Guided Tour of Museum of Cape May County, NJ
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the walking pace is gentle and the terrain is mostly flat.
Overview
Discover Cape May County's rich history through a private guided tour featuring historic homes, maritime artifacts, and transportation relics. Perfect for history buffs and curious travelers alike!
The Museum of Cape May County Guided Tour
All Ages! • 1.5 Hours • Tours Open: Wednesday and Friday at 10am and 12pm
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating guided tour through the Cresse-Holmes House, Smith Barn, and Townsend Carriage Shed, where history comes alive. Explore a 1704 colonial kitchen, a maritime exhibit featuring a rare Fresnel lens, and vintage transportation artifacts. With diverse displays, this experience promises to inspire and intrigue every visitor.
This guided tour takes you through the Cresse-Holmes House, the Smith Barn, and the Townsend Carriage Shed.
Duration
1.5 - 2 Hours
About
The Cresse-Holmes House treats you to a glimpse of life as it was in Cape May County from colonial to modern times. Some featured exhibits include a 1704 colonial kitchen and loft bedroom, a children’s playroom teeming with toys, a doctor’s room with instruments, glassware and vials filled with a colorful array of pharmaceuticals, and a Victorian music room with fascinating players and instruments.
Our Smith Barn is home to a maritime exhibit including Cape May County’s crown jewel, the original first-order Fresnel lens from Cape May Light House. The Smith Barn also houses a collection of early farming implements, a Native-American exhibit, and a military room with pieces dating back to the Revolutionary War.
The Townsend Carriage Shed houses items related to transportation such as a vintage horse-drawn market wagon, a doctor’s sulky, and an early stagecoach that ran between Bridgeton and Pennsville.
More info
These are just a few examples of the adventure that awaits you. With thousands of acquisitions on display, no matter what your interest, the Museum of Cape May County is sure to satiate your curiosity and inspire you!
Tours are available on Wednesdays and Fridays at 10:00am and 12:00pm.
Adventure Tips
Book Your Tour in Advance
Reservations are recommended as private guided tours fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The tour involves walking between several historic buildings, so sturdy and comfortable footwear is advised.
Bring a Light Jacket
Some parts of the tour take place indoors in older buildings that may feel cool or drafty.
Photography is Allowed
Feel free to bring your camera for photos, but flash photography may be restricted in certain exhibit areas.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eastern Box Turtle
- Great Blue Heron
History
The Cresse-Holmes House dates back to the 18th century and was once home to prominent local families whose stories shaped the county.
Conservation
The museum supports preservation efforts in Cape May County by maintaining historic structures and promoting sustainable tourism practices.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Cape May
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Necessary for navigating indoor and outdoor historic sites comfortably.
Light Jacket or Sweater
Keeps you warm during cooler spring mornings and indoor areas that might be drafty.
spring specific
Sun Hat
Protects your head and face from summer sun during outdoor portions of the tour.
summer specific
Compact Camera or Smartphone
Allows you to capture photos of unique historic artifacts and architecture.