Want to be transported to a European vineyard but don’t want to leave New Jersey? Taking a day trip down the parkway to the Willow Creek Winery & Farm in West Cape May feels like you snuck away on a plane and landed in a picturesque vineyard hideaway. It’s the kind of place where you can kick back and spend a few hours—take a tour of the vineyards, stroll around the imaginative garden art, or sip on a rich red or dry white in the rustic tasting room that’s perfect for a day date, a mom-friend outing, or an outing with kids during one of their festivals, which often feature live music and vendors. Ready to plan your escape? Keep reading to find out more about what to do when you visit, and don’t miss out on the rest of Cape May. (featured photo credit: @willowcreekwinerynj)

Willow Creek Winery & Farm

Explore the gorgeous scenery

The first thing you will notice when you arrive at the winery is the vineyard-lined entrance, where you can drive slowly and leisurely to take in the gorgeous vines around you. This is a winding road, so be prepared to take some twists and turns as you go. Feel free to stop at different points along the vines where you can stroll among the gorgeous gardens and Alice in Wonderland-inspired art pieces created by a local artist. Each of the pieces of art makes for a unique start to your day and a great spot to stop and take those ‘gram-worthy pictures.

Take a vineyard tour or attend an event

Since Willow Creek Winery is in the heart of South Jersey’s Outer Coastal Plain wine-growing region, it’s got a prime climate for grape growing (it’s a microclimate similar to that of Bordeaux). You can take a tour by hopping on an eco-friendly cart and riding with a knowledgeable guide around the vineyard. The 45-minute tour showcases the beautiful 50-acre farm, featuring various types of grapes, sustainable farming methods, and the gardens on the property. If you’re planning to visit in the fall, you’ll get a peek at the stunning colors of the leaves as they change. And be on the lookout for their lively events, including Fire Pit Friday with live music, Sangria Sunday, Fall Fest, or celebrate during the Veterans Weekend Celebration.

An afternoon on the porch with friends and family is the ideal way to spend the day at Willow Creek Winery. Photo Credit: @willowcreekwinerynj

Wind down with a wine tasting 

What’s a winery visit without taking part in a wine tasting? Enjoy a private educational wine tasting with one of their wine educators, who will let you sample and learn more about all of their finest wines and sangrias. One of the things you will learn during this tasting is Willow Creek’s three-sip system that awakens your palate and might even change the way you look at hand-crafted wines from the farm. With a diverse lineup of 13 grape varieties grown on their 50‑acre vineyard, including both classic international grapes (think Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Malbec) and ones you don’t always see around (Chambourcin, Seyval Blanc, Petit Verdot), there’s something for everyone’s palate. You can try a few (or all!) by booking a self-guided wine tasting flight, which includes three wines served directly to your table. They have red, white, and rosé varietals that include dry and semi‑dry to semi‑sweet and dessert styles, some even crafted from fruit (Blackberry Merlot, anyone?).

Enjoy a delicious meal

You won’t be disappointed by the food choices, as the winery offers a full menu of gourmet entrees and treats. Indulge in a lobster roll platter, a deviled crab sandwich, spinach and artichoke dip, and a beet and goat cheese salad. When you sit down to eat, each table is set up picnic-style on the spacious brick patio on those perfect weather days or inside the rustic tasting room. Bringing little ones to the winery? Kids can order from a special children’s menu featuring chicken fingers, fries, pizza, and mozzarella sticks. Be sure to try their giant Bavarian pretzel, which is a huge hit with everyone who visits.

Host an event, have a party, or spend the afternoon relaxing at Willow Creek Winery. Photo Credit: @willowcreekwinerynj

What to know before you go

Willow Creek Winery is open daily, year-round, but hours vary seasonally; please check the website for current information before visiting. Outside food and drinks are not permitted at the winery, so make a reservation to ensure you secure a table, whether to enjoy a delicious meal or participate in wine tasting. One thing to note is that dining reservations are for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Want to bring your four-legged friends? Pets are welcome, provided they are leashed and remain in the outdoor seating areas. 

To learn more about Willow Creek Winery & Farm, visit their website, Facebook, and Instagram.

Willow Creek Winery & Farm
168 Stevens Street
West Cape May, NJ 08204

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