Bed and Breakfast Hot Spots!
CAPE MAY: Visit a Victorian paradise on the New Jersey coast.
Just a few miles down the coast from the bright lights and casinos of Atlantic City, visitors will find Cape May, an almost magical Victorian town.
Although some might complain of the commercialism found in the souvenir shops, the hand of modern tourism does not extend its reach to the rows of restored Victorian houses, which line Cape May's streets. The homes are like rainbows, painted in every imaginable color, from purple to green to aquamarine.
We arrived one early September morning on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, which runs, much as the name suggests from Lewes, Del., to Cape May and vice-versa. Lewes has the distinction of being the oldest town in the oldest state. The ferry carries both cars and walk-on passengers, and has a small snack bar, souvenir shop and video arcade. We bypassed the arcade and souvenir shop to sample hot dogs and count the jellyfish along the 70-minute ride.
For those planning a trip to Cape May, the truly difficult part is deciding at which bed & breakfast to stay. Many of the restored Victorians have been transformed into graciously appointed inns. Competition for guests is fierce, so the quality remains fairly high and consistent among the inns. Note: Parking is sometimes hard to find. Most inns offer parking to load and unload cars, but guests must find on-street parking elsewhere.
There's plenty to do and see in Cape May including a variety of ocean activities. It's always bustling in the summer, and again at Christmas, which is a beautiful sight.
Search for inns in Cape May
Attractions
The Beach: For those unfamiliar with New Jersey, guests must have a pass in order to visit the actual beach. Some innkeepers provide these for their guests.
Cape May-Lewes Ferry
(800) 64-FERRY
www.CapeMayLewesFerry.com
The one-way fare for cars, minivans and small trucks is $20-$25, which includes the driver's fare. Motorcycle drivers must pay $17-$22, and bicyclists pay $6-$8. Additional passengers age 6 and older pay $6-$8 each. Foot passengers 6 years and older pay $6-$8.
Emlen Physick Estate
1048 Washington St.
Tours are available of this Victorian house museum, which was built in 1879.
Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts
1048 Washington St. (609) 884-5404 or (800) 275-4278
This is a good starting point. Visitors can receive maps and tour information. Be sure to ask about special events. With so much going on, it's also wise to call ahead and request a calendar of events.
The Nature Center of Cape May
1600 Delaware Ave. (609) 898-8848
Children often enjoy visits here. The center offers classes, workshops, walking tours and features exhibits.
Cape May Point Lighthouse and State Park
(800) 275-4278
This completely restored 1859 lighthouse is a popular attraction. The lighthouse, a short drive from the main village, is open from May to November.
Additional Resources
For a comprehensive online directory to Cape May, visit www.CapeMay.com or www.CapeMayTimes.com.
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