I can’t help but feel like I am a part of a very small group of young adults who actually love and appreciate living in Cape May during the “off-season”. I hear way too many people say they dislike this time of year and complain that there isn’t anything to do. Just because the crowds disappear, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the town just the same. I wanted to take the time to share a few of my top favorite ways to enjoy Cape May in its beautiful state of tranquility.
I’m going to start with the obvious, also one of the most popular activities popular in peak season aside from the beaches – wineries, breweries, and distilleries. Some close mid-week, while others don’t. Willow Creek Winery, for example, shortens their hours and their tapas menu but keeps their gorgeous fireplace burning year-round and I have yet to find a better place to unwind.
Yes, there are various places for meetings in town, but my personal favorite is Magic Brain Café. They are not completely closing this season! They’ll be open weekends when January hits but back in full swing by February and I am super excited about that – hence why I can’t help but mention it in this post. Small family-owned businesses are my favorite, especially when they’re super cozy in the chilly months. You can grab your coffee and run or sit and hang out, have meetings, or mingle with the other locals while you wait!
Although restaurants are limited in the off-season, my favorites are open year-round and it’s definitely a bonus. Lucky Bones is a go-to for me – for everything. Lunch, dinner, drinks, good conversation, great prices, and the service is awesome. Shout out to Brian at the bar, because his margaritas are out of this world. No idea if he is still there, but if he is and you get him as your bartender – consider it your lucky day. Some of my other off-season favorites are Fins, the Lobster House, Mad Batter, Georges, and Bella Vida.
I also feel as if not enough locals have given the Mid Atlantic Center for the Arts (a.k.a MAC) a chance to help them explore their own hometown. You see the trolleys all summer long, you hear the tour guides and educators speaking on the mics, yet you most likely have never taken a tour yourselves. Am I right or am I right? The trolleys run year-round, with special themes. They have everything from ghosts tours to history, homes and holiday tours. LOCALS: If you didn’t know, they offer memberships! This is awesome for those of you who have rentals and want to supply your tenants, family, and friends with all things Cape May. You can check them out here!
Lastly, have you ever just taken the time to walk the promenade while the traffic lights are blinking yellow and there’s not a soul on the beach? Have you strolled along the back streets of the town to look at the homes and Bed & Breakfasts to admire the detailed Victorian architecture? It’s no secret that Cape May is a beautiful town, but it becomes that much more beautiful when you take the time to appreciate the little things. For me, I wouldn’t trade the quiet off-season after a busy summer for anything.
What are your favorite things to do in Cape May’s off-season? Let me know in the comments on my Instagram post!
There has been no compensation for the mentioning of the businesses above and all opinions are that of the writer.