5 Things to Do in Cape May in Winter

Three friends laughing and walking down a street in Cape May in the Winter

Cape May is one of the most popular beach destinations in the United States. However, what most people don't realize is Cape May also offers the perfect cozy season getaway. 

Here at ICONA Cape May, we want you to make the most of Cape May in winter. Our modern oceanfront hotel blends upscale comfort with a timeless design, making it a great place to get away during the cozy season. 

On top of that, our team knows all about the top Cape May winter activities and events — and we're sharing them with you today. 

Here are five of the best things to do in Cape May County in the winter. 

1. Explore Cape May's Only Victorian House Museum

The Emlen Physick Estate is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates the beauty of Victorian architecture. 

Built in 1879, this 18-room mansion showcases the Victorian Stick Style architecture. 

Multiple estate tour options are available, including:

  • Emlen Physick Estate Tour: Consists of a guided tour of the mansion's first and second floors. 
  • Voices from Beyond House Tour: Lets you listen to recordings of actual spirit voices captured by museum staff members and view historical photos of the Physick family and their staff next to photos of apparitions people claim they've seen inside the mansion.
  • Strange Victorian Obsessions: Includes a tour of the mansion's first floor and teaches you about legendary magician Harry Houdini and others who were fascinated by the mystery and illusion of the Victorian period. 

There are many free activities and events you'll be able to enjoy at the museum, too. These include a Physick Estate scavenger hunt and "story stops" where you can get firsthand accounts of what life was like at the estate during Victorian days in Cape May. 

2. Roller-skate with a Beachfront View

If you prefer physical activity over history or want to enjoy the best of both worlds, stop by Cape May's Convention Hall for a one-of-a-kind cozy season roller-skating experience. 

In the cozy season, Convention Hall offers a roller-skating rink that's right next to the beach. Here, you can skate with family and friends and enjoy a stunning beachfront view. 

Convention Hall hosts roller-skating events on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays during cozy season. It also gives you the option to book roller-skating private events and birthday parties.

3. Get Your Game on at a Bustling Boardwalk Casino

Who says you have to wait until summertime to visit the boardwalk? A Cape May County favorite, Gateway 26 is located in Wildwood, roughly a 10-minute drive from Cape May.

Spend a cozy season Saturday or Sunday at Gateway 26, aka "the best casino arcade on the boardwalk."

It features games galore, including:

  • Arcade games
  • Casino games
  • Claw machines
  • Coin pushers

Gateway 26 offers 25,000 prizes across 18 categories, too. These include everything from penny goods to high-end plasma TVs and collectibles. 

4. Learn About an American Hero at the Harriet Tubman Museum

The Harriet Tubman Museum honors the courage, compassion, conviction, and legacy of American abolitionist and social activist Harriet Tubman. It is located on Lafayette Street in an area of Cape May that many anti-slavery activists once called home. 

According to the New Jersey Historical Commission, Tubman spent at least two summers in Cape May in the early 1850s. During this time, she may have helped lead dozens of slaves to freedom.

The museum offers a glimpse into Tubman's inspiring story, the history of abolitionist activism, and the legacy of the African American community in Cape May County.

Guests can enjoy a self-guided or guided tour of the museum on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. Admission is by timed entry, and we recommend you buy your tickets in advance. 

The museum does temporarily close in January, but is open through the rest of the season. 

5. Plan a Cozy Season Getaway with ICONA Hotels

An ICONA Cape May winter getaway makes it easy to break away from the daily grind. Here, you'll be able to relax and enjoy a breath of fresh air at the South Jersey Shore.

Our bright, chic rooms are beautifully decorated with custom furniture and luxe furnishings. We offer several room options to meet the needs of couples, families, and groups. 

Along with this, on the weekends, our ICONA shuttle provides convenient access to more than 100 restaurants in Cape May. If you want contemporary American cuisine or just a quick bite, we've got you covered.  

Keep an eye on our cozy season deals and events. These give you access to hotel specials and many other perks to help you transform your cozy season getaway into an unforgettable experience. 

Make Your Cape May Cozy Season One to Remember

There are many things you can do to enjoy the cozy season in Cape May. 

We encourage you to try any of the activities and events we've shared. And if you're ready for a cozy season getaway, the ICONA team is happy to help you out. 

Book your cozy season getaway at one of ICONA’s Cape May County properties.