Visitor Information
Washington Street is Cape May’s Main Street. In 1972, three blocks of the central business district were turned into a pedestrian concourse called The Washington Street Mall. Each block is distinguished by fine stores, restaurants and architectural highlights.
500 Block
In the 500 block, many a visitor has had his or her picture taken in front of the Cape May Bell – presented to the City of Cape May by the U.S. Maritime Administration in 1974. On the north corner of Washington Street Mall and Ocean Street is Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Church. Constructed in 1911, it was then called St. Mary’s Catholic Church, established in 1848, and is an example of Medieval Norman design. The church has undergone a recent renovation, including the restoration of its magnificent stained glass windows.
On the south corner of the Mall and Ocean Street is a Christmas gift shop, but it was built as the New Jersey Trust and Safe Deposit Company, circa 1895. And be sure to stop by the little booth also at the end of the Mall at Ocean Street which is run by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC) to see about Victorian house tours, ghost tours, lighthouse tours or whatever strikes your fancy.
400 Block
Many of the stores on the Washington Street Mall date back to the 1800s but there are some new architectural additions as well, especially in the 400 block where the City Centre [mini] Mall boasts the only escalator in Cape May County that only goes up. Never fear though, you can ride the elevator down.
The Towne Crier, located dead center in the 400 block, is a recent addition constructed by a joint venture with the City of Cape May and the Cape May Chamber of Commerce. From time to time, events are scheduled in front of the Towne Crier, and other areas on the Mall. Keep an eye on our Events page to find out what’s happening.
300 Block
The 300 block is called “The Block with the Clock.” The large town clock stands as a sentry to tell us it is time to start shopping. The 300 block ends at Perry Street right across the street from the historic Congress Hall hotel.
The Washington Street Mall is, to date, the most successful outdoor pedestrian Mall in the nation. So, please come visit us or if you are a returning visitor, come see us again for the first time.
Facts to Know
There is a defibrillator located at The Original Fudge Kitchen, 513 Washington Street Mall.
The Washington Street Mall is stroller friendly and handicapped accessible.
We thank you for not walking your dogs, riding your bikes or skateboards on the Mall.
Parking
There is FREE parking on the Mall from Nov. 1 to April 30.
From May 1 to Oct. 31 you must feed the Rhino meters. Check the number of your parking spot and look for the meter. It takes quarters (one quarter = 15 minutes) and the meters are credit card friendly.
Public Restrooms
There are two comfort stations, one located on Ocean Street across from the Catholic church, and the other on Decatur Street just north of the mall.
To Purchase a Memorial Bench
Benches may be purchased for a cost of $1,575 which includes the memorial plaque. On the plaque you are permitted four lines of text for a total of 32 characters per line, including spaces. To purchase a bench, contact Esther at the City of Cape May’s Public Works Department, 609-884-9570. After filling out the application, the bench order will take approx. 8-12 weeks for delivery. On the application, you may specify where you want the bench on the Mall, but take into consideration that space is limited and there is no guarantee of desired placement.
