215 LIGHTHOUSE AVE.
Located in Cape May Point State Park
Park is open, but the lighthouse remains closed for climbing.
The present tower, which is the third documented lighthouse at the southern tip of New Jersey, has been an aid-to-navigation for mariners and attraction for visitors since it was built in 1859.
More than 2.5 million visitors have climbed the lighthouse since it opened to the public in 1988. For those who choose not to climb, the Oil House on the grounds contains a fully accessible Visitors’ Orientation Center and Museum Shop carrying souvenirs, books and maritime items.
The state park offers many amenities for nature lovers and family fun.
Admission $10 adults; $5 children (ages 3-12) & Veterans. Active Military FREE! Tickets may be purchased online (Military tickets not available online) or at the Lighthouse during hours of operation
The Oil House on the grounds contains a fully accessible Visitors’ Orientation Center and Museum Shop.
VIRTUAL TOUR
If you’re like us, you miss the spectacular view from the top of the Cape May Lighthouse and the awesome experience getting there. Join us on our newest virtual tour. Tip: If you watch while walking up and down your stairs, you will still get that great leg burn!
If you can, please consider purchasing an advance ticket, or making a donation to our organization below.
Special Events & Activities
LIGHTHOUSE FULL MOON CLIMB
Thursday, May 7; Friday, June 5
8pm-10pm
Take advantage of the light of the full moon and let it guide you up the 199 stairs to the starry top. The Lighthouse is located in Cape May Point State Park, Lower Township. Tower admission is free for “Friends” members.
$15 for adults, $8 for children (ages 3-12) and active military or veterans
Purchase tickets from the Keeper at the Lighthouse the night of the event
GHOSTS OF THE LIGHTHOUSE TROLLEY TOUR
Take an evening trolley ride down the ghostly path that leads to the Cape May Lighthouse, as you hear about psychic medium Craig McManus’ paranormal findings. At the Lighthouse, you might even feel the presence of long-ago keepers. Do you have what it takes to climb 199 spirited stairs to the top? Whether you choose to climb or stay below, you’ll surely enjoy an awesome experience.
*Please note that some portions of this tour are not accessible. Call 609-884-5404 (press 0) for reservations and further information.
$25 for adults; $15 for children (ages 3-12)
Limited to 33 tourgoers.
DINNER & FULL MOON CLIMB
Aug. 5, Sept. 3, Oct. 2, Oct. 30
6:15pm
First board MAC’s trolley at the Emlen Physick Estate for a ride to the Red Store in Cape May Point, where you’ll savor the Tasting Menu presented by Chef Lucas Manteca. Then hop aboard the trolley for a short ride to the Cape May Lighthouse, where you’ll enjoy an exclusive night climb to see the shoreline and waters of the ocean and bay beneath the light of the full moon. At the conclusion of your climb, the trolley will return you to the Physick Estate.
Tickets $85
Reservations necessary; limited to 22 people
FRIENDS OF THE CAPE MAY LIGHTHOUSE EVENTS
Check back for more information!
Friends groups are affinity membership groups of Cape May MAC. Throughout the year, the Friends groups plan various events and activities that help raise funds for specific initiatives.
CRAFTS & COLLECTIBLES
Fun for the whole family!
Wednesdays, July 8 – Aug. 19
9am-2pm
Climb the 199 steps to the top or enjoy the grounds and shop the many unique crafts vendors. Plenty of free parking.
Interested in becoming a vendor? Click here for applications.
THE KEEPER’S ON DUTY
Saturdays, June 13-Sept. 5
1:15pm
What’s it like to be a Lighthouse Keeper? If you’d like the answer to this question and others, join us for The Keeper’s On Duty, at the Education Center at Cape May Point State Park. The Keeper of the Cape May Lighthouse presents an informative and entertaining half hour talk on the history and lore of the famous 1859 Cape May Lighthouse. Suited for everyone from children to lighthouse buffs, it’s the perfect introduction to your lighthouse climb!
CHRISTMAS IN JULY
Friday, July 25
10am – 2pm
Join Santa at the Cape May Lighthouse, Cape May Point State Park, along with food, music, vendors and family-friendly activities.
Family friendly activities on the grounds are FREE! Kids climb the Lighthouse for FREE!
NATIONAL LIGHTHOUSE DAY
Friday, Aug. 7: 9am-2pm
Celebrate National Lighthouse Day at the Cape May Lighthouse! Make your own crafts, listen to songs of the sea, meet the lighthouse keepers, shop for nautical merchandise and more, all on the grounds of the Cape May Lighthouse. Free admission to the activities, separate admission to climb the lighthouse.
Free admission to the grounds and activities; Kids climb the Lighthouse FREE with paying adult.
LIGHTHOUSE STORYTIME
Saturdays, June 13-Sept. 5
12:30pm
Bring your young children to the Education Center in Cape May Point State Park (adjacent to the Cape May Lighthouse) to listen to nautical tales and lighthouse adventure stories.
Free admission.
Co-sponsored by Cape May MAC and Cape May Point State Park.
The Education Center is fully accessible.
LIGHTHOUSE CHALLENGE OF NJ
Saturday & Sunday
Oct. 17 & 18, 2020
The goal for participants of the Lighthouse Challenge of New Jersey is to visit (and hopefully climb) all of New Jersey’s maintained lighthouses to share in the joy and beauty of our beloved navigational aids which represent a rich nautical history and stand as a testament to a level of engineering and quality that withstands the test of time. Visit the Challenge website here.
Learn More
Cape May Lighthouse Photos
