Cape May

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:NP.

There is a tiny boardwalk in Cape May that has a small arcade, fudge shop, and the required-at-the-shore beach stores. My kids (tweens) like playing a few games, getting the free sample of fudge, and trying to talk me into buying more.

The lighthouse is a must (even if you don't climb it) and there's usually something going on there. We've seen animal shows and art shows there. For events during your stay check https://www.capemay.com/calendar/

We play mini golf at sunset beach, but there are other courses, too.

Wildwood is fine for one day or one night. I wouldn't schlep teens to Ocean City.

Go to the Washington Street mall to window shop and get ice cream (or my fave Kohr Bros frozen custard).

There is also a small winery (not for the teens but maybe for the others) that gives tours and has small plates of food.

Look into taking the ferry across one way on your way there or your way home. We usually take it home because it's easier to time.

-- signed another who has spent my life going to the Jersey shore (and my dad grew up there!)

This would be exactly my list of recommendations, too. We love Cape May. And to chime in again on the Wildwood vs OC debate, Wildwood is FINE and lots of fun! We go with everyone from toddlers to grandparents and there's nothing unsafe or even really unsavory along the boardwalk aside from a few tacky t-shirts. I truly don't understand the shade people are giving to Wildwood/Morey's Piers. But I wouldn't spend the night if you have lodging in Cape May, it's a really easy excursion.

Finally another voice of reason. Advising OP to drive 25 miles in summer traffic to go to Ocean City when Wildwood is the next town over and probably has the best boardwalk in the entire state is just plain nuts.

+1

Have been going to wildwood every year since I was born (the Crest, not wildwood proper. Much quieter). My parents still have a house there. Nothing beats the wildwood boardwalk. Driving to Ocean City makes no sense, if it’s rides and boardwalk atmosphere you’re looking for. At 50 I still love walking the wildwood boards at night.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My suggestion - if you have teens and want to do a boardwalk day or evening, drive from Cape May and bypass Wildwood and head to Ocean City. It is a bit farther but it is so much nicer. Ocean City is very family oriented and a dry town. Boardwalk is smoke-free. There are arcades and rides and pizza, fudge and all kinds of fair food all along the boardwalk plus escape rooms and mini golf, etc. Wildwood caters to drinkers and partiers and is generally more of a working-class vibe. And face it, we're on DCUM, so I think I can say that. Ocean City is classier. If you do this, I suggest going during the week. Weekends will be crazier with parking and crowds.

Things to do in Cape May:
Emlen Phyisick Estate Tour
Trolley tours
Cape May Lighthouse Tour
Harriet Tubman Museum (just opened last year)
Stroll Victorian streets
Rent a surrey for an hour
Go to sunset beach at Cape May Point and look for Cape May diamonds
Visit the Cape May County zoo (it's actually quite nice!)
Go to Ocean City (NJ) boardwalk one afternoon/early evening
Go to the Lobster House (go during the week!) Casual outside on the water; more formal inside
Get fudge from Fudge Kitchen
Visit the inside of Congress Hall if not staying there
Go for tea
Brunch at Mad Batter
Uncle Bills for pancakes or Ocean View for family-friendly meals.
Learn the words to "On the Way to Cape May"
Watch this video to get in the mood: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2B-7kimKBTk

Enjoy!
I've been going to Cape May for 40+ years.

This poster knows nothing. If you have teenaged kids they want the Wildwood boardwalk, not the Ocean City boardwalk. There’s simply no comparison. Teenagers don’t care about “class” - they care about how awesome the rides are!

Yes, I know nothing. Spent my whole life going to the Jersey Shore and I have two teenagers. There are fun rides in Ocean City. My kids love it. Wildwood is trashy.

Trust me, you don’t know Cape May County better than I do. And if you wanna talk “class,” then let’s: Ocean City is trash compared to Avalon, Stone Harbor and for that matter Cape May. It’s a middle of the road Cape May County shore town, and it’s certainly not worth schlepping all the way there from Cape May - 25 friggin miles - for their cheesy little boardwalk.

Wildwood is the next town over from Cape May and its boardwalk is suitable for all ages - not just 8 year olds - and has the best rides around for teenagers. And don’t worry, the “working class” won’t hurt them either. 😂

Well obviously we have different opinions. Whatever. I gave mine. You gave yours. OP can read more about them both and decide. Lots of YouTube videos and other descriptions online. Been spending my summers at the Jersey Shore since the early 70s from Atlantic City to Cape May. Family owned a condo there. Have a good night.

I have family who lives in the area and I’ve spent time at most of the beach towns. Cape May is my fav, followed by OC. Wildwood is trashy. The rest are boring. I thought Wildwood was gross as a teen myself. But obviously it appeals to some people based on the crowds.

