2014 Welcome to the Wildwoods

welcome to the wildwoods ci

Welcome to the Wildwoods

Sunrise at Glenwood Avenue beach in Wildwood.

Photograph by Judy Momorella

Welcome to the Wildwoods

The best time of day at Sunset Lake, Wildwood Crest.

Photograph by Judy Momorella

Welcome to the Wildwoods summer to winter 2014 Š Exit Zero Publishing 109 Sunset Boulevard, Suite D Cape May, NJ 08204 Tel: (609) 770-8479 Fax: (609) 770-8481 www.exitzero.us and online store at www.ezstore.us Editor/Designer JACK WRIGHT Advertising Manager DAVID MATAGIESE Special Contributing Photographer JUDY MOMORELLA Cover Design DAVID MACOMBER

To advertise in next year’s edition, contact David Matagiese on (609) 742-5656, david@exitzero.us

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher.

Inside This Book FEATURES From the Editor.................................. 5 Excerpt from A Wild Ride................ 6 A Neon Wonderland.........................14 Boardwalk Activities......................... 18 Off-Boardwalk Activities.................24 Summer Activities............................. 32 Fall Activities...................................... 54 ADVERTISERS’ INDEX Food & Drink Aloha Smoothie.................................. 114 Alosi’s Bistro....................................... 70 Alumni Grill......................................... 72 Beach Creek Oyter Bar and Grill .74 Boathouse........................................... 76 Breakfast in the Sky.......................... 78 Cape May Brewing Company......... 80 Capt’n Jacks Beach Bar and Grill.. 122 Curley’s Fries...................................... 82 Establishment at 100........................ 84 Fish & Fancy........................................ 115 Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery... 86 Island Grill........................................... 88 Jake’s Steaks....................................... 90

Joe’s Fish Co....................................... 92 Johnson’s Popcorn............................ 116 Jumbo’s................................................ 94 Kohr Brothers..................................... 117 Little Italy............................................ 96 Marie Nicole’s..................................... 98 North End American Grill................ 100 Pacific Grill.......................................... 102 Ravioli House...................................... 118 Royal Grille.......................................... 104 Schellenger’s ...................................... 119 Stewart’s Root Beer.......................... 122

Stubborn Bros Beach Bar................ 106 Taco Joint............................................ 120 Tony Lukes........................................... 121 Two Mile Landing .............................. 108 Uries...................................................... 110 Wreckers Beach Grille..................... 112 Food and Drink Chart....................... 123

Cape May Sports Memorabilia...... 136 Italian Garden..................................... 138 Morey Store........................................ 130 Mr J.’s Music Shop............................. 139 Original Fudge Kitchen.................... 137 Out of the Past Antiques................. 139 Shark Sugar......................................... 132 Sunset Beach Gift Shops................. 134

Shopping Artbox.................................................. 126

Health & Beauty Evolution Salon and Spa.................. 142 Hair: A Styling Salon......................... 143

Activities Atlantic Parasail................................. 162 East Coast Parasail & Jet Ski.......... 146 EcoVentures........................................ 148 Exit 0 International Jazz Fest......... 150 Historic Cold Spring Village............ 152 Jersey Shore Adventures................ 165 Morey’s Piers...................................... 154 Nature Center of Cape May........... 165 Naval Air Station Wildwood............ 163 Ocean Oasis Water Park................. 158 Raging Waters Water Park.............. 160 Thundercat Dolphin Watch............. 164 Real Estate Coastline Realty................................. 168 Hoffman Agency................................ 170 Long and Foster - Wildwoods......... 172 Seapointe Village Realty.................. 174

The sign that became an instant icon.

Photograph by Craig Terry Courtesy of Cape May County Tourism

From The Editor

W

ELCOME to the first issue of what will be an annual guide book for the Wildwoods. As you will see when you flick through these pages, there are a great deal of beautiful photographs and a great deal of activities to enjoy in this area. I feel privileged to live here year-round (even in the

depths of winter), and I hope you feel privileged to vacation here.

Whether you are a long-time visitor to the Wildwoods or are a relative newbie,

I think you are going to get a lot out of this book. If you have been coming here for years maybe you’ve started to take it a little bit for granted (hey, it happens to the best relationships). If that’s the case, then sit back, brew yourself a cup of coffee (or better still, have someone do it for you) or pour yourself a good glass of wine or an ice-clinking cocktail (or better still, have someone do it for you) and take a few minutes to browse. My guess is that you will be reinvigorated to go out and enjoy what this area has to offer.

And by “area” I mean thinking a little outside of the box, and a little outside of the Wildwoods. What I love most about the Jersey Cape is that you can

fanatic from Warminster, PA) on Flickr, a website where photographers display their work. I was blown away by the quality of Judy’s photography and she was generous enough to agree to share some of her images with us (and you). I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

I hope that Welcome to the Wildwoods will inspire you to indulge in what we call the Cape May Experience — a kaleidoscopic range of activities to enjoy in the southern part of Cape May County. The southern terminus is Cape May itself and we more or less drew a line at Stone Harbor in the north (we highly recommend a trip to their nationally renowned Bird Sanctuary, by the way). In between Cape May and Stone Harbor, there are so many great things to do and that’s what we want to share with you, your family and friends.

Whether you stay at a hotel, motel or condominium (or have your own summer retreat), we hope that the ideas and information on the following pages will make you want to come back again and again. And not just in the summer.

Cape May has a world-class jazz festival and is fast becoming one of the East

experience a remarkably diverse array of fun things to do, all within a 15-minute

Coast’s most enjoyable Christmas experiences. You’ll find all the information you

car ride. I will never tire of the road trip from Cape May over Ocean Drive, past

need on those events, and so much more, inside these pages.

the back bays and over that quaint drawbridge, through the fantasy motel land of

If you have any questions at all about your trip here, email jack@exitzero.us,

Wildwood Crest and into Wildwood, home of the country’s greatest boardwalk.

and I promise I’ll reply. Oh, and please don’t take this book from the room. You

It’s a classic slice of seaside Americana.

can buy a copy for just $15 at The Morey Store on Mariner’s Landing pier; or at

For this book, we cherry picked the Wildwoods experience — that is, we took all of our favorite things and shared them with you, via informative stories and event listings, along inspiring photography, for which I would like to send big thanks, and deep respect, to Judy Momorella. I found Judy (a Wildwood

the Exit Zero Store at artBOX on Adventure Pier (look for the brightly colored shipping containers!)

Enjoy the book, and enjoy this special place.

JACK WRIGHT

KINGS OF THE BOARD WALK

6 welcome to the wildwoods

How the Wildwoods became America’s Favorite Family Resort An excerpt from the book “A Wild Ride”

8 welcome to the wildwoods Previous page: Enjoying the thrills of the iconic Hunt’s Flyer.

This page: The opening of the Garden State Parkway in the mid-1950s delivered a huge boost to the Wildwoods tourist economy.

Opposite page: A 1950s promotional brochure; a stunt to promote Hunt’s Flyer; and erecting the signage for the ride.

Photographs courtesy of Wildwood Historical Society

T

by jim futrell

he seashore holds an irresistible, magical draw for many people. The rhythmic pounding of the surf, the cooling breezes and endless horizon of the ocean have attracted people for as long as anyone can remember. Where there are crowds, entrepreneurs descend, which results in the unique experience of the seaside amusement resort. All of the senses are stimulated by the colorful rides, the crowded, action-packed boardwalk, the lights and the smells of all the great food.

Enjoying amusements at the seashore is an experience found in only two countries in the world. While it is a time-honored tradition in Britain, the modern-day seaside amusement park experience is truly an American invention.

Like the amusement industry as a whole, the draw of the seashore was a result of a craving to escape the stifling conditions found in America’s cities in the nineteenth century and take advantage of the perceived medicinal benefits of the sea air.

Not surprisingly, Coney Island, with its close proximity to New York City, was the first seaside amusement resort to be established, entertaining its first visitors in the 1840s. Initially, the operations were quite simple — a few small hotels, restaurants, merry-go-rounds and other concessions — but by the end of the nineteenth century, Coney Island had emerged as the center of the amusement industry.

As important as Coney Island was to the early development of seaside amusement areas, Atlantic City, New Jersey, is actually where its cornerstones were created.

Once the community was linked with the Philadelphia area by railroad in 1854, Atlantic City began growing rapidly. And yet its oceanfront property was considered worthless until 1870, when local hotel owners implored the city council to do something about the

mess that the tourists created by tracking sand into their businesses. The result was the world’s first boardwalk.

Initially a temporary walkway, it was replaced by progressively larger installations until the current five-mile long, 60-foot wide version opened in 1896. The seaside amusement resort was changed forever, as a board- walk became a must-have feature.

Atlantic City also became a center of amusement industry innovation. Creative individuals sought to take advantage of the immense amount of traffic drawn to the

boardwalk and created the forerunners to today’s Ferris wheel, the first scenic railway roller coaster, and what was regarded as the first amusement pier. Howard’s Pier, which opened in 1882, offered visitors the chance to stroll high above the crashing waves of the ocean and be entertained by dance halls, theaters and other amusements.

Other piers soon followed in Atlantic City, including the legendary steel pier in 1898, and steeplechase pier, opened by the famed Coney Island park owner George

welcome to the wildwoods 9

10 welcome to the wildwoods This page: A view in 1960 of Sportland Pier (next to the site where Moreys later launched Surfside Pier); and Hunt’s Casino, which bosted the latest in cinematic amenities when it opened in 1940.

Opposite page: The Scream Machine on Playland Pier was formerly the famous Jack Rabbit roller coaster.

Photographs courtesy of Wildwood Historical Society

Tilyou in 1904.

One of the city’s most enthusiastic promoters, Captain John Young, opened the 2,000-foot-long Young’s Pier in 1891 where, in 1902, he built one of the world’s first looping roller coasters. He followed up in 1906 with the Million Dollar Pier, an elaborate showpiece made famous by Young’s elaborate home (which was located there) and by its twice-daily net hauls, in which a net was lowered into the ocean to bring up a variety of sea life that would splash around the deck in front of fascinated onlookers.

As popular as Atlantic City was, it was only one of 11 oceanfront communities in New Jersey that sprang up during the late 1800s and early 1900s that made amusements a key part of its offerings. Long Branch was popularized by southerners as a place to escape the summer heat and malaria of the south. Others included Ocean Grove (1869), Belmar (1872), Point Pleasant Beach (1877), Ocean City (1879), Keansburg (1904), seaside Park (1909) and seaside Heights (1913). It was in this environment that Wildwood started growing into what today is the country’s largest seaside resort. During the 1880s real estate speculators began selling lots to Philadelphians looking for a summer retreat. In 1888, the first oceanside pavilion was constructed. A carousel debuted in 1892 and in 1890 the community’s first great developer, George Blaker, opened its first amusement pier. The first boardwalk was laid on the beach in 1900 and other developers soon joined Blaker, opening Casino Pier in 1897, Ocean Pier in 1905, Crest Pier in 1906, and Atlantic Pier in 1910.

The seaside culture was not limited to New Jersey.

In the industry’s great growth period in the years before the Depression, approximately three dozen seaside communities became popular amusement resorts, from Maine around florida to Texas and from California up

to Washington. They were not amusement parks as we know them, but rather a community that featured a variety of independent amusements catering to the tourist trade, ranging from food and games concessions to independent rides, to full-blown amusement parks and piers.

In New England, Maine’s Old Orchard Beach, Connecticut’s savin Rock and Massachusetts’s salisbury Beach were all founded in the 1870s and grew into major destinations by the 1920s. In New York, Coney Island was joined by the Rockaways, Midland Beach, North Beach and south Beach in the 1880s and 1890s, while the mid-Atlantic region saw the founding of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware in 1873 and Virginia Beach in 1880. In

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12 welcome to the wildwoods Opposite page: Boardwalk legend W. C. Hunt (center) goes over plans for an extension of Hunt’s Pier in 1959 with sons Guy and Bud. Courtesy of Wildwood Historical Society

Maryland, Ocean City first became a destination in 1869 and in 1893, the Trimper family opened a small amusement park, which remains in operation as the world’s oldest seaside amusement park.

On the West Coast, Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk entertained its first visitors in 1907 and remains a seaside institution. Further south, a string of the Los Angeles communities of Santa Monica, Ocean Park and Venice became home to the largest concentration of amusement piers outside New Jersey by the 1920s.

The decade of the 1910s were difficult years for Wildwood with three of the five original piers being shuttered. But the news was not all bad as the community received its first roller coaster in 1916 and first largescale amusement park, Playland, in 1919, which featured a carousel, an Old Mill dark boat ride and the Jack Rabbit, a large wooden roller coaster.

The roaring twenties were a golden age for the seaside amusement parks. Like their inland cousins, new attractions were the norm and throughout the country new seaside amusement parks and piers debuted. It was an era in which the number of amusement piers operating in the country peaked at around two dozen, with about half in New Jersey. Wildwood paled in comparison to Atlantic City during this period, with only two piers compared to a half dozen in its northern neighbor.

But while Atlantic City had reached its peak, Wildwood’s amusement community was still growing.

Sportland Pier opened at the north end of the boardwalk in 1928 with an emphasis on swimming and other sports attractions, while Playland, under the new ownership of the Cedar-schellenger Corporation, expanded its amusements across the boardwalk on to the new Marine Pier in 1931. But by now the Depression was in full swing and Wildwood could not escape. Atlantic City aggressively advertised in the area in an attempt to attract Wildwood’s visitors to their struggling piers.

Used only sporadically since World War I, Atlantic Pier was demolished in 1934 and Crest Pier was abandoned soon after. sportland struggled though several different managers and went into receivership despite the addition of amusement rides in 1934, while Ocean Pier, Marine Pier and Playland all battled to keep the cash flowing. But while it was a tough time for Wild- wood, it also gave two of the resort’s greatest entrepreneurs an opportunity to make their mark on the community. By the 1930s, both William Hunt and sebastian B. Ramagosa had both been successful businessmen in the community for two decades — Hunt operating movie theaters since 1913 and Ramagosa running food and games concessions on the Wildwood Boardwalk since 1914.

Hunt also owned several movie theaters and ballrooms elsewhere in the region, both of which were popular diversions during this tough time. As a result, when the financial struggling Ocean Pier came on the market in 1935, he was able to make his move and acquire the pier and launch a major expansion that included a new carousel, roller coaster and two new theaters. In one of the first uses of a pay-one-price admission, Ocean Pier offered the 40 attractions on the pier a single 40 cent ticket.

Ramagosa also jumped into the amusement industry in 1935, launching a redevelopment of the Casino arcade that included the addition of a dozen new rides and attractions by the end of the decade. The success of the Casino arcade prompted ramagosa to purchase Sportland Pier in 1942, reviving it despite wartime materials restrictions. With two of the community’s four major amusement facilities under his control, Ramagosa soon became known as the King of the Boardwalk.

The resort suffered a setback the following year when Ocean Pier burnt in 1943 and was not rebuilt.

The years following World War II were tough for many seaside resorts. As interstate highways made more

distant destinations within reach, resorts such as atlantic City and Asbury Park went into a decline. Several seaside amusement areas also fell victim to urban renewal — Venice, California, which gave its last rides in 1946; New York’s Midland beach, which closed in the mid1950s; and Savin Rock in Connecticut and Ocean Park in California, both of which were shuttered in 1967.

These issues actually benefited Wildwood, as they were able to attract patrons from more distant locales to its wide beaches. This led to a prosperous time for the town as established businessmen, along with newcomers, sought to cash in.

In 1949, Ramagosa purchased several passenger trams that had been used in the 1939 New York World’s Fair, creating what is now a boardwalk staple. After he passed away in 1953, his son Gilbert took over and continued to expand Casino and Sportland. William Hunt rebounded from the 1943 Ocean Pier fire by building an all-new pier on the same site in 1957. It boasted high quality custom-built attractions like Jungleland, the Golden Nugget Mine Ride and the Pirate Ship.

Also in 1957, Joe Barnes, who operated roller rinks in Wildwood, purchased a dilapidated 30-year-old pier that housed the city’s convention center. He converted it into Fun Pier, which by the 1960s and 1970s came to be known for its cutting-edge rides.

By the end of the 1950s, Wildwood had six major amusement facilities, compared to five in Atlantic City.

This thriving environment was a magnet for entrepreneurs. Among them were two brothers, Will and Bill Morey, who were successfully operating concessions and building motels in the community.

Excerpted from A Wild Ride: The Story of Morey’s Piers, which is on sale at The Morey Store on Mariner’s Landing; and the Exit Zero Store at artBOX, on Adventure Pier. Or at www.ezstore.us/publications.

welcome to the wildwoods 13

14 welcome to the wildwoods

why you have to explore a neon wonderland There are a few good reasons for making the 20-minute drive from Wildwood to Cape May (or vice-versa) via Ocean Drive, instead of the Garden State Parkway. It only adds five minutes on to your journey, but along with that you get to experience the beautiful, nature-filled back bays; you get to cross over the drawbridge, which supplies a slice of charming, authentic maritime appeal (you do have to pay $1.50 on the way to Cape May); and then you get to glide through Wildwood Crest and experience the neon wonderland that made the place nationally famous.

Yes, it’s true that some of the most famous motels are now gone (despite a spirited campaign by the Doo wop Preservation League), replaced by condominums. But many still exist and a wander through them is a must-see slice of pure Americana.

As for some of the signs that are no longer there, some of the best were rescued and are on display at the Doo Wop Preservation League Museum at 4500 Ocean Avenue, Wildwood.

