Things to do in Cape May County, Jersey Shore: The Best Museums

Ocean Galleries is a distinguished and established fine art gallery with locations in Avalon and Stone Harbor, New Jersey. We represent national and local artists; originals and fine art reproductions. All custom framing is done in our facility and we are considered the best in the industry for quality and design. Ocean Galleries also offers a wide variety of hand-crafted items such as glass, jewelry and furniture. The mission of Ocean Galleries is to personally introduce our cliental to the fine artists we represent and to share their most recent artwork. We practice the highest standards of credibility and integrity in a comfortable and unpretentious atmosphere.

The Sea Isle Historical Museum is located within the local library building (shown in photo), and is the repository of Sea Isle's 136-year history from its founding in 1880 as an envisioned "Venice of America" to the present. The museum welcomes all ages to explore an eclectic array of artifacts ranging from a hundred-year old trolley bell to a 1970s flight suit. Visual material includes thousands of photographs, maps, books, and monographs. Visitors are invited to browse through the many displays and collections, or to sit and research any desired subject at leisure. It's free - and there's no time limit.

The Red Door Gallery, one of the 15 charming shops at Woodland Village, represents the work of more than 15 Cape May County artists and fine craftspeople. Owned and operated by fine art photographer Christine Peck and fiber artist Mary Stewart, the shop features photography, watercolors, pottery, jewelry, works in paper and wood, mosaics, greeting and note cards, decorative and functional textile pieces and a selection of unique one-of-a-kind Christmas ornaments created by our artists. Woodland Village is open April through December.

The 1859 Cape May Lighthouse is fully restored and visitors can climb 199 steps to the top for a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay. The original Oil Storage Building is accessible and houses a Museum Shop and accessible displays. Open daily from April through November and weekends in the shoulder seasons. Evening trolley tours and Full Moon Climbs offered during the summer season. The Cape May Lighthouse has been restored and is managed by the non-profit Cape May MAC (Museums + Arts + Culture). While located at Cape May Point State Park, it is not affiliated with State Park System. The State Park is open sunrise to sunset and offers many opportunities for nature lovers, including the Hawk Watch platform and well-marked nature trails. Summertime programming is offered to introduce visitors to the history of the Lighthouse and is free of charge. The beach is free but swimming is not allowed. The park is “carry in, carry out;” please do not litter.