Wildwood Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay and eat, and how to get around Wildwood, New Jersey with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Wildwood

Located in Cape May County, on the Jersey Shore, in New Jersey, Wildwood is a popular beach destination known for its boardwalk, amusement parks, and water parks. Wildwood is the perfect vacation spot for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a fun-filled and relaxing getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Wildwood

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Wildwood has a rich history that is showcased in its museums and historical places. Here are a few must-visit places:

  • Wildwood Historical Society: Visit the Wildwood Historical Society to learn more about the history and heritage of the city from its founding to the present.
  • Doo Wop Experience Museum: This museum showcases the unique architectural style of Wildwood’s famous Doo Wop motels, which are a significant part of the city’s history.
  • Hereford Inlet Lighthouse: This lighthouse is an iconic landmark and offers panoramic views of Wildwood and the Atlantic Ocean.

Natural Attractions of Wildwood: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The natural beauty of Wildwood is breathtaking, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Here are some of the best places to explore:

  • Wildwood Beaches: The wide, clean, and sandy beaches of Wildwood are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
  • Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Water Parks: A perfect combination of amusement park rides and water park adventures.
  • Cape May County Park and Zoo: Explore animals from all over the world by visiting Cape May County Zoo, a 200-acre zoological park with over 550 animals.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wildwood

Exploring Wildwood’s natural beauty can be done by foot or bike. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Wildwood:

  • Cape May Shoreline Route: A 10.7-mile-long trail that offers stunning ocean views while biking or hiking.
  • Sunset Beach to Cape May Point Lighthouse: This is a 6-mile-long biking/hiking trail that provides breathtaking views of the ocean, dunes, and the Cape May Lighthouse.

Best Things to Do in Wildwood: Activities and Tours

Wildwood has plenty of options for things to do and see, from water parks to museums. Here are some of the best activities and tours in Wildwood:

  • The Wildwood Boardwalk: Enjoy carnival games, amusement parks, shops, restaurants, and bars in the lively atmosphere of Wildwood’s famous boardwalk.
  • Wildwood Food Tours: Embark on a culinary adventure and sample some of the best local food and drinks that Wildwood has to offer.
  • Wildwood Whale Watching: Take a boat trip and try to spot humpback whales, dolphins, and other sea creatures in their natural habitat.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wildwood

To make the best use of your time in Wildwood, here’s a seven-day itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Morey’s Piers and Beachfront Water Parks
2 Explore Wildwood’s beaches and watch the sunset at Sunset Beach
3 Take a bike tour of Cape May and see the lighthouse
4 Spend the day at Cape May County Park and Zoo
5 Learn about Wildwood’s history at the Doo Wop Experience Museum
6 Embark on a scenic hiking trip along the Cape May Shoreline Route
7 Take a food tour and enjoy local cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of Wildwood

Must-Try Dishes

Wildwood has a fantastic food scene that boasts a range of dishes from seafood to Italian cuisine. Be sure to try these must-try dishes:

  • Crabfries: A Wildwood original, crabfries are seasoned potato fries that come with a creamy crab dip on the side.
  • Pizza: Wildwood is known for its delicious and mouth-watering pizza, which is often served in a unique rectangular shape.
  • Seafood: With its location on the coast, Wildwood has plenty of seafood options. Try the crab cakes or the clam chowder for the authentic experience.

Local Beverages

While visiting Wildwood, you must try its unique local beverages:

  • Cape May Brewing Company: Sample delicious craft beers at this brewery that has a taproom located in the city.
  • MudHen Brewing Co: This brewery offers craft beer with a twist, with unique flavors such as fruit-infused beer and gluten-free beer.

Where to Stay in Wildwood: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Wildwood has a range of accommodation options that cater to various budget needs. Some of the top places to stay in Wildwood include:

  • Port Royal Hotel: Beachfront hotel with excellent ocean views, outdoor pool, and hot tub.
  • Adventurer Oceanfront Inn: Oceanfront hotel with access to the boardwalk, arcade, and beach equipment.
  • Wildwood Beach Inn: Budget-friendly accommodation that’s perfect for travelers with limited budgets. It is located a block away from the beach.

What to Buy in Wildwood: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

To make your Wildwood trip memorable, bring home some souvenirs that represent the city’s culture and heritage. Here are some of the best things to buy in Wildwood:

  • Wildwood T-shirt or Sweatshirt: Rep Wildwood in style with vibrant-colored shirts and sweatshirts.
  • Saltwater Taffy: A classic Wildwood souvenir, saltwater taffy is a sweet chewy candy that’s available in a variety of flavors.
  • Doo Wop Memorabilia: Purchase souvenirs that represent Wildwood’s cultural heritage, such as items with 1950s and 60s nostalgia.

Local Culture and Customs of Wildwood

Wildwood has a unique culture and customs that every traveler should know before visiting. Here are a few cultural insights to keep in mind:

  • Respect the wildlife and natural beauty of the city
  • Stay alert when swimming on the beaches and follow safety guidelines
  • Obey the rules and laws of Wildwood

Best Time to Visit Wildwood

The best time to visit Wildwood is from late May to early September when the city’s famous boardwalk amusement parks and water parks are open. Wildwood’s beaches are busiest during this time, with plenty of fun summer activities that cater to adults and children alike.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wildwood

Do:

  • Apply sunscreen before hitting the beach.
  • Take a stroll on the boardwalk and enjoy the carnival games and amusements.
  • Try the seafood and pizza.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beach or boardwalk.
  • Swim outside the designated areas.
  • Ignore the safety signs and warnings.

Safety and Health

Visiting Wildwood is safe, but tourists must take some precautions to ensure a safe and healthy visit.

Safety in Wildwood

  • Be aware of your surroundings and stay in well-lit areas at night.
  • Keep valuables in a safe place and locked up in hotel rooms.
  • Check for warning signs before swimming in the ocean, and obey the rules of the beaches.

Health in Wildwood

  • Drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated during the summer.
  • Wear sunscreen and protective clothing to prevent sunburn.
  • Seek medical help if you experience any health-related problems.

Getting to Wildwood: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Wildwood

  • Atlantic City International Airport - Located 41 miles away from Wildwood.
  • Philadelphia International Airport - Located 105 miles away from Wildwood.

Bus Stations Near Wildwood

  • Wildwood Bus Terminal
  • Cape May - Lower Township Park and Ride

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car gives you independence and can be convenient when exploring Wildwood and the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Wildwood

Getting around Wildwood is easy with public transportation and bike rentals. Some of the most popular transportation options include:

  • Wildwood Boardwalk Tramcars: These tramcars run the entire length of the boardwalk and offer an affordable and fun way to get around.
  • Bikes and Beach Cruisers: Rentals are available at various locations throughout the city, making it easy to explore Wildwood at your own pace.
  • Car Rental: Renting a car gives you independence and can be convenient when exploring Wildwood and the surrounding areas

Where to Go Next from Wildwood: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Wildwood is a perfect base for exploring the Jersey Shore and the nearby areas. Here are some of the most popular nearby destinations:

  • Cape May: Known for its charming Victorian architecture and beautiful beaches.
  • Atlantic City: The east coast’s Las Vegas, full of casinos, upscale eating, and shopping experiences
  • Philadelphia: the Birthplace of American Democracy and a favorite to many Independence-lovers.

Conclusion

Wildwood is a must-visit destination if you’re looking for a fun-filled and relaxing getaway. From its beautiful beaches to its vibrant boardwalk, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With this comprehensive guide, we hope that you have all the information needed to plan an unforgettable trip to Wildwood, New Jersey.

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