Cape May MAC
To know Cape May is to know the story of Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture). This stalwart organization helps Cape May thrive as a beloved tourist destination and has done so for 52 years.
In 1970, a band of energetic historic preservationists created this not-for-profit organization, fighting tooth-and-nail to save the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate from demolition. Had they not won that tough fight, earning Cape May National Historic Landmark City status, Cape May would look very different, its historic integrity only imagined. Today, visitors take Cape May MAC trolley, house, walking and golf cart tours year-round. People enjoy the Cape May Craft Beer, Music & Crab Festival, the Harvest Brew Fest and the annual Cape May Music Festival, now in its 33rd year. Young and old learn from educational programs and everyone enjoys tours at Halloween and Christmas.
Cape May MAC welcomes visitors, creating its identity via all it offers to the Cape May community, of which you are a part, simply because you are reading this book...
Emlen Physick Estate
Cape May MAC’s flagship historic site, the 1879 Emlen Physick Estate, is at 1048 Washington Street. There you will find the Physick House Museum, the Carroll Gallery in the Carriage House, the Carriage House Museum Shop, and interpretive panels about each outbuilding.
The Physick House Museum is Cape May’s only Victorian house museum and a must-see as one of the nation’s best examples of Stick Style architecture. Entertaining guides tell of the Physick family and delve into this gem, designed by Frank Furness, Victorian America’s great modern architect. The grounds are dog-friendly and the gardens are beautiful. Outdoor festivals support Cape May MAC’s preservation efforts. Free exhibits are offered year-round in the Carroll Gallery, and parking is free.
Cape May Lighthouse
Climb the 199 steps for a one-of-a-kind view. Since 1988, when Cape May MAC restored the historic site and opened it to the public, over 2.5 million people have climbed to the top. The lighthouse (the third on this site) was first lit on Halloween, 1859, and remains an active aid to navigation — its light can be seen 24 miles out to sea. Climbing is a great workout, with the built-in reward of a gorgeous view at the top. Those who choose not to climb can see a large-scale photo of the view in the Lighthouse Museum Shop.
World War II Lookout Tower
(Fire Control Tower No. 23)
Cape May MAC opened this historic site to the public in 2009 after an award-winning restoration. Part of Fort Miles and the strategic defense of the Delaware during World War II, the towers helped aim the big guns hidden in bunkers on the beach. Visitors can climb to the sixth floor spotting gallery and view exhibits along the way. This tower, located toward the end of Sunset Boulevard on the left, with free parking on the right, is the only restored one of its kind in New Jersey. A bunker is still visible on the beach at Cape May Point State Park but is not accessible.
Cape May MAC Museum Shops
The Carriage House Museum Shop is on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, while the Lighthouse Museum Shop is located in the Oil House at Cape May Lighthouse. The Carriage House contains books, artwork, jewelry, teas, jams and jellies, toys, and local memorabilia. The Lighthouse Museum Shop offers maritime and lighthouse memorabilia and gifts, clothing, artwork, books, toys and more.
Cape May MAC Trolley Tours
Dozens of trolley tours leave from Washington Street Mall at Ocean Street, while others begin at the Physick Estate on Washington Street. Tours are entertaining and offer the best way to get to know Cape May and its history. They include Welcome to Cape May, the hugely popular Historic District, Mansions by the Sea, the Ghosts of Cape May and the Underground Railroad. Trolley tours are accessible with advance notice. They’re available for groups, weddings and special events.
Washington Street Mall Information Booth and Trolley Stop
This adorable structure on Washington Street Mall houses Cape May MAC Visitor Service Associates ready to tell you what’s going on in town and help you choose tours, activities and events to enjoy. Pick up tickets as well as This Week in Cape May magazine, brochures, maps, blankets and more. Trolley tours start at the Cape May MAC trolley stop across the street.
Website: capemaymac.org
Phone: 609-884-5404
Address: 1048 Washington Street, Cape May
& Various Locations
