Cape May Lighthouse
Lighthouse in Lower Township, New Jersey
Introduction
History
- ๐ First Lighthouse: Built in 1823, now underwater due to erosion
- ๐๏ธ Current Structure: Built in 1859 under the supervision of U.S. Army engineer William F. Raynolds
- ๐ Automation: Automated in 1946
- ๐๏ธ Ownership: Owned by the State of New Jersey, leased to Cape May MAC for restoration and public access
- ๐ Public Access: Opened to the public in 1988, over 2.5 million visitors have climbed it since
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Events
- ๐ Full Moon Climb: Nighttime climbs on full moon nights, $20 for adults, $10 for children
- ๐ Stairway to the Stars: New moon climbs for stargazing, $20 for adults, $10 for children
- ๐ Fireworks Climb: Exclusive view of Independence Day fireworks, advance reservations required
- ๐ Christmas in July: Family-friendly activities and visit from Santa Claus
- ๐๏ธ National Lighthouse Day: Crafts & Collectibles Show with family-friendly activities
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Visitor Information
- ๐ฐ๏ธ Hours: Vary with the season, last climb 15 minutes before closing
- ๐๏ธ Admission: $12 for adults, $8 for children (ages 3-12) and veterans, free for active military
- ๐ Parking: Abundant free parking available
- ๐๏ธ Museum Shop: Located in the Oil House, offers souvenirs and maritime items
- ๐ Interpretive Panels: Located at the base and along the climb, detailing the history and function of the lighthouse
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Accessibility
- โฟ Oil House: Fully accessible Visitorsโ Orientation Center and Museum Shop
- ๐ป Restrooms: Available in the State Park buildings
- ๐ค๏ธ Nature Trails: Well-developed and marked trails in Cape May Point State Park
- ๐ ฟ๏ธ Parking: Abundant free parking for all types of vehicles
- ๐๏ธ Picnic Areas: Covered pavilions available for picnicking, must be reserved through state park offices
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Fun Facts
- ๐ ๏ธ Keepers: Lighthouse was staffed by keepers who carried oil to the top daily
- ๐ Keeper's Residence: Two houses built around 1860, one still standing
- ๐ Height: 157 feet 6 inches tall
- ๐ช Steps: 217 steps from the ground to the top
- ๐ก Beacon: Light is visible 24 miles out to sea, flashes every 15 seconds
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Restoration
- ๐ง Restoration: Began in 1987, completed in 2002
- ๐ฐ Funding: Nearly $2 million in grants, primarily from the New Jersey Historic Trust and ISTEA program
- ๐๏ธ Managed by: Cape May MAC, responsible for restoration and public access
- ๐ช Improvements: Included safety improvements, restoration of windows, doors, and lantern roof
- ๐จ Original Colors: Re-painted in its original color scheme, light beige tower and red lantern
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| Travel Information |
|---|
| ๐ย ย ย Phone: (609) 884-5404 |
| ๐ย ย ย Website: https://capemaymac.org/experience/cape-may-lighthouse/ |
| ๐ย ย ย Hours: See hours |
| ๐ย ย ย Address: 215 Light House Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204 |
๐ย ย ย Profiles:  |
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