Cape May, NJ, Named Among Most Beautiful Cities In America

A major travel publication has given top honors to one city in the Garden State, placing it among the most gorgeous in the country.

This city happens to be 175 years old and is amazing to visit in both the hectic summer months or the quieter times when Christmas lights twinkle across the town.

In fact, with the weather about to turn cooler and the holidays quickly approaching, a visit to this seaside hamlet should be on your winter to-do list. You will certainly not be disappointed.

A beach town when its 30-degrees outside? Absolutely!

Not too long ago, those at Conde Nast Traveler released their list of the most beautiful towns in America, which looked at locales from one side of the nation to the other.

They say,

Whether they have over-the-top American charm or proximity to some of the loveliest landscapes on earth, these idylls are worth a stopover, at the very least. And don't worry, you won't run out of things to do: These small towns are home to local boutiques, tons of outdoor activities, and restaurant-to-people ratios that lean way in your favor.

And among those two dozen or so towns is one of the brightest gems in the entire State of New Jersey -- of course, we're talking about Cape May.

Photo by Dan Mall on Unsplash

JUST THE OPPOSITE: Website Ranks 11 Towns in S. Jersey That Suck the Most

Why Cape May?

About Cape May, Conde Nast remarked,

A perfect marriage of charm and history, the town’s historic Victorian district, and miles of intricate, candy-colored manses make for prime early-morning-stroll viewing. The tiny peninsula also offers some of the best birdwatching in the country—and, from March to December, fantastic whale watching.

Washington Street Mall in Cape May NJ - Photo: Google Maps

Of course, anyone who has spent any amount of time in Cape May immediately wants to return.

Google Maps

The city features dozens of quaint bed and breakfasts, a bandstand in the middle of town that often features live music, charming restaurants, vibrant streets, countless mom-and-pop shops (you won't find Target or Walmart there), world-class beaches, and a lighthouse that has been standing for almost as long as the town has existed.

Cape May Lighthouse (Chris Coleman, Townsquare Media NJ)

Other cities just as beautiful as Cape May

Some of the other towns that made their list included,

Nantucket, Massachusetts
Bar Harbor, Maine
Sedona, Arizona
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Ketchikan, Alaska

WELCOME TO NJ: Why Those Moving to NJ are in for a Rude Awakening

Where do the locals go in Cape May?

If you are visiting America's oldest seaside resort, you'll want to experience the city like a local. Here are some cool places, mind-blowing restaurants, and historic B&Bs you will definitely want to visit...

Cape May, NJ: 15 wonderful places to visit

Gallery Credit: Erin Vogt

Visiting Cape May? Here's where to eat

Whether you are visiting for a weekend getaway vacation or a day trip to check out the Washington Street Mall, there are many eating options in Cape May for you to check out. We have organized the best restaurants in Cape May based on Google Reviews and Google Analytics so you can find out what is popular before your next visit to New Jersey's southernmost town

Gallery Credit: Josh Hennig/Townsquare Media

Top 10 Things To Do This Off-Season in Cape May, New Jersey Area

Anyone who has lived in Cape May County knows that even though half the businesses close during the seven months referred to as the "offseason", the locals still love living in this area for many reasons. As someone who has lived in Cape May County for over 20 years, here are some of my favorite activities to do in the offseason:

Gallery Credit: Josh Hennig/Townsquare Media