Thornton and Hayes: Cape May County’s Billion Dollar Tourism Industry Thrives

Cape May County’s tourism industry generates $6.6 billion in revenues and continues to attract millions of visitors.
Reports are glowing for 2019, with many calling it a banner year. Occupancy tax comparisons from 2018 vs. 2019 indicate an increase in collections, and show a substantial increase in overnight stays. January to June 2019 occupancy tax results show an increase of over $300,000.
A recent survey conducted by the Cape May County Tourism Department indicates that the average spending for an overnight visitor in Cape May County is $374. In 2018, Cape May County’s tourism spending climbed nearly 4% ($244 million) to hit the $6.6 billion figure.
Cape May County Freeholder Director Gerald Thornton and the entire Cape May County Freeholder Board supports expanding tourism and economic development opportunities.
The Cape May County tourism industry generates over 26,000 jobs. While the beaches remain as the main draw during the summer, a long list of year-round activities and a 12-month special events calendar, historic tours, museums, theaters, shopping, nature, beverage tourism, dining, and agritourism, along with the Cape May County Park & Zoo, entice year-round visitors and expand the number of job opportunities.
Cape May County Freeholder E. Marie Hayes serves as the Cape May County Tourism Department liaison. Under her leadership, Cape May County continues to maintain its status as a top vacation destination.
The Cape May County Freeholder Board supports the expansion of the area’s growing beverage tourism industry, including award-winning wineries, craft breweries and distilleries, that has increased Cape May County’s year-round appeal. One of these wineries was named one of the 10 best outside of California.
The Cape May County Park & Zoo is ranked fifth in the country and 13th in the world. The zoo is dually accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the Zoological Association of America (ZAA). These accreditations allow the zoo to trade animals with some of the largest zoos in the country, including Disney, San Diego, and the Bronx Zoos.
Due to its enormous popularity, the Cape May County Park & Zoo recently increased the number of available parking spots. Other additions include new misting machines and new animals, like a Red Kangaroo, as well as a new modern African Crested exhibit (in its final design phase). The Park & Zoo hosts a myriad of programs, including “Boo at the Zoo,” zoo camp and night walks.
A new café with an indoor and outdoor seating area will begin construction in the fall. Admission is free and is open daily, from 7 a.m. to dusk.
Through the leadership of Freeholder E. Marie Hayes, the Cape May County Grant Program for smaller tourism organizations is seeking funds for promotion. Applications for funding are available at the Cape May County Tourism Department; the department will also assist with applicants with their submission.
Vote for Freeholders Jerry Thornton and E. Marie Hayes Nov. 5 for proven leadership.
Ordered and paid for by Thornton and Hayes for Freeholder, 15 Caroline Lane, Ocean City, NJ  08226