunning ocean views and the soothing sounds of crashing waves. Take a cue from the centered seabirds strutting about. Or for a more serene setting, stretch out amidst lush vineyards as you breathe in the sweetness of grapes on the vines. These wellness activities promise restoration with sessions designed for all levels. The Cape May Yoga Studio offers a range of class types to meet your needs, whether you’re looking for morning energizers, gentle evening flows, or private sessions. Rates are around $20 per class, with advance sign-up recommended for credit card payments. It’s the perfect way to find your calm amidst an exciting Cape May getaway.

Cape May’s Abundant Marine Life: Cape May Whale Watcher

Onboard naturalists will share insightful facts about the animals and identify the different species you spot. History buffs will also appreciate narrative about Cape May’s coastal heritage, lighthouses, and more from the captain. Exclusive ticket discounts available when booking through the La Mer Beachfront Resort. Don’t leave without treating yourself to this aquatic adventure!

The Perfect Cape May Vacation Awaits!

With its enviable location, weathered charm, nature’s beauty, and abundance of sights, tastes and activities, Cape May promises a spectacular seaside getaway you’ll cherish for years to come. Whether you crave leisurely beach strolls, exhilarating amusement rides, indulgent wining and dining, or rejuvenating spa treatments, this historic oasis truly offers it all. Immerse yourself in Cape May’s storied past, abundant nature, and nostalgic seaside allure. Start planning your perfect Cape May escape today!

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Welcome to Cape May Trolley Tour

Find the hidden gems and the little-known treasures of this glorious seaside town and learn about natural and cultural points of interest.

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(45 min.)  (Daytime)

This is the best introduction to Cape May for first timers. Find the hidden gems and the little-known treasures of this glorious seaside town and learn about natural and cultural points of interest. This narrated tour highlights the many cultural, historical and natural attractions on the island.

Begins and ends at the Ocean Street trolley stop. Allow ample time to find parking. All trolleys are open-air. 

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Cape May Trolley Tours

• See all photos

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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

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CAPE MAY TROLLEY TOURS - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

34 Things To Do in Cape May with Kids

C harming Cape May is one of the Jersey Shore's top family destinations for good reason. With its wide beaches, quaint boardwalk, mini golf courses, parks, and ice cream shops, Cape May can entertain kids of all ages. The shopping and family-friendly restaurants can't be beaten. Head down to Exit Zero, on the southern tip of the Jersey Shore , and enjoy all this town has to offer, from its fabulous beaches and amazing free zoo to the historic lighthouse and blazing sunsets.

Read on for our list of 30-plus can't-miss things to do during your visit to Cape May. And find more seasonal activities and day-trip ideas in our  Ultimate New Jersey Kids Summer Vacation Guide .

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Climb to the top of the lighthouse for a view and a windy thrill! Photo by Rose Gordon Sala

Best Things To Do with Kids in Cape May

1. cape may lighthouse.

Climb the 199 steps up the  Cape May Lighthouse  for an incredible view of the Atlantic Ocean meeting the Delaware Bay. Just remember that you'll need to climb back down, too! Our legs were shaking but the kids seemed fine.

2. Cape May-Lewes Ferry

Ride the  Cape May-Lewes Ferry  for a day trip to Delaware. Or just enjoy the playground, mini-golf, and picnic offerings at the ferry landing. 

3. Summer Movies on the Beach

Catch a movie after dark on the sand, weekly at  Stockton Beach .  

4. Historic Cold Spring Village

This historic  living history museum  lets kids get hands-on with local history and culture. 

5. Mini Golf

Swing your mini-golf club at one of four local putt-putt courses. And check out this  review of miniature golf courses  throughout NJ, including the Jersey Shore.

RELATED :  105 Free Things To Do in New Jersey this Summer with Kids

Walk the nature trails at Cape May Point State Park and you might just see some wildlife. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala

6. Cape May Point State Park

After your lighthouse climb, explore the rest of Cape May Point State Park , including the beach, nature trails, and wildlife. We found a group of friendly swans along one path and the abandoned WWII-era gun Battery 223 smack in the middle of the beach.

