5 Great Day Trips from Cape May

Although the seaside town of Cape May is an experience all on its own, there's plenty of fun and activities that can be found beyond its borders. We recommend planning a day trip to one of the many nearby attractions during your next visit.

There are many incredible places to visit along the Jersey Shore that are within driving distance of Cape May. This can make it hard for those more unfamiliar with the area to choose what to visit first, so we've rounded up our top five picks for great day trips.

Your Guide to Day Trips from Cape May

Enjoy less time planning and more time exploring with this handy list of Jersey Shore destinations within driving distance of our Cape May resorts. Read on to learn more about these amazing areas when you plan your next New Jersey getaway.

Lewes, Delaware

Just a short boat ride away from the Cape May peninsula, you'll find the city of Lewes in Delaware. This is a perfect day trip for anyone looking for a truly unique getaway that starts with the famous Cape May-Lewes Ferry, which operates rain or shine.

Travelers have been transported from New Jersey to Delaware since 1964 by the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. You can drive your car, RV, or vehicle with a trailer directly onto the ferry, so you'll have it when you reach the other side. The entire journey is 17 miles and takes 85 minutes one way, which is 3 hours of total travel time for a day trip from Cape May. This leaves more than enough time to explore Lewes and the neighboring towns.

Once you've arrived in Delaware, there's plenty to see and explore. Cape Henlopen State Park is a beautiful seaside spot with plenty of activities for the whole family. If you make your way further south to Rehoboth Beach, you'll find a large selection of shops, restaurants, and bars. One of Delaware's top breweries, Dogfish Head, even has a brewpub in town.

Atlantic City

Just under an hour's drive from Cape May, you'll find excitement and a change of scenery in Atlantic City. While it may be known for gambling, there's still plenty to do if the tables aren't your thing.

For those who are game, try your hand at a game or two at Caesars Atlantic City, Bally's Atlantic City Casino & Resort, and Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. These big-name casinos all top spots to take on lady luck. There's plenty of shopping, dining, and outdoor activities to enjoy during your day trip.

Another fun place you can stroll around to take in the sights and sounds is the Quarter at Tropicana. This mall is themed like Old Havana and has more than 40 stores to shop till you drop. After a day of shopping, head to Carmine's, a family-style Italian restaurant that was born in New York City. Cap off your day with a scenic walk along Atlantic City's famous boardwalk.

Ocean City

If you're looking to spend less time driving and more time exploring, Ocean City is a great choice. This quaint coastal town is packed with things to do.

This seaside escape boasts more than 100 shops, bars and restaurants located right within the city limits. This area also has eight miles of beautiful beaches. The star attraction, of course, is the Ocean City boardwalk, which offers a full amusement park, Ferris wheel, and even more dining options for the whole family.

Cape May National Wildlife Refuge

If you truly want to get away from it all, the Cape May National Wildlife Refuge is the place to be. This wildlife sanctuary was founded in 1989 and provides just under 12,000 acres protected by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Once you're there, you can hike and bike your way through a series of short trails. It's also a great place to take in the views or have a picnic. This is a large habitat for migratory birds, so you're bound to encounter some feathered friends along the way.

The refuge is a perfect place for photographers to spend a day capturing the natural landscape and wildlife. No matter how you explore the Cape May National Wildlife Refuge, you'll leave feeling relaxed and recharged at the end of your day.

Philadelphia

Last on our list is a day trip to Philadelphia. It's the furthest drive on the list at just under an hour and 40 minutes, but this historic city is more than worth the time. So how do you spend a day in Philly when there's so much to see and do? There are a few top attractions you can't miss.

The Liberty Bell is one of the first things that comes to mind when you think of must-see attractions in Philadelphia. Stop by for a quick picture with the bell and marvel at the building that surrounds it. The glass wall behind the bell is stunning.

And you can't leave Philly without trying a cheesesteak. The two top spots to try out this local favorite is to get one at Geno's Steaks and Pat's King of Steaks. These two establishments are actually located directly across from each other. This makes it easy to try each one and decide for yourself which is the best in Philly.

Make sure you visit the iconic "Rocky Steps," most well-known by their appearance in hit movie Rocky. One of the most popular attractions in the city, these famous steps lead up to the Philadelphia Art Museum.

Finally, take a tour of Independence Hall. This building is the site where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were both debated and signed. It's a must-see site for any history buff.

Book Your Trip at Sun Outdoors Cape May

When you're ready to put up your feet and rest, Sun Outdoors Cape May is the place to do it. This family-friendly RV resort is conveniently located just north of downtown. Relax at the private lake or spacious swimming pool, rent a kayak for the day, or play a game of basketball, volleyball, or pickleball. There are RV and tent sites available and cabins for rent if you're looking for your own little oasis. Spots fill up fast so book your stay today.

And there you have it. Five great day trips from Cape May with a little something for everyone. All of them are within driving (or boating) distance of Cape May, so you can consider it your home base at the end of a fun day trip.

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