Edit

Explore lesser-known Cape May locales

Arts and Entertainment

August 25, 2023

From: Cape May Museums, Arts, Culture

From a remarkable maritime history to the perils of the Underground Railroad to the spectacle of the monarch migration, there's more to learn in Cape May!

Maritime Combo Tour

Whaling, wartime and wild weather. The remarkable maritime history of our seaside town has long defined the Cape May story. Board the trolley and rediscover the important places and natural phenomena that have shaped, literally and figuratively, the Cape May we know today. The trolley then stops at Fisherman’s Wharf for an up-close walking tour about Cape May’s commercial fishing industry on the docks at The Lobster House. Tour begins and ends at Washington Street Mall Information Booth.

Purchase tickets here

Underground Railroad Trolley Tour

In the 1850s, Cape May was home to legendary figures of the anti-slavery movement. On the Underground Railroad Trolley Tour, you'll hear how Underground Railroad conductor Harriet Tubman worked for local hotels to fund her freedom missions, how formerly enslaved entrepreneur Stephen Smith's railroad cars carried hundreds to freedom, and much more. This tour begins and ends at the Ocean Street trolley stop.

Purchase tickets here

Combine this tour with a visit to the renowned Harriet Tubman Museum of New Jersey! See more information here.

Roots of Cape Island Trolley Tour

The roots of Cape Island and the surrounding area’s economy are in whaling and farming, and that heritage is still celebrated today. Hear how whalers centuries ago eked out a dangerous but lucrative living near Town Bank and how the area’s rich farming heritage continues to be a source of tremendous community pride. Learn about the Union Bethel community in 1831 in which Black residents thrived and the diverse community that continues to contribute to the vibrancy of island life today.

Purchase tickets here

Natural Habitats Trolley Tour

Beyond the charming Victorian homes and sandy beaches, Cape May is world famous for its birdwatching, monarch migration, and natural history. Join Cape May Bird Observatory naturalists on a trolley tour to local natural habitats, learning about the beauty, diversity, and extensive history of this amazing spectacle. Relax and be entertained in the birding capital of North America! This tour begins and ends at the Ocean Street trolley stop.

Purchase tickets here

For a full line-up of Cape May MAC's tours and events:

Learn More

For more information visit capemaymac.org or call 609-884-5404. For accessibility information regarding our sites and tours, learn more here.