From tastings and tours, to nature trails, to historical sites, to theatrical productions, Cape May County offers a plethora of rainy day fun. But sometimes a change of scenery is needed on a gloomy day at the Jersey Cape. Perhaps a ride beyond the county line? Throw your hood on, hop in the car and check out these great activities in the surrounding Atlantic County area!
Lucy the Elephant
9200 Atlantic Ave., Margate
(609) 823-6473, www.lucytheelephant.org
Located in Margate, Lucy is the oldest remaining example of zoomorphic architecture left in the U.S. Celebrating her 137th birthday this year, she has been painstakingly restored into the beautiful structure displayed today. Walk through Lucy and learn about her unique architecture and history from a tour guide. Once you climb the spiral staircase all the way up to the covered howdah on her back, take in the spectacular 360-degree view of the surrounding shore area. Lucy is about 40 minutes from Rio Grande, Exit 29 off of the Garden State Parkway.
Tanger Outlets – The Walk
2014 Baltic Ave., Atlantic City
(609) 344-0095, www.tangeroutlet.com/atlanticcity
Open your umbrella and stroll along The Walk in Atlantic City to explore all Tanger Outlets has to offer. Tanger Outlets features over 50 stores for the entire family, with all of your favorite brand name clothing and accessories at the best prices. After shopping ‘til you drop, stop into one of the many dining options at The Walk for a bite to eat and some cocktails. Happy shopping! Tanger Outlets is about 40 minutes from Rio Grande, Exit 38 (Atlantic City Expressway East) off of the Garden State Parkway.
Absecon Lighthouse
31 S. Rhode Island Ave., Atlantic City
(609) 449-1360, www.abseconlighthouse.org
New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse awaits you! Take an amazing journey to the past as you ascend the 228 steps of the Absecon Lighthouse in Atlantic City, New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse at 171 feet. One of the oldest lighthouses in the country, the Absecon Lighthouse celebrates its 161st birthday this year. At the top, you’ll catch breathtaking views of the Atlantic City skyline and come face-to-face with the original first-order Fresnel Lens, first lit in 1857. You’ll also find a stunning replica of the lightkeeper’s dwelling, an educational museum, a charming gift shop and expansive grounds. The Absecon Lighthouse is about 50 minutes from Rio Grande, Exit 38 (Atlantic City Expressway East) off of the Garden State Parkway.
Atlantic City Aquarium
800 N. New Hampshire Ave., Atlantic City
(609) 348-2880, www.acaquarium.com
The Atlantic City Aquarium provides a first-class experience for shore visitors, introducing them to New Jersey’s Coastal Marine Environment. Discover the fish of the Mid-Atlantic ocean; Get up close and personal with sharks at the Tropical Shark Touch Tank; explore the Australian Exhibit with animals from the outback and dense forests and jungles; and much more! Daily events and shows include a stingray feeding and an exotic animal show. The Atlantic City Aquarium is about 50 minutes from Rio Grande, Exit 38 (Atlantic City Expressway East) off of the Garden State Parkway.
Historic Smithville & The Village Greene
615 E. Moss Mill Rd., Smithville
(609) 652-7777, www.historicsmithvillenj.com
At Historic Smithville & The Village Greene, you can dine at 10 different eateries and shop at 40 unique shops and boutiques. Or, put on your rain boots to simply stroll the cobblestone paths and enjoy the beautifully manicured grounds. There is a special event or activity happening almost every week of the year! Hitoric Smithville is about 45 minutes from Rio Grande, Exit 44 off of the Garden State Parkway.
Batsto Village
31 Batsto Rd., Hammonton
(609) 561-0024, www.batstovillage.org
Step back in time with a visit to historic and beautiful Batsto Village in Hammonton, with the Pinelands environment as a scenic backdrop. During the iron making and glass making periods tracing back to 1766, there were hundreds of people working and living in the village. As the industries grew, so did the additional buildings and activities necessary to sustain the workers and their families. Peer inside the restored buildings and visualize an earlier time and different way of life. Self-guided, guided and mansion tours are available. Batsto Village is about one hour from Rio Grande, Exit 50 off of the Garden State Parkway.