Mays Landing Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and explore in Mays Landing, New Jersey. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Mays Landing

Mays Landing is a charming town located in Atlantic County, New Jersey, in the heart of Jersey Shore. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty, Mays Landing is a perfect destination for travelers looking to explore the best of Mid-Atlantic. From museums and historical sites to outdoor adventures and delicious local cuisine, this town has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Mays Landing

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Atlantic Heritage Center - This museum showcases the history, culture, and traditions of Atlantic County through interactive exhibits, artifacts, and events.
  • Mays Landing Baptist Church - Established in 1813, this church is the oldest Baptist church in New Jersey and is well-known for its stunning stained-glass windows.
  • Historic Smithville Mansion - This beautiful mansion is a testament to the wealth and prestige of the Smith family and is a perfect example of Colonial Revival architecture.

Natural Attractions of Mays Landing: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Estell Manor Park - Spanning over 1,800 acres, this park offers visitors a chance to enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, and even camping.
  • Lake Lenape Park - This park is the perfect spot for fishing, picnicking, or just enjoying a peaceful day by the lake.
  • Birch Grove Park - Featuring several playgrounds, athletic fields, and walking trails, this park provides a great opportunity for outdoor recreation for visitors of all ages.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mays Landing

Mays Landing is home to some great hiking and biking trails, including:

  • Great Egg Harbor River Trail - This 12-mile trail passes through some of the most beautiful scenery in South Jersey, including marshes, forests, and wetlands.
  • Warren E. Fox Nature Center Trail - This 3.5-mile trail offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the Pine Barrens region.

Best Things to Do in Mays Landing: Activities and Tours

  • Jersey Shore Alpacas - Take a tour of this alpaca farm to learn more about these fascinating animals and even take a selfie with them.
  • Storybook Land - This amusement park theme based on classic fairy tales and nursery rhymes is a must-visit for families and children.
  • Tomasello Winery - Take a tour of this winery to learn about the wine-making process and sample some of their delicious wines.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mays Landing

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Atlantic Heritage Center and explore the downtown area
Day 2 Take a hike on the Great Egg Harbor River Trail and enjoy a picnic at Lake Lenape Park
Day 3 Learn about the local alpacas at Jersey Shore Alpacas and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant
Day 4 Visit Historic Smithville Mansion and go shopping at the Smithville Village
Day 5 Take a winery tour at Tomasello Winery and enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant
Day 6 Spend the day at Storybook Land with the family
Day 7 Explore the natural beauty of the Pine Barrens region on the Warren E. Fox Nature Center Trail

Food and Drink Scene of Mays Landing

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tomato Pie - A beloved local dish made with tomato sauce, grated Romano cheese, and a thin, crispy crust.
  • Seafood - With its location near the Atlantic Ocean, Mays Landing is known for its fresh seafood, especially crab and lobster.
  • Blueberry Pancakes - New Jersey is renowned for its blueberries, and many local diners serve delicious blueberry pancakes.

Local Beverages

  • Craft Beer - Mays Landing is home to several craft breweries, including Hidden Sands Brewing Company and Ludlam Island Brewery.
  • Cranberry Juice - New Jersey is the third-largest cranberry producer in the country, and many local restaurants serve freshly squeezed cranberry juice.

Where to Stay in Mays Landing: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Holiday Inn Express and Suites - Located in the heart of Mays Landing, this hotel features comfortable rooms, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.
  • Rodeway Inn - This budget-friendly hotel offers free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and parking, and is located just a few minutes from downtown Mays Landing.
  • J.D. Thompson Inn Bed and Breakfast - For a more romantic and intimate stay, book a room at this charming bed and breakfast featuring elegant rooms and beautiful gardens.

What to Buy in Mays Landing: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Blueberry Jam - Made from fresh Jersey blueberries, this jam is a tasty and unique souvenir.
  • Lighthouse Memorabilia - Mays Landing is close to several iconic lighthouses on the Jersey Shore, and many local shops sell lighthouse-themed souvenirs and gifts.
  • Salt Water Taffy - No trip to the Jersey Shore is complete without indulging in this classic candy.

Local Culture and Customs of Mays Landing

Mays Landing has a rich history and a unique culture that blends Native American, European, and African American traditions. Visitors should respect local customs and traditions, including preserving the natural beauty of the region and supporting local businesses and artists.

Best Time to Visit Mays Landing

The best time to visit Mays Landing is from May to October when the weather is warm and comfortable, and many outdoor events and festivals take place.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mays Landing

Do:

  • Explore the natural beauty of the area.
  • Support local businesses and artists.
  • Try the local cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment.
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.
  • Ignore safety regulations and warnings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mays Landing

Mays Landing is a safe and friendly town, but visitors should take basic safety measures, such as locking their cars and homes, being aware of their surroundings, and following all traffic laws.

Health in Mays Landing

There are several hospitals and medical facilities in the area in case of emergency.

Getting to Mays Landing: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mays Landing

  • Atlantic City International Airport (ACY)
  • Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

Bus Stations Near Mays Landing

  • Greyhound Bus Lines
  • AC Bus

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train Service
  • Taxi and ride-sharing services

How to Get Around in Mays Landing

The best way to get around Mays Landing is by car, but there are also several taxi services and ride-sharing options available.

Where to Go Next from Mays Landing: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Atlantic City - Located just a few miles from Mays Landing, Atlantic City is famous for its casinos, beaches, and boardwalk.
  • Cape May - This historic seaside town is known for its Victorian architecture and beautiful beaches.
  • Philadelphia - One of the largest cities in the United States, Philadelphia is home to many historic landmarks, museums, and art galleries.

Conclusion

Mays Landing is a hidden gem on the Jersey Shore, offering visitors a chance to explore history, culture, and natural beauty in one charming town. From hiking and biking trails to wineries and amusement parks, there is something for everyone in Mays Landing. Plan your trip today and discover what makes this town so special.