Even though it is mid-August, there is still plenty of summer left. In fact, Cape May typically experiences summer-like weather through Columbus Day Weekend. That means you still have plenty of time to take advantage of everything that the Washington Street Mall has to offer in the summertime. To help, we've created the ultimate heart of Cape May summer bucket list. Have you checked off all of these ideas yet? If not, start planning today!
Dine al fresco
The Mall has tons of options to enjoy the beautiful summer weather and dine al fresco. The City of Cape May has provided expanded options for outdoor dining due to COVID-19, including closing off Decatur Street between Carpenters Lane and Lyle Lane. Most restaurants on the Mall have some type of outdoor patio dining area lined with luscious flora. A variety offer some degree of shade for those hotter dog days of summer, while others are tented to provide cover in case of inclement weather. No matter whether it is a hot stifling summer day or a breezy summer night under the stars, there is nothing like dining al fresco in the heart of Cape May.
Enjoy some ice cream
Ice cream and summer is the perfect match. With six different ice cream shops, including options on every block of the Mall, you are never far away from a sweet, cool treat. Each ice cream shop has its own flair, including options from frozen custard cones to large brownie sundaes and everything in between.
Get a new summer outfit
Our numerous boutiques offer the season's hottest fashions from both renowned top designers and local up and coming talent. You deserve to look your best during the best time of the year. Stop by some different shops and find new clothing...it could be a new dress for the ladies or new boardshorts for the guys. Accessorize your outfit with charms and pearls and a new summer bag. Don't forget the shoes...they complete the look!
Rock out to live music in the park
Music in Rotary Park, just off the 400 block of the Mall, is a Cape May summer tradition that has been happening for nearly five decades. Children and adults alike will often dance to the beat as the sun goes down and the music plays. From some of Cape May's hottest local musicians such as The Bastard Sons of Captain Mey and Maddie Hogan to patriotic music from the 63rd Army Band and America's Sweethearts, the lineup is sure to keep you entertained. Come early and/or stay late and explore the Mall's boutiques, gift shops, restaurants, candy stores, and ice cream shops. Learn more and see the lineup: https://www.washingtonstreetmall.com/post/enjoy-music-the-mall-this-summer
Work out in the park
The City of Cape May also hosts Zumba in Rotary Park everyday except Sundays from 8:30am to 9:30am. Zumba is perfect for everybody and every body! Each Zumba class is designed to bring people together to sweat it on. The instructors take the "work" out of workout, by mixing low-intensity and high-intensity moves for an interval-style, calorie-burning dance fitness party. Once the Latin and World rhythms take over, you'll see why Zumba fitness classes are often called exercise in disguise. Super effective? Check. Super fun? Check and check. Zumba is a total workout, combining all elements of fitness – cardio, muscle conditioning, balance and flexibility, boosted energy, and a serious dose of awesome each time you leave class. Drop in for only $5 per class. After class, refuel at one of the Mall's delicious bakeries and coffee shops.
Snap a new picture for the 'gram
There is a reason why the Washington Street Mall is known as Cape May's picturesque town square. There are so many different photo backdrops, it is hard to choose just one. Our red brick pathways are lined with well manicured planters, trees, and shrubs. At night, the trees are lit with shiny white lights. The buildings that make up our shops and restaurants are cute and colorful and have fascinating architectural features. Flowing fountains make up the center of the 400 and 500 blocks, while an antique clock makes up the center of the 300 block. Finally, no trip to the Mall is complete without a picture at the famous Cape May bell on the 500 block.
We hope our Ultimate Heart of Cape May Summer Bucket List helps you to make the most of the best time of year in Cape May. We'll see you on the Mall!