The museum was incorporated into the Surfside Diner, a building saved from the wrecking ball by the Preservation League.

So, next time you head for (or depart from) Cape May, avoid the GSP and take your time exploring an authentic American phenomenon.

Left: The Starlux, a brilliantly imagined modern interpretation of Doo Wop by architect Rich Stokes for the Morey company.

Right: Jeff Sumberg has captured many of the classic neon in the Wildwoods — see more on www.flickr.com/jeffs4653.

welcome to the wildwoods 15

16 welcome to the wildwoods

welcome to the wildwoods 17

The Strand Theater on the Wildwood Boardwalk.

Photograph by Judy Momorella

18 welcome to the wildwoods

the 29 things you Must Do on the Boardwalk 1. ROCK Break out your best air guitar and let your hair down with the nationally renowned School of Rock. They will be pumping out thunderous tunes on the brand new stage at Morey’s Adventure Pier. Rock out with them Thursday to Sunday evenings (sorry earplugs not included).

7. OOH! AND AAH! An impressive display of bright, twinkling, semiterrifying explosions (aka fireworks) light up the beach every Friday night between Schellenger and 26th. For optimal viewing grab an umbrella drink at Joe’s Fish Co. (upstairs deck) or plant yourself on the boards near the marbles tables, or pretty much anywhere in a five-mile radius. Hold your ears, open your eyes. From 9pm-ish.

2. ROLL Like sunburnt feet, horsefly bites and socks with sandals, skee ball is a downashore tradition! A weird tradition, but tradition is as tradition does! Try a family tournament at the Mariner’s Arcade in front of Mariner’s Landing (open early-’til-late). PS: Kids, do not chuck a skee ball at your brother.

3. YAHR! Get your Johhny Depp on and swash your buckle at Pirates of Wildwood 3D mini golf (3414 Boardwalk, 10am-midnight). Eighteen holes! Yahr! Indoors! Yahr!

Air-conditioned! Double-yahr! Get a hole-in-one on the 18th and win your very own Keira Knightley! Use your putter to defeat the Kraken! Lots of family fun for not a lot of doubloons. (Sorry: No movies stars or mythical creatures included.)

4. RIDE Ever wonder what it feels like inside your two-yearold’s Matchbox car as he slams it into that pile of Legos, wings it across the kitchen, then feeds it to a dinosaur? Wonder no more! Hop on The Great White, a classic wooden coaster on Morey’s Piers Adventure Pier (3501 Boardwalk, 1pm-midnight most nights) for approximately one minute and 50 seconds of toothrattling fun.

8. TIME TRAVEL Get all Will Smith-y and grab your zoot suit and Tommy gun, while your best moll dons her flapper dress and garter (woot!), or ruffle your petticoats (don’t forget your bustle, oh my!) while your fella tosses the old duster over his Colt .45 (or is he happy to see you?) at Old Time Photos (3407 and 3414 Boardwalk). Or just follow the herd. Yee-haw!)

5. DISOBEY Sign says “No Outside Food or Drink”? Fah! Don’t tell ME what to do! Bring that bucket of Curley’s Fries to Sam’s Pizza and DEFY them to throw you out! (Just be sure to toss your server an extra $5.) Juste être sûr de lancer votre serveur et extra $5.

6. INDULGE Supercharge your psyche by sampling all the fudge the boardwalk has to offer: The Original Fudge Kitchen (4120 & 2200 Boardwalk), Laura’s Fudge (Wildwood and Ocean), Douglass Fudge (3300 Boardwalk). Lori from Laura’s says fudge is non-fattening. We say there’s only one way to find out...

Above: Mastering the art of skee ball.

Photograph

by Aleksey Moryakov Right: Another neon-filled, high-energy night on the world-famous Wildwood Boardwalk.

Photograph by Judy Momorella

9. HUFF Marvel at the mysterious speed painters at the Douglass Fudge pavilion as they fill your head with visions of alien sunsets, space unicorns, and enough spray paint fumes to knock your IQ down 30 points.

After dark. Most artwork for sale in the $40-50 range.

10. DATE Make time with you best guy or gal or guy-gal under the stars on the Giant Wheel (Mariner’s Landing Pier, Boardwalk and Schellenger, 1pm-midnight). Yes, it’s a total cliche, but this one is hard to argue. (No truth to the rumor that 57% of all babies born wthin nine months of a Wildwood vacation are named Ferris.)

welcome to the wildwoods 19

20 COOL CAPE MAY excerpt from “the first resort” 11. SHOP From palates to palettes: know the difference? Either way, get thee to Morey’s Adventure Pier, where that colorfully painted steel shipping container village is located, and find out now. Brand spanking new food containers by Tony Luke’s and ALOHA Smoothie Company will have you indulging your palate while much of the fantastic maritime-themed art and merchandise at artBOX was inspired by a palette. The artBOX opens daily at 4pm — the coolest Wildwood souvenirs guaranteed!

12. FLOAT Visit Stewart’s Root Beer (Magnolia and Boardwalk) and sip your worries away on a fluffy root beer and ice cream cloud (after destroying those Stewie Sliders) like those otters that use rocks to open clams on their furry little bellies as they float down the Amazon. (Wait... what?) So enjoyable it will mess up your geography. Sit upstairs to look down on people.

Literally. Not because you’re hoity-toity.

13. WATCH The tramcar. Please.

14. SPLASH We know it’s been your lifelong dream to ride around in a log that takes you on a wet and wild adventure so we’ve got you covered. Visit Morey’s Surfside Pier and ride the newly renovated Zoom Phloom attraction.

Who doesn’t love walking around in soggy sneakers and wet clothes on a cool summer night (yep, you actually do get wet — imagine that!)

15. BONK That’s what your head will do, several times, as you wind through the Palace of Sweets Mirror Maze! (2701 Boardwalk). Or do your best Catwoman in the Laser Maze. Especially fun after a half-pound of Swedish Fish. 10am-12:30am.

Clockwise from left: Bike off those funnel cake calories on the boardwalk — a great combination of exercise and people-watching; the Wave Swinger (on Mariner’s Landing Pier) just got a fabulous do-over; the Zoom Phloom on Surfside Pier also got a recent renovation (what hasn’t changed — the splashy thrills); an ice cream float from Stewart’s Root Beer is a must; as are the fireworks on Friday night in the summer.

Photographs by Judy Momorella

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16. SCORE Visit Morey’s Adventure Pier and channel your inner Beckman or Ronaldo as you compete for glory in the all-new World Cup Soccer Challenge. Adventure Pier opens most weekdays at 4pm and weekends at 2pm.

17. PEDAL Until 11am the boardwalk is a very long (two-ish miles), very expensive (a billion dollars, or so) bike path, from Rambler Road in Wildwood Crest to the Sea Wall in North Wildwood. Use these few sober hours to scout out that night’s shenanigans. It’s okay. You’re on vacation, dammit!

18. TWIST Sick of all that health food they push on you up and down the boardwalk? I KNOW! Us too. Escape all that with an orange-vanilla twist from Kohr Bros. (26th

Street and Schellenger). A small cone is a mere 160 calories, but you can easily double that with the right jimmies.

19. FAKE IT Terry O’ke, the area’s preeminent, handsomest and most charming karaoke host, brings his brand of fake music to the Rio Station (Routes 9 and 47, Rio Grande) every Friday night, 9pm-12am. Complete your vacation by embarrasing your loved ones with your drunken (AWESOME!) rendition of “Freebird.”

20. DROP ...about $50 in quarters in about 50 minutes at any one of the thousands (okay, dozens) of arcades along the boards. We would tell you more, but we stopped playing video games sometime around Contra. Do you still have to blow on the cartridge? Bloop!

22 welcome to the wildwoods

21. ACCESSORIZE Need the highly questionable hot summer fashion?

Have an unquenchable thirst to annoy with a vuvuzela horn (HOOONK!)? Need a promise ring for your summer sweetie? Want to play the latest first-person shooter? Do it all at The Boardwalk Mall (3800 Boardwalk). Open ungodly hours.

Sunday, have a salad. From anywhere.

22. CHOOSE Sam’s Pizza (2601 Boardwalk) or Mack’s (4200 Boardwalk). As in The Highlander movie, there can be only one. Choose, and choose wisely. Or better yet, have one on M-W-F, the other on T-Th-S. On

24. RELAX Drop anchor at the newly renamed Stubborn Brothers Beach Bar & Grille located on the back of Morey’s Surfside Pier. Oh wait, you thought it was called the Oasis Café or the Soggy Dollar? Well it

23. BRAINS! Brains! Brains... BRAINS! Brainsbrainsbrains... mmmmm... brains... BRAINS! Brains... Ghost Ship (Mariner’s Landing Pier) is open 5pm-midnight daily.

(First Date Note: It’s a GUARANTEED hand-hold.)

Servers deliver gourmet food to participants of Breakfast in the Sky, on the Giant Ferris Wheel, Mariner’s Landing.

Photograph

by David Macomber

was and since Will and Jack Morey can’t seem to agree on a name, Stubborn Brothers will have to do.

No matter the name, it’s still the best place to hang up your wet beach towel and grab a cold one with your sibling, friend or foe. This place scores extra points for the stunning views and delicious food.

25. RACE Here comes Speed Racer, he’s a demon on wheels!

Test your mettle at 13mph at one or all of the go-kart tracks along the boards. (Grand Prix at Adventure Pier, Super Karts at 2301 Boardwalk, Can Ams at

welcome to the wildwoods 23

Landing Mariner’s Pier).

Landing Open every Pier). day Open butevery Days of dayThunder. but Days of Thunder.

26. GO LOCO For 26.tacos GO LOCO at the all-new Taco Joint… and yes that’s really For tacos the name. at theWe all-new don’tTaco discriminate Joint… and so yes choose that’s from really chicken, the name. beef, We fish,don’t shrimp discriminate or pork tacos. so choose Just look from forchicken, the sign beef, that says fish,The shrimp Tacoor Joint pork ontacos.

Morey’s Just Mariner’s look for the Landing. sign that Margaritas, says The Taco nachos Jointand on Morey’s fried cheesecake Mariner’s —Landing. yes, theyMargaritas, really do have nachos that, too. and fried cheesecake — yes, they really do have that, too.

27. SI’L VOUS PLAIT Pardonner 27. S’IL VOUS mes blagues PLAIT sur les Canadiens. Nous se moquer, Pardonner mais mes nous blagues aimons et sur apprécions les Canadiens. nosoneNous on

Those are Those are the 29 things the 29 things we think you we think you SHOULD SHOULD do. do. The one The one thiong thiong we we think think youyou should NEVER NEVER should do?

Feed do? Feed the seagulls. the seagulls.

(Ever.)

(Ever.)

se visiteurs moquer, en provenance mais nous aimons du Grand et Nord apprécions blanc. Vous nos visiteurs nous avez en provenance apportés deduhockey Grand Nord sur glace, blanc. bière Vous nous Labattavez et les apportés frères dede McKenzie. hockey Sans sur glace, oublierbière Anne Labatt Murray,etCéline les frères DiondeetMcKenzie.

Martin Short.

SansAlors oublier merci Anne et Murray, regarderCéline le tramway, Dion ets’ilMartin vous plaît.

Short. Alors merci et regarder le tramway, s’il vous plaît.

28. REPENT! 28.

SeeREPENT! something maybe you shouldn’t have seen at See The something Hurricane maybe East (218 youSchellenger)? shouldn’t have LUST! seenOne at The too many Hurricane corn dogs East from (218 Schellenger)?

Mama’s Kitchen LUST! (Mariner’s One too Landing)? many corn GLUTTONY! dogs fromWish Mama’s thatKitchen guy/girl(Mariner’s in the “I’m Landing)?

His/Hers” T-shirt GLUTTONY! was your Wish guy/girl? that ENVY! guy/girlFear in not! the “I’m SeekHis/Hers” absolution T-shirt at thewas Boardwalk your guy/girl?

Chapel ENVY! (4312Fear

not!

Boardwalk).

Seek absolution Two-sinatminimum. the Boardwalk Boardwalkchapel.org Chapel (4312 Boardwalk). for info. Two-sin minimum. Boardwalkchapel.org for info.

29. INDULGE 29.Breakfast INDULGEin the Sky is a can’t-miss experience.

Breakfast the Skygourmet, is a can’t-miss experience.

Enjoy a in seriously white-linen breakfast Enjoy a seriously gourmet, white-linen breakfast masterminded by Morey’s Piers Executive Chef masterminded by Morey’s Piers Executive Chef Wally Jurusz while gently traveling on the Giant Wally Jurusz while gently traveling on the Giant Ferris Wheel Mariner’s Landing.

Happens July Ferris Wheel onon Mariner’s Landing.

Happens in in July and August advance reservations required. and August —— advance reservations areare required.

Up to four guests per car.

Seating is limited.

Up to four guests per car. Seating is limited. ForFor reservations (609) 846-1624. reservations callcall (609) 846-1624.

24 welcome to the wildwoods

the 25 things you Must Do OFF the Boardwalk HISTORICAL Historic Cold Spring Village Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 12 minutes

In the mood for an escape? Like, from this century? This open-air, living, breathing history museum located on 30 breezy acres transports you back to the late 1700s and early 1800s. You’ll visit 26 restored buildings from the era while interacting with actual characters from the era. Learn the art of basket-weaving, try on costumes, meet a blacksmith, take a horse-drawn carriage ride, listen to a free lecture, watch remarkable enactments of the Civil War and Revolutionary War… there’s always something new on the agenda. (And the ice cream is pretty darn good, too.) 720 Route 9 South, Cape May, 609-898-2300, www. hcsv.org Naval Air Station Museum Wildwood Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 14 minutes

The NASW is located on 92,000 square feet of The Cape May County Airport, on what used to be a naval air base. Here, the most daring pilots of World War II trained to fly the Helldiver, the plane known for taking out the greatest number of enemy ships. Today, aircraft and engines from various decades along with interactive displays continue to draw visitors. Don’t forget to climb the (real) air traffic control tower. 500 Forrestal Road, Rio Grande, at Cape May County Airport, 609-886-8787, www.usnasw.org

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There’s so much to do in this area, not to mention the fact that there are two glorious lighthouses to visit — Cape May Lighthouse and (left) Hereford Inlet Lighthouse.

Photographs by Judy Momorella

26 welcome to the wildwoods

The Civil War Weekend at Historic Cold Spring Village (this page and opposite) on September 13-14 is a must-do family activity. The Village is only 15 minutes from downtown Wildwood and features fun events and activities all summer.

Photograph by Aleksey Moryakov

welcome to the wildwoods 27 it, was America’s first seaside resort, which means the Dickensian village of a town has one up, history wise, on other shore spots.

You’ll get the skinny on trolley tours offered by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts and Humanities, some of which are themed. We especially like the ghost tours. What — you don’t think the oldest seaside resort in the country wasn’t going to have some ghosts of lifeguards past hanging around, did you?

Most trolley tours leave from Ocean Street, Cape May. Visit www.capemaymac.org for more information.

Lighthouses Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 6 minutes, 23 minutes

Antiquing

Horse and Carriage Rides

Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 15-30 minutes

Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 17 minutes

You’re sunburnt, aren’t you? That will happen when you show up to the beach with a winter-white body and expired sunscreen.

But, no worries. Today’s the day you stick to the air-conditioned indoors and shop your heart out for a souvenir with substance.

Cape May County’s Route 9 is lined with antique stores of the hidden gem type, and the surrounding towns are home to the great, cooperative type. Take West End Garage in Cape May for example — this Best in Shore winner is 70 stores in one. Sorry… they don’t sell aloe. Visit www.thejerseycape. com and click on the Attractions button to see a whole list of antique stores in the area.

Wildwood is known as an enlivening, vibrant place, and that’s why you’re here. But if you find yourself in need of some quality downtime — perhaps you’re trying to slow your heart rate after a go on the Great White — check out the horse-drawn carriage rides in Cape May. There’s something soothing about the clip-clopping of the hooves as they lead you through the historic district of this Victorian town. And it’s awfully romantic, too. www.capemaycarriage.com Historic Trolley Tours Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 17 minutes

Cape May, or Exit Zero as the locals know

The one in North Wildwood, a Victorian era lighthouse at Hereford Inlet, dates back to the 19th century. The only one of its kind on the east coast, it is still operational, and is now listed on both the National and State Registers of historic places. It has 69 steps.

The Cape May Lighthouse is also historic, but has 199 steps, so it’s quite a bit more of a workout). The panoramic views from the top of these beautiful buildings? Priceless.

Hereford: 111 N. Central Avenue, Wildwood, 609-522-4520, www.herefordlighthouse.org; Cape May: 215 Lighthouse Avenue, Cape May Point, 609-884-5404, www.capemaymac.org George F. Boyer Museum Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 1 minute

Since 1963 the Wildwood Historical Society has managed the George F Boyer Museum, which houses artifacts and photos from the towns’ development in the last decade of the 19th century through present day… and from all of the fabulous Doo Wop in between. Some of the biggest attractions

are memorabilia from the beach patrol, fire and police departments and boardwalks of yore. 3907 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood, 609523-0277 World War II Lookout Tower Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 18 minutes

Located on the beach in Cape May, at the end of Sunset Boulevard, is a concrete tower with a storied past. During World War II the structure was part of an intricate defense system meant to protect the Delaware River and Bay from enemy ships. From behind its walls, soldiers would lookout for approaching submarines, or open fire on them. Now, it’s home to a tribute of veterans that’s been described as nothing short of overwhelming.

