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Cape May - Only A Tank Away But Worlds Away From Baltimore

Cape May, known as the Queen of the Seaside Resorts, distinguishes itself with pristine beaches, ample amenities and a promenade that would make any seashore town memorable. But what really distinguishes this city is its rich Victorian architecture and history. Just 147 miles away from Baltimore, on just a tank of gas, the Lower Cape promises plenty of fun to fill a road trip getaway.
cape may New Jersey
(Photo by William Thomas Cain)

Getting There

From Baltimore and southern locations, take 95 north and cross the Delaware Memorial Bridge. Then take the bridge to Route 40 east. Follow Route 40 to Route 55 south. Take Route 55 to its end, which is at Route 47 south. Continue along Route 47 south toward the Garden State Parkway. Take the southbound GSP (there is a toll) until its end.

If you want to take a more scenic and different approach to getting to Cape May, try  the Cape May Lewes Ferry, which will take you from Lewes, Del., (17 miles or so) over the Delaware Bay to North Cape May. From North Cape May, you are only a five-minute drive into Cape May. The ferry crossing takes roughly 80 minutes to cross the Delaware Bay. Take the shuttles on the Cape May side of the terminal and leave the car behind; it only adds 20 minutes after disembarking from the ferry to town center.

Related: Fun For The Road – Car Games For Your Next Road Trip

Cape May Lighthouse
Credit: www.state.nj.us

What To Do

Cape May Lighthouse
Cape May Point State Park
Lighthouse Avenue
Cape May, N.J.
(609) 884-5404
www.state.nj.us
Price: $7 adults/$3 children ages 3 to 12/free children younger than 3

One of the oldest operating lighthouses in the country, this 1859 beacon sits at the southernmost tip of the state, shining out 24 miles to sea. Wind your way up the stairs to the top of this 157.5-foot-tall structure for spectacular views. From the watch gallery, under the reconstructed lantern, enjoy views of the Atlantic, Delaware Bay and Cape May Point State Park. A special treat for those in Cape May Aug. 2 and 31, the amazing Lighthouse Full Moon Climb promises views from the lighthouse in the moon's strongest light.

Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
Credit: http://usnasw.org

Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
500 Forrestal Road
Cape May Airport, N.J. 08242
(609) 866-8787
Price: $10 for adults and seniors/$8 children 3 to 12/free children younger than 3

Nonprofit Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum sits at the Cape May Airport inside of its historic Hangar 1. Commissioned in April 1943, NAS Wildwood was a dive-bomber training facility during World War II. The restored Hangar 1 was transformed into an aviation museum filled with aircraft, special exhibits, engines and interactive, educational displays. It encourages visitors to explore aviation, the state, the country's military and World War II history through hands-on educational activities for the entire family. Bring the kids and travel back in time to this 92,000-square-foot sampling of the 1940s.

Harbor Safari
Credit: www.capemaymac.org

Harbor Safari
Washington Street Mall Information Booth at Ocean Street
or at the Nature Center of Cape May
Cape May, N.J. 08204
www.capemaymac.org

A great activity for the children and the family, learn what butterflies like to eat, how shells are made and what's up with those strange crab creatures. The tour guide is a marine biologist from the Nature Center of Cape May who provides fun facts about Cape May's beach and marsh habitats as well as the animals and plants that call these habitats home.

Fairthorne Bed & Breakfast
Credit: www.fairthorne.com

Lodging

The Fairthorne Bed & Breakfast
111 Ocean St.
Cape May, N.J. 08204
(609) 884-8791
www.fairthorne.com
Price: from $285 per night

Enjoy gorgeous accommodations inside and out with this former 1897 Whaling Captain's home turned elegant bed and breakfast. Located in the heart of Cape May, this B&B is steps away from the beach, shopping and delicious dining. Its concierge service will make reservations for you for excursions, dining or spa treatments. All rooms are beautifully appointed to provide a luxurious beginning or end to your day.

410 Bank Street
Credit: 410 Bank Street

Dining

410 Bank Street
410 Bank St.
Cape May, N.J. 08204
(609) 884-2127
410bankstreet.com

This is the location for fine dining in Cape May. For that special meal with that special someone, the Zagat-rated 410 Bank Street is one of the top 10 restaurants in New Jersey. Its 20-year track record of excellence is well deserved for its New Orleans-style French cuisine with a Caribbean influence. Best of all, the dress code is seaside casual so enjoy fine dining feeling right at home.

ice cream soda
(Photo credit: EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP/Getty Images)

Della's 5 & 10 Soda Shop
501-503 Washington St Mall
Cape May, N.J. 08204
(609) 884-4568
www.dellas5and10.com

If you're looking for a family friendly place to dine that all ages will enjoy, Della's 5 & 10 is your place. Della's old-fashioned soda fountain takes you back in time, serving up ice cream sodas, sundaes, egg creams, floats, sandwiches, salads, wraps and soups the whole family can enjoy.

Related: Best Spots for a Picnic in Baltimore

Otterhound
(Credit:Mary Bloom © AKC

Dog Friendly Town
www.capemay.com

Bring your dog on your adventure for dog-friendly accommodations rarely found elsewhere. Enjoy dog-friendly restaurants but remember, during the summer season, dogs are not allowed on the beaches. Cape May offers a dog park where dogs may exercise for a fee of $10 for a weekly pass. Located on Lafayette Street near the corner of Broad, the dog park features toys, a gazebo and a water source for the pups. The park is double gated for the safety of the dogs.

Gretta DeMennato is a freelance writer from Bel Air, Md. She is a certified teacher who likes to cover educational related topics. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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