Cape May: The Timeless Seaside Escape That Started It All

Issue #415

August 05, 2025

In This Cape May Local Scoop Issue…

 📆 Cape May Events

☀️ Cape May Local Weather 

‍⛱️ Cape May: The Timeless Seaside Escape That Started It All

𓆩🖤𓆪 Wildwood Tattoo Beach Bash Returns with Ink, Entertainment, and Artistry

⛽ Why New Jersey Drivers Still Can’t Pump Their Own Gas

Cape May Local Scoop’s Events Are Sponsored By: East Lynne Theater Company

👇 Here’s what’s going on in the Cape May Local Area👇  

 August 5

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Cape May: The Timeless Seaside Escape That Started It All 

 Another great look at our town, showing how we're perceived overseas. This take is from the French Magazine EnVols. As the oldest seaside resort in the United States, Cape May doesn’t follow fads—it defines classic coastal beauty. Beyond the summer beach crowds lies a town steeped in history, with horse-drawn carriages clip-clopping past “Painted Ladies” and nature trails teeming with birds. Its roots as a premier vacation destination date back to the 19th century, when steamships and railways made it a favored spot among U.S. presidents like Franklin Pierce and Ulysses S. Grant.

A fire in 1878 led to the city’s rebirth, marked by the ornate Victorian style that remains its signature today. With more than 600 preserved homes and buildings, Cape May now boasts one of the largest collections of Victorian architecture in the country. Its entire city was named a National Historic Landmark District in 1976—a rare designation that celebrates its architectural and cultural significance.

Visitors can start their journey at the pristine beaches, such as Sunset Beach, Higbee Beach, and Cove Beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. But Cape May offers much more than sand and surf. The Historic District invites guests on a walk through time, where candy-colored mansions and charming details whisper stories from centuries past. Architecture lovers will find a visual feast, while those curious about local life can tour landmarks like the Emlen Physick Estate, a grand Victorian home turned museum.

Cultural experiences continue at Cape May Stage, a cozy 19th-century theater that hosts plays, comedies, and live music. Nature lovers can take to the sea on dolphin and whale-watching cruises or visit local wineries for tastings and tours. Foodies will find fresh catches and waterfront views at renowned spots like The Lobster House and Pier House. Meanwhile, Washington Street Mall tempts shoppers with boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafés.

With its mix of history, beauty, and coastal leisure, Cape May remains a quintessential American getaway—graceful, grounded, and always in style.

Wildwood Tattoo Beach Bash Returns with Ink, Entertainment, and Artistry

 The 15th annual Wildwood Tattoo Beach Bash will take place August 8–10 at the Wildwoods Convention Center, featuring over 200 tattoo artists, live entertainment, and unique vendors. The event includes tattoo contests, celebrity artists from Ink Master, sideshow performers, and on-site tattooing. Convention hours are noon to 11 p.m. on Friday, August 8; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday, August 9; and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday, August 10. Tickets are $20 for a single day or $40 for a three-day pass. Children under 12 are admitted free. Full artist and entertainment lineups, vendor details, and pre-sale tickets are available at villainarts.com or by calling 215-423-4780. Tickets will also be available at the door throughout the weekend.

Why New Jersey Drivers Still Can’t Pump Their Own Gas

  New Jersey is the only U.S. state where drivers are still prohibited from pumping their own gas due to a 1949 law focused on safety and operational control. The regulation aims to reduce fire risks and exposure to fumes, while offering vehicle maintenance support via attendants. Although tipping attendants isn't required, it's appreciated. Gas in New Jersey is generally cheaper than in neighboring states, though slightly more costly than in the Midwest. For decades, Oregon shared a similar stance on gas station service, but in 2023, the state loosened its restrictions. Legislation now allows varying degrees of self-serve fueling depending on the county, gradually phasing in more flexibility. So for now, New Jersey stands alone in its full-service fuel model—a policy rooted in safety, tradition, and customer service, even as the rest of the country moves toward convenience and automation. 

Answer to the August 3th Trivia Question

What was the name of the large hotel in Cape May that was intended to be the largest in the world but burned down before it was completed?

A) The Grand Hotel
B) The Columbia Hotel
C) The Mount Vernon Hotel
D) The Windsor Hotel

Answer: C) The Mount Vernon Hotel

The Mount Vernon Hotel was designed to be the largest hotel in the world, but it burned down in 1856 before it could be completed​​​​.

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