Sunset Boulevard, near Sunset Beach, 609884-5404, www.capemaymac.org Emlen Physick Estate Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 16 minutes

This is the only Victorian house museum in the area. Built in 1879 and complete with 18 meticulously restored rooms, it used to belong to, you guessed it, the Physick family.

Philip Syng Physick is considered the father of American surgery, while his son Emlen was a gentleman farmer. But the latter will tell you all about that himself if you stop by.

Okay, not really… but expect a very skilled impersonator. 1048 Washington Street, Cape May, 609-884-5404, www.capemaymac.org

culturAL Cape May Stage Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 16 minutes

It may have had scrappy beginnings — when it was established in 1988, pieces of driftwood served as props, thrift store clothing served

28 welcome to the wildwoods as costumes, and performances were held at various venues — but these days, Cape May Stage is one of the most acclaimed small theater companies in the country, consistently attracting Broadway-caliber talent to its beautifully restored theatre in Cape May. The season runs from May through the end of the year — the big summer show is Moon Over Buffalo, a slapstick farce that runs from June 18 through August 1. 405 Lafayette Street, Cape May, 609-884-1341, www.capemaystage.org

884-1199, www.elainesdinnertheater.com

East Lynne Theater

Doo Wop Preservation League Museum

Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 16 minutes

Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 1 minute

This was founded as a professional Equity theater in 1980 and since that time has produced 150 plays and musicals, 45 of them world premieres. Whatever you’re in the mood for — a classic, a comedy, a drama, even a vintage radio-style production — East Lynne has it. Check out their dinner and a show packages. Their big summer hit this year is Zorro!, running from July 23 through August 30. 500 Hughes Street, Cape May, 609-884-5898, www.eastlynnetheater.org

Wildwood has been described as “delightfully tacky” and “tacky and proud.” And the proof is in this charming museum. Through tours and preservation this neon-lit space celebrates all the music, architecture and design that has given Wildwood its Doo Wop character. The best part? A malt shop on the premises. 4500 Ocean Avenue, Wildwood, 609-523-1958, www.doowopusa.org

Frank’s Theater Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 9 minutes

Because sometimes, on vacation or not, you’re in the mood for a bag of popcorn, a box of Jujyfruits, and a film that makes you laugh… or cry… or laugh so hard you can’t help but cry. Franks Theatres Rio Stadium 12 is close by, so check out their show times.

3801 Route 9 South, Rio Grande, 609-8894799, www.franktheatres.com

Dark Star Pirate Cruise Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 5 minutes

Elaine’s Dinner Theater Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 16 minutes

If it’s laughter you’re looking for, you’re going to want to hit up Elaine’s. The shows are good, campy fun and totally interactive (be wary, those of you in the front row!). Your ticket includes a three-course dinner, and if you’re not quite ready to leave after curtain call, there’s a beautiful bar for your drinking pleasure. Of course, you may have trouble choosing between this and the breezy outdoor porch — don’t say we didn’t warn you. 513 Lafayette Street, Cape May, 609-

Let’s be real: just about everyone wants to be a pirate. (And yes, we’re fine with including pirates on our Cultural list of activities. On the Dark Star, a ship designed by a US Navy architect and built over the course of five-and-a-half months, you’ll meet a swashbuckling crew as they strive to protect their hidden treasure on the high seas. Best of all, it’s a family-owned and operated business, so you know it’s a kidfriendly experience. 6200 Park Boulevard, Wildwood Crest, 609-729-DARK, www. darkstarpiratecruises.com

welcome to the wildwoods 29 Clockwise from top left: kitschy fun at the Doo Wop Preservation League Museum; a memorable round of golf at Laguna Oaks; Broadway-caliber drama at Cape May Stage; and one of America’s best zoos and it’s right here, at Exit 11 on the Garden State Parkway.

Wineries Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 10-20 minutes

The New York Times has compared this region to Bordeaux in terms of wine-making — apparently those ocean breezes are good for more than just your health. Within a 15-minute drive of Wildwood are six wineries you can (taste) test for yourself. And don’t worry; if you’re more inclined towards a cold beer, you’ll still enjoy the outdoor seating overlooking beautiful vistas. We mean… we mentioned the ocean breezes, right?

Hawk Haven Vineyard and Winery, 600 Railroad Avenue, Rio Grande, 609-846-7347; Turdo Vineyards and Winery, 3911 Bayshore Road, Cape May, 609-884-5591; Willow Creek Winery, 160-168 Stevens Street, Cape May, 609-770-8782; Cape May Winery and Vineyard, 711 Town Bank Road, 609-884-1169; Natali Vineyards, 221 N. Delsea Drive, Cape May Court House, 609-465-0075; Jessie Creek Winery, 1 North Delsea Drive, Cape May Court House, 609-536-2092.

naturAL Cape May County Park and Zoo Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 15 minutes

So many zoos in the country are, to put it nicely, a giant bummer. It’s hard to get excited about seeing the animals when all you can focus on is how much more concrete there is than grass. But Cape May County Zoo is home to 250 different

species on 85 acres of habitat that look more like, well, habitat than captivity. Prime example: the 57-acre African Savanna where giraffes and zebras are free to be. It’s no wonder the zoo was voted among the top three in America by TripAdvisor. Admission is free, though donations are gratefully accepted, and needed. 707 N. Route 9, Cape May Court House, 609-465-5271, www. capemaycountyzoo.org The Wetlands Institute Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 15 minutes

More than 20,000 people come through the Wetlands Institute in a given year. Aside from hanging with the resident octopus and learning about the organization’s various conservation campaigns (they have rescued 2,800 turtles and 13,000 turtle eggs from becoming road kill, for instance) visitors go for the view. From the institute’s tower you look out over 34 acres of marshland, and you go home with a better understanding of just how amazing, and important, those marshlands are. 1075 Stone Harbor Boulevard, Cape May Court House, 609368-1211, www.wetlandsinstitute.org The Bird Sanctuary Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 14 minutes

Birding in South Jersey has gotten so sexy (yes, you read that right) even Esquire magazine recently did a story on in. This makes the 21.5-acre Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary one of the sexiest must-sees for your vacation. Okay, maybe it’s more peaceful than sexy, with butterflies and black-crowned night herons seeking refuge among the holly and sassafras trees here, and visitors getting a glimpse of how island

30 welcome to the wildwoods vegetation looked pre-civilization. History buffs will get a thrill, too. In the 1960s the sanctuary narrowly escaped the bulldozers of developers, and a campaign to save the birds drew national attention, including a major article in Sports Illustrated. 112th Street and Second Avenue, Stone Harbor, www. stoneharborbirdsanctuary.com

this 71-par course has been nicknamed The Natural. Designed to be eco-friendly, it circles 50 acres of protected bird sanctuary — and considering Cape May is the birding capital of America, this spot is a one-two punch for golfing naturalists. The serene, bass-filled lakes don’t hurt, either. Route 9 and Florence Avenue, Erma, 609-884-1563, www.cmngc.com

Nature Center of Cape May Paddleboarding

Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 16 minutes

With picnic tables overlooking the Cape May harbor, home to one of the largest fishing ports on the east coast, this is an ideal spot for lunch on a breezy summer afternoon.

But it’s also one of the most thrilling places for kids and adults to learn about the natural world. There are daily opportunities for educational adventures like combing the harbor for treasures at low tide, exploring monarch and wildflower gardens, feeding songbirds, and taking part in evening fire circles. 1600 Delaware Avenue, Cape May, 609-898-8848, www.njaudubon.org for more information.

recreationAL Biking Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: you’re right there

People talk a lot about the sights and sounds of Wildwood, but don’t forget about the smells: salt air, coconut sunscreen, neighborhood barbeques, funnel cake wafting off the boards… and what better way to enjoy these, the scents of summer, than via bicycle? Wildwood is home to a six-mile, off-road bike path that’s one of the longest in New Jersey, thanks to the 2012 Cresse Avenue ramp project. Get pedaling! Zippy’s Bikes, 3900 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood,

Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: a few minutes

The Nature Center of Cape May offers daily activities in the summer (many of them oceanthemed) that will inspire and delight the children.

609-408-8956; Sportland Bike Rental, 435 E. 24th Avenue, North Wildwood, 609-5224408; Sportland Bike Rental, 1900 and the Boardwalk, North Wildwood, 609-729-7329; Smitty’s Parking and Bike, 405 E. Youngs Avenue, Wildwood, 609-523-9113; FCJ Bike Rental, 1600 Boardwalk, North Wildwood, 609-522-9191; Green’s Bike Rental, 5402 Ocean Avenue, Wildwood, 609-522-7786; Crest Bike Rental, 500 E. Heather Road, Wildwood Crest, 609-522-5763; Surf Bike Rental, 5011 Ocean Avenue, 609-729-5147.

is beautiful, which isn’t all that surprising — most golf courses are scenic. But this one is special, according to GolfStyles magazine, and all of the Laguna Oaks golfers we’ve ever met. The space, which boasts waterfalls, willow trees, ponds and meadows, is the vision of acclaimed architect/water park designer Fred Langford. He wanted to create the finest par-three on the east coast, and it appears he might have succeeded. 600 Bayberry Drive, Cape May Court House, 609-465-4560

Golf at Laguna Oaks

Golf at Cape May National Golf Club

Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 13 minutes

Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: 12 minutes

This course, 11 holes and 200-acres strong,

It won’t take you long to figure out why

Call it whatever you want: a killer workout for your core (how do you think Matthew McConaughey got those abs?), a mellow option for date night (nothing says romance like paddling off into the sunset together) or your chance to better connect with nature (see: dive-bombing osprey and rusting marsh grass) — this sport manages to be all of the above. Jersey Shore Adventures in North Wildwood, Wildwood, Wildwood Crest (609780-7194) Kayaking Drive from Wildwood Boardwalk: a few minutes

Have you experienced the neon green glow of bioluminescent jellyfish at night?

Or been so close to a dolphin you could smell its breath (not something we actually recommend since they’re known as pretty voracious fish-eaters)? Or been face to face with the head of a turtle, popping up for air?

These are reasons kayaking at the Jersey Shore is a magical experience… the kind that makes you forget you’re even getting a workout. (A good thing if you’re planning on hitting up the boardwalk’s fried Oreos later.)

South Dock Watersports, 231 W. 10th Avenue, North Wildwood, 609-522-0900

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No wonder it’s one of the hottest new fitness fads — paddleboarding is workout that’s both effective and totally inspiring.

Photograph by Judy Momorella

Summer In The Wildwoods When you are finally ready to leave the beach, there’s enough activities here to fill a dozen vacations... read on for some seriously good inspiration!

34 welcome to the wildwoods May 16-18 Morey’s Piers Beach Jam Spring Beach Bash Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts from around the country camp on the beach between Schellenger and Spencer Avenues — it’s quite the sight.

May 17 Captain Kidd Pirate Day Pirate costume parade begins on 26th and the Boardwalk at 11am. Treasure hunt to follow at 19th and beach, North Wildwood for children ages 12 and under. Prizes include $500, bikes, weekend stays, gift cards and more. Registration not necessary to participate in the treasure hunt on the beach.

May 17 JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes Walk begins at 10:30am on the Wildwoods Boardwalk at Morey’s Adventure Pier. The JDRF Walk to Cure Diabetes draws people together in a healthy activity to improve the lives of every person affected by type 1 diabetes (T1D) by accelerating progress on the most promising opportunities for curing, better treating and preventing T1D. The JDRF South Jersey Chapter provides services to Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester and Salem Counties.

May 17 Wild Child Half Mile Morey’s Piers invites kids to get fit and participate in their first big run. The Wild Half Mile, a run for kids 12 and under, will begin at the Wildwoods Convention Center and follow a half mile of the boardwalk, ending at Mariner’s Landing Pier on Schellenger Avenue. Registration is at the Wildwoods Convention Center from 2pm-3pm. Kids are encouraged to show their wild side by dressing in animal print or wearing animal ears, tails and/or noses. 609-

522-3900 or www.Www.MoreysPiers.com.

May 18 Wild Half Marathon CGI Racing, the premiere race management in the region, returns with the Wild Half Marathon presented by Morey’s Piers. One wild weekend... a seaside half marathon that combines your love of running with the pure joy of an amusement park, the sights and sounds of a classic boardwalk, outstanding accommodations, together with the rhythm of beach life. Every race entry includes one FREE single weekend pass to Morey’s Piers. In addition to the 13.1 mile marathon, there will be an 8k this year. Race begins at 7:30am at Wildwoods Convention Center. 609-522-3900 ext 1195 . Register at www.runwildwood.com.

May 23 Unlocking of the Ocean Ceremony On the Wildwoods Beach next to the Wildwoods Convention Center, come to officially start the 2012 summer season. Starts at noon.

Guest speakers and local dignitaries, kites in the air — get your feet sandy for the first time this year! Visit www.wildwoodsnj.com.

May 23-25 Regional Gymnastics Championships The United States Association of Independent Gymnastics Clubs will hold a regional gymnastics championship at Wildwoods Convention Center, featuring competitions on the floor, balance beam, uneven bars and vault. The competitions will be choreographed to music. Visit www.usaigcnj.com.

May 23-26 28th Annual Wildwoods International Kite Festival On the beach at Rio Grande Avenue, Wildwood. Event begins on Friday after the Unlock-

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36 welcome to the wildwoods ing of the Ocean Ceremony with the opening of the kite sales tent. Followed by the illuminated night kite fly at 9pm. East Coast Stunt Kite Championships on the beach Saturday and Sunday, as well as kite exhibits and workshops.

Free to spectators. Visit www.skyfestivals.com.

tion Center with various sessions held daily.

Visit www.gnjumc.org.

May 30 to June 1 Spring Bike Rally Cape Classics Motorcycle Club presents the Annual Spring Motorcycle Rally with vendors located at the intersection of Oak and Atlantic Avenues, Wildwood. From 10am-8pm. Sunday will also feature the Ride the Wave Motorcycle Run, starting in Camden, to benefit the families of fallen public safety workers. Visit www.

WildwoodSpringRally.com.

May 24-25 Boardwalk Special Improvement District Craft Show On the Boardwalk at Rio Grande Avenue. All handmade products. From 9am to 5pm, free admission.

May 25 Wildwood Crest Summer Kickoff Concert Centennial Park, Fern Road and Ocean Avenue in Wildwood Crest at 7:30pm. Free outdoor allages concert. Live entertainment. Bring a blanket or beach chair.

May 25–June 12 Cape May Music Festival Enjoy world-class orchestral and chamber music, a world traditions series and Bach’s Lunches at the 25th annual Cape May Music Festival. Presented by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information, call 609-884-5404 or 800-2754278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

May 26 Wildwood Memorial Day Service Wildwood Memorial Day ceremonies, Wildwood American Legion Post #184, 4200 Atlantic Avenue at 11:00am. Featuring speakers, recognition of deceased comrades, firing squad, “taps” and wreath-laying ceremonies.

May 26 North Wildwood Memorial Day Ceremony Ceremony will be held at North Wildwood Veterans Monument, Spruce Avenue, North Wild-

May 31 Morey’s Piers Beach Bop At Morey’s Piers, Schellenger Avenue, a special day designed for our youngest scouts. Beach Bop follows the same unique model as Beach Jam with an added splash of water park fun.

Visit www.MoreysPiers.com.

Captain Kidd Pirate Day will be held in North Wildwood on May 17. Photograph by Nicole Dever

wood. The event starts at 10am and is hosted by VFW Post 5941.

May 28-30 Morey’s Piers Annual Education Extravaganza At Mariners Landing Pier, learning becomes a day at the beac when students in grades three through 12 enjoy a day of hands-on learning and interactive participation utilizing the beach and Morey’s Piers amusements. Visit www.

MoreysPiers.com.

May 30 Music in the Parks Schools from all over the tri-state area compete in and choir while enjoying a day at Morey’s Piers and Raging Waters water park. Visit www.MoreysPiers.com.

May 29-31 The Greater New Jersey United Methodist Annual Conference Annual conference at the Wildwoods Conven-

May 31 South Jersey Walk-A-Thon Hosted by Good Counsel Homes of SJ — a walk-a-thon on the famous Wildwoods Boardwalk. Event begins on the boardwalk just south of the Wildwoods Convention Center at 8:30am. The walk-a-thon route will head north on the boardwalk for 14 blocks to the intersection of Wast Wildwood Avenue and then return south on the boardwalk to the starting point.

Event ends at noon. Visit www.GoodCounselHomes.org.

June 1-30 Jersey Shore Beach ’N’ Boat Tournament A New Jersey statewide, season-long, inshore, saltwater, multi-species fishing tournament that challenges anglers of all skill levels to compete for cash prizes. Anglers can fish for eight species, once or every day for the entire season.

Prizes are awarded for the largest catches. Pro-

welcome to the wildwoods 37

38 welcome to the wildwoods June 14 American Flag Day Ceremony At Veterans Monument, New York and Spruce Avenues, North Wildwood. Starts 10am.

ceeds go to The Fisheries Conservation Trust and the tournament is supported in part by a grant from the New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism. Visit www.

BeachNBoat.com.

June 13-15 Wildwoods Island-Wide All Truck Show Hosted by the Greater Wildwood Hotel and Motel Association, the show is open to all trucks 10,000lbs GVW and lower. Show will take place along the Wildwoods Boardwalk and at Naval Air Station Wildwood. Competition for one of the island’s top 25 awards, cash prizes, best of show stock and best of show modified. Visit www.WildwoodMotorEvents.com .