No one is talking about whether Wildwood is a good place for a beach vacation. The focus of the discussion is which boardwalk is better for teenagers looking to have some fun. And the answer is obvious. Especially if you are in Cape May, there is no reason to go to the Ocean City boardwalk when Wildwood is right next-door and its amusements are much more geared towards teenagers than Ocean City’s.

To advise 0P not to go to Wildwood solely because of what some of its patrons look like is disgusting.

It’s not just the patrons, but the shops, activities, and general atmosphere.

Trashy doesn’t appeal to all teens.

Such prudes. I’m sure glad I didn’t have parents like you - and that my kids don’t either.

Prude? Hardly.

We didn’t even consider wildwood for our senior beach trip. It’s just gross.

I'm a PP above who said it was fine. Curious what exactly was so gross? I don't know about stuff happening in motels off the boardwalk, but I can't think of anything that I've seen day or evening on the Wildwood boardwalk that would give me serious pause about recommending it to anyone.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My suggestion - if you have teens and want to do a boardwalk day or evening, drive from Cape May and bypass Wildwood and head to Ocean City. It is a bit farther but it is so much nicer. Ocean City is very family oriented and a dry town. Boardwalk is smoke-free. There are arcades and rides and pizza, fudge and all kinds of fair food all along the boardwalk plus escape rooms and mini golf, etc. Wildwood caters to drinkers and partiers and is generally more of a working-class vibe. And face it, we're on DCUM, so I think I can say that. Ocean City is classier. If you do this, I suggest going during the week. Weekends will be crazier with parking and crowds.

Things to do in Cape May:
Emlen Phyisick Estate Tour
Trolley tours
Cape May Lighthouse Tour
Harriet Tubman Museum (just opened last year)
Stroll Victorian streets
Rent a surrey for an hour
Go to sunset beach at Cape May Point and look for Cape May diamonds
Visit the Cape May County zoo (it's actually quite nice!)
Go to Ocean City (NJ) boardwalk one afternoon/early evening
Go to the Lobster House (go during the week!) Casual outside on the water; more formal inside
Get fudge from Fudge Kitchen
Visit the inside of Congress Hall if not staying there
Go for tea
Brunch at Mad Batter
Uncle Bills for pancakes or Ocean View for family-friendly meals.
Learn the words to "On the Way to Cape May"
Watch this video to get in the mood: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2B-7kimKBTk

Enjoy!
I've been going to Cape May for 40+ years.

This poster knows nothing. If you have teenaged kids they want the Wildwood boardwalk, not the Ocean City boardwalk. There’s simply no comparison. Teenagers don’t care about “class” - they care about how awesome the rides are!

Yes, I know nothing. Spent my whole life going to the Jersey Shore and I have two teenagers. There are fun rides in Ocean City. My kids love it. Wildwood is trashy.

Trust me, you don’t know Cape May County better than I do. And if you wanna talk “class,” then let’s: Ocean City is trash compared to Avalon, Stone Harbor and for that matter Cape May. It’s a middle of the road Cape May County shore town, and it’s certainly not worth schlepping all the way there from Cape May - 25 friggin miles - for their cheesy little boardwalk.

Wildwood is the next town over from Cape May and its boardwalk is suitable for all ages - not just 8 year olds - and has the best rides around for teenagers. And don’t worry, the “working class” won’t hurt them either. 😂

Well obviously we have different opinions. Whatever. I gave mine. You gave yours. OP can read more about them both and decide. Lots of YouTube videos and other descriptions online. Been spending my summers at the Jersey Shore since the early 70s from Atlantic City to Cape May. Family owned a condo there. Have a good night.

I have family who lives in the area and I’ve spent time at most of the beach towns. Cape May is my fav, followed by OC. Wildwood is trashy. The rest are boring. I thought Wildwood was gross as a teen myself. But obviously it appeals to some people based on the crowds.

No one is talking about whether Wildwood is a good place for a beach vacation. The focus of the discussion is which boardwalk is better for teenagers looking to have some fun. And the answer is obvious. Especially if you are in Cape May, there is no reason to go to the Ocean City boardwalk when Wildwood is right next-door and its amusements are much more geared towards teenagers than Ocean City’s.

To advise 0P not to go to Wildwood solely because of what some of its patrons look like is disgusting.

It’s not just the patrons, but the shops, activities, and general atmosphere.

Trashy doesn’t appeal to all teens.

Such prudes. I’m sure glad I didn’t have parents like you - and that my kids don’t either.

Prude? Hardly.

We didn’t even consider wildwood for our senior beach trip. It’s just gross.

I'm a PP above who said it was fine. Curious what exactly was so gross? I don't know about stuff happening in motels off the boardwalk, but I can't think of anything that I've seen day or evening on the Wildwood boardwalk that would give me serious pause about recommending it to anyone.

