Cape May

Cape May has the distinction of being our nation’s oldest seashore resort. Located in New Jersey, it has also been designated as a National Historic Landmark due to its concentration of Victorian buildings. The allure for many is the endless stretches of white sandy beaches, whales and dolphins, and the promenade as Cape May is located where Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. For other people it’s the rich history, spectacular historical homes, fantastic boutiques, and exceptional restaurants. We’re combining it all, so this is surely going to be a great three-day getaway filled to the brim with fun and excitement. Come join us!  

Monday, May 5^th – This morning we begin by traveling up the Eastern Shore and taking the ferry from Lewes, Delaware to Cape May, New Jersey. The drive along the Eastern Shore to the ferry will surely be relaxing as that part of the world is more laid back and moves at a much slower pace. Once we arrive in Cape May, we will take a Cape Island trolley tour. You’ll quickly learn that many stories of Cape Island and the surrounding area’s economy are in whaling and farming, and though new industries have come to this area, that early heritage is still celebrated today. You will hear how whalers, centuries ago, eked out a dangerous but lucrative living and how the area’s rich farming heritage continues to be a source of tremendous community pride. It will be an interesting introduction to our two-night stay in Cape May. Afterwards, browse through the charming Washington Street pedestrian mall, which acts as the central hub of Cape May. You’ll be able to explore an array of one-of-a-kind boutiques and shops, buy some ice cream, or just relax and people-watch at Rotary Park. Then we’re off to our hotel, the Grand Hotel, where we’ll enjoy the views, the amenities, and a delicious dinner. (D)

Tuesday, May 6^th – After a delightful breakfast and time to walk along the beach, sit outside and enjoy the morning sunrise on the water, or take a dip in the pool, we will board the coach and be joined by our step-on guide. We will travel to the tip of Cape May’s peninsula, which is one of the most celebrated migratory locations in North America. Entering Cape May Point State Park, we will be able to view their fully restored Lighthouse (built in 1859) and then continue to Sunset Beach where the sunken ship “Atlantus” is still visible. Interesting stops and lots of information will make this a wonderful morning. Then it’s off to lunch in historic North Wildwood, NJ. Afterwards we will take a tour of the Physick Estate which offers us a look back at our Victorian past as evidenced by its architecture, decorative arts, customs, and the lives of one particular Cape May family, the Physicks. Interestingly, it was Dr. Philip Physick, who is considered the father of American surgery and invented numerous surgical procedures and medical instruments that are still in use today. Next, we’ll travel through the Historic District as a knowledgeable guide presents entertaining and educational stories about the nation’s oldest seashore resort. We’ll see the oldest residential street in town, landmark buildings, gingerbread houses, Victorian architectural features, and the Grand Dames of Cape May. We’ll return to the hotel late afternoon to freshen up and relax a bit. Then it’s off to the Lobster House Restaurant for the freshest seafood you can get, often from the fleet of commercial boats docked outside. It’s a unique and picturesque setting overlooking Cape May Harbor and it’s a great place for dinner. (Landlubber dinner choices are also available.) We’ll end our day stepping back into Victorian times as we enjoy an interesting Temperance Debate. In the late Victorian Period, the topics of temperance and prohibition were widely discussed in Cape May, just as they were in other parts of the country. This immersive program portrays a heated debate between a saloon owner from the community and a member of the Women’s Rights Movement, along with other reformists. The question: to drink or not to drink, becomes quite interesting this evening. What an exciting day this will be! (B, L, D)

Wednesday, May 7^th – After a tasty breakfast and a bit of time for a leisurely walk along Cape May’s Promenade, we will take the ferry back to the best place of all, home. But what wonderful memories we will take with us of this National Historic Landmark City as well as the hidden gems and little-known treasures of this glorious seaside town. Come join us on this exiting three-day getaway. (B)

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