June 3-4 North Wildwood Beach Writers Conference At Wildwoods Convention Center, come learn all you need to complete your book project.

Network with wannabe writers, published authors and a team of experts in the writing/ publishing world. From 9am-6pm. Visit www. nwbwc.com.

June 4-7 33rd South Jersey Shark Tournament The 2014 South Jersey Shark Tournament at South Jersey Marina is the longest-running tournament in New Jersey and also the richest!

For more information, visit www.SouthJerseyTournaments.com or call 609-884-2400.

June 5-8 New Jersey State Elks Convention and Parade Wildwoods Convention Center — yearly convention. Parade steps off at noon at 25th and Atlantic Avenues, North Wildwood. The theme for the parade this year is NJ ELKS, A CENTURY OF MIRACLES, 1914-2013. Parade proceeds South on Atlantic to Andrews Avenue then on Memory Lane, Atlantic and Montgomery Avenues, Wildwood. Last 3.5 hours. Visit www.njelks.org.

June 7 An Evening with Groucho Award-winning actor, director and playwright Frank Ferrante recreates his PBS, New York and London acclaimed portrayal of legendary comedian Groucho Marx in this fast paced 90 minutes of hilarity. The two-act comedy consists of the best Groucho one-liners, anecdotes

The 28th Annual Wildwoods International Kite Festival will be held from May 23 to 26.

Photograph by Nicole Dever

and songs, including “Hooray For Captain Spalding,” and “Lydia, the Tattooed Lady.” The audience becomes part of the show as Ferrante ad-libs his way throughout the performance in grand Groucho style. A show perfect for all ages. At Cape May Convention Hall, 7:30pm.

Admission: $30. Call 609-884-9565 or visit www.DiscoverCapeMayNJ.com.

June 13-14 Mummers Brigade Weekend Olde New Jersey Avenue, North Wildwood.

Friday at 7pm there’s the pub crawl and friendly competition amongst various clubs at local businesses. On Saturday 4:45pm parade starts

at 2nd and Olde New Jersey Avenues, featuring the top Mummers brigades from the Philadelphia New Year’s Day Mummers Parade. Visit www.NorthWildwood.com.

June 10-14 American Legion Convention and Parade Wildwoods Convention Center — yearly convention for New Jersey State American Legion.

Saturday parade steps off at 2pm at 18th and Atlantic Avenues, North Wildwood and proceeds South on Atlantic Avenue to Bennett Avenue, Wildwood. Reviewing stand at American Legion Hall, Atlantic and Roberts, Wildwood. Approximate time 2.5 hours.

June 14 Seventh Annual Harborfest A celebration of the sea, its culture, and its ecology on Cape May’s harbor. Fresh seafood, live music vendors fill the streets. Educational programs, blessing of the waters and boating fleet, water activities, and marine demonstrations. Don’t miss the beer garden and a new variety of seafood challenges. Starts at 10am.

June 14 Cabs at the Beach Maxwell Field, Young and Park Boulevard, Wildwood. Drum Corps Competition featuring the Hawthorne Caballeros Drum and Bugle Corps. Starts 6pm, spectator fee. Visit www.

HawthorneCaballeros.org.

June 14 ALS Express Bike Ride Morey’s Piers hosts this annual fundraiser to help fight against Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Visit www.als-express.org.

June 14 Annual Post Card Show and Open House Sponsored by the Wildwood Historical Society

The Mummers Brigade Weekend will be held in North Wildwood on June 13-14.

Photograph by Nicole Dever

welcome to the wildwoods 39

40 welcome to the wildwoods at the George F. Boyer Museum, 3907 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood. Dealers will buy, sell and trade postcards and artifacts of the Wildwoods and Cape May County. No admission. Come see the Wildwoods that grandma and grandpa knew!

June 15 Morey’s Piers Father’s Day Celebration Celebrate Father’s Day with the entire family, though dad gets some extra TLC on the piers this day. At Surfside Pier at 25th Avenue and Mariner’s Landing Pier at Schellenger Avenue.

From 11am-5pm. Visit www.MoreysPiers.com for more information.

June 15 Morey’s Piers Curley Fry Eating Contest Morey’s Piers will bring their annual messybut-fun contest to the boardwalk at Surfside Pier. Besides enjoying a variety of featured boardwalk fare, the kids will enjoy face painters and stilt walkers. Noon to 4pm. Visit www.

MoreysPiers.com.

June 15-20 Restaurant Week in the Wildwoods Wine and dine in some of the island’s finest restaurants. All participating restaurants will offer a complete four-course meal, including appetizer, salad, entrée and dessert for one low price, plus tax and gratuity. Visit www.WildwoodByTheSeaRestaurantWeek.com.

June 16-20 91st Annual National Marbles Tournament At Ringer Stadium, Wildwood Avenue and the beach. The official national competition in the sport of marbles for boys and girls ages 8-14 that have qualified by winning local tournaments throughout the US. From 8am-noon daily. Free to spectators. Visit www.NationalMarblesTournament.org for more information.

The Wildwood Baby Parade will be held on July 30 (preceded on July 29 by the Wildwood Waddle!) Photograph credit

June 16-21 Veterans of Foreign Wars and Ladies Auxiliary Convention and Parade Wildwoods Convention Center is the location for the annual convention for New Jersey state. On Saturday, the parade steps off at 1:30pm sharp at 21st and Atlantic Avenues, North Wildwood and proceeds south on Atlantic to Andrews Avenue, Wildwood. There is a reviewing stand at the American Legion Hall, on Atlantic and Roberts Avenues, Wildwood.

The whole event will last for approximately two hours.

June 21-22 Maritime Festival at Hereford Inlet Lighthouse This fun family-friendly weekend event will feature historical displays from assorted maritime/lighthouse museums from around the country, more than 100 crafters and vendors selling nautical-themed merchandise, historic exhibits and lectures and activities for children, lighthouse and garden tours, food vendors and musical guests. From Saturday 9am-5pm and Sunday 9am-4pm. Visit www.HerefordLighthouse.org.

June 26-28 North Wildwood Italian-American Festival Annual celebration of Italian-American heritage, food and music held in North Wildwood on Olde New Jersey Avenue. Friday at 4pm– 11pm, Saturday 10am-11pm, Sunday noon– 6pm. Visit www.KofC2572.org.

June 28 Wildwood Crest Sand-Sculpting Festival On the beach at Heather Road, Wildwood Crest from 10am. Free. Amateur sculptors welcome.

Live music. Rain date June 29. Visist www.vis-

Maggie, do you have any info on this event?

Photograph by Judy Momorella

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42 welcome to the wildwoods itwildwoodcrest.com for more information.

June 28 Eastern Surfing Association South Jersey District Contest #4 On the 12th Avenue surfing beach, North Wildwood. Free to spectators, from 7am-5pm. Visit www.snj.surfesa.org (no surf date is July 12).

The wildly popular Beach Blast Soccer tournament is on June 28-29.

June 28-29 Cape Express Beach Blast Soccer Games played on the beach, between Cedar and Poplar Avenues, Wildwood. Bring your barefooted soccer team down to enjoy a weekend — five-a-sides in the sand with no shoes.

The event sells out fast to participants — this year, a second event was added on July 19. Free to spectators. From 8am-6pm daily. Vist www.

CapeExpress.com for more information.

June 29 to July 3 Youth for Christ Heat Wave Wildwoods Convention Center and the Wildwoods beaches. From 7am-10pm daily. Youth conference for hundreds of pre-registered high school students from all over the Northeast.

July 1-31 Jersey Shore Beach ’N’ Boat Tournament A New Jersey statewide, season-long, inshore, saltwater, multi-species fishing tournament that challenges anglers of all skill levels to compete for cash prizes. Anglers can fish for eight species, once or every day for the season. Prizes awarded for the largest catches. Proceeds go to The Fisheries Conservation Trust and the tournament is supported in part by a grant from the New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism. Visit www.BeachNBoat.com.

July 3 Cape May County Lifeguard Championships On the beach at Rambler Road, Wildwood

Crest, starting at 6:30pm. Beach patrols from Cape May County compete. Visit www.wcbp. org for more information.

July 4 Independence Day Parade Check in from 8-8:45am. at 9th and Atlantic Avenues, North Wildwood. Parade begins at 9am at 9th and Atlantic Avenues, North Wildwood and proceeds north to 1st and Surf Avenue, North Wildwood. Prizes awarded for the best-decorated bikes in red, white and blue

theme. Free. Visit www. NorthWildwood.com.

July 4 Patriotic Pooch Parade Begins at 8th and Atlantic Avenue, proceeds north to 1st Avenue, starting at 9am. Show your pooches’ pride in USA theme; Dogs must be on a leash. Visit www.northwildwood.com.

July 4 Fourth of July Patriotic Show Fern Road and Ocean Avenue, Wildwood Crest,

starting at 7:30pm. Free live music for the family at the Centennial Park. Bring a blanket or beach chair. Visist www.visitwildwoodcrest. com.

July 4 Fourth of July Beach ’n’ Boardwalk Patriotic 5k Run and 1 Mile Family Walk From 9am-11am. The 5k Fun Run will begin at the Wildwoods Sign and travel North to the Wildwoods Convention Center and then down the boardwalk extension to the beach.

welcome to the wildwoods 43

The Eastern Surfing Association South Jersey District Contest will be held in North Wildwood on June 28.

Photograph by Judy Momorella

44 welcome to the wildwoods rounding pubs in North Wildwood. Experience the best in barbeque and blues at this exciting three-day festival. Live cooking demonstrations, incredible food and top regional and national blues acts on the free main stage. Friday 4pm-11pm, Saturday 10am– 11pm, Sunday 10am-6pm. Visist www.njbbq.com or www. angleseablues.com.

The route will run South and continue on the hard packed sand to Primrose Avenue in Wildwood Crest, looping back to the Wildwoods Convention Center for the completion of the race. The 1-Mile Walk will go down the Wildwoods Boardwalk to Cresse Avenue and back to the Wildwoods Convention Center. All funds raised from this event will be used to help maintain the Wildwoods Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. Registration from 7am-8:45am at the Wildwoods Convention Center. Call 609-8498887 or visit www.WildwoodsWall.com for more information.

July 4 Fourth of July Fireworks Display On the Beach at Pine Avenue, Wildwood. Special holiday fireworks extravaganza sponsored by the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA).

10pm. Visible from almost anywhere in the Wildwoods, though here’s an inside tip — the second floor of Joe’s Fish Co. is a great place from which to enjoy it, AND enjoy good food!

July 4 Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band FREE Summer Concert Changes in Latitudes, the Buffett tribute band perform at Fox Park, Wildwood. Sponsored by the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Improvement and Development Authority (GWTIDA). Starts at 6pm. Bring your own blanket or beach chair and prepare for some great family fun.

July 5 Sidewalk Chalk Competition Chalk-drawing competition begins at 9am at 8th Street field, at Central Avenue, North Wildwood. Register the day of the event. Judging begins at 10:15am. All ages welcome to participate. Prizes will be awarded. Free. Visit www.

NorthWildwood.com.

July 12 Boogie Board Races At 15th Avenue and the beach, North Wildwood. Wave-riding competition for boys and girls ages 5–18. Registration 9am, contest 10am. Prizes awarded, must bring your own board. Visit www.NorthWildwood.com.

The New Jersey State Barbeque Championship and Anglesea Blues Festival will be held in North Wildwood on the weekend of July 11-13. Photographs by Nicole Dever

July 4-6 Sports Card, Toys, Comic and Collectibles Show Wildwoods Convention Center — collectibles, memorabilia and guest star appearances. Over 100 tables of the hottest collectibles on the planet! Sports cards, old and new, sets, autographed memorabilia, posters, supplies, toys, coins, beanie babies, comics, jerseys, videos and much more. Friday 3-9pm, Saturday 10am9pm, Sunday 10am-5pm. Free. Visit www.

RKSportsPromotions.com.

handmade products. From 9am-5pm daily.

July 4-6 Boardwalk Special Improvement District Craft Show On the boardwalk at Rio Grande Avenue. All

July 11-13 New Jersey State Barbeque Championship and Anglesea Blues Festival At 2nd and Olde New Jersey Avenues, and sur-

July 7-12 Dance Xplosion Wildwoods Convention Center hosts national dance competition finals from studios all over the country. From 7am–11pm daily. Free. Visit www.DanceXplosionTalent.com.

July 11 Beschen-Callahan Memorial Lifeguard Races On the beach at 15th Avenue, North Wildwood.

July 12 Annual Duke of Fluke Fishing Tournament Sterling Harbor Marina, Rio Grande Avenue.

Sterling Harbor Bait and Tackle presents the 21st Annual Duke of Fluke Tournament at 7:30am. Live music, pig roast, BBQ and awards ceremony start at 6pm. Captains meeting on July 11 at 7:30am. Entrance fee for participants.

Visit www.SterlingHarbor.com.

July 12-13 Annual Wildwood Cornhole Tournament The bags will fly on the Wildwoods beach (between Wildwood and Oak Avenues) during this double elimination tournament. Teams of two will compete in the popular tailgating bean bag toss game. Two tournaments will be held on Saturday (11am and 2pm) for a chance to win a custom corn hole set at each tournament.

Saturday’s event is $20 per team per tournament. All ages are eligible to register. Sunday hosts the main event for almost $2,000 in cash prizes. The tournament begins at 10:30am and costs $40 per team of two if pre-registered or $45 at the door. Visit www.WildwoodCornhole. com.

welcome to the wildwoods 45

A Sidewalk Chalk Competition will be held in North Wildwood on July 5.

Photograph by Nicole Dever

46 welcome to the wildwoods July 19-20 Cape Express MORE Beach Blast Soccer Youth and adult soccer teams from all over the East Coast compete in a barefoot soccer tournament. Games played on the beach, between Cedar and Poplar Avenues, Wildwood. Visit www.CapeExpress.com.

July 16-17 Miss North Wildwood Pageant Crowning Ceremony at the Lou Boothe Amphitheater. Pre-registration is required. Visit www.northwildwood.com.

July 18-20 Morey’s Piers Beach Sports Weekend featuring Lacrosse (LAX) , Hockey and Soccer One of the only beach tournaments in the world, located on the beach north of Morey’s Mariners Landing Pier, Schellenger Avenue, Wildwood. This tournament gives lacrosse players of all ages a chance to enjoy the game in a new and exciting way. Visist www.MoreysPiers.com.

July 18 Annual 21 Down Beach Day Annual event held on the beach at North Wildwood’s inlet, 2nd and Ocean Avenue, North Wildwood. Featuring a partnership with the North Wildwood Beach Patrol and the 21 Down Awareness Group. Offering a day of beach memories for Downs Syndrome children and their families. Visit www.NorthWildwood. com.

The Annual 21 Down Beach Day will be held July 18. Pictured here are Chloe, and Drew from North Wildwood Beach Patrol.

July 18 Antique Car Show The Jersey Cape Region Antique Automobile Club of America will sponsor an Antique Car Show from 10am-3pm on the boardwalk between 16th and 26th Avenues in North Wildwood. For more information call Robert

McCullion at 609-522-6442.

July 19 NJ State Crab Festival Hosted by the Ice House restaurant, 4415 Park Boulevard, Wildwood from 11am-10pm.

Crabby fun for all ages. Blue claw crabs, beer garden, crabby bloody Mary, vendors and exciting things for the kids, including a crab race at 6pm. Live outdoor entertainment all day. Visit www.IceHouseWildwood.com.

July 20-25 Sophisticated Productions Dance Competition Wildwoods Convention Center — national dance competition. Free admission. From 7am-10pm daily. Visit www.SophisticatedProductions.com.

July 25 Dutch Hoffman Memorial Lifeguard Races Annual beach patrol competition sponsored by Wildwood Beach Patrol honoring the memory of Captain Frank “Dutch” Hoffman. Lincoln Avenue Beach at 6:30pm.

July 25 King of the Court Soccer Tennis Tournament The nation’s top soccer-tennis tournament is coming to Wildwood on the Fox Park tennis courts, Ocean and Montgomery Avenues in Wildwood, and will provide great entertainment and cash prizes. Youth and adult divisions. Visit www.KingOfTheCourt.net.

July 25-27 22nd Annual Wildwood Ultimate Frisbee Tournament Annual event on the beach at Wildwood Beach Patrol headquarters at Schellenger Avenue.

Saturday 8am-6pm, Sunday 9am-5pm. It’s the largest beach Frisbee tournament in the world!

A four-on-four team competition for players

welcome to the wildwoods 47 of all levels, ages 18 and over. More than 400 teams from all over the US compete in the tournament. Free to spectators. Visit www.WildwoodUltimate.com.

July 26-27 Railroad Days Historic Cold Spring Village is lined with model railroads, garden displays and vendors.

Discover all things locomotive. The Village is located just a couple miles north of downtown Cape May. Visit www.hcsv.org.

July 26 Eastern Surfing Association South Jersey District Contest #5 On the 12th Avenue surfing beach, North Wildwood. ESA surf contest. From 7am-5pm. Visit www.snj.surfesa.org (no surf date August 9).

July 26 Christmas in July with Santa Claus Along the beach in North Wildwood, Santa rides the beach. Candy canes and entertainment. From 1pm. Free.

July 26-27 Boardwalk Special Improvement District Craft Show Held at the boardwalk at Rio Grande Avenue.

All handmade products. From 9am-5pm daily.

