On the Way to Cape May: A Guide to the Ultimate Family Vacation

It’s hard to believe that the unofficial start to summer is just a few days away! As the entire city starts flocking to the Jersey shore you might have the urge to plan a week away with your family, too. And we found just the spot to unplug and spend some quality time together—Cape May.

With quaint Victorian houses, a historic lighthouse, beautiful beaches and seriously good eats to satisfy any foodie, it’s a getaway the whole group will love. Plus, it’s less than two hours away. Just as the rumblings of “are we there yet?” start to beckon from the backseat, you’ll be pulling up to the charming town’s sandy shores.

Here’s everything you need to know about planning a memorable week away in Cape May:

Where to Stay

The Grand Hotel Cape May is the ideal location to occupy the entire family. The kiddos can play inside the onsite arcade and game room, take a dip in the indoor and outdoor pools, or participate in the Ecoventures day camp, while mom and dad sit back and relax, sipping cocktails in a seaside cabana. Your little ones can learn to skim board, bodyboard and explore local marine life during their weeklong camp session. Meanwhile, you’ll be soaking up the sunshine and must-needed R&R at the poolside Tiki bar.

What to Do

When you’re not hanging by the pool, there are plenty of family-friendly activities all over town. For animal lovers, there’s the Cape May County Zoo (voted one of the best zoos in the U.S), Jersey Shore Alpacas (like a petting zoo but with alpacas), and the Salt Marsh Safari  (an eco-cruise exposing you to the wildlife and marine animals that call Cape May home). If you’re looking for something a little less wild, why not swing by the Fire Museum (there’s free admission!) or the Cape May Lighthouse? They’re both historic sites and make for great learning opportunities. At night, you can station yourselves on the Stockton beach for a movie night under the stars. It’s the perfect way to end an adventure filled day.

What to Eat

If you don’t want to wander offsite for dinner, you don’t have to. The Grand Hotel’s casual cool restaurant and lounge, Hemingway’s will suit the whole family’s needs. With plenty of options for pint-sized picky eaters and an impressive list of specialty cocktails, you’ll keep the whole clan well fed and in good spirits. Other island highlights include, Hot Dog Tommy’s (quick bites like chili cheese dogs), George’s Place (an all-American breakfast), Mario’s (locals love the pizza and garlic knots) and The Red Store (fine dining with to-die-for empanadas).

When to Go

Throughout June and July, The Grand Hotel Cape May is offering deals during a midweek stay. You can save up to 40 percent. Plus, you’ll receive breakfast every day, one dinner and your choice of either two all-day passes to Morey’s Piers in Wildwood or four passes to Cape May’s dolphin and whale watching cruise boats.

 

Start making memories by booking a family stay at The Grand Hotel on Cape May this summer.

This is a paid partnership between The Grand Hotel of Cape May and Philadelphia Magazine