About the Washington Street Mall

Cape May's Washington Street Mall's shops are privately or family owned. Several have been in the same families for generations. Awnings are still cranked down to shelter merchandise from the morning (or evening sun. Merchants can still be seen sweeping the sidewalks in front of their shops. Ice cream parlors, sidewalk cafe's, and restaurants are everywhere offering oases of refreshment. Flowers abound. In the summer, the Mall is the place to explore after dinner and before the bands start.

Enjoy the many fine stores and restaurants on Cape May's Washington Street Mall during the winter months, when shopping is a pleasure. With knowledgeable merchants, many special services and a large variety of merchandise at great prices you'll discover Cape May's year round charm.

During the Holiday Season, our Mall is a living Currier & Ives print with sparkling garlands, wreathed gas lights, lighted trees, and candle lit windows. Shop Cape May at Christmas to avoid the crowds and blandness of the super malls, and to find unique and different gift ideas. You'll be pleased with what you find.

In addition to its charming old buildings, the Cape May's Washington Street Mall boasts several architecturally significant buildings, including: the New Jersey Trust and Safe Deposit bank building, 1895 (526 Washington); Saint Mary's Roman Catholic Church (now Star of the Sea), 1911 (Washington and Ocean). Cape May's Historic District contains the largest collection of wealthy Victorian summer cottages and hotels in existence.