It’s easy to see why the entire city of Cape May is a National Historic Landmark. Stepping into the resort town, most of which was rebuilt following a 1878 fire, is like rewinding back to Victorian times, with hundreds of homes built in the charming architectural style — the second highest concentration after San Francisco. Along with its vibrant cultural offerings — which include the historic Carroll Gallery and the Exit Zero Jazz Festival — the region is also widely known for its beaches and other natural wonders. This is a popular spot for fishing (it’s home to the East Coast’s second-largest fishing port) and birding (more than 400 species have been recorded here).

Ask any New Jerseyans where they live, and they’ll likely tell you by a highway exit number — Cape May is known as the Garden State Parkway’s famous Exit Zero. As the southernmost tip of the state, the easiest way to get here is by car. The town is about a 90-minute drive from Philadelphia and about three hours from Baltimore and New York City. But since the only way to and from Cape May is via one of two bridges, build in time for traffic on popular travel days. Those coming from the south may consider the 80-minute ferry ride across the Delaware Bay from Lewes, Delaware. Buses also run from Philadelphia, New York City, and many New Jersey towns. If you’re coming from further away, there’s Cape May County Airport (WWD) for private planes or Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) about 45 minutes north. Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is the closest major terminal, an hour-and-40-minute drive away. Once you’re here, most visitors tend to walk around town, though a free jitney, bike rentals, and taxis are also options.

Like the rest of the Jersey Shore, Cape May’s liveliest season kicks off on Memorial Day with a Memorial Day Ceremony. The pleasant weather is accompanied by plenty of outdoor activities, such as the Independence Day Parade, Baby Parade (open to those ages 12 and younger), the MidAtlantic big game fishing tournament, and Rotary Park Concerts throughout the season. Cape May is known as one of the world’s best spots for birding in the autumn, with a fall festival dedicated to the peak migration. Though the temperatures drop as it nears December, the cozy Christmas spirit comes to life, with the decorated Victorian homes looking straight out of a storybook; Christmas Candlelight House Tours have been running here since 1973. The first few months of the year are the chilliest, but also mark a quiet time to take in the Cape.

Victorian Homes and Emlen Physick Estate

Strolling through the seaside town is like stepping back in time thanks to more than 600 preserved and restored Victorian buildings. For a deeper dive into the architecture, stop by the 18-room Emlen Physick Estate, the city’s Victorian House Museum.

Cape May Lighthouse

The 199-step climb to the top of the tower, built in 1859, reveals views of Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, while the Oil House on the ground level features displays of maritime artifacts. Buy a combination ticket to also visit the World War II Lookout Tower down the road. For those who enjoy getting spooked, the Ghosts of the Lighthouse Trolley Tour brings to light all the paranormal activities in the area.

Nature Center of Cape May

Run by the New Jersey Audubon Society, this nature preserve offers year-round programming, as well as a walking trail, kayaking, and paddle boarding. There’s a three-story observation tower for a bird’s-eye view. The society also runs the Cape May Bird Observatory at Cape May Point, which hosts the World Series of Birding each May.