It’s not dangerous. It’s just not somewhere where I’d want to spend time. There are better options that aren’t as trashy.

I can’t believe people are actually recommending it.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My suggestion - if you have teens and want to do a boardwalk day or evening, drive from Cape May and bypass Wildwood and head to Ocean City. It is a bit farther but it is so much nicer. Ocean City is very family oriented and a dry town. Boardwalk is smoke-free. There are arcades and rides and pizza, fudge and all kinds of fair food all along the boardwalk plus escape rooms and mini golf, etc. Wildwood caters to drinkers and partiers and is generally more of a working-class vibe. And face it, we're on DCUM, so I think I can say that. Ocean City is classier. If you do this, I suggest going during the week. Weekends will be crazier with parking and crowds.

Things to do in Cape May:
Emlen Phyisick Estate Tour
Trolley tours
Cape May Lighthouse Tour
Harriet Tubman Museum (just opened last year)
Stroll Victorian streets
Rent a surrey for an hour
Go to sunset beach at Cape May Point and look for Cape May diamonds
Visit the Cape May County zoo (it's actually quite nice!)
Go to Ocean City (NJ) boardwalk one afternoon/early evening
Go to the Lobster House (go during the week!) Casual outside on the water; more formal inside
Get fudge from Fudge Kitchen
Visit the inside of Congress Hall if not staying there
Go for tea
Brunch at Mad Batter
Uncle Bills for pancakes or Ocean View for family-friendly meals.
Learn the words to "On the Way to Cape May"
Watch this video to get in the mood: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2B-7kimKBTk

Enjoy!
I've been going to Cape May for 40+ years.

This poster knows nothing. If you have teenaged kids they want the Wildwood boardwalk, not the Ocean City boardwalk. There’s simply no comparison. Teenagers don’t care about “class” - they care about how awesome the rides are!

Yes, I know nothing. Spent my whole life going to the Jersey Shore and I have two teenagers. There are fun rides in Ocean City. My kids love it. Wildwood is trashy.

Trust me, you don’t know Cape May County better than I do. And if you wanna talk “class,” then let’s: Ocean City is trash compared to Avalon, Stone Harbor and for that matter Cape May. It’s a middle of the road Cape May County shore town, and it’s certainly not worth schlepping all the way there from Cape May - 25 friggin miles - for their cheesy little boardwalk.

Wildwood is the next town over from Cape May and its boardwalk is suitable for all ages - not just 8 year olds - and has the best rides around for teenagers. And don’t worry, the “working class” won’t hurt them either. 😂

Well obviously we have different opinions. Whatever. I gave mine. You gave yours. OP can read more about them both and decide. Lots of YouTube videos and other descriptions online. Been spending my summers at the Jersey Shore since the early 70s from Atlantic City to Cape May. Family owned a condo there. Have a good night.

I have family who lives in the area and I’ve spent time at most of the beach towns. Cape May is my fav, followed by OC. Wildwood is trashy. The rest are boring. I thought Wildwood was gross as a teen myself. But obviously it appeals to some people based on the crowds.

No one is talking about whether Wildwood is a good place for a beach vacation. The focus of the discussion is which boardwalk is better for teenagers looking to have some fun. And the answer is obvious. Especially if you are in Cape May, there is no reason to go to the Ocean City boardwalk when Wildwood is right next-door and its amusements are much more geared towards teenagers than Ocean City’s.

To advise 0P not to go to Wildwood solely because of what some of its patrons look like is disgusting.

It’s not just the patrons, but the shops, activities, and general atmosphere.

Trashy doesn’t appeal to all teens.

Such prudes. I’m sure glad I didn’t have parents like you - and that my kids don’t either.

Prude? Hardly.

We didn’t even consider wildwood for our senior beach trip. It’s just gross.

I'm a PP above who said it was fine. Curious what exactly was so gross? I don't know about stuff happening in motels off the boardwalk, but I can't think of anything that I've seen day or evening on the Wildwood boardwalk that would give me serious pause about recommending it to anyone.

It’s not dangerous. It’s just not somewhere where I’d want to spend time. There are better options that aren’t as trashy.

I can’t believe people are actually recommending it.

Are you the Ocean City poster? If you are, guess what: Ocean City is trash compared to Avalon and Stone Harbor, and when Avalon and Stone Harbor residents and visitors go to the boardwalk, believe me they don’t go to Ocean City. They go to Wildwood. Ocean City is a big yawn. Sterile AF and with only little baby rides. Wildwood has character.

[Anonymous]

PP here. Also, no one is “recommending” anything. They’re just saying if you want to take to teenagers to the boardwalk you drive 4 miles to Wildwood, not 25 to Ocean City, because the Wildwood boardwalk is a lot more colorful and a lot more fun.

Not everybody is afraid of seeing somebody with a tattoo.

