Holiday Tours
Touring Cape May at Christmastime is as fun as it is festive, with twinkling lights, decorated Victorian homes, and the charming streets transformed into a holiday wonderland. Whether you’re riding through town on a trolley or a horse-drawn carriage, or simply strolling through historic downtown, you’ll be surrounded by classic Christmas music, cheerful displays, and the warm glow of the season. It’s the perfect way to soak in Cape May’s holiday spirit and create unforgettable memories with family and friends.
Cape May Food Tours
Culinary Walking Tour
Savor the flavors of Cape May on a guided stroll to some of the town’s most beloved eateries and hidden gems. Enjoy tastings while learning about the city’s rich culinary history and vibrant dining scene.
Various dates available.
Holiday Lights Trolley Tours
Nightly Tours - Times Vary
Ride through Cape May’s historic streets as festive music and stories of cherished Christmas traditions fill the air. Experience Victorian Cape May at its most magical with friends and family. Open-air trolleys at night make for a cozy ride—bring a blanket! Holiday Lights Trolley Tours are available nightly from Nov. 22 to Dec. 30.
Reservations required in advance.
Run by Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture).
Christmas Candlelight House Tours
Saturday, December 6, 13, & 20
5:30 pm to 8:30 pm
Cape May MAC launched its first Christmas tour in 1974 and ever since this tour has been a beloved annual tradition and a highlight of the holiday season in America’s only National Historic Landmark City. This self-guided walking tour celebrates the best of Cape May at Christmas, as you travel Cape May’s gaslit streets, hear musicians and carolers, and visit homes, inns, B&Bs, churches and hotels where you’ll step inside to see both Victorian and more modern interiors beautifully decorated for the holidays. Don’t miss Cape May’s longest running and most popular Christmas tour.
Reservations required in advance.
Run by Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture).
Evening Yuletide House Tours
November 28 - December 30 Dates & Times Vary
Take this guided, first-person living history holiday tour of first-floor rooms of the magnificent 1879 Physick Estate, Cape May’s only Victorian house museum, decorated in authentic Victorian style for Christmas. Your guide portrays a member of the Physick family in the early 1900s and shares stories and traditions. The tour also includes a visit to the Carroll Gallery to see “An Old-fashioned Christmas” exhibit, featuring a huge Christmas tree, model trains, and an elaborate Dept. 56 Dickens village collection.
Reservations required in advance.
Run by Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture).
Lamplighter Christmas Walking Tours
Fridays in December
5:30 pm to 7:30 pm ~ Self-Guided
See inside a selection of Cape May bed & breakfast inns and private homes, specially decorated for the holidays on this self-guided evening walking tour that includes a visit to An Old-fashioned Christmas Exhibit in the Carroll Gallery at the Physick Estate Carriage House.
Reservations required in advance.
Run by Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture).
Holiday Inns Walking Tours
Mon - Thurs in Dec. - 1 pm to 3:30 pm
Self-Guided
Get into the Christmas spirit as you tour three or more of Cape May’s festively decorated Bed & Breakfast Inns and private homes. Tour handout and map is available at the Washington St. Mall Information Booth or the Physick Estate.
Reservations required in advance.
Run by Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture).
Holiday Lights Carriage Tours
Daily from November 28 - December 31
Times Vary
Experience the magic of Christmas in Cape May from a classic horse-drawn carriage as it takes you around the beautifully decorated homes for the holidays!
Reservations required in advance. Same-day rides may also be available.
Cold Spring Christmas Walking Tours
Saturday, December 6 and December 13
4 pm, 5 pm, or 6 pm
Stroll the tree lined paths with a guide and learn about Historic Cold Spring Village’s buildings which will be decorated for the season. End your tour with shopping at the Country Store and a complimentary mini beer flight tasting at Cold Spring Brewery.
The approximately 1 hour tour includes a history and of the Village and its buildings along with interior tours of the following buildings:
- Dennisville Inn c. 1836
- Cox Hall Cottage c. 1691
- Marshallville Schoolhouse c. 1850
- Welcome Center exhibits c.1894
- Spicer Leaming House c.1800
Winter Igloo Cruises
Various Dates and Times in December
Escape the winter chill and step into your own heated, luxurious Floating Igloo on the water! Perfect for couples, families, or small groups (up to 8 people) looking for a truly unique South Jersey experience. The tent is fully enclosed and heated, offering a comfortable winter oasis. The interior features cozy but luxurious seating surrounded by twinkling white lights and beautiful green garland for a festive, intimate feel.
- Heated Comfort: Stay warm and toasty as you cruise the back bays.
- BYOB & BYO Eats: Bring your favorite drinks and snacks for the perfect celebration.
- Dog-Friendly: Your well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome to join the fun!
- Complimentary Hot Chocolate: Enjoy a warm cup of our special hot chocolate on the house during your cruise.
- Scenic Views: Take in the quiet winter beauty of the back bays of Wildwood, Stone Harbor, or Cape May from your private dome.