Free.

July 28 to August 7 Delia’s Warehouse Clothing Sale At Wildwoods Convention Center from 9am9pm daily, except 9am-5pm on August 7. Visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com.

July 29 Wildwoods Waddle A fun event for infants and toddlers to show off their speedy crawling or waddling technique

The NJ State Crab Festival will be held at the Ice House restaurant in Wildwood on July 19.

48 welcome to the wildwoods the day before the official Wildwoods Baby Parade on July 30. Starts 10am on the grassy circle in front of the Wildwoods Convention Center. Waddlers are encouraged to participate the next day in the official baby parade.

from the tri-state area. Friday night features MMA fights at 8pm, Saturday and Sunday’s competitions feature 360 gi and no-gi divisions. Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 10am4pm. Visit www.NagaFighter.com.

July 30 Wildwoods Baby Parade A Wildwood tradition since 1909. Registration 5pm at Wildwoods Convention Center. Lineup/ judging immediately following. Parade steps off at 6pm and proceeds up the Wildwoods Boardwalk from Convention Center to 16th Street, North Wildwood. Rain date is July 31.

August 2 Wildwood Crest 5k Beach Race On the beach at Heather Road, Wildwood Crest, start and finish at Crest Pier. Rain or shine. 5k beach run, along with a one-mile family fun run/walk. Registration fee required. Visit www.

VisitWildwoodCrest.com.

August 1-31 Jersey Shore Beach ’N’ Boat Tournament A New Jersey statewide, season-long, inshore, saltwater, multi-species fishing tournament that challenges anglers of all skill levels to compete for cash prizes. Anglers can fish for eight species, once or every day for the entire season.

Prizes are awarded for the largest catches. Proceeds go to The Fisheries Conservation Trust and the tournament is supported in part by a grant from the New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism. Visit www.

BeachNBoat.com.

August 1 Morey’s Piers’ A Closer Walk Christian Youth Event At Morey’s Piers, Schellenger Avenue, Wildwood, uouth groups and families are invited to join for a weekend of camping on the beach.

Live Christian music and worship services.

Entrance fee for participants. Visit www.

MoreysPiers.com.

August 1-3 Battle at the Beach Grappling Tournament Wildwoods Convention Center — mixed martial arts fighting competition with contestants

August 2-3 Boardwalk Special Improvement District Craft Show Held at the boardwalk at Rio Grande Avenue, Wildwood. All handmade products. From 9am-5pm daily.

August 5 National Night Out North Wildwood At the 8th Avenue Field in North Wildwood from 5:30-8:30pm. A yearly event that offers an ideal opportunity to build neighborhood unity and strengthen police-community partnerships in a continuing effort to build a better city and a safer America. City departments will set up displays around the block, representing police, fire, public works, beach patrol and recreation. Enjoy a FREE barbeque, snow cones, games, various activities for children including a dunk tank, hourly giveaways, and more.

A movie will begin after dark. Sponsored by North Wildwood Police Department.

August 5 National Night Out Wildwood At Fox Park (Ocean Avenue between Burk and Montgomery Avenues), Wildwood from 5:308:30pm. A yearly event that offers an ideal opportunity to build neighborhood unity and

strengthen police-community partnerships in a continuing effort to build a better city and a safer America. FREE games, food, prizes, dunk tank and much more! Bring the entire family out for a fun night. Sponsored by Wildwood Police Department.

August 9 Philomena Monastero Board Walk for the Cure Enjoy a relaxing stroll on the Wildwoods Boardwalk at this annual family walk to fight ovarian cancer. Entrance fee for participants.

Check-in/registration 9am-11am. Walk starts at 11am.

August 9 Wildwood Crest Antique, Classic and Hot Rod Car Show First United Methodist Church, Fern Road and Atlantic Avenue, Wildwood Crest. Display of antique, classic and customized hot/street rods.

Cars must be 25 years old or older to qualify in NJ. Vintage Cars on display for public to view.

Refreshments available for purchase. Entry fee for participants, free to spectators.

August 7 National Lighthouse Day Hereford Inlet Lighthouse — free admission to all formal ceremony and guest speakers. From 9am-5pm. Formal ceremony 10am-11am.

Guest speakers include elected state and local officials, historians, special exhibits, food and music, artists and museum displays. Visit www.HerefordLighthouse.org.

August 7 Harlem Globetrotters Returning to the Wildwoods Convention Center at 7pm nightly for four fun-filled shows to entertain the whole family. Tickets available at TicketMaster.com or HarlemGlobetrotters. com/Wildwood or the Convention Center box

office hotline on 609-729-9000.

August 7 Harlem Globetrotters Summer Skills Clinic The Harlem Globetrotters are offering a twohour Skills Clinic at the Wildwoods Convention Center from 2pm-4pm. The clinic is led

by Globetrotters players and is designed to take fans ages six to 12 behind the magic of the Globetrotters’ skills, and participants will also learn about the importance of staying active and eating healthy. You don’t need prior basketball experience. A spot in the Skills Clinic costs $75 and includes a voucher for one complementary ticket to any of the four games in Wildwood (valued up to $42.) Tickets are on sale now through wwwticketmaster.com or 800.745.3000, or at the Wildwoods Convention Center box office. Space in the clinic is strictly limited to ensure each participant has the best experience. For more information visit www.

HarlemGlobetrotters.com/Wildwood.

August 15-17 Wildwood Tattoo Beach Bash Rebel Image Tattoo presents a full-blown tattoo expo and show in the Wildwoods Convention Center. It’s a weekend full of incredible artistry and fun events — major national tattoo artists, live tattooing, a traveling tattoo museum, contests and more. A tattoo swimsuit contest will take place where the winner will get a spread in Rebel Ink magazine and some artists will be featuring tebori tattooing (the original Japanese style). Friday and Saturday noon-11pm, Sunday noon-6pm. $20 per day or $45 for the weekend. Visit www.WildwoodTattooBeachBash.com.

August 16 Tri the Wildwoods Triathlon , 5k and Kids Race At 15th Avenue and the beach, North Wildwood. Tenth anniversary. Triathlon: 1/4 mile

welcome to the wildwoods 49 Hop on a jet-ski in this area and you are likely to have some friendly bottlenose dolphins for company.

Photograph by Judy Momorella

50 welcome to the wildwoods swim, 10-mile bike, 3.1-mile beach run. Or participate in only the 3.1-mile run. USATsanctioned event. Starts 6:45am. Visit www.

DelmoSports.com.

August 17 Five Mile Fat Tire Bike Hike on the Beach The Wildwood Beach Patrol, in cooperation with the Lunch with Lynch Foundation, will be holding this event on the Wildwood Beach at Schellenger Avenue at low tide on the water’s edge at 9am. The event will be for all ages with awards for categories, including best dressed.

Visit www.WildwoodNJ.org.

August 16-17 Boardwalk Special Improvement District Craft Show Held at the boardwalk at Rio Grande Avenue, Wildwood. All handmade products. From 9am-5pm daily. Free.

August 17 United Way of Cape May County Rubber Ducky Regatta Splashingly good fun at Raging Waters Water Park, Morey’s Piers, Schellenger Avenue and the Boardwalk, Wildwood. Come see over 10,000 rubber ducks race toward the finish line in the Endless River. Starts at 7:30pm. Free to spectators. Visit www.uwcmc.org.

graphed memorabilia, posters, supplies, toys, coins, beanie babies, comics, jerseys, videos and more. Friday 3pm-9pm, Saturday 10am9pm, Sunday 10am-5pm. Free admission. Visit www.RKSportsPromotions.com.

August 23-24 Seafarers’ Weekend Pirates invade Historic Cold Spring Village!

Catch the action with exciting pirate fight shows from Valhalla’s Pirates throughout the weekend. Take in exhibits and activities such as antique boats, duck decoy carving and more.

Plus, sea chanties and sing-alongs. The Village is located just a couple miles north of downtown Cape May. Visit www.hcsv.org.

August 23 Colossal Coastal Roller Derby Expo Wildwoods Convention Center hosts hundreds of roller derby enthusiasts, skaters and vendors, featuring a full day of hard-hitting games and various other skate-inspired festivities. Male and female roller derby skaters throughout the country are expected to attend and will be playing using the Modern Athletic Derby Endeavor Rule set. Tournament takes place from 4-11pm.

— doors open at 3:30pm. Visit www.SouthJerseyDerbygirls.com.

August 17 Around the Island Row On the beach at 15th Avenue, North Wildwood from 7am. Visit www.NorthWildwood.com.

August 23-24 Boardwalk Special Improvement District Craft Show Held at the boardwalk at Rio Grande Avenue, Wildwood. All handmade products. From 9am-5pm daily. Free.

August 22-24 Sports Card, Toys, Comics and Collectibles Show Wildwoods Convention Center — collectibles, memorabilia and guest star appearances. Sports cards, old and new sets, auto-

August 24-29 Restaurant Week in the Wildwoods A second opportunity to wine and dine in some of Wildwoods finest restaurants. All participating restaurants will offer a complete four course meal, including appetizer, salad, entrée

and dessert for one low price, plus tax and gratuity. Visit www.WildwoodByTheSeaRestaurantweek.com.

August 30 Ed’s Funcade World Championship Skeeball Ed’s Funcade 3700 Boardwalk at Lincoln Avenue, Wildwood. Free entry — $1,000 first place and Ed’s Boardwalk Cup. Qualify from 6pm10pm, tournament follows. Visit www.EdsFuncade.com.

August 31 Wildwood Block Party and Music Festival Fox Park at Ocean Avenue between Burk and Montgomery Avenues, Wildwood. A family festival including crafts, games, rides, great food and continuous free live entertainment.

Starts at noon. visit www.WildwoodNJ.org.

August 31 All American Car and Truck Show American-made car and truck show on the Wildwoods Boardwalk. Awards will be presented. Visit www.WildwoodMotorEvents. com.

September 1 Labor Day Fireworks On the beach at Pine Avenue, Wildwood at 10pm. Special Labor Day weekend fireworks extravaganza to end the summer season. Visible from almost anywhere in the Wildwoods!

Free. Visit www.DoWildwood.com.

September 1-31 Jersey Shore Beach ’N’ Boat Tournament A New Jersey statewide, season-long, inshore, saltwater, multi-species fishing tournament that challenges anglers of all skill levels to compete for cash prizes. Anglers can fish for eight species, once or every day for the entire season.

Prizes are awarded for the largest catches. Pro-

ceeds go to The Fisheries Conservation Trust and the tournament is supported in part by a grant from the New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism. Visit www.

BeachNBoat.com.

September 4-7 Roar to the Shore Motorcycle Rally Cape Classics Motorcycle Club presents one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the Northeast.

Daily vendors, live entertainment and activities surrounding the Wildwoods Convention Center and at Oak and Atlantic Avenues, Wildwood. Thursday noon-10pm, Friday and Saturday 10am-10pm, Sunday 10am-6pm. Visit www.RoarToTheShoreOnline.com.

September 5-7 The 44th Annual North Wildwood Recreation Surf Fishing Tournament Registration at 3rd and JFK Boulevard gazebo in North Wildwood. Adult and youth divisions, prizes. Participant fee. Friday and Saturday 7am-7pm, Sunday 7am-11:45am. Visit www.

NorthWildwood.com.

September 6 Mummers String Band Saturday Olde New Jersey Avenue, North Wildwood.

Featuring some of the top string bands from the 2013 New Year’s Day Philadelphia Mummers Parade. Entertainment begins on the street at 3:30pm, featuring the Duffy String Band and the Philadelphia Mummers Chorus. Mummers strut contest at 4pm, followed by parade at

Right: The Boardwalk Classic Car Show will be held on September 18-20 — apparently it attracts all sorts of different enthusiasts...

Photograph by Judy Momorella

welcome to the wildwoods 51

52 welcome to the wildwoods 4:45pm. Visit www.NorthWildwood.com.

September 6-7 Revolutionary War Encampment The American Revolution comes to life with reenactors and encampments from both Loyalist and Patriot militia at Historic Cold Spring Village. Field camps, weaponry, programs and more — this is a spectacular event for the whole family in a beautiful location set on 30 wooded acres. The Village is located just north of downtown Cape May. Visit www.hcsv.org.

September 11 Patriots Day Memorial Service New Jersey Avenue at Miami Avenue, Wildwood Crest, starting at 5:30pm. Service to honor and remember those who perished in the terrorist attacks on 9/11. Visit www.VisitWildwoodCrest.com.

September 11 September 11 Commemoration At 15th Street fire station, 15th and Central Avenues, North Wildwood. Commemoration of the 9/11 tragedies at 8:46am. Visit www.

NorthWildwood.com.

September 11-13 New Jersey State Firemen’s Convention and Parade Wildwoods Convention Center hosts this popular annual convention of delegates and life members. Saturday, parade step-off time 1pm at New Jersey Avenue and Cresse Road, Wildwood and proceeds north on New Jersey Avenue to 20th Avenue, North Wildwood. Approximate time, four to five hours. Visist www.njsfa. com.

September 12-13 Firefighters Weekend Craft Show At Rambler Road and Ocean Avenue, gazebo

area. Friday 9am-5pm, Saturday 9am-1pm.

Crafters of all kinds. Visit www.VisitWildwoodCrest.com.

September 12-14 Morey’s Piers Beach Jam Fall Fest Morey’s Piers, Schellenger Avenue and the Boardwalk, Wildwood. Ultimate camping experience for scouts on the beach. Entrance fee for participants. Visit www.MoreysPiers. com.

will each serve a course, which will be paired with wine from the sponsoring winery. A winery representative will explain pairings. A trolley shuttle between restaurants is provided.

Reserve early; the event is limited to 34 people per night.Admission $125 (gratuity included).

Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). Call 609-8845404, 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

September 13-14 Civil War Weekend The Blue and the Gray invade Cape May at one of Historic Cold Spring Village’s longest-running and most popular events — an unmissable treat for the whole family. Union and Confederate troops camp throughout the Village, providing demonstrations on field hospitals, mounted cavalry, weaponry and more. The Village is the perfect place to host such an historic event — it’s located just a couple miles north of downtown Cape May. For more information, visit www.hcsv.org.

September 18-21 Irish Fall Festival Olde New Jersey Avenue and surrounding pubs, North Wildwood — the largest Irish Festival on the East Coast, celebrating Irish heritage with dancing, music, food, vendors and crafts. From 8am-11pm daily. Bus service throughout event days. Other festival activities include a golf tournament, amateur boxing matches, Irish dance lessons, ceilidh, 5k run and 1-mile walk, pipe exhibition, Irish music concert, Catholic mass and concludes with a parade on Surf Avenue from 26th to Spruce and Olde New Jersey Avenues, North Wildwood. Visit www.

CMCAOH.com.

September 13-14 Governor’s Cup Hydrofest An exciting international powerboat racing event, coupled with a six-block festival of craft, merchandise and food vendors as well as displays. This event is also hosting the North American Championships simultaneously.

Held on the bay front bordering the Sunset Lake bay area at Rambler Road and New Jersey Avenue, Wildwood Crest. Free. 9am-4pm.

Visit www.WildwoodsHydrofest.org.

September 18-20 Boardwalk Classic Car Auction Annual car auction of muscle and classic cars will take place in the Wildwoods Convention Center. Vendors will have memorabilia, collectibles, parts and accessories. Thursday preview 3-10pm, Friday noon-10pm, Saturday 9am-4pm. Free for spectators. Visit www.

WildwoodMotorEvents.com.

September 14-15, 17-18 Chefs’ Dine-Arounds Board MAC’s trolley for a five-course gourmet feast and a chance to taste the best of the best in Cape May. Five different premier restaurants

September 18-21 Boardwalk Classic Car Show This annual car show will feature beautiful classic cars displayed on the Wildwoods Boardwalk from 8am-3pm on Friday and Saturday. Prizes will awarded to the top 40 cars as well as Best

in Show. The event is free for spectators. Visit www.WildwoodMotorEvents.com for more information on this popular mainstay of the boardwalk.

September 19-20 Sunset Lake Seafarers Celebration Friday night at Centennial Park features live music at 7:30pm. and fireworks at 9pm. (Rain date for fireworks is Saturday at 9pm.) Saturday features the festival along Sunset Lake on New Jersey Avenue between Rambler Rd. and Miami Ave., Wildwood Crest. Dozens of craft and food vendors, family entertainment, live music, children’s activities and much more! Fee event — call 609-523-0202 or VisitWildwoodCrest.com.

September 19 Cape May Wine Trail Spend the day visiting Cape May County’s wineries and sampling the unique flavors of each.

Begin with lunch at the Carriage House Café & Tearoom, then board the trolley to Willow Creek Winery, Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery and Natali Vineyards. $75 includes lunch, wine tastings at each vineyard and a wine tasting glass. From noon to 5pm. Call 609-884-5404, 800-275-4278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

September 19 to May 10 Cape May’s 2014-15 Designer Show House Every year, a beautiful home in Cape May, America’s Original Seaside Resort, is given an imaginative makeover, spotlighting the creativity of local and regional designers. This popular annual event is sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). Call 609-884-5404 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

welcome to the wildwoods 53

Warning: Don’t visit the second-floor deck at Cape May Winery unless you enjoy relaxing with good wine and good company, overlooking the lush foliage of the vineyard.

