Downe Township New JerseyATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Downe Township, New Jersey.
1. Edward G. Bevan Fish and Wildlife Management Area
PRISTINE NATURE PRESERVE
The Edward G. Bevan Fish and Wildlife Management Area is a prime bird watching and hiking venue located in Downe Township. Visitors can explore vast stretches of undisturbed woodlands and wetlands showcasing the pristine natural beauty of the Northeast United States. The area offers excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation and wildlife observation in a tranquil rural setting.
2. Turkey Point Fish and Wildlife Management Area
WILDLIFE WATCHING PARADISE
Turkey Point Fish and Wildlife Management Area provides exceptional opportunities for bird watching and hiking enthusiasts in Downe Township. The area features beautiful waterways and wetlands that support diverse bird species, making it a significant location for the growing birding tourism industry in Southern New Jersey. Nature lovers can immerse themselves in the natural, undisturbed beauty while exploring the various trails and observation points.
3. Downe Township Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE CENTER
The Downe Township Historical Society Museum, located at 274 Main Street, houses artifacts and exhibits showcasing the history and culture of the area. Visitors can learn about the township's rural heritage, including its fishing, boating, and sand mining industries that have shaped the community. The museum serves as an educational resource preserving the unique character and historical significance of Downe Township.
4. Sunset Beach
SCENIC COASTAL RETREAT
Sunset Beach offers visitors breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay in nearby Lower Township. The beach is renowned for its spectacular sunsets and unique Cape May diamonds, which are clear quartz pebbles polished by the ocean. Visitors can enjoy beachcombing, relaxing by the water, and experiencing the iconic sunset flag ceremony conducted during summer months.
5. Historic Cold Spring Village
LIVING HISTORY MUSEUM
Historic Cold Spring Village is an open-air living history museum depicting rural South Jersey life in the 1800s. The village features 27 restored historic buildings staffed by interpreters in period clothing demonstrating various crafts and trades from the era. Visitors can experience authentic 19th-century village life through interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and seasonal events that bring history to life.
6. Nauti Spirits Distillery
FARM-TO-BOTTLE SPIRITS
Nauti Spirits Distillery crafts premium spirits using ingredients grown on their 60-acre coastal farm in Lower Township. Visitors can tour the production facility to learn about the distilling process and sample their handcrafted vodka, gin, and rum products. The distillery offers a tasting room with craft cocktails and an outdoor seating area with views of the beautiful farmland.
7. Turdo Vineyards & Winery
MEDITERRANEAN-STYLE WINES
Turdo Vineyards & Winery specializes in Mediterranean-style wines made from grapes grown on their family-owned estate in Lower Township. The vineyard features Italian and Spanish varietals rarely found elsewhere in New Jersey, offering a unique tasting experience in their Tuscan-inspired tasting room. Visitors can enjoy guided tastings, vineyard tours, and special events throughout the year while learning about their old-world winemaking techniques.
8. Higbee Beach
NATURAL BEACH RESERVE
Higbee Beach is a pristine natural area known for its undeveloped shoreline and excellent bird watching opportunities in Lower Township. The beach and surrounding wildlife management area attract numerous migratory birds, making it one of the premier bird watching locations on the East Coast. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, beach walks, and the peaceful atmosphere of this less-crowded alternative to more commercial beaches.
9. Cape May Brewing Company
CRAFT BEER DESTINATION
Cape May Brewing Company is a popular craft brewery offering a wide selection of innovative and traditional beers in Lower Township. The brewery features a spacious tasting room where visitors can sample their award-winning brews alongside seasonal and experimental offerings. Tours are available to learn about the brewing process, the company's history, and their commitment to quality craft beer production.
10. Natural Lands' Glades Wildlife Refuge
COASTAL WILDERNESS EXPERIENCE
Natural Lands' Glades Wildlife Refuge encompasses over 7,800 acres of diverse habitats including salt marsh, forest, and meadows in the Downe area. The refuge offers excellent opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation along its extensive waterways and trails. Visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of one of the largest privately owned nature preserves in New Jersey while spotting various bird species and other wildlife.
11. Morey's Piers & Beachfront Water Parks
FAMILY AMUSEMENT DESTINATION
Morey's Piers & Beachfront Water Parks offers three amusement piers and two water parks spanning over 18 acres along the Wildwood boardwalk. The classic seaside amusement park features over 100 rides and attractions, from thrilling roller coasters to family-friendly options and refreshing water slides. Visitors can enjoy traditional boardwalk foods, games, and entertainment in this iconic Jersey Shore destination located within driving distance of Downe Township.
12. Adventure Aquarium
INTERACTIVE MARINE EXPERIENCE
Adventure Aquarium houses over 15,000 aquatic species in more than 2 million gallons of water, making it a premier marine attraction within driving distance of Downe Township. Visitors can walk through the underwater tunnel, touch stingrays, and experience the largest collection of sharks on the East Coast including the rare great hammerhead. The aquarium features interactive exhibits, daily shows, and unique experiences like Hippo Haven and Penguin Island that appeal to visitors of all ages.
13. Cape May County Park & Zoo
FREE FAMILY WILDLIFE PARK
Cape May County Park & Zoo spans 85 acres and houses over 550 animals representing 250 species in a beautifully landscaped setting. The zoo offers free admission and features exhibits with African savanna animals, big cats, primates, reptiles, and a large aviary. Visitors can enjoy the tree-lined walking paths, carousel, playground areas, and educational programs that make this attraction popular with families from throughout the region.
14. Lucy the Elephant
ICONIC ARCHITECTURAL LANDMARK
Lucy the Elephant is a six-story elephant-shaped building that stands as America's oldest roadside attraction and a National Historic Landmark. Built in 1881, this unique structure allows visitors to climb inside and enjoy panoramic views from the howdah (carriage) on Lucy's back. The recently restored interior showcases the history of this beloved attraction that has delighted visitors for over 140 years.
15. Commercial Township Wetlands Observation Area
SERENE BIRDWATCHING SPOT
The Commercial Township Wetlands Observation Area provides access to pristine wetlands near Downe Township that are part of the Delaware Bayshore region. Visitors can observe numerous migratory birds, waterfowl, and marsh wildlife from viewing platforms and trails throughout the seasons. The area exemplifies the natural beauty that makes Cumberland County a growing destination for ecotourism and nature-based recreation.