7. Ride Bikes

Rent bicycles and cruise along the boardwalk in the morning, or along the breezy bike lane on New Jersey Avenue. If your littles are too young to pedal, strap them into a surrey. There are many paved and dirt trails to explore by bike in Cape May.

8. Aviation Museum

Visit the  NAS Wildwood  Aviation Museum , where kids can climb into the cockpit, play flight simulation games, and check out an air traffic control tower. Before you visit read our  review of the museum . 

RELATED : The Best NJ Zoos and Aquariums for Animal Encounters with Kids

Say hello to the zebras at the Cape May County Park & Zoo. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala

9. Cape May County Park & Zoo

Explore the wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, and pink flamingos, at the Cape May County Zoo . Your own little monkeys can swing on the playground equipment near the entrance. It's open daily and always FREE, although donations help keep it running. 

10. Jersey Shore Alpacas

Schedule a tour to meet the friendly creatures at  Jersey Shore Alpacas .

11. Cape May Convention Hall

Enjoy music, magic shows, movies, and more kid-friendly entertainment at the Cape May Convention Hall. Find the event schedule here . 

RELATED :  Guide to Family Day Trips in New Jersey

Visit the Harriet Tubman Museum to learn about Tubman's life. Photo courtesy of the museum

12. Harriet Tubman Museum

This  brand-new museum celebrates the famed abolitionist, who once lived in Cape May. Read our review of the museum for tips on visiting the museum with kids. 

13. The Original Fudge Kitchen

Taste a morsel of freshly made fudge at  The Original Fudge Kitchen , which is located within the Washington Street Mall. Salted caramel, mint, and peanut butter are faves. 

14. Trolley Tours

Soak up the town's Victorian charm on a trolley tour  or horse-drawn carriage ride, or stroll past rows of stately, gingerbread-style homes.

Dolphins sometimes make an appearance on Cape May Whale Watcher cruises. Photo courtesy of the tour company

15. Whale Watching and Dolphin Cruises

Board a  whale-watching cruise  to spy on dolphins and whales up close. 

16. Cape May Birding

Follow nature trails through the various bird and wetlands sanctuaries and centers to watch the birds of Cape May take flight. Try the  Nature Center of Cape May  or the  Cape May Bird Observatory . 

17. Kayak in Cape May Harbor

Rent a  kayak or paddleboard  to explore the harbor.

18. Revolution Rail

If your family is looking for adventure, consider biking along an abandoned railroad track and through Garrett Family Nature Preserve with the company Revolution Rail . Read our review of the experience here . 

Top Attractions in Cape May For Families

19. cape may beaches.

Stretch out on Cape May's famously wide beaches, and watch from your beach blanket as dolphins swim by, frolicking in the surf. There are both ocean and bayside options, and along the Beach Avenue entry points, you'll find comfort stations and restaurants.

RELATED :  New Jersey Beaches, Lakes, Pools, and Water Parks Guide

Explore the shops along the Washington Street Mall pedestrian area on foot or bike. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala

20. Washington Street Mall

Stroll along the  Washington Street pedestrian mall  to go window shopping at art galleries, specialty clothing stores, souvenir stalls, and sweet shops. Take a break for a sit-down lunch at one of the many restaurants available along the car-free walkway.

21. Emlen Physick Estate

Tour the historic  Emlen Physick Estate  for a glimpse back in time to the Victorian resort town's prior splendor. 

22. Farmers Market

Indulge in some fresh-made guacamole, crab cakes, or raspberry lemonade at the  West Cape May Farmers' Market  on Tuesdays. Make sure to stay and enjoy the free live music in the afternoons! 

23. Salt Marsh Safari

Cruise through the coastal wetlands on a  Salt Marsh Safari  to see crustaceans, plant life, and inland tidal flows.  

24. Beach Plum Farm

Amble along the dirt paths at Beach Plum Farm , picking berries, feeding hens, and smelling flowers as you go. Grab a fresh-brewed iced tea and sandwich at the barn.