54 welcome to the wildwoods

Fall In The Wildwoods

For many, it’s the most magical time of year and no wonder — there are so many cool events (from romantic to family-friendly) going on in this area!

welcome to the wildwoods 55

Caption to come Photograph by Judy Momorella

56 welcome to the wildwoods September 26-27 Wild Thang 14 All-Chrysler car show! Friday night will feature a glow show and BBQ at the Imperial 500 Motel for participants only. Cars will be displayed on the Wildwoods Boardwalk Saturday 8am-2pm.

Followed by a block party 6pm on Pacific Avenue. Free for spectators. Visit www.ChryslerOwnersGroup.com.

September 25-26 An Olde Time Italian Festival Fox Park at Ocean Avenue between Burk and Montgomery Avenues, Wildwood. An oldworld family festival weekend including crafts, games, rides, great Italian food and continuous free live entertainment. Friday 5pm-midnight, Saturday noon-midnight. Visit www.SonsOfItalyWildwood.org.

September 26-28 Mid-Atlantic Law Enforcement Survivors Weekend Weekend-long events honoring law enforcement officers who gave their lives in the line of duty. Visit www.MidAtlanticSurvivors.org.

September 26-28 Monster Truck Beach Nationals On the Wildwood beach from Lincoln to Spencer Avenues. Monster trucks will square off on a custom beach race course for their chance to win the title of King of the Beach. Friday 6pm10pm, Saturday noon-4pm, 6pm-10pm, Sunday 1pm-5pm. Visit www.WildwooodMotorEvents.com.

September 27-28 National Sea Glass Festival Beachcombers can now share their collected treasures from the shore and learn more about naturally polished sea glass. The North American Sea Glass Association will bring its annual

Victorian Weekend in Cape May celebrates the city’s rich 19th-century heritage — this year it runs from October 10-13.

national festival to South Jersey for the first time. Open to the public at 10am at Cape May Convention Hall. Admission is $5 daily with a portion of the proceeds to benefit the Clean Ocean Action organization of New Jersey. Visit www.seaglassassociation.org

September 27 Ed’s Funcade Boardwalk Treasure Hunt On the boardwalk between 22nd and 23rd Avenue, North Wildwood. Treasure hunt for kids in the hay! Noon-2pm. Free. Visit www.EdsFuncade.com.

September 27-28 Third Annual Dragon Boat Festival Experience the thrill, the adrenaline, the teamwork, and the sheer fun of being connected on a level comparable to nothing else at this event, held at Cape May harbor. It’s power, speed, synchronization and endurance! It happens to be the fastest growing international team water sport. Visit www.capemaychamber.com, www. capemaydragonboat.com.

October 1-31 Jersey Shore Beach ’N’ Boat Tournament A New Jersey statewide, season-long, inshore, saltwater, multi-species fishing tournament that challenges anglers of all skill levels to compete for cash prizes. Anglers can fish for eight species, once or every day for the entire season.

Prizes are awarded for the largest catches. Proceeds go to The Fisheries Conservation Trust and the tournament is supported in part by a

grant from the New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism. Visit www.

BeachNBoat.com.

October 1 Race of Gentlemen Vintage Car & Motorcycle Beach Drag Races An invitational eighth-mile drag race of prewar cars and motorcycles at the water’s edge on the beach. Tickets can be purchased at WildwoodMotorEvents.com.

October 4 60th Annual Pennsauken Surf Fishing Club Tournament Held on the Wildwoods beaches. Registration at the Anglesea Firehouse, 2nd and New Jersey

PAGE 57 COOL CAPE MAY FALL 2012

Thethe wildlywildwoods popular Monster Truck welcome to 57

Nationals will be returning to the Wildwood beach on September 26-28.

58 welcome to the wildwoods Avenues, North Wildwood at 6 am. Teams and individuals welcome. Event from 7:30am-1pm.

Visit www. asaconline.org.

October 4 Beach Plum Farm Fall Festival Every Saturday in October, from 11am-5pm, Cape Resorts (owners of Congress Hall, Virginia and Beach Shack) host the Beach Plum Farm Fall Festival at their 65-acre farm at 140 Stevens Street, West Cape May. There are hay rides, pumpkin picking and decorating, face-painting and T-shirt tie-dying. But it won’t just be the kids who have fun. There will be craft beer from the award-winning Cape May Brewing Co., homemade pies, a bonfire, s’mores roasting and live entertainment.

October 4 Oktoberfest Celebrate the famous Bavarian tradition on Historic Jackson Street as it is transformed into a German promenade with authentic music and food. Visit the Beer Gardens and browse the artisans tables selling crafts, antiques and collectibles. For more information call 609-8845508 or visit www.capemaychamber.com.

Beach Plum Farm in West Cape May hosts, every Saturday in October, a fall festival. There’s beer from the award-winning Cape May Brewing Co., a pie-eating contest (on Saturday, October 25), hay rides, s’mores roasting, live entertainment and good food, too. Photographs by Aleksey Moryakov

October 4 Seafood & Music Festival The Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce will host a free street fair from 10am-8pm on Atlantic Avenue between Wildwood and Schellenger Avenues, Wildwood. Live music, crafters, food vendors, pie eating contest and more.

Two stages of free musical entertainment. A Kids Korner with activities including pumpkin painting, face-painting and bounces will take place from noon-4pm.

ticipants from 3pm-7pm. On Saturday, participants and spectators are encouraged to meet at the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum where all vehicles will be on display 9am-5pm. On Sunday, cars will load on the Wildwoods Boardwalk at 8am at Leaming Avenue and will remain on display until 5pm.

Cars will then load off the boardwalk and proceed into Fox Park for an awards ceremony. To register your car, visit Greater Wildwood Hotel Motel Association Welcome Center or visit www.WildwoodMotorEvents.com.

October 10 Import Car & Truck Show Friday night will feature a car cruise for par-

October 10-13 Cape May’s 42nd annual Victorian Weekend Celebrate Cape May’s Victorian heritage, fea-

turing the Chocolate Championship Tour & Tasting, Historic House Tours, Murder Mystery Dinners, living history programs, lectures, workshops and performances. Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). Visit www.capemaymac.org.

October 10-12 New Jersey Beach Buggy Association’s Great Fall Classic Surf Fishing Tournament Held at North Wildwood Beach Patrol headquarters, 15th Avenue and the beach, North Wildwood. Registration begins at 5a.m for ASAC-sanctioned tournament which will run from 7am-1:30pm on Saturday. Individual tournament (not ASAC-sanctioned) starts

at 5am on Saturday and concludes at noon on Sunday. Registration for individual tournament begins at 4pm Saturday and ends at 9am Sunday. Entry fee $50 per six-man team and $10 per individual. Visit www.njbba.org for more information.

October 11 and 18 Beach Plum Farm Fall Festival Every Saturday in October, from 11am-5pm, Cape Resorts (owners of Congress Hall, Virginia and Beach Shack) host the Beach Plum Farm Fall Festival at their 65-acre farm at 140 Stevens Street, West Cape May. There are hay rides, pumpkin picking and decorating, facepainting and T-shirt tie-dying. But it won’t

The third annual Exit 0 International Jazz Festival will rock the Cape May Convention Hall, along with a dozen bars and restaurants in the city, from November 7-9.

Photograph by Richard Conde

welcome to the wildwoods 59

60 welcome to the wildwoods just be the kids who have fun. There will be craft beer from the award-winning Cape May Brewing Company, homemade pies, a bonfire, s’mores roasting, pumpkin picking and live entertainment.

October 25 Wildwoods Boardwalk Pumpkin Run A ghoulishly fun and exciting family event for all ages. This festive boardwalk event offers a 5k and 10k run along with a 1-mile family walk, starting at 10am — rain or shine. Registration begins at 8:30am inside Wildwoods Convention Center. Participants are encouraged to dress in their favorite Halloween costumes.

Visit wwwBoardwalkPumpkinRun.com.

October 11-12 George Pratt Memorial Soccer Tournament County-wide youth soccer tournament with various locations throughout the Wildwoods.

8am-6pm. Free. Visit www.CapeExpress.com.

October 12 Morey’s Piers Closing Day Celebration Discounted wristbands, kids crafts and entertainment on the last day of the season on Morey’s Mariner’s Landing Pier from 11am5pm. Visit www.MoreyPiers.com.

October 17-18 Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce Fabulous ’50s & Beyond Weekend Friday night dance party with a live band at the Wildwoods Convention Center. Tickets needed.

Friday 7pm-11pm, Saturday 11am-5pm. Free street fair at Fox Park, Wildwood. Classic cars, food and craft vendors, live entertainment, Doo Wop bus tour and much more. Saturday night concert at the Oceanfront Arena at the Wildwoods Convention Center. Doors open at 6pm, concert begins at 7pm. Tickets start at $49.50.

Tickets and updates from Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce at www.Wildwoods. com. or TicketMaster.com.

October 17-19 The Brawl on the Beach Motocross Races Motocross races on the Wildwoods beach!

Weekend on the beach with races all day Saturday and Sunday for bikes, ATVs to UTVs. Come get a piece of the hight-thrill extreme races.

For more info or to purchase tickets visit www.

WildwoodMotorEvents.com.

Halloween events run in the Wildwoods from October 24 through 31.

October 18-19 Lighthouse Challenge of New Jersey New Jersey lighthouses and select affiliated museums will host a state-wide weekend from 8am-6pm. Visitors will enjoy the opportunity to tour the state and visit various lighthouses, two museums and two life-saving stations (some not normally open to the public) over the weekend, and help raise funds for continued lighthouse preservation. Entrance fee for participants and vendors. Visit www.HerefordLighthouse.org.

October 19 TEDxCapeMay Cape May Convention Hall hosts this inspiring and stimulating convention, an official offshoot of the TED organization. The whole point of TED is “ideas worth spreading.” Enjoy at least 12 inspiring presentations and performances including lunch and an open bar reception at Congress Hall. The event only made its debut in 2012 and is already being acclaimed for the range and the quality of the speakers For more information, please visit www.TEDxCapeMay. com.

October 24 Halloween Parade and Fun Fair Sponsored by the Greater Wildwood Hotel/ Motel Association, starting at 5:30pm. Registration and judging is at the Greater Wildwood Chamber of Commerce office at 3306 Pacific Avenue. Parade begins at 6:15pm at Wildwood and Pacific Avenues. Fun Fair follows at the Wildwoods Convention Center from 7pm until 9:30pm.

October 24–26 NJ Audubon Cape May Autumn Festival Cape May Convention Hall hosts this event, more commonly known as The Bird Show. But it’s not just birds that are on show — one of the most popular attractions is a pack of wolves!

October 24-25 Barber Shoppers Convention Wildwoods Convention Center — Barber Shoppers Mid-Atlantic District Convention featuring quartet and chorus competitions. Quartet semi-finals Friday at 6pm, chorus contest Saturday at 9am, quartet finals Saturday 7pm. Visit www.MidAtlanticDistrict.com.

October 30 Trunk or Treat Family Halloween Event Crest Pier, Heather Road and Ocean Avenues, Wildwood Crest. The recreation department will host this annual event at 6:30pm. Vehicles must be pre-registered to participate. Event includes Halloween-related activities, DJ, refreshments and prizes. Visit www.VisitWildwoodCrest.com.

October 30 Greater Wildwood Elks Halloween Haunted House Greater Wildwood Elks Lodge, 1st and New Jersey Avenues, North Wildwood. Trick-or-Treaters walk through a haunted house and receive treats. Free. 5pm-8pm.

November 1-30 Jersey Shore Beach ’N’ Boat Tournament A New Jersey statewide event. Anglers can fish for eight species, once or every day for the entire season. Prizes are awarded for the largest catches. Visit www.BeachNBoat.com.

November 2 Cheer Tech Island Championships Wildwoods Convention Center — cheerleading competition including recreation, school, college, open and all-star divisions. From 9am5pm. Admission fee. Visit www.SpiritBrands. org for more information.

welcome to the wildwoods 61

Cape May has a starry-studded lineup of events over the Christmas season, transforming the city into a Dickensian wonderland.

62 welcome to the wildwoods November 7-9 Exit 0 International Jazz Festival You don’t have to be a jazz fan to appreciate this fantastic festival, which is in its third year.

Some of the acts are world class, and it brings a great energetic buzz to the town. Visit www. exit0jazzfest.com for more information.

November 16 Cheer Tech American Recreation & School Championship Wildwoods Convention Center from 10am2pm. This cheerleading event will be open to all rec and school programs that are members of the American Recreation and School Cheer Association. Visit www.SpiritBrands.org.

November 21 to January 1, 2015 Cape May’s Holiday Season Five-and-a-half weeks of special holidays tours and events including Holiday Preview Weekend (November 21-23), 41st Annual Christmas Candlelight House Tours (December 6, 13, 27), plus Lamplighter Christmas Tours, Ghosts of Christmas Past Trolley Rides, Physick Family Christmas Tours, Holiday Inns Tours, Evening Holiday Lights Trolley Rides, Evening Ghosts of Christmas Past Trolley Rides, Santa’s Trolley Rides, and more. Sponsored by Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). Call 609-884-5404 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

November 21 to January 1, 2015 An Old-Fashioned Christmas Exhibit An exhibit of holiday traditions through the years complete with model trains, toys and much more! At the Carriage House Gallery at the Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, Cape May. The gallery is open daily (except Thanksgiving and Christmas); hours vary. Free admission. Sponsored by MidAtlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). For more information on this event,

visit MAC online at www.capemaymac.org.

November 21-23 Holiday Preview Weekend Santa and his elves have decked out the Physick Estate with thousands of lights and holiday trimmings. Enjoy a wide variety of holiday tours and food and wine events to get you into the Christmas spirit. Visit the Estate on Saturday, November 22 at 7pm as Santa arrives to flip the switch for the festive tree-lighting ceremony. That evening the Estate will be open for free, self-guided tours. For kids, there are Santa’s Trolley Rides and a chance to visit with old St. Nick himself. Grown-ups will enjoy holiday ghost tales during Ghosts of Christmas Past Trolley Rides. Call 609-884-5404 or 800-2754278 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

November 28-December 31 Winter Wonderland Cape may’s magnificent Congress Hotel and its Grand Lawn becomes the setting for a festive fairytale. A 35-foot tree sits in the middle of the lawn, flanked by a tented shopping village arranged around the swimming pool, while the Congress Hall Express train does circuits around the grounds and kids shout with joy as they ride the classic carousel. There are booths selling hot chocolate, elves wandering the grounds dispensing candy canes and four Breakfast with Santa events. Yes, it’s as magical as it sounds. Visit www.caperesorts.com.

November 28-29 Holiday Crafts Fair A must for those on your holiday gift lists.

Shop for unique handmade gifts and seasonal decorations. Held at Cape May Convention Hall, Beach Avenue at Stockton. Admission $2.

Sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC). Call 609-884-5404 or visit www.capemaymac.org.

November 29 to December 30 Santaland Diaries Once again, Cape May Stage and Congress Hall team up to stage the hilarious play, based on acclaimed writer David Sedaris’ time working as an elf in Macy’s. For more information, visit www.capemaystage.com.

December 5 Hereford Inlet Lighthouse Christmas Tree-Lighting Ceremony Hereford Inlet Lighthouse Courtyard, 1st and Central Avenues, North Wildwood. Visit from the big guy in red, plus refreshments. 5:30pm.

Visit www.HerefordLighthouse.org.

December 6 West Cape May Christmas Parade The 47th Annual West Cape May Community Christmas Parade gets your holiday season off to a fabulous start. More than three hours of family fun and entertainment. Parade start time is 5pm, from West Cape May Fire Hall, proceeding south on Broadway to West Perry and to the Washington Street Mall. Wrap up warm and bring some toasty drinks with you!

December 12 Greater Wildwood Jaycees Christmas Parade Parade begins at 15th and Central Avenues, North Wildwood at 7pm, continues south on Pacific Avenue through Wildwood and Wildwood Crest, ending at the Wildwoods Convention Center. Watch a festive line-up of floats, fire trucks and other creatively decorated vehicles parade down the streets of the Wildwoods accompanied by Santa himself. Visit www.

WildwoodHoliday.com.

December 12-13 Wildwoods Family Holiday Celebration Continue a family holiday tradition with an exciting weekend filled with fun for the family.

Attend the Christmas parade on Friday night at 7pm, followed by a tree-lighting ceremony and parade awards ceremony at the Wildwoods Convention Center. Bring the family inside the Wildwoods Convention Center lobby on Saturday from 10am-5pm, with free admission to holiday-themed crafters, movies and entertainment. Visit www.WildwoodHoliday.com.

December 13 41st Annual Christmas Candlelight House Tour This self-guided tour, the main attraction of Cape May’s festive holiday season, features homes, inns, hotels and churches decorated for the holidays, plus caroling, strolling musicians and good old-fashioned cheer. Hospitality centers offer warm beverages and traditional treats.

Includes admission to the Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street, and the Carriage House Gallery. Continuous shuttle service on heated trolleys. From 5:30-8:30pm. Adults $25, children $20 (ages 3-12).

December 26-30 Boardwalk Basketball Classic Wildwoods Convention Center. The largest holiday co-ed basketball tournament with teams from all over the country. 9am-9pm. daily. Admission fee. Visit www.bbclassic.net.

Right: Winter Wonderland comes to Congress Hall, Cape May’s legendary hotel, from November 28 through December 31. There’s a shopping village, an old-school carousel, train rides on the CH Express and a whole lot more.