[Anonymous]

One more suggestion for non beach things to do in Cape May would be whale watching. It’s good for a range of ages— a nice thing grandparents can enjoy with grandkids.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My suggestion - if you have teens and want to do a boardwalk day or evening, drive from Cape May and bypass Wildwood and head to Ocean City. It is a bit farther but it is so much nicer. Ocean City is very family oriented and a dry town. Boardwalk is smoke-free. There are arcades and rides and pizza, fudge and all kinds of fair food all along the boardwalk plus escape rooms and mini golf, etc. Wildwood caters to drinkers and partiers and is generally more of a working-class vibe. And face it, we're on DCUM, so I think I can say that. Ocean City is classier. If you do this, I suggest going during the week. Weekends will be crazier with parking and crowds.

Things to do in Cape May:
Emlen Phyisick Estate Tour
Trolley tours
Cape May Lighthouse Tour
Harriet Tubman Museum (just opened last year)
Stroll Victorian streets
Rent a surrey for an hour
Go to sunset beach at Cape May Point and look for Cape May diamonds
Visit the Cape May County zoo (it's actually quite nice!)
Go to Ocean City (NJ) boardwalk one afternoon/early evening
Go to the Lobster House (go during the week!) Casual outside on the water; more formal inside
Get fudge from Fudge Kitchen
Visit the inside of Congress Hall if not staying there
Go for tea
Brunch at Mad Batter
Uncle Bills for pancakes or Ocean View for family-friendly meals.
Learn the words to "On the Way to Cape May"
Watch this video to get in the mood: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2B-7kimKBTk

Enjoy!
I've been going to Cape May for 40+ years.

This poster knows nothing. If you have teenaged kids they want the Wildwood boardwalk, not the Ocean City boardwalk. There’s simply no comparison. Teenagers don’t care about “class” - they care about how awesome the rides are!

+1 for Océan City. Much nicer than Wildwood. Although I might regret directing more people there, haha.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My suggestion - if you have teens and want to do a boardwalk day or evening, drive from Cape May and bypass Wildwood and head to Ocean City. It is a bit farther but it is so much nicer. Ocean City is very family oriented and a dry town. Boardwalk is smoke-free. There are arcades and rides and pizza, fudge and all kinds of fair food all along the boardwalk plus escape rooms and mini golf, etc. Wildwood caters to drinkers and partiers and is generally more of a working-class vibe. And face it, we're on DCUM, so I think I can say that. Ocean City is classier. If you do this, I suggest going during the week. Weekends will be crazier with parking and crowds.

Things to do in Cape May:
Emlen Phyisick Estate Tour
Trolley tours
Cape May Lighthouse Tour
Harriet Tubman Museum (just opened last year)
Stroll Victorian streets
Rent a surrey for an hour
Go to sunset beach at Cape May Point and look for Cape May diamonds
Visit the Cape May County zoo (it's actually quite nice!)
Go to Ocean City (NJ) boardwalk one afternoon/early evening
Go to the Lobster House (go during the week!) Casual outside on the water; more formal inside
Get fudge from Fudge Kitchen
Visit the inside of Congress Hall if not staying there
Go for tea
Brunch at Mad Batter
Uncle Bills for pancakes or Ocean View for family-friendly meals.
Learn the words to "On the Way to Cape May"
Watch this video to get in the mood: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2B-7kimKBTk

Enjoy!
I've been going to Cape May for 40+ years.

This poster knows nothing. If you have teenaged kids they want the Wildwood boardwalk, not the Ocean City boardwalk. There’s simply no comparison. Teenagers don’t care about “class” - they care about how awesome the rides are!

+1 for Océan City. Much nicer than Wildwood. Although I might regret directing more people there, haha.

This thread is hardly going to send droves of Cape May vacationers past Wildwood to Ocean City, given that at the moment, pre summer holiday, it takes a whopping 45 minutes to get to the OC boardwalk vs 19 to the Wildwood boardwalk from central Cape May. All for fewer rides. When there's a super quiet, cute, and mildly entertaining boardwalk in Cape May already!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:NP.

There is a tiny boardwalk in Cape May that has a small arcade, fudge shop, and the required-at-the-shore beach stores. My kids (tweens) like playing a few games, getting the free sample of fudge, and trying to talk me into buying more.

The lighthouse is a must (even if you don't climb it) and there's usually something going on there. We've seen animal shows and art shows there. For events during your stay check https://www.capemay.com/calendar/

We play mini golf at sunset beach, but there are other courses, too.

Wildwood is fine for one day or one night. I wouldn't schlep teens to Ocean City.

Go to the Washington Street mall to window shop and get ice cream (or my fave Kohr Bros frozen custard).

There is also a small winery (not for the teens but maybe for the others) that gives tours and has small plates of food.

