Southern Shore, Cape May New Jersey

New Jersey Southern Shore: Slip Away From The Everyday To Recharge Your Spirit And Soul

Once summer is over and our beach chairs are stored away, the pace at New Jersey Southern Shore, at the southern tip of the state, becomes unhurried and coastal life is about seemingly endless time and wide-open space that lets you slip away from the everyday and relax. Not too long ago, October, November and even December were a bit of a secret, but then we decided to share a little piece of paradise. Read on for some ideas to help you build an itinerary for a perfect fall or winter getaway in Cape May and Cumberland Counties. www.njsouthernshore.com

First visit a National Historic Landmark City, Cape May, the nation’s oldest seaside resort, filled with outstanding examples of Victorian architecture, and be sure to shop for a few things like antiques, clothing, candy and more at the Washington Street Mall. Take a tour of the Emlen Physick Estate or hop aboard a trolley for a tour of the town. Special events are planned throughout the year, including Victorian and Christmas celebrations. www.capemaymac.org

Just over the bridge from Cape May, you’ll find the Wildwoods. Spend some time walking on the wide beaches, then visit the Historic Hereford Inlet Lighthouse. Or simply drive around for a step back in time to view the Doo Wop Architecture, the largest concentration of mid-century commercial architecture in the U.S. The era's influence on the city features authentic 50's, mid-century and a touch of space age design reflected in the architectural style of the city's hotels. www.wildwoodsnj.com

Next stop is "America's Greatest Family Resort," Ocean City.  Head to Ocean City's Asbury Avenue - the resort’s downtown shopping district that’s lined with quaint restaurants and eclectic shops.  At Christmas, the Asbury shopping district becomes a “Miracle on Asbury Avenue” celebrating the holiday with free horse and carriage rides and a First Night celebration that kicks off the new year in grand style.  www.oceancityvacation.com

Journey westward to Cumberland County to visit the old fishing towns of Mauricetown and Bivalve, settled on the Maurice River. Once home to a thriving oyster industry, Bivalve is home to the1928 authentically restored schooner, AJ Meerwald, New Jersey's Official Tall Ship. www.bayshorecenter.org

Then head on up to Fortescue and watch fishing fleets unload their catch. Farther up the winding river, take a walking tour of Greenwich with the Cumberland County Historical Society. The colonial river port was the site of New Jersey's own tea party, a prelude to the Revolutionary War.  Since then, not much has changed in this quiet little town, Main Street is still called Ye Greate Street, and many of the homes that line it were built in the 1700s. www.historicalsociety.com

Head farther inland to Millville. Visit Wheaton Arts, a cultural center dedicated to the history of American glassmaking, traditional and contemporary crafts, and folk art. Home to the Museum of American Glass, the largest museum devoted specifically to American glass. Watch modern-day glassblowers as they finish the transformation of sand into glass. While you're there, make a glass paperweight for yourself. www.wheatonarts.org

While still in Millville, located between the downtown thoroughfare and the nearby Maurice River, the Glasstown Arts District comprises a rich variety of art studios and galleries, artists' residences, restaurants, and related businesses. Enjoy live entertainment, shopping and handmade artisan works on the monthly Third Friday event.  www.glasstownartsdistrict.com 

Escape the everyday and feel free to pursue your passions at New Jersey Southern Shore. Call 1-800-227-2297 or visit www.njsouthernshore.com