Cape May Historic District

Cape May claims to be America's first seaside resort, and as early as the 19th century guests arrived by steamboat from Philadelphia. After the great fire of 1878, which destroyed about half the town, much of it was rebuilt in the late Victorian style. The Historic District covers about 380 acres (roughly 154 ha) with more than 600 buildings and has been a National Historic Landmark District since 1976. According to the National Park Service, it is one of the largest surviving collections of late 19th-century frame buildings in the United States, many with ornate gingerbread trim.

The best way to explore the district is on foot: one to two hours is enough for the side streets and their porches, and you will need more time if you add the beach and the Washington Street Mall. Mornings are quieter, while summer weekends are crowded. For road-trippers, the advice is to park once and walk.