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 Cumberland County area!
WheatonArts & Cultural Center
1000 Village Dr., Millville
(856) 825-6800, www.wheatonarts.org
Located in Millville, at WheatonArts you can watch world-class glass art be created in the Glass Studio, tour the Museum of American Glass and walk through the Craft Studios to see artists hard at work. Take a walk around the grounds in your rain boots and view the beautiful sites around the pond, or even take a short train ride! Don’t forget to stop by the museum stores to browse through the finest selection of handcrafted gift items. A variety of special events, exhibitions and educational programs are offered throughout the year. WheatonArts is about 45 minutes from Rio Grande, Exit 26 off of Route 55.
Cohanzick Zoo
45 Mayor Aitken Dr., Bridgeton
(856) 453-1658, www.cohanzickzoo.org
The Cohanzick Zoo opened its gates as New Jersey’s first zoo in 1934. Now, the zoo is home to nearly 100 animals representing more than 45 different species from around the world. Although it’s a small zoo situated on approximately 15 acres within the city of Bridgeton’s 1,100 acre park, it provides a home for some larger than life animals. Many describe the Cohanzick Zoo as a hidden gem nestled in the woods, well off the beaten path. Admission is free, but donations are always welcome! The Cohanzick Zoo is about one hour from Rio Grande, via Routes 47 and 347 North.
Riverfront Renaissance Center of the Arts
22 N. High St., Millville
(856) 327-4500, www.rrcarts.com
Located in the heart of Millville’s Glasstown Arts District, Riverfront Renaissance Center of the Arts offers a wide variety of art exhibits in a beautiful gallery. Additionally, ambitious art lovers can enroll in art programs, classes and presentations. Neighbored by restaurants, pubs, galleries, studios, murals, sculptures, parks and shops, anyone will surely enjoy a day here. Riverfront Renaissance Center of the Arts is about 45 minutes from Rio Grande, Exit 24 off of Route 55.
Delsea Drive-In
2203 South Delsea Dr., Vineland
(856) 696-0011, www.delseadrive-in.com
Located in Vineland, the Delsea Drive-In is New Jersey’s only drive-in movie theatre. Originally built in 1949, it combines the nostalgia of the drive-in movie theatre with modern technologies. Admission is $11 for adults, $6 for children 4 to 11 years old, and free for children 3 years and younger (plus tax). Admission includes two movies on one screen, and sometimes three! The Delsea Drive-In is about 50 minutes from Rio Grande, Exit 27 off of Route 55.
East Point Lighthouse
10 Lighthouse Rd., Heislerville
(856) 785-0349, www.eastpointlight.com
Located on the mouth of the picturesque Maurice River on the Delaware Bay, this working lighthouse is surrounded by natural beauty. It has played an important part in the maritime history of the region, guiding people to the entrance of the river since 1849. The fully restored lighthouse is the second oldest in New Jersey and the only remaining New Jersey land based lighthouse on the Delaware Bay. Climb to the top and check out the lantern room, where you’ll find panoramic views of the surrounding water and undeveloped land. The East Point Lighthouse is about 40 minutes from Rio Grande, via Route 47 North.