If you enjoy history and architecture, make sure to visit the Cape May historic district next time you’re in town. The historic district features preserved buildings from the 1800s with late-Victorian-era architecture. When you’re done exploring the district, head to Ocean Club Hotel in Cape May, where you can experience luxury accommodations with beachfront views, a pool, and more. Here, we share more information about Cape May’s historic district.
What Is the Historic District?
The Cape May Historic District is one of America’s largest collections of freestanding 19th-century architecture. It showcases 600 buildings with architectural styles of Late Victorian, Eclectic, Queen Anne, Italianate, Gothic Revival, Colonial, and French Second Empire. These buildings feature unique architectural elements, including elaborate turrets, painted molding, and wood-carved details. The historic district was named a National Historic Landmark in 1976. Some of the buildings that have contributed to this designation include:
- The George Allen House (The Southern Mansion)
- The Carroll Villa Hotel
- The Chalfonte
- The Colonial (The Inn of Cape May)
- Congress Hall
- Cook’s Villa (The King’s Cottage)
- Jackson’s Clubhouse (The Mainstay)
- The Baronet
- The Emlen Physick Estate
- New Jersey Trust and Safe Deposit Company (Winterwood)
What To Do in the Historic District
When you visit the historic district in Cape May, you can choose to simply walk the streets and take in the beautiful architecture. If you’re looking for more structured activities, there are a range of them available, including:
Tours
If you want more in-depth explanations of the sites, you can take a guided trolley tour through portions of the historical district. Knowledgeable tour guides will explain the history, architecture, and how it has survived to this day. If you’d prefer a food tour through the historic area, they are also available. You can enjoy Victorian architecture and local history while trying delicious food from local restaurants.
If you’re looking to visit a museum with a guided tour, visit the Emlen Physick Estate, Cape May’s only Victorian House Museum. You’ll get a closer look at Victorian architecture and period, as well as details of the Physick family’s lifestyle.
Bike Rides
If you’d rather get a bike ride in while exploring, you can rent bikes at the Bike Shop in Congress Hall to get some exercise in while enjoying beautiful sights. You can find single bike rentals, double bike rentals, bikes for kids, and even surrey bikes for the whole family.
Dining
If you’re looking for places to eat or drink during your visit to the historic district, you can also visit The Brown Room in Congress Hall, which features a Prohibition-era lounge with a circular bar, fireplace, and more. Another option is the Washington Inn, which was built in 1840 and has been preserved to reflect its original design. It offers six unique dining areas with a wine bar and delicious American cuisine.
The Blue Pig Tavern in Congress Hall is another favorite for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It was the first tavern in Cape May and got its name from a gambling parlor in Congress Hall in the mid-1800s. You can find classic menu items, along with seasonal options made with farm-fresh ingredients.
Plan Your Visit to the Cape May Historic District Today
If you’re ready to plan your visit to the Cape May Historic District, make sure you book a room nearby at Ocean Club Hotel in Cape May. You’ll get access to modern rooms with beachfront views, a sun deck with a pool and tiki bar, onsite dining, and more. To book your room or to ask any questions, visit our website today.