Look into taking the ferry across one way on your way there or your way home. We usually take it home because it's easier to time.

-- signed another who has spent my life going to the Jersey shore (and my dad grew up there!)

This would be exactly my list of recommendations, too. We love Cape May. And to chime in again on the Wildwood vs OC debate, Wildwood is FINE and lots of fun! We go with everyone from toddlers to grandparents and there's nothing unsafe or even really unsavory along the boardwalk aside from a few tacky t-shirts. I truly don't understand the shade people are giving to Wildwood/Morey's Piers. But I wouldn't spend the night if you have lodging in Cape May, it's a really easy excursion.

Thanks! One thing I forgot, there are free movies on the beach once a week

https://www.capemaycity.com/movies-on-the-beach

Cape May 2023 Free Movies on the Beach Lineup

JULY 6 Top Gun Maverick
JULY 13 Moana
JULY 20 The Mighty Ducks
JULY 27 Elf
AUGUST 3 Lilo and Stitch
AUGUST 10 JAWS
AUGUST 17 Jumanji
AUGUST 24 Pirates of the Caribbean – Curse of the Black Pearl
AUGUST 31 Honey I Shrunk The Kids

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My suggestion - if you have teens and want to do a boardwalk day or evening, drive from Cape May and bypass Wildwood and head to Ocean City. It is a bit farther but it is so much nicer. Ocean City is very family oriented and a dry town. Boardwalk is smoke-free. There are arcades and rides and pizza, fudge and all kinds of fair food all along the boardwalk plus escape rooms and mini golf, etc. Wildwood caters to drinkers and partiers and is generally more of a working-class vibe. And face it, we're on DCUM, so I think I can say that. Ocean City is classier. If you do this, I suggest going during the week. Weekends will be crazier with parking and crowds.

Things to do in Cape May:
Emlen Phyisick Estate Tour
Trolley tours
Cape May Lighthouse Tour
Harriet Tubman Museum (just opened last year)
Stroll Victorian streets
Rent a surrey for an hour
Go to sunset beach at Cape May Point and look for Cape May diamonds
Visit the Cape May County zoo (it's actually quite nice!)
Go to Ocean City (NJ) boardwalk one afternoon/early evening
Go to the Lobster House (go during the week!) Casual outside on the water; more formal inside
Get fudge from Fudge Kitchen
Visit the inside of Congress Hall if not staying there
Go for tea
Brunch at Mad Batter
Uncle Bills for pancakes or Ocean View for family-friendly meals.
Learn the words to "On the Way to Cape May"
Watch this video to get in the mood: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2B-7kimKBTk

Enjoy!
I've been going to Cape May for 40+ years.

This poster knows nothing. If you have teenaged kids they want the Wildwood boardwalk, not the Ocean City boardwalk. There’s simply no comparison. Teenagers don’t care about “class” - they care about how awesome the rides are!

+1 for Océan City. Much nicer than Wildwood. Although I might regret directing more people there, haha.

This thread is hardly going to send droves of Cape May vacationers past Wildwood to Ocean City, given that at the moment, pre summer holiday, it takes a whopping 45 minutes to get to the OC boardwalk vs 19 to the Wildwood boardwalk from central Cape May. All for fewer rides. When there's a super quiet, cute, and mildly entertaining boardwalk in Cape May already!

Exactly. It’s just so insanely stupid, especially when you’re talking about teenagers. Ocean City is for white folks with little kids who can’t afford Avalon and Stone Harbor yet for some reason still think they’re special. Definitely not worth driving 45 minutes from Cape May to see it. Please.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My suggestion - if you have teens and want to do a boardwalk day or evening, drive from Cape May and bypass Wildwood and head to Ocean City. It is a bit farther but it is so much nicer. Ocean City is very family oriented and a dry town. Boardwalk is smoke-free. There are arcades and rides and pizza, fudge and all kinds of fair food all along the boardwalk plus escape rooms and mini golf, etc. Wildwood caters to drinkers and partiers and is generally more of a working-class vibe. And face it, we're on DCUM, so I think I can say that. Ocean City is classier. If you do this, I suggest going during the week. Weekends will be crazier with parking and crowds.

Things to do in Cape May:
Emlen Phyisick Estate Tour
Trolley tours
Cape May Lighthouse Tour
Harriet Tubman Museum (just opened last year)
Stroll Victorian streets
Rent a surrey for an hour
Go to sunset beach at Cape May Point and look for Cape May diamonds
Visit the Cape May County zoo (it's actually quite nice!)
Go to Ocean City (NJ) boardwalk one afternoon/early evening
Go to the Lobster House (go during the week!) Casual outside on the water; more formal inside
Get fudge from Fudge Kitchen
Visit the inside of Congress Hall if not staying there
Go for tea
Brunch at Mad Batter
Uncle Bills for pancakes or Ocean View for family-friendly meals.
Learn the words to "On the Way to Cape May"
Watch this video to get in the mood: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2B-7kimKBTk

Enjoy!
I've been going to Cape May for 40+ years.

