Explore beyond the beach with these easy day trips to Cape May, Atlantic City, and other must-see destinations within an hour of Wildwood.
While Wildwood has more than enough to keep you busy for a week, sometimes it’s fun to explore beyond the beach. The good news? There are incredible destinations just a short drive away. Here are our top five day trips from Wildwood.
1. Cape May (15 minutes)
Just down the shore, Cape May feels like a different world. This Victorian seaside resort town is known for its beautifully preserved architecture, upscale dining, and charming downtown.
What to do:
- Stroll the Washington Street Mall (pedestrian shopping area)
- Tour the Emlen Physick Estate (Victorian mansion)
- Take a whale and dolphin watching cruise
- Visit the Cape May Lighthouse
- Explore the bird sanctuary at Cape May Point State Park
Best for: Couples looking for a romantic afternoon, architecture buffs, nature lovers
Pro tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds. The lighthouse climb is worth it for the views.
2. Atlantic City (45 minutes)
The famous “AC” offers a completely different vibe — casinos, shows, outlet shopping, and a historic boardwalk of its own.
What to do:
- Try your luck at the casinos
- Walk the Atlantic City Boardwalk
- Shop at Tanger Outlets (The Walk)
- Catch a show or concert
- Visit the Absecon Lighthouse
Best for: Adults looking for nightlife, shoppers, entertainment seekers
Pro tip: Many casinos offer free parking with a players card. Sign up even if you don’t gamble much.
3. Stone Harbor & Avalon (20 minutes)
These neighboring towns are known as “Seven Mile Island” and offer a more upscale, quieter beach experience.
What to do:
- Browse the boutiques on 96th Street in Stone Harbor
- Visit the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary
- Enjoy fine dining with bay views
- Kayak or paddleboard in the back bays
Best for: Shopping enthusiasts, bird watchers, those seeking a quieter beach day
Pro tip: Get ice cream at Springer’s — it’s been a local favorite since 1952.
4. Historic Cold Spring Village (20 minutes)
Step back in time at this living history museum featuring restored buildings from the 1800s.
What to do:
- Watch blacksmith and pottery demonstrations
- Tour historic buildings
- Browse the country store
- Enjoy seasonal events and festivals
Best for: Families with kids, history buffs, anyone looking for something different
Pro tip: Check their event calendar — they host special themed weekends throughout the summer.
5. Ocean City (35 minutes)
Known as “America’s Greatest Family Resort,” Ocean City offers a different boardwalk experience — it’s a dry town with no alcohol sales.
What to do:
- Walk the 2.5-mile boardwalk
- Visit Gillian’s Wonderland Pier
- Catch a movie at the Moorlyn Theatre
- Enjoy the wide, clean beaches
Best for: Families, those who want a different boardwalk experience
Pro tip: Thursday nights feature free boardwalk concerts in the summer.
Day Trip Planning Tips
- Leave early — Beat the traffic and maximize your day
- Pack snacks — Save money and time
- Check the weather — Have a backup plan for rainy days
- Don’t overplan — Pick 2-3 activities max
- Come back to Wildwood — You’ll appreciate your home base even more!
After a day of exploring, you’ll love coming back to The American Inn. There’s nothing like ending a day trip with a walk on our beach or a dip in the pool. Book your stay and make Wildwood your home base for Jersey Shore adventures.
Category
Local Guide
