Cape May Named One of the Best Small Towns in the Northeast

As Cape May celebrates 175 years as a city, 50 years as a National Historic Landmark, and 250 years of America, it continues to earn national recognition—this time as one of the Best Small Towns in the Northeast.

In the latest USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, Cape May secured a spot in the Top 10 Small Towns in the Northeast, ranking among the region’s most beloved destinations. The list, curated by travel experts and voted on by the public, highlights towns with exceptional historic charm, scenic beauty, cultural attractions, and local flavor.

A Place Where History Lives

Cape May’s inclusion on this list is no coincidence. With a population of just a few thousand residents, it offers the intimacy of a small town paired with a rich and layered history. Visitors can stroll streets lined with historic homes, explore landmarks, and experience a destination where preservation and progress exist side by side.

Often described as a showcase of Victorian “gingerbread” architecture, Cape May has evolved into one of the most visually distinctive communities in the country—an identity that continues to captivate first-time visitors and lifelong loyalists alike.

More Than a Seaside Escape

While its beaches are world-class, Cape May’s appeal goes far beyond the shoreline. The 10Best recognition reflects a well-rounded destination where visitors can:

• Wander a vibrant downtown filled with local shops and dining

• Experience a thriving arts and culture scene

• Enjoy year-round events and seasonal traditions

• Connect with a community that values authenticity and hospitality

It’s this combination—coastal beauty, cultural richness, and small-town warmth—that sets Cape May apart in a region filled with historic destinations.

A Continued National Presence

This latest honor adds to a growing list of accolades for Cape May, including recognition as one of the Best Coastal Small Towns in America in the same USA TODAY awards cycle. Together, these honors reinforce what generations have already discovered: Cape May is not just a destination, but a place that leaves a lasting impression.

Celebrating the Moment

During this milestone year, being named one of the Best Small Towns in the Northeast is both a celebration of Cape May’s past and a reflection of its vibrant present.

For years, visitors have come to Cape May for its beauty. Today, they return for its character, its history, and its unmistakable sense of place—now recognized among the very best in the Northeast.