Photographs by Aleksey Moryakov

PAGE 68 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

Food&Drink

Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink PAGE 69

PAGE 70 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

alosi’s bistro

A varied and decadent menu that provides a scrumptious answer to every craving while you enjoy the fabulous beach and ocean view Menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? On the ground level of the beautiful oceanfront Pan American Hotel in Wildwood Crest.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because do you know how sometimes you’ll eat at a hotel restaurant whether you really want to or not because you’re staying at that hotel and it’s really just the most convenient option? Alosi’s Bistro is not that place. Alosi’s Bistro is the kind of place that people seek out — local people, vacationing people, guests-staying-at-other-hotels people…. do you know what we mean? Oh, and it’s also one of those four-stars-on-TripAdvisor kinds of places.

Alosi’s Bistro is family-owned and operated, run by Chef Joe Alosi and his wife Maggie, and has been going strong since 2003. Alosi’s is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner from April through October. The Bistro has a bright, airy, casually upscale décor. No matter whether you’ll be enjoying breakfast, lunch or dinner (we might suggest all three, though not at the same time) you’ll feel relaxed right away. So, please, kick back and enjoy that view of the sand and the sea — it’s complimentary and included with each and every menu item. And reasonable — did we mention that? No high hotel prices here. The kids are always welcome here and there’s plenty for them to choose from at Alosi’s.

Alosi’s Bistro is a BYOB establishment and reservations are definitely a good idea here.

Follow them on Facebook, and find them on Foursquare, Yelp and TripAdvisor.

INSIDER TIP You will definitely want to keep Alosi’s Bistro in mind for your next special event.

They specialize in catering, and are available for weddings, private parties, and baby and bridal showers, large and small.

ALOSI'S BISTRO « 5901 Ocean Avenue, Wildwood Crest « (609) 729-5333 « www.moreyspiers.com/eat/restaurants/alosis-bistro

Eggs Benedict Two poached eggs with hollandaise sauce and Canadian Bacon on an English Muffin.

Alosi’s Slam Two eggs, two buttermilk pancakes, ham, bacon or sausage, and home fries.

French Crepes with Nutella and Fresh Bananas Enough said.

Alosi’s Salad Mixed greens, pears, dried cranberries, crumbled bleu cheese and walnuts, with balsamic vinaigrette.

Guiseppe Prosciutto, fresh mozzarella, roasted red peppers and tomato on a fresh Italian roll with pesto.

Eggplant Tower Breaded eggplant, Buffalo mozzarella, plum tomato, fresh basil, extra virgin olive oil and balsalmic.

Filet Alosi Twin grilled filets sauteed with shrimp, scallops and lump crabmeat served in a scampi sauce with garlic mashed and grilled asparagus.

Cioppino Jumbo shrimp, scallops, mussels and calamari over linguini in red or white sauce.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner « Price Of Entrées: $7-$26 « BYOB « Reservations Advised « Wheelchair Accessible « V, MC, D « Street Parking « Takeout « Kids’ Menu

PAGE 72 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

Alumni Grill

A specialty sandwich shop with a wide variety of menu options, prepared using fresh ingredients and made to order. Good food served fast!

Menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? Just two short blocks off of the Boardwalk at Oak & Pacific Avenues in the heart of downtown Wildwood.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because you’re a sandwich lover and this is your Mecca. This place takes the humble sandwich and elevates it to its proper place in the gastro universe. Burgers, sandwiches, steaks, wraps and panini — everyone is present and accounted for at this school for sandwich lovers, where ordering them is nearly as much fun as eating them. Eating in? School’s in session, with décor enlivened by local school memorabilia, the menu written in white chalk behind the counter and the sandwich categories divvied up by class — Homeroom for appetizers and sides, for instance, Art Class for wraps, while Health Class is for salads, naturally!

Alumni Grill offers handmade burgers, panini, salads and wraps made with fresh ingredients. Their menu has vegetarian options and a gluten free menu, complete with a designated gluten free fryer. If you love a great burger try one of their handmade char-grilled burgers with many creative topping options. What goes better than a beer with a burger? A thick, old fashioned milkshake made at the Milkshake Bar! Alumni Grill offers a family friendly atmosphere with family friendly prices. They have been satisfying the palettes of foodies for over a decade while making them feel like family. Eat in, takeout and free delivery are all available. At Alumni Grill you’re welcome to bring your own bottle while you enjoy their delicious food and watch your favorite sports game. When the weather is warm, go for the outside seating where you can enjoy one of their scrumptious old fashioned milkshakes, floats or malts. In the busy summer when parking is hard to find, Alumni Grill has free off street parking behind the restaurant. They thought of everything for you!

Traveling with your extended family? Call 24 hours in advance for a wrap tray and salad to bring to the beach. To see their menu, catering opportunities, and hours of operation, check out their website at www.alumni-grill.com.

INSIDER TIP Alumni Grill has daily lunch specials Monday through Friday from 11am-2pm. These creative and affordable specials are only available through fax, email or by becoming a fan on Facebook.

ALUMNI GRILL « 3316 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood « (609) 523-1111 « www.alumni-grill.com

Jekyll & Hyde Cheesesteak Half steak, half chicken with applewoodsmoked bacon, provolone and their secret Jekyll sauce.

Wild Ocean Wrap A fried chicken breast, bacon, American cheese, honey jalapeño and hot sauces.

Dodge Balls Homemade garlic mashed potato balls battered and deep fried, served with a side of homemade honey jalapeño sauce.

Class President A pressed panino with lump crab meat, garlic spinach, portabello mushrooms, roasted red peppers and provolone cheese.

Grilled Veggie Salad Grilled portobello mushroom, zucchini, squash, tomato, cucumber, red onion and roasted red peppers on a bed of fresh baby spinach, served with balsamic vinaigrette.

Black and Tan Burger Applewood-smoked bacon crusted and blackened burger with pepper jack cheese and Cajun-spiced frizzled onions on a toasted brioche bun.

Lunch & Dinner « Price Of Entrées: $5-$10 « BYOB « Wheelchair Accessible « Accept V, MC, D, AE « Parking Lot « Delivery and Takeout Available « Kids’ Menu

PAGE 74 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

beach creek oyster bar and grille

Enjoy the setting sun while dining on the waterfront deck and listening to live music. A true island experience.

Menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? Beach Creek is on the waterfront at Schooner Landing, just off the foot of the bridge into Wildwood.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because….too many to count: excellent food, awesome drinks, killer views/ locale, and amazing live entertainment. If you haven’t been to Beach Creek Oyster Bar & Grille – for any or all of the above reasons, you need to remedy that situation, stat. We’ll start with the vibe: hip but warm, modern but relaxed and casual. Let the live music, the water views and the chill atmosphere de-stress you, while you unwind with a glass of wine or perhaps a house cocktail.

Do yourself a favor and sample one of their mojito specialties – they’re outstanding here – trust us.

Ready to order? Good luck with that – with so many tempting and imaginative menu choices, you’ll be glad Beach Creek is not open for breakfast and lunch too, or you’d never get out of here.

(Then again why would you want to, really?) Beach Creek’s chef, Jim Koch, has been here since the restaurant’s inception, and the quality and attention to detail here are second to none, from appetizers to dinners to desserts. There is seating outdoors to better enjoy the scenic waterfront view, or relax inside in the sleek, casual dining room.

Beach Creek Oyster Bar & Grille is open seasonally for dinner and drinks. They also have a Happy Hour that has been very popular with locals and visitors alike, complete with live music. If you want to take full advantage of Beach Creek’s waterfront location, pull up for dinner and drinks in a boat – there’s plenty of boat dockage. If you’d rather arrive by car to enjoy the gorgeous view and incredible food, there is ample room in Beach Creek’s parking lot.

INSIDER TIP Follow Beach Creek Oyster Bar & Grille on Facebook and Instagram, to stay right on top of the line-up of amazing live entertainment each day. There is so much wonderful local talent to be seen and heard here, you may want to pencil in your visits around your favorites.

BEACH CREEK OYSTER BAR AND GRILLE « 500 West Hand Avenue, Wildwood « (609) 522-1062 « www.beachcreek.net

Tuna Carpaccio Paper thin sushi-grade tuna slices, drizzled with wasabi, sesame oil and topika caviar.

Pulled Pork Beer braised with rosemary and onion, shredded, then topped with jack cheese and served on toast points.

Roasted Garlic and Onion Soup au Gratin A new twist on a classic, and topped with a blend of five cheeses. Sold!

Sea Bass Champignon Chargrilled and served with a lobster risottostuffed Portobello cap and garlic sautéed spinach in a light broth.

Mediterranean Salad Mixed greens topped with lump crabmeat and shrimp, with diced tomato, red onion, and a lemon dill vinaigrette.

Grand Marnier Glazed Duckling Crispy duckling half, glazed with Grand Marnier and served with sautéed spinach and whipped sweet potatoes.

Desserts Chocolate Layer Cake, the creamy Tiramisu, or the featured Fruit Cobbler of the night, make sure to save room for dessert.

Dinner Only « Price Of Entrées: $18-$50 « Full Bar « Wheelchair Accessible « Accept V, MC, D, AE « Parking Lot « Takeout Available « Kids’ Menu

PAGE 76 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

boathouse restaurant

A waterfront dining experience with panoramic views that specializes in fresh seafood, steaks, and sunsets Menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? Boathouse Restaurant is at the bottom of the George Redding Bridge heading into Wildwood – smack-dab on the water. You can’t miss it – it looks like a big boat, and there will be lots of happy people there.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because there are plenty of places at the shore that feature fresh seafood, but not quite as many that feature an environment that makes you feel like you could reach right down into the water and fish out your lunch or dinner yourself. If you really want to experience the feeling of eating “on the water,” Boathouse Restaurant is the place for you. Panoramic views all over the place, inside and out, are just one of the reasons folks have been keeping the Boathouse hopping since it opened for business some twenty-five years ago.

Well, make that the views AND the live entertainment, and the banquet facilities, and the awesome happy hours, and the outstanding cocktails and the excellent food, that is. Whether you’re pulling up in your minivan with the family or in the boat with your besties, the Boathouse can’t be beat as a quintessential summer hangout, from a

soup to nuts dinner date, or an Endless Summer Margarita while you listen to some live music on the deck. That Endless Summer Margarita is from their specialty drinks menu – find your favorite there among the cocktails and frozen tropical drinks selections.

Boathouse Restaurant is open seven days a week in season for lunch, dinner and late night. Happy hour is every day from 4-6, when you can enjoy some of the best local talent around. They offer take-out, have plenty of free parking, and accept all major credit cards. There’s even plenty of dockage if you want to arrive by boat. Check out their website to peruse the menu, join their mailing list, or take a virtual tour, and follow them on Facebook to keep up with specials and entertainment information. See you at the Boathouse!

INSIDER TIP Party at the Boathouse? Don’t mind if we do – private party, that is. Keep the Boathouse on your short list for your next big event – they have several packages to suit every budget and occasion.

BOATHOUSE RESTAURANT « 506 West Rio Grande Avenue, Wildwood « (609) 729-5301 « www.boathouseonline.net

Colossal Crab Cocktail Giant chunks of Maryland Blue Crab, served with cocktail sauce and a fresh lemon wedge.

Fish Tacos Fresh grilled mahi mahi with crisp pickle slaw and salsa verde.

Filet Oscar A 6oz filet mignon topped with jumbo lump crab meat, asparagus and hollandaise sauce.

You can even upgrade to an 8oz cut.

Broiled Seafood Combination Fresh local flounder, shrimp, scallops, crab imperial and clams casino.

Blueberry Balsalmic Glazed Salmon Fresh wild Norwegian salmon filet broiled and finished with a blueberry balsalmic glaze.

Seafood Alfredo The best of both worlds: shrimp, scallops, and jumbo lump crab meat tossed in their homemade Romano cheese alfredo sauce served over fettuccine pasta.

Lunch & Dinner « Price Of Entrées: $19-$39 « Full Bar « Wheelchair Accessible « Accept V, MC, D, AE « Parking Lot « Takeout Available « Kids’ Menu

PAGE 78 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

BREAKFAST IN THE SKY

Imagine a picnic in the sky aboard the 156-feet-tall ferris wheel, complete with white linens and china along with your choice of culinary delights Menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? Only 156 feet above sea level atop the Giant Ferris Wheel located on Morey’s Mariner’s Landing Pier at Schellenger Avenue.

WHY SHOULD I GO? The first meal of the day is said to be the most important, so make it special with the warm, golden glow of the morning sun reflecting off the Atlantic Ocean while you’re whisked away on a dreamlike adventure for about 45 minutes. This is a view and experience that you will remember for a lifetime!

Morey’s Executive Chef Wally Jurusz produces culinary delights like smoked salmon scrambled eggs, shrimp and lobster omelets and freshly made Belgian waffles that are served with white linens and china.

This unique experience can only be found in beautiful beachside Wildwood on Morey’s Giant Ferris Wheel.

If you’re ready for your breakfast aboard a seaside

ferris wheel, advanced booking is required. Each gondola can seat up to four people for Breakfast in the Sky. Dates and times are limited to Saturday, Sunday and Monday starting the last week in July through August so book early by calling 609-846-1624 and visit www.moreyspiers. com for more information and a detailed menu. Every meal is served with bottled water, coffee, hot tea, specialty tea, freshly squeezed juice and assorted bread basket but you will be asked to choose your entrée at time of booking. Your complete experience will be approximately an hour and fifteen minutes.

INSIDER TIP Visit moreyspiers.com for specials, events, and the Beachfront Blog. For the social savants, be sure to follow Morey’s Piers on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

BREAKFAST IN THE SKY « Mariner’s Landing, Wildwood « (609) 846-1624 « www.moreyspiers.com

Smoked Salmon Scrambled Eggs Served with home fries, toasted bagel and cream cheese.

Shrimp and Lobster Omelet Served with your choice of American, pepper jack, Swiss or goat cheese, home fries and toast.

Freshly Made Belgian Waffle Jersey fresh fruit and maple syrup.

Jersey Tomato BLT with Fried Egg Toasted sourdough, crisp Lancaster County bacon, lettuce, tomato, herb mayo and home fries.

Steak and Egg Scramble Three eggs, Cuban spiced filet tips, onions, peppers and queso blanco.

Granola, Fruit, Toast Served with either whole, skim or soy milk, or yogurt and your choice of toast.

Spinach and Fontina Quiche Served with Lancaster County Bacon, home fries and toast.

Cheese Omelet Served with your choice of American, pepper jack, Swiss or goat cheese, home fries and toast.

Breakfast Only « Price Of Admission: $84 for two guests ($40 per additional person) « Booking Required« Accept V, MC, D, AE « Off-Site Parking

PAGE 80 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

CAPE MAY BREWING COMPANY

They started small and have taken off — try the beer, and you’ll see why. Enjoy it at many local bars, AND visit the brewery!

Brewery Highlights

WHERE IS IT? In the industrial complex of the Cape May Airport, a 15-minute drive from downtown Wildwood, in an unassuming converted warehouse.

Hefeweizen Pale, spicy, fruity, refreshing, this fast-maturing beer is lightly hopped and shows a banana-andclove yeast character.

Honey Porter Not too roasty, with a subtle smokiness balanced by a faint hint of sweetness from local Cape May honey. The light body and drinkability will change your opinion of dark beers.

Centennial IPA This winner of Best IPA at the 2012 Atlantic City Beer Festival is a very strong pale ale without the big maltiness.

Cape May IPA A gateway IPA, this beer emphasizes a ton of hop flavor and aroma, but none of the bitterness. It will make hopheads happy, without being too aggressive for the casual beer drinker.

Devil’s Reach This strong Belgian Ale is one of their most sought-after beers. Coming in at a whopping 8.4%, it’ll creep up on you with its deceptively light body and easy drinking finish.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Cape May County’s first microbrewery began with only three guys and a passion for brewing. Most of their equipment was homemade, and tastings were only held for a couple hours on Saturday. Much has changed since those early days. Now open daily from 12-8pm, Cape May Brewing Company has as many as 18 beers on tap at a time, a rotation of the 40+ seasonal and year-round varieties they produce.

There you can enjoy a four-sample tasting with souvenir pint glass, with guided tours of the adjacent brewery available on a regular basis. Once you find a beer you love (and we guarantee you will) they offer take-out beer in 32- or 64-ounce growlers, six packs, and retail kegs.

Sure, they have grown out of using homemade equipment, and sure, their brews are now sold in more than 70 (and counting!) bars, restaurants and liquor stores throughout South Jersey. There’s a lot about Cape May Brewery that has not changed, though. They have made sure to stay to their roots, and despite tremendous growth in the last couple years you can expect to see any one of the owners working hard — pouring beers, giving tours, and chatting with customers.

INSIDER TIP They do not serve food at the brewery, but take advantage of their BYOF policy and pack a picnic lunch or grab takeout from your favorite local joint.

CAPE MAY BREWING COMPANY

«

1288 Hornet Road, Rio Grande

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(609) 849-9933

«

www.capemaybrewery.com

Brewery « Price Of Beers: $5-$11 « Wheelchair Accessible « Accept V, M, AE, D « On-Site Parking

PAGE 82 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

CURLEY’S FRIES

Originating at Morey’s Piers in 1974, Curley’s Fries have become a legend on the Boardwalk WHERE IS IT? Morey’s Surfside Pier at 25th Street and Mariner’s Landing Pier at Schellenger Avenue. Just smell your way over to the fries on either pier!

WHY SHOULD I GO? Curley’s Fries has been the Boardwalk staple since 1974. It’s no surprise since you get to watch the potatoes get sliced into fresh crinkles and cooked into crispy hot fries right before your eyes.

