A Cape May Christmas: Holiday Shopping & Victorian Charm

Friday, December 4th, 2026

Experience the magic of Cape May during the most wonderful time of the year! Join The Institute at Tower Hill for a festive day trip to charming Cape May, New Jersey, where beautifully decorated Victorian homes, twinkling holiday lights, unique boutiques, and seasonal cheer await!

We'll begin our morning aboard the Cape May–Lewes Ferry, enjoying the scenic journey across the Delaware Bay.

Upon arrival in Cape May, our private transportation with G Transportation will whisk us away to the heart of historic downtown, where you'll have the day to explore, shop, dine, and soak up the holiday spirit at your own pace.

A Day of Holiday Magic!

Washington Street Mall: Stroll through the beautifully decorated, pedestrian-friendly shopping district filled with charming boutiques, specialty shops, holiday gifts, and local treasures.

Congress Hall: Visit this iconic historic hotel, decked out for the holidays, and enjoy its festive atmosphere and wonderful photo opportunities.

Victorian Holiday Charm: Admire Cape May's picturesque Victorian architecture and historic homes adorned with seasonal decorations.

Holiday Inns Tour: For those looking for an extra dose of Christmas magic, consider the self-guided tour of festively decorated historic inns, scheduled from 1:00–3:30 PM. Separate admission and advance tickets may be required.

Enjoy lunch at one of Cape May's wonderful downtown restaurants, stop for a seasonal cocktail or sweet treat, and spend the afternoon making holiday memories with your Tower Hill neighbors!

Our Holiday Day Trip Schedule

7:45 AM – Meet at the Lewes Ferry Terminal for check-in
43 Cape Henlopen Drive, Lewes, DE

8:45 AM – Ferry departs Lewes for Cape May

Upon Arrival – Board our private transportation to downtown Cape May

Late Morning–4:30 PM – Enjoy holiday shopping, dining, sightseeing, and exploring at your leisure

4:30 PM – Meet at our designated downtown pickup location (to be determined) to board the van back to the Cape May Ferry Terminal

6:00 PM – Ferry departs Cape May for Lewes

Event Details

Date: Friday, December 4th, 2026

Cost: $30 per person (includes van gratuity)

Your registration includes:

- Round-trip Cape May–Lewes Ferry tickets

- Round-trip transportation between the Cape May Ferry Terminal and downtown Cape May

- Gratuity for van transportation

*Lunch, shopping, and optional activities are at your own expense.

Registration, Refund & Weather Policy

Registration Deadline: Monday, November 30th, 2026

Advance registration is required to secure ferry tickets and transportation arrangements.

Cancellation Policy: No refunds will be issued for individual cancellations received after December 1st, 2026. Tickets are transferrable if you are able to find a replacement.

Cancellation Policy: Where unsafe travel conditions, or ferry service cancellations require The Institute to cancel the trip, all registered participants will receive a full refund of their registration fee, regardless of the cancellation date. Participants will be notified as soon as a cancellation decision is made.

Please arrive at the Lewes Ferry Terminal by 7:45 AM to allow ample time for check-in and boarding.

Gather your friends, bring your holiday spirit, and join The Institute for a delightful day of Christmas shopping, coastal charm, and festive memories in Cape May!

Please contact Christi Davis, Lifestyle Manager at cdavis@cmfa.com with any questions.