Cape May things to do in the Spring

Cape May, NJ Bed and Breakfast

Updated on April 1, 2024.

We would never discourage anyone from visiting Cape May because of the season as each time of year is unique and offers a lovely opportunity to explore. 

However, spring in Cape May is particularly exciting; we say goodbye to winter weather in exchange for warmer temperatures and blooming gardens across the city. It’s also a fantastic time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and fun community activities. 

What’s in store for spring 2023 events and Cape May things to do? Below, you’ll find the can’t-miss events of the season plus our favorite springtime activities you’re sure to appreciate during your next visit. 

  

CAPE MAY SPRING EVENTS 2023  

CAPE MAY SPRING CRAFTS & COLLECTIBLES SHOWS | APRIL 27, MAY 4, & MAY 11, 2024 

High-quality crafts and collectibles shows featuring the wares of vendors and crafters from the Northeast. 

• April Craft & Collectibles Show Saturday, April 27: 10AM – 4PM 
• Spring Craft & Collectibles Show Saturday, May 4: 10AM – 4PM 
• Mother’s Day Weekend Crafts & Collectibles Show Saturday, May 11: 10AM – 4PM

  

CAPE MAY MUSIC FESTIVAL | MAY 26 – JUNE 23, 2024  

In its 34th year, this relaxed festival brings a wonderful selection of music and concerts to our city. Spanning a few weeks, you’ll find evening concerts, afternoon performances, and special offerings like the Bach’s Lunch series. Featuring OK Cello, Atlantic Brass Band, Eric Cawalla, and more. From ensemble music to the sounds of the symphony, this is one jazzy event you can’t miss! 

  

EXIT ZERO JAZZ FESTIVAL | APRIL 19 – 21, 2024  

The festival’s tagline alone should get you planning your trip to Cape May: Cape May Swings into Spring. May 5 – 7, 2023 is devoted to the popular Exit Zero Jazz Festival and its impressive lineup of artists. 

• JOEY ALEXANDER QUARTET
• BRANFORD MARSALIS QUARTET
• MATTHEW WHITAKER QUINTET
• CAMILLE THURMAN, DAVID O. CLEMANS MUSIC CONNECTS ARTIST IN RESIDENCE
• CHRISTIAN SANDS QUARTET
• DAYRAMIR GONZALEZ
• More… 

 

CAPE MAY NEW JERSEY AUDOBON SPRING FESTIVAL | MAY 16 – 19, 2024  

It’s a spring fling Cape May style at the New Jersey Audobon Spring Festival, May 16 – May 19, 2024! Celebrate the fresh season with a variety of birding events and activities coordinated by New Jersey Audobon. From field and boat trips, trolley tours, and outstanding indoor programs, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a newbie or seasoned veteran, you’ll leave this festival a better birder with a heightened passion for birding and conservation 

  

THE GARDENS OF CAPE MAY TOUR | JUNE 15, 2024  

Explore the private gardens of Cape May residences. This tour includes the outdoor spaces of Cape May’s most creative amateur landscape artists. Tickets available at Cape May MAC. 

  

CAPE MAY RESTAURANT WEEK | JUNE 2 – 9, 2024  

Dates are tentative. We hope Cape May Restaurant Week will be back for Spring 2022. 

  

FULL MOON LIGHTHOUSE CLIMB | SPRING AND BEYOND 

Sign up for a majestic Full Moon Climb at the Cape May Lighthouse. 

• Dates TBD

   

CAPE MAY SPRING THINGS TO DO  

ROAM THE BEACHES   

A perk of visiting Cape May in spring is that beach tags aren’t required yet. Take a romantic sunrise or sunset stroll along Cape May’s sandy beaches for free. Use our complimentary beach chairs if you’d like to stay awhile with a good book and beverage. Make an afternoon of it! 

  

WHALE WATCHING  

A truly unforgettable experience awaits when you book a whale-watching excursion in Cape May. Encounters with our larger locals are always a favorite memory of our guests’. Second to the beauty of The Queen Victoria, of course. 

  

TRY BIRDING  

Cape May is an excellent spot for birding as many species migrate through New Jersey in the spring. If you’re new to birding, we recommend visiting in May to attend the Cape May New Jersey Audobon Spring Festival to learn more about our avian friends. 

  

VISIT THE VINEYARDS 

There’s no better way to spend an afternoon in Cape May than by tasting fine wine in a beautiful setting. We suppose you could join us for afternoon tea at The Queen Victoria, but I do recommend a visit to Cape May wineries as a fun treat. We also suggest a visit to Cape May breweries as well. 

  

DINE OUT 

Enjoy fewer crowds at your favorite restaurants or dine at a restaurant that was closed for winter. If you love Cape May restaurants as much as we do, you may want to save the date for Cape May Restaurant Week, June 5 – 12, 2022 (dates tentative), where you’ll find some of the best menu offerings at affordable prix fixe prices for lunch or dinner! 

  

RIDE BIKES  

There’s a reason we have a fleet of bicycles at The Queen Victoria – it’s so much fun to explore Cape May by bike! Our easy-to-ride bikes are the perfect way to navigate Cape May, especially as the crowds begin to show. They make for a carefree mode of transportation. We’d also recommend picking up the bicycle tour map from Cape May MAC ($5) to learn more about Cape May’s history and landmarks. 

  

VISIT THE LIGHTHOUSE 

We love to visit the Cape May lighthouse for both the hike to the top and nearby walking trails. It’s definitely one of Cape May’s most popular attractions. During the spring, it is only open on Saturdays but well worth the visit 

  

We hope these ideas inspire you to book the Cape May getaway you’ve been dreaming of! Get started by perusing these dreamy rooms at The Queen Victoria.