25. Wine & Brewery Tours and Tastings

Enjoy outdoor tastings of local brews, wines, and spirits at several Cape May spots, such as Cape May Winery , Cape May Brewery , and Cold Spring Brewing . Many offer picnic tables and wide-open spaces where kids can goof off while grown-ups relax. If you love visiting breweries and wineries, here is a complete review of f amily-friendly breweries in NJ  and family-friendly wineries in NJ .

26. Arden Kids

Stock up on cute baby and kid clothing, including seasonal accessories like rain gear or sunglasses and beach items at this Washington Street Mall shop . For more baby boutiques worth a visit in New Jersey, see our review . 

RELATED :  Best Family-Friendly Restaurants at the Jersey Shore

The brunch at Blue Pig Tavern is just right for fueling a beach day. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala

27. Brunch at Blue Pig Tavern

Indulge in a lazy brunch at this foodie haven located within Congress Hall. Don't worry, there's a kids' menu, too.

28. Willow Creek Winery

Listen to music, sip sangria, and enjoy a kid-friendly meal at the pretty  Willow Creek Winery . The vineyard hosts  firepit Fridays  this summer. It's not far from the lighthouse, making it a nice stop for a meal before returning to the hotel.

29. Sunset Beach

Watch the sun setting in a blaze of colors over Delaware Bay on Sunset Beach in Cape May Point, where a patriotic flag-lowering ceremony is held each evening. 

RELATED :  Best Jersey Shore Hotels for Families

The beach-side Congress Hall is a lovely hotel in any season. Photo courtesy of the hotel

Best Hotels in Cape May for Families

30. congress hall.

Book a stay at the beach-side  Congress Hall , a luxurious but family-friendly Cape May resort. When summer is in full swing the resorts host carnivals and picnics on the lawn. 

31. Sea Crest Inn 

For a great location, fabulous views, large balconies, and a pool, check out this family-friendly beachside resort . 

RELATED :  Top NJ Water Parks for Kids

Head down the water slides at Raging Waters Water Park at Morey's Piers. Photo by Ki[p Dawson

Theme & Water Parks Near Cape May

The quaint streets and clean beaches of Cape May are perfect for a weekend or week away. But the kids may also want some big-time all-day amusement park entertainment. For that kind of fun, head a little more north along the shore for roller coasters, arcades, kiddie rides, boardwalk treats, and of course, water slides and wave pools.

32. Morey's Piers

Drive a few minutes north a few miles into  Wildwood  for more than 100 thrill rides, water parks, arcades, and more entertainment on the boardwalk at  Morey's Piers . Many families stay in Wildwood and day trip into Cape May, too.

33. Ocean City Boardwalk

Stroll the Ocean City, New Jersey, boardwalk for arcades, fried and sweet treats, and to sample its amusement park rides. Playland's Castaway Cove and Gillian's Wonderland Pier are both accessible from the boardwalk and small enough to enjoy for a morning or afternoon before returning to the calm of Cape May. There's also a water park for cooling off: OC Waterpark.

Storybook Land is a wonderful amusement park for kids of all ages. Photo courtesy of the park

34. Storybook Land

This toddler and preschooler-friendly Jersey amusement park is worth the hour-long drive from Cape May. Everything moves at just the right pace for younger kids! 

A version of this article was first published in 2017. Additional reporting by Rose Gordon Sala.

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Activities in Cape May

Ghosts & mysteries tours from cape may mac.

• Ghost Tours
• Tours of Cape May

Tickets can be purchased online or in advance at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth or at the Carriage House Visitors Center at the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street.

Please call to confirm information.

• Kid friendly

Cape May is one of the most haunted towns you’ll ever visit. Is it any wonder? It’s such a marvelous place, even the spirits don’t want to leave Cape May! Dozens of Victorian gems have been investigated and documented to have “spirit” residents, all of whom are quite friendly, we assure you. Take a giant step back in Cape May’s past and see if a ghostly encounter is in the cards for you!

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ALL TOURS CALENDAR

To purchase tickets online, please use the calendar below., questions call our main office at 609-884-5404., closed wednesday, april 24 for staff training.