If spending the day in a laid-back spot that lets you enjoy nature, scenic trails, birdwatching, and a classic lighthouse sounds like a dream, then a trip to Cape May Point State Park should be on your radar. The whole family can get in on the fun (yes, even your four-legged fur babies) by heading to Exit 0. Whether you’re climbing the steps of the Cape May Lighthouse for a stellar view, strolling the paths through marshes to spot local wildlife, viewing birds from their platform, checking out a World War II structure, or visiting the Cape May Point Arts & Science Center, there’s always something fun to do at Cape May Point State Park. Keep reading to find out what to expect when you plan your day trip to this stunning park. (featured photo credit: istock/Marc Dufresne)

Spend The Day At Cape May Point State Park

Explore nature, wildlife, and military history

Spanning 244 acres, Cape May State Park has a bit of everything— dunes, freshwater meadows, tidal ponds, forests, and beaches—making it a spot that hits just right if you’re looking to spend time in nature. Plan to spend time hiking on the paths (there are three marked trails ) where you’ll walk through different environments and habitats, and come across ducks, swans, ospreys, deer, foxes, and river otters near the wetlands. And if you have a bird-lover in the family, the park is famous as one of North America’s top spots for fall bird migration, complete with a hawk-watching platform that comes to life from September to November. Another part of the park you’ll want to check out—the World War II military structure that was once a gun base. Battery 223 was built as part of the Harbor Defense Project of 1942 and was a gun emplacement that was once 900 feet inland, hidden by sod, making it look as if it were a hill when viewed from the sea or air. Today, the structure sits on the beach, close to the water, and has deteriorated, but you can get a closer look at it, especially at low tide, when the gun turrets are visible. 

Step into the Cape May Lighthouse

Built in 1859, this iconic lighthouse is within the park grounds and a must-stop while you are here. Each member of the family can climb the 199 steps that are cast-iron and spiral upward. When you get to the top, look out and spend a few minutes taking in the panoramic views, offering plenty of insta-worthy moments. As you explore the lighthouse, read the interpretive panels on the grounds and at the base, and on the climb, telling stories of Lighthouse Keepers, the surrounding area, and how the lighthouse functioned historically. The lighthouse remains an active aid to navigation, and you must purchase tickets to make the climb. 

The Cape May Point Arts & Science Center has a unique roofline, the building used to be a hotel in the 1800s and then it was a summer retreat for the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Philadelphia. Photo Credit: istock/pkujiahe

Stop into the Cape May Point Arts & Science Center 

Just a short walk from the lighthouse is the charming Cape May Point Arts & Science Center, housed in a 38,000-square-foot Victorian building that was once the Shoreham Hotel, built in 1889. The center’s mission is to introduce everyone to the wonders of art, science, and nature through fun events, engaging programs, and fascinating exhibits that inspire creativity, exploration, and cultural appreciation. Check their calendar for events like Family Science Night, where you can have a blast making DIY bath bombs, creating ice cream in a bag, and going on an exciting nature scavenger hunt. Plus, there’s Courtyard Stargazing, where you can learn about constellations in real time in the night sky on their patio. 

Enjoy a park program and event

Seeking a more structured experience during your visit to Cape May Point State Park? There are multiple opportunities for little ones to take part in park programs and events, including nature walks on Saturdays, where park staff will take you on a guided walk starting at the visitor center. These walks are completely free and great for curious kids who want to learn about the things they see. Another program is called Kids & Critters and includes hands-on wildlife learning and happens on Sunday mornings at 11 AM. 

What to know before you go

If you’re planning a trip to the park, keep in mind that the season can really change what you get to see and do. In the summer, there are plenty of events going on. Fall is perfect for birdwatching when the migrants start to pass through, and spring is great for nature walks since everything is coming back to life after winter. Getting into the park is free, and you won’t have to pay for parking or access to the beaches. Climbing the lighthouse requires tickets—$12 for adults, and $8 for kids 3-12 and veterans; active military are free. Restrooms are available in the park, but it’s a good idea to plan your breaks, as options are limited once you’re away from the parking area. Dogs are welcome to visit the beach portion of the park from September 16 to April 14; however, during the nesting season, they aren’t allowed on the beach due to the presence of nesting birds. The park gates open at 8 AM and close at 8 PM, while the park office is open from 8 AM to 4 PM.

Learn more about Cape May Point State Park through its website and Facebook.

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