When vacations seem too long or the beach is just too hot, there are plenty of other things to with the kids.
Biking–plenty of places rent bikes, all sorts of bikes, some will hold a whole family. Get out and explore the town. It’s good exercise too and may even tire the kids out.
Cape May County Park and Zoo–a great place to spend a whole day. Besides the wonderful zoo, there is a large playground, picnic area, and gift shops. Some days the county schedules special events there. Located on Route 9, there’s plenty of parking and admission is free.
Lighthouses–Take a trip to the Hereford Lighthouse at Central and First avenues in North Wildwood and then compare that to the lighthouse in Cape May at 605 Pearl Ave., Cape May Point. They are very different styles and each is worth the trip.
Victorian Cape May–Explore this wonderful city on foot, on bikes, on the trolley or in a horse-drawn cab. Victorian architecture, antiques, restaurants and shopping are not to be missed. Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC) offers a Family Treasure Hunt Tour for the whole family. Wander the streets of Victorian Cape May on this educational scavenger hunt. Pick up your Treasure Hunt Packet at the Washington Street Mall Information Booth, and you’ll get a clue sheet, map, and answer sheet.
There is also a self-guided experience. Using the hand-held Acoustiguide units, you’ll hear about the history and architecture of 96 Cape May landmarks. Set your own pace, and visit them in any order you choose. Rental fee $10 per unit. Available daily from 9 am to 2:30 pm in the Hill House office at the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St.
The Wetlands Institute–Stone Harbor Boulevard in Stone Harbor. Discover why this is “The Natural Place to Have Fun!” Learn about coastal ecosystems in a fun and educational experience for families. Kids can feed the terrapin turtles, explore the salt marsh trail, and climb the observation tower. Special activities are always going on. Good on a rainy day, too.
Miniature Golf–There are many local sites to choose from. Take the challenge to visit five different ones and vote for your favorite. On the Boardwalk at Morey’s Piers, Mariner’s Landing, there’s a great one that is mostly covered. Good for a rainy or too hot a day.
Playground–Every town has a municipal playground and some have skateboard parks, tennis courts, and bocce courts, as well.
Library–Reading is a classic way to spend time on vacation. The libraries of Cape May County often feature special events such as puppet shows, guest speakers, and other child-oriented activities. Great for a rainy day.
Water-Park–Ocean City and Wildwood have great water parks. Great for the whole family.
Fishing–Fishing or crabbing is a perfect way to spend the day while at the shore. Many marinas rent boats or if your not comfortable running one yourself, go out on a party or charter boat. Kids are always welcome.
Whale & Dolphin Watching–Check the local phone books for boats that go out specifically to find these magnificent creatures.
Cape May-Lewes Ferry–This is a great day trip across the Delaware Bay. Trip from one side to the other takes about 100 minutes. You can walk on, drive on, bike on, then explore the towns of Lewes and Rehoboth Beach. Trolleys are available.
Cape May County Museum–Located on Route 9 in Court House this museum is often overlooked. There are several buildings to explore and a guide is on hand.
Leaming’s Run Gardens and Colonial Farm–invites visitors to relax and enjoy lush gardens It’s an outdoor classroom for children and their families to learn about plants and wildlife. It’s also a historic site that offers glimpses into a long, rich history with colonial origins. There’s something here for everyone: bridges, ponds and nooks are just a part of the many individually designed and expertly crafted gardens that comprise the largest annual gardens in the USA. There are 25 themed gardens, a fernery, and a shady bamboo grove.
Kayaking–Check the local phone book or marina for kayak rentals. Many offer lessons as well.
Nature Center of Cape May¬–focuses on “hands-on” activities. The environmental education campus, located on the shores of Cape May Harbor near the Coast Gurad Base, includes the Trucksess Welcome Center, a three-story observation tower, indoor observation lounge, three classrooms, exhibit aquaria, a small gift shop, and multiple themed display gardens. The harbor and adjacent area provide natural classrooms that are close to a diversity of habitats.
Cape May Point State Park–The beach, dunes, freshwater wetlands and ponds, and forested trails, located at the tip of the peninsula, make the Cape May Point State Park a wonderfully diverse natural area. The Park offers great opportunities to see dolphins and other ocean life, bird migration and monarch butterfly migration. There are beautiful ponds and dunes, a beach and wonderful views of the ocean.
Salt Marsh Safari–Explore the Cape May Coastal Wetlands Wildlife Management Area aboard the 40′ SKIMMER. Tours explore the coastal salt marsh. Itinerary includes natural history, fish, crustaceans, shellfish, marine mammals, plant life, tidal flows, and bird life. Ideal for adults and kids. Each season holds spectacular natural wonders. In spring and fall reservations are essential, 884-3100 or visit www.skimmer.com
Dennisville – As a parent of a Tech student it would be great if the school would update their staff directory. So many old staff still listed and no new teachers listed. What gives?