This poster knows nothing. If you have teenaged kids they want the Wildwood boardwalk, not the Ocean City boardwalk. There’s simply no comparison. Teenagers don’t care about “class” - they care about how awesome the rides are!

Yes, I know nothing. Spent my whole life going to the Jersey Shore and I have two teenagers. There are fun rides in Ocean City. My kids love it. Wildwood is trashy.

Trust me, you don’t know Cape May County better than I do. And if you wanna talk “class,” then let’s: Ocean City is trash compared to Avalon, Stone Harbor and for that matter Cape May. It’s a middle of the road Cape May County shore town, and it’s certainly not worth schlepping all the way there from Cape May - 25 friggin miles - for their cheesy little boardwalk.

Wildwood is the next town over from Cape May and its boardwalk is suitable for all ages - not just 8 year olds - and has the best rides around for teenagers. And don’t worry, the “working class” won’t hurt them either. 😂

Well obviously we have different opinions. Whatever. I gave mine. You gave yours. OP can read more about them both and decide. Lots of YouTube videos and other descriptions online. Been spending my summers at the Jersey Shore since the early 70s from Atlantic City to Cape May. Family owned a condo there. Have a good night.

I have family who lives in the area and I’ve spent time at most of the beach towns. Cape May is my fav, followed by OC. Wildwood is trashy. The rest are boring. I thought Wildwood was gross as a teen myself. But obviously it appeals to some people based on the crowds.

No one is talking about whether Wildwood is a good place for a beach vacation. The focus of the discussion is which boardwalk is better for teenagers looking to have some fun. And the answer is obvious. Especially if you are in Cape May, there is no reason to go to the Ocean City boardwalk when Wildwood is right next-door and its amusements are much more geared towards teenagers than Ocean City’s.

To advise 0P not to go to Wildwood solely because of what some of its patrons look like is disgusting.

It’s not just the patrons, but the shops, activities, and general atmosphere.

Trashy doesn’t appeal to all teens.

Such prudes. I’m sure glad I didn’t have parents like you - and that my kids don’t either.

Prude? Hardly.

We didn’t even consider wildwood for our senior beach trip. It’s just gross.

I'm a PP above who said it was fine. Curious what exactly was so gross? I don't know about stuff happening in motels off the boardwalk, but I can't think of anything that I've seen day or evening on the Wildwood boardwalk that would give me serious pause about recommending it to anyone.

It’s not dangerous. It’s just not somewhere where I’d want to spend time. There are better options that aren’t as trashy.

I can’t believe people are actually recommending it.

We took our teen niece and nephew with us to wildwood. They usually go to Rehoboth. They loved it and can’t wait to go again but their stuck up parents won’t take them. We stay in the crest but love the noise, smells, rides and people watching on the boardwalk. So interesting and fun. Cape May, which we have visited a couple of times is a snooze fest. But you will be surrounded by people just like you.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My suggestion - if you have teens and want to do a boardwalk day or evening, drive from Cape May and bypass Wildwood and head to Ocean City. It is a bit farther but it is so much nicer. Ocean City is very family oriented and a dry town. Boardwalk is smoke-free. There are arcades and rides and pizza, fudge and all kinds of fair food all along the boardwalk plus escape rooms and mini golf, etc. Wildwood caters to drinkers and partiers and is generally more of a working-class vibe. And face it, we're on DCUM, so I think I can say that. Ocean City is classier. If you do this, I suggest going during the week. Weekends will be crazier with parking and crowds.

Things to do in Cape May:
Emlen Phyisick Estate Tour
Trolley tours
Cape May Lighthouse Tour
Harriet Tubman Museum (just opened last year)
Stroll Victorian streets
Rent a surrey for an hour
Go to sunset beach at Cape May Point and look for Cape May diamonds
Visit the Cape May County zoo (it's actually quite nice!)
Go to Ocean City (NJ) boardwalk one afternoon/early evening
Go to the Lobster House (go during the week!) Casual outside on the water; more formal inside
Get fudge from Fudge Kitchen
Visit the inside of Congress Hall if not staying there
Go for tea
Brunch at Mad Batter
Uncle Bills for pancakes or Ocean View for family-friendly meals.
Learn the words to "On the Way to Cape May"
Watch this video to get in the mood: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2B-7kimKBTk

Enjoy!
I've been going to Cape May for 40+ years.

This poster knows nothing. If you have teenaged kids they want the Wildwood boardwalk, not the Ocean City boardwalk. There’s simply no comparison. Teenagers don’t care about “class” - they care about how awesome the rides are!

Yes, I know nothing. Spent my whole life going to the Jersey Shore and I have two teenagers. There are fun rides in Ocean City. My kids love it. Wildwood is trashy.

Trust me, you don’t know Cape May County better than I do. And if you wanna talk “class,” then let’s: Ocean City is trash compared to Avalon, Stone Harbor and for that matter Cape May. It’s a middle of the road Cape May County shore town, and it’s certainly not worth schlepping all the way there from Cape May - 25 friggin miles - for their cheesy little boardwalk.

Wildwood is the next town over from Cape May and its boardwalk is suitable for all ages - not just 8 year olds - and has the best rides around for teenagers. And don’t worry, the “working class” won’t hurt them either. 😂

Well obviously we have different opinions. Whatever. I gave mine. You gave yours. OP can read more about them both and decide. Lots of YouTube videos and other descriptions online. Been spending my summers at the Jersey Shore since the early 70s from Atlantic City to Cape May. Family owned a condo there. Have a good night.

I have family who lives in the area and I’ve spent time at most of the beach towns. Cape May is my fav, followed by OC. Wildwood is trashy. The rest are boring. I thought Wildwood was gross as a teen myself. But obviously it appeals to some people based on the crowds.

No one is talking about whether Wildwood is a good place for a beach vacation. The focus of the discussion is which boardwalk is better for teenagers looking to have some fun. And the answer is obvious. Especially if you are in Cape May, there is no reason to go to the Ocean City boardwalk when Wildwood is right next-door and its amusements are much more geared towards teenagers than Ocean City’s.

To advise 0P not to go to Wildwood solely because of what some of its patrons look like is disgusting.

It’s not just the patrons, but the shops, activities, and general atmosphere.

Trashy doesn’t appeal to all teens.

Such prudes. I’m sure glad I didn’t have parents like you - and that my kids don’t either.

Prude? Hardly.

We didn’t even consider wildwood for our senior beach trip. It’s just gross.

Well of course you don’t stay in Wildwood. You stay in places like Wildwood Crest or, in OPs case, Cape May.

I was born and raised in NJ, as was DH, and my family (including two teens) loves the boardwalk in Wildwood. We’ve never had a problem of any kind there. And a day trip to the zoo in Cape May is always part of our itinerary. OC is fine but not worth the distance in summer beach traffic when Wildwood is so close.

[Anonymous]

OP here - first, thank you everyone for your responses. All those coming live in DC or NYC - so crime and trash are things we are familiar with.

I had no idea that people felt SO strongly about the Jersey Beach scene, but I'm definitely looking forward to seeing what all the fuss is about.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

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Anonymous wrote:My suggestion - if you have teens and want to do a boardwalk day or evening, drive from Cape May and bypass Wildwood and head to Ocean City. It is a bit farther but it is so much nicer. Ocean City is very family oriented and a dry town. Boardwalk is smoke-free. There are arcades and rides and pizza, fudge and all kinds of fair food all along the boardwalk plus escape rooms and mini golf, etc. Wildwood caters to drinkers and partiers and is generally more of a working-class vibe. And face it, we're on DCUM, so I think I can say that. Ocean City is classier. If you do this, I suggest going during the week. Weekends will be crazier with parking and crowds.

Things to do in Cape May:
Emlen Phyisick Estate Tour
Trolley tours
Cape May Lighthouse Tour
Harriet Tubman Museum (just opened last year)
Stroll Victorian streets
Rent a surrey for an hour
Go to sunset beach at Cape May Point and look for Cape May diamonds
Visit the Cape May County zoo (it's actually quite nice!)
Go to Ocean City (NJ) boardwalk one afternoon/early evening
Go to the Lobster House (go during the week!) Casual outside on the water; more formal inside
Get fudge from Fudge Kitchen
Visit the inside of Congress Hall if not staying there
Go for tea
Brunch at Mad Batter
Uncle Bills for pancakes or Ocean View for family-friendly meals.
Learn the words to "On the Way to Cape May"
Watch this video to get in the mood: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2B-7kimKBTk

Enjoy!
I've been going to Cape May for 40+ years.

This poster knows nothing. If you have teenaged kids they want the Wildwood boardwalk, not the Ocean City boardwalk. There’s simply no comparison. Teenagers don’t care about “class” - they care about how awesome the rides are!

Yes, I know nothing. Spent my whole life going to the Jersey Shore and I have two teenagers. There are fun rides in Ocean City. My kids love it. Wildwood is trashy.

Trust me, you don’t know Cape May County better than I do. And if you wanna talk “class,” then let’s: Ocean City is trash compared to Avalon, Stone Harbor and for that matter Cape May. It’s a middle of the road Cape May County shore town, and it’s certainly not worth schlepping all the way there from Cape May - 25 friggin miles - for their cheesy little boardwalk.

Wildwood is the next town over from Cape May and its boardwalk is suitable for all ages - not just 8 year olds - and has the best rides around for teenagers. And don’t worry, the “working class” won’t hurt them either. 😂

Well obviously we have different opinions. Whatever. I gave mine. You gave yours. OP can read more about them both and decide. Lots of YouTube videos and other descriptions online. Been spending my summers at the Jersey Shore since the early 70s from Atlantic City to Cape May. Family owned a condo there. Have a good night.

I have family who lives in the area and I’ve spent time at most of the beach towns. Cape May is my fav, followed by OC. Wildwood is trashy. The rest are boring. I thought Wildwood was gross as a teen myself. But obviously it appeals to some people based on the crowds.

No one is talking about whether Wildwood is a good place for a beach vacation. The focus of the discussion is which boardwalk is better for teenagers looking to have some fun. And the answer is obvious. Especially if you are in Cape May, there is no reason to go to the Ocean City boardwalk when Wildwood is right next-door and its amusements are much more geared towards teenagers than Ocean City’s.

To advise 0P not to go to Wildwood solely because of what some of its patrons look like is disgusting.

It’s not just the patrons, but the shops, activities, and general atmosphere.

Trashy doesn’t appeal to all teens.

Such prudes. I’m sure glad I didn’t have parents like you - and that my kids don’t either.

Prude? Hardly.

We didn’t even consider wildwood for our senior beach trip. It’s just gross.

I'm a PP above who said it was fine. Curious what exactly was so gross? I don't know about stuff happening in motels off the boardwalk, but I can't think of anything that I've seen day or evening on the Wildwood boardwalk that would give me serious pause about recommending it to anyone.

It’s not dangerous. It’s just not somewhere where I’d want to spend time. There are better options that aren’t as trashy.

I can’t believe people are actually recommending it.

Are you the Ocean City poster? If you are, guess what: Ocean City is trash compared to Avalon and Stone Harbor, and when Avalon and Stone Harbor residents and visitors go to the boardwalk, believe me they don’t go to Ocean City. They go to Wildwood. Ocean City is a big yawn. Sterile AF and with only little baby rides. Wildwood has character.

Thanks for illustrating why people avoid Wildwood.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:My suggestion - if you have teens and want to do a boardwalk day or evening, drive from Cape May and bypass Wildwood and head to Ocean City. It is a bit farther but it is so much nicer. Ocean City is very family oriented and a dry town. Boardwalk is smoke-free. There are arcades and rides and pizza, fudge and all kinds of fair food all along the boardwalk plus escape rooms and mini golf, etc. Wildwood caters to drinkers and partiers and is generally more of a working-class vibe. And face it, we're on DCUM, so I think I can say that. Ocean City is classier. If you do this, I suggest going during the week. Weekends will be crazier with parking and crowds.

Things to do in Cape May:
Emlen Phyisick Estate Tour
Trolley tours
Cape May Lighthouse Tour
Harriet Tubman Museum (just opened last year)
Stroll Victorian streets
Rent a surrey for an hour
Go to sunset beach at Cape May Point and look for Cape May diamonds
Visit the Cape May County zoo (it's actually quite nice!)
Go to Ocean City (NJ) boardwalk one afternoon/early evening
Go to the Lobster House (go during the week!) Casual outside on the water; more formal inside
Get fudge from Fudge Kitchen
Visit the inside of Congress Hall if not staying there
Go for tea
Brunch at Mad Batter
Uncle Bills for pancakes or Ocean View for family-friendly meals.
Learn the words to "On the Way to Cape May"
Watch this video to get in the mood: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2B-7kimKBTk

Enjoy!
I've been going to Cape May for 40+ years.

This poster knows nothing. If you have teenaged kids they want the Wildwood boardwalk, not the Ocean City boardwalk. There’s simply no comparison. Teenagers don’t care about “class” - they care about how awesome the rides are!

+1 for Océan City. Much nicer than Wildwood. Although I might regret directing more people there, haha.

This thread is hardly going to send droves of Cape May vacationers past Wildwood to Ocean City, given that at the moment, pre summer holiday, it takes a whopping 45 minutes to get to the OC boardwalk vs 19 to the Wildwood boardwalk from central Cape May. All for fewer rides. When there's a super quiet, cute, and mildly entertaining boardwalk in Cape May already!

Exactly. It’s just so insanely stupid, especially when you’re talking about teenagers. Ocean City is for white folks with little kids who can’t afford Avalon and Stone Harbor yet for some reason still think they’re special. Definitely not worth driving 45 minutes from Cape May to see it. Please.

If I’m in Cape May, I stay in Cape May. I have stayed in OC and did a little boardwalk.

I don’t go to Wildwood. It’s too trashy.

- have been going to NJ beaches for 50+ years and still have family who lives there so we go quite often.