Stop by either location to find out why millions of visitors happily wait in line for a taste of these world-famous fries and lemonade shakeups. Curley’s Fries now come with several tasty seasonings, so for a fresh twist on everyone’s favorite Boardwalk snack, try them with Old Bay Seasoning, Sea Salt or Cuban Spice. The newest crowd favorite is the Cuban-spiced fries with cilantro cream sauce!

New for 2014, Curley’s Fries on Morey’s Mariner’s Landing Pier will feature hand-dipped corn dogs. Fresh hot dogs will be dipped into handmade batter and deep-fried to perfection. The days of frozen corndogs are over; this is perfection on a stick even for those of you who don’t “think” you like corndogs.

INSIDER TIP Order the Cubanspiced fries with cilantro cream sauce!

CURLEY'S FRIES « In Front of Mariner's Landing and Surfside Pier « (609) 729-3700 « www.moreyspiers.com

menu Highlights World-Famous HandCut French Fries Perfectly cooked with a light crisp skin.

Plenty of condiments for your liking.

Freshly Squeezed Drinks Try the perfectly balanced lemonade, combining tart, fresh lemons with just the right amount of sweetness and served ice cold.

Mouth-Watering Funnel Cakes The classic Boardwalk snack. Fresh batter browned to perfection and topped with your choice of confections.

This treat will take you right back to your childhood.

Delicious Jumbo Pizza The crowd favorite sure to please even the most picky of eaters. Try it plain or get one with the works!

Savory Seasoned Freshly Cut Fries Curley’s world famous fries cooked to a perfect crispness then covered in savory seasonings. Try them with Old Bay, sea salt, or Cuban spices for a fresh twist on everyone’s favorite Boardwalk treat!

Lunch and Dinner « Price Of Food: $4-$11 « Handicap Accessible « Accept V, MC, AE, D « Off-Site Parking

PAGE 84 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

THE ESTABLISHMENT AT 100

A casual upscale restaurant and bar, offering seasonal farm-to-fork food made with the freshest local ingredients menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? Just like the name says, The Establishment is located at 100 Olde New Jersey Avenue, in North Wildwood.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because although North Wildwood is full of great bars and pubs sometimes you just want to kick things up just a notch. Enter The Establishment at 100, which opened last year and made quite a splash, establishing itself right out of the gate as a must-visit gastro destination.

In short order, they racked up a nomination for the Cape May County Beautification Award for 2013, AND they were ranked the #1 restaurant in North Wildwood on TripAdvisor. Pretty impressive stuff for the new kid in town, and they just continue to impress in their sophomore year.

Casual upscale is the vibe here; all the quality and imagination you’d hope to find in a five-star restaurant, with an unstuffy, relaxed ambience. The

Burnt Cardamom Carrots Roasted onion, crisp bacon, goat cheese and baby arugula.

Red Curry Chowder With fresh clams, cod and scallion.

Suffed Spicy Pork Meatballs Sharp provolone, fresh herb potato gnocchi, yu choy and tomato jam.

Hanger Steak Smashed potatoes, French beans, chimichurri butter and house steak sauce.

Crab Cakes With lemon dressed frisée and chipotle tartar. Served with smashed potatoes.

Pan-Blackened Tuna Asian sprout slaw, sunflower seeds, golden raisins and miso dressing.

Homemade Desserts Seasonal specials including cakes, bread pudding and homemade ice cream.

Daily Drink Specials Craft beers, modern cocktails with a twist of ingenuity and a large selection of wines.

fabulous food and the varied, eclectic wine and cocktail menu are underscored by professional yet friendly and accessible service. There’s an emphasis on farm-to-fork dining here — the folks at The Establishment place a high value on the contributions of area farmers. Every creation that comes out of the kitchen is made from scratch, courtesy of a talented and imaginative culinary team, and combines the best elements of both new and traditional American cuisines.

The outstanding menu offers a bit of everything — and we love the way it’s broken down into small, medium and large plates.

INSIDER TIP Keep up with The Establishment at 100 by following them on Facebook and Twitter.

You’ll be up to date on all the specials, some fun promotions and events, and maybe even a contest or two.

THE ESTABLISHMENT AT 100 « 100 Olde New Jersey Avenue, North Wildwood

«

(609) 523-8100 « www.theestablishmentat100.com

Dinner Only « Price Of Entrées: $10-$30 « Full Bar « Booking Advised « Wheelchair Accessible « Accept V, MC, D « Parking Lot « Takeout Available

PAGE 86 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

HAWK HAVEN VINEYARD AND WINERY

Take a trip out to this fun, inspiring spot, where the fine wine is only part of an unmissable experience Winery Highlights

WHERE IS IT? Off the beaten path, but only a 10-minute drive from Wildwood, on Railroad Avenue in nearby Rio Grande.

Taste Wine-tasting and wine by the glass.

Tour Educational vineyard and winery tours.

Relax Sit back and enjoy the breathtaking vineyard-view seating.

Special Weekly Events Saturdays on the Crushpad and Sangria Sundays — wine cocktails, flights, crepes, live music.

Hawk Series Wines American Kestrel White, Northern Harrier Red, and Redtailed Rose.

European-style Red Blends Quill and Talon.

Hand-numbered Signature Series Label Viognier, Gewurztraminer, Albarino, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Tempranillo and Malbec.

Gourmet Cheese And Chocolate Plates The perfect accompaniments to fine wines.

Hours Hawk Haven is open every day all year — summer 11-7; spring/ fall 11-6; winter 12-5.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because it is SO worth a visit, whether you indulge in vino or not. Todd and Kenna Wuerker have created a casual place that is intimate and fun, warm and cool all at once. Situated on a sprawling 100-acre farm that has been in their family for generations, this relatively new enterprise has been a huge success.

The emphasis is on fun — there is no sense of the stuffiness that one can find at some wineries. It’s a comfortable, casual place, with a welcoming bar that invites you to sit down and sample a glass of one of their awardwinning vintages. Relax and unwind with a bottle of wine and a gourmet cheese plate in the Barrel Room or on the Crushpad with an amazing view of the vineyard.

INSIDER TIP Interested in some one-on-one time with the knowledgeable staff or the wine maker? Stop in midweek for a more intimate and educational wine-tasting experience.

HAWK HAVEN VINEYARD & WINERY

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600 S. Railroad Avenue, Rio Grande

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(609) 846-7347

«

www.hawkhavenvineyard.com

Winery « Price Of Wines: $5-$40 « Wheelchair Accessible « Accept V, M, AE, D « On-Site Parking

PAGE 88 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

ISLAND GRILL

Locally sourced ingredients and a happy decor, make this a fun, and fine, restaurant experience

WHERE IS IT? Behind Collier’s Liquors store, a Cape May landmark (it’s the big green building at the end of Lafayette).

WHY SHOULD I GO? The quality, service and ambience of this Cape May dining staple have always been above-par. But this year owner Carol Herforth changed things up a bit and the results, typically for the Island Grill family, are impressive. So why make a change when Island Grill was already established as a must-visit? “We wanted to work more closely with the local farmers and fisherman,” Carol told us. “I’m a big fan of classic, sophisticated cuisine, so we thought we’d shoot for cleaner, leaner, more sophisticated flavors.”

Island Grill’s emphasis is on the most contemporary coastal cuisine, utilizing

ISLAND GRILL

«

the finest and right-this-minute freshest of local ingredients. The Herforth family has also spiffed up the warm, welcoming atmosphere, and the fresh, clean flavors of the cuisine are the happy byproduct of people whose hallmark has always been customer satisfaction.

Another thing you’ll notice at Island Grill is that the menu is seasonally inspired, which is what happens when you source your products locally. Whatever is fresh and available right now is what you’ll find on your table tonight. Island Grill Restaurant is open daily for dinner in season, and it is BYOB. Follow them on Facebook.

INSIDER TIP Island Grill can also cater your private party or event... just call them for details.

311 Mansion Street, Cape May

«

(609) 884-0200

Some Menu Highlights Crab and Beet Salad Fresh beets, delicate crab meat and pickled celery, accented with tarragon in a lemon aioli.

Lobster Mac and Cheese Succulent lobster meat, pasta, and four cheeses — asiago, parmesan, goat cheese and locatelli.

Pan Seared Sea Scallops Plump local scallops with bacon, charred okra, sweet corn puree and basil.

Crab Cakes A standby done right, topped with a fine herb hollandaise, sweet corn and leek succotash, and potato gratin.

Pan Seared Black Sea Bass Seared to perfection, and served with roasted spring onion, cherry tomato, pea and lettuce jus, and horseradish foam.

Bone-In Grilled Pork Chop Hearty chop with an onion soubise, served with a smoked tomato great northern bean sofrito and grilled Japanese eggplant.

Dinner « Price Of Entrées: $13-$26 « BYOB « Booking Advised « Wheelchair Accessible « Accept V, M, AE, D « On-Site Parking « Takeout Available « Kids’ Menu

PAGE 90 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

jake’s steaks

Real Philly cheesesteaks on the freshest rolls served hot and fresh--the perfect Boardwalk treat

WHERE IS IT? Morey’s Surfside Pier at 25th Street facing the Boardwalk between Joe’s Fish Co. and Curley’s Fries.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Real. Philly. Cheesesteaks. Your options are cheesesteaks or cheesesteaks wit and wiz or American cheese. Thinly sliced rib eye with fresh Philly rolls will be brought in daily. Oh, and there’s one more thing on the menu. Sausage, peppers and onions served one way. On a Philly roll. Better know what you’re ordering because the Philly taste will match the Philly service and you don’t want to be sent to the back of the line on Fourth of July weekend. Don’t forget to stop at the Curley’s Fries counter around the corner to grab the perfect sides to your Authentic South Philly cheesesteak, Curley’s Fries and a lemonade shake-up.

Will Morey’s father in-law, Jake, loved steak sandwiches. Every sandwich that leaves the kitchen at Jake’s Steaks is in honor of him and his love for steaks and cooking. Jake of course loved his Old Style Philly steaks wit (that means with fried onions).

INSIDER TIP Visit moreyspiers.com for specials, events, and the Beachfront Blog. For the social savants, be sure to follow Morey’s Piers on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

JAKE’S STEAKS « 25th Street and The Boardwalk, North Wildwood « (609) 729-3700 « www.moreyspiers.com

Some menu Highlights Classic Steak Sandwich The sandwich that started it all. Simple, easy and delicious. Jakes uses prime cuts of ribeye sliced thin then grilled to perfection The Philadelphia Cheesesteak Turn the Classic Steak Sandwich into a true Philly Cheesesteak by adding a slathering of Cheez Whiz or melted American cheese. Want your steak sandwich with Cheez Whiz and fried onions? All you need to say when ordering is ‘Whiz wit’ and they’ll know what to hand you.

Sausage, Peppers & Onions Sandwich The traditional Italian street sandwich. A hearty Italian sausage link grilled to achieve the perfect snap when bitten, then topped with sweet sauteed peppers and onions and served on a fresh Philly roll.

Lunch & Dinner « Price Of Entrées: $5-$12 « Wheelchair Accessible « Accept V, MC, D, AE « Off-Site Parking « Takeout Available « Kids’ Menu

PAGE 92 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

joe’s fish co.

Enjoy a casual, contemporary family meal overlooking the lights and action of Surfside Pier at 25th Street and The Boardwalk menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? Morey’s Surfside Pier at 25th Street. Look for the giant fish hanging at the front of pier and the smell of fresh seafood and margaritas.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Joe’s knows seafood. Joe’s knows margaritas. Joe’s knows summer! Joe’s Fish Co. prepares Boardwalk fare with a Morey’s flair! Enjoy a casual, contemporary family meal overlooking the lights and action of Surfside Pier and The Boardwalk. Joe’s menu emphasizes the freshest local and regional seafood dishes, brick oven pizzas, wraps, salads and more. Try out the local favorites; broiled Cape May scallops with a light lime cream sauce or the coconut shrimp with an orange curry mustard sauce. Vegetarian? Try the delicious grilled vegetable burger served on a brioche bun with baby tomatoes and roaster peppers, cilantro cream sauce and your choice of cheese. All freshly prepared by our award-winning chef, Wally Jurusz.

Pair your meal with a wide selection of local craft beer, wine or indulge in one of Joe’s signature margaritas. Don’t miss Joe’s all NEW Corona-Ritas while listening to the sounds of live entertainment and the hustle of the Boardwalk fun!

Ask for a table upstairs so you can enjoy the view of Surfside Pier and the beach.

This second floor deck can also host your wedding reception, birthday party, retirement party or family get together. Joe’s offers a children’s menu and family friendly entertainment. Joe’s Fish Co. opens at 4pm Monday through Friday and at noon on Saturday and Sunday.

INSIDER TIP Ask for a table on the upstairs deck so you can enjoy the view of Surfside Pier and the beach. The can also host your next party.

JOE'S FISH CO. « 25th Street and Boardwalk, North Wildwood « (609) 729-3700 « www.moreyspiers.com

Steamed Clams The classic Jersey Shore tradition.

Coconut Shrimp Batter dipped and served with a curry mustard sauce.

Crab and Shrimp Stuffed Flounder Served with a light lemon cream sauce, baked potato and vegetables.

Broiled Cape May Scallops A local favorite in a light lemon cream sauce.

Seafood Pasta Shrimp and scallops in a brandy-lobster cream sauce served over penne pasta.

Grilled Meyer Ranch Bistro Steak Natural Angus sirloin steak with red wine chipotle sauce on the side.

Chef Walter J’s Cuban Spiced Chop A 10oz pork chop with avocado salsa.

Brick Oven Pizza A variety of 12” pies that will please any appetite.

Joe’s Fish Co. 1/2 Beach Burger With your choice of cheese and bacon, lettuce, tomato and red onion.

Margaritas The beach classic.

Lunch & Dinner « Price Of Entrées: $8-$27 « Beer and Wine « Wheelchair Accessible « Accept V, MC, D, AE « Off-Site Parking « Takeout Available « Kids’ Menu

PAGE 94 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

jumbo’s

Indulge in steaks, gourmet pizza or fresh seafood from the raw bar while enjoying the view on Jumbo’s heated outdoor deck menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? Morey’s Mariner’s Landing Pier at Schellenger Avenue. Just let glow of the Giant Ferris Wheel take you to Mariner’s Landing Pier and the smell of fresh Boardwalk pizza bring you to Jumbo’s.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Jersey Fresh is the flavor at Jumbo’s. Enjoy re-imagined boardwalk classics in a family-friendly atmosphere overlooking Wildwood’s award-winning beaches and Morey’s Mariner’s Landing Pier. Jumbo’s Boardwalk Grille & Eatery offers full-service dining that features seafood, steaks, gourmet pizza, sandwiches and more. Indulge in succulent shellfish from the raw bar, treat your friends to a basket of Chef Wally’s famous Cubanspiced fries or quench your thirst with one of the 11 craft beers on tap. You can also enjoy a selection of wines or sip a Jumbo’s signature daiquiri in the indoor or outdoor dining areas. The housemade

crab and shrimp cakes and fried clam strip po’ boy seafood sandwich are Morey favorites paired with a freshly squeezed orange daiquiri or mojito! Don’t forget to try the all new Corona-ritas!

Jumbo’s offers a heated outdoor deck area to allow guests a comfortable outdoor dining experience even on chilly evenings. This back deck can also host your private party, birthday party, retirement party or family get together. Jumbo’s offers a children’s menu and is open every day at 11:00am throughout the summer. Be sure to bring your appetite because they don’t call it Jumbo’s for nothing!

INSIDER TIP Visit moreyspiers.com for specials, events, and the Beachfront Blog. For the social savants, be sure to follow Morey’s Piers on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

JUMBO’S « Mariner's Landing and Schellenger Avenue, Wildwood « (609) 729-3700 « www.moreyspiers.com

Chipotle-Spiced Hot Wings Jumbo wings in a chipotle peppered hot sauce Old Bay Peel-and-Eat Shrimp Served with classic cocktail sauce.

Seafood Bisque Creamy and packed with fresh seafood.

Jumbo’s Surf and Turf Grilled sirloin bistro steak with a crab and shrimp cake.

Jumbo’s Twin House Made Crab & Shrimp Cakes Served with a side of creamy tartar or cocktail sauce.

Fried Chicken Basket Four piece chicken dinner with hush puppies, fries, and coleslaw.

24” Jumbo Pizzas A Boarwalk classic.

Try the cheese steak pizza for a traditional Wildwood treat.

Classic Philadelphia Cheesesteak With peppers and onions.

Buffalo Chicken Wrap Crispy chicken breast tenders in spicy buffalo sauce with blue cheese.

Little Jumbos All of the kids’ favorites served with a fountain drink.

Lunch & Dinner « Price Of Entrées: $9-$28 « Full Bar « Wheelchair Accessible « Accept V, MC, D, AE « Off-Site Parking « Takeout Available « Kids’ Menu

PAGE 96 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

LITTLE ITALY

Let chef and owner Giovanni Sanzone transport you to Italy with authentic flavors, tastes, sounds, smells and visuals menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? On Atlantic Avenue in Wildwood Crest, on the corner of Atlantic and Cresse Avenues.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because so many Italian restaurants promise to give you an authentic culinary experience but Little Italy truly delivers. And your experience here is complete, as the quality of the food is matched perfectly by the environment. Set up to resemble the charming piazzas you’d find throughout the old country, Little Italy not only offers outstanding cuisine but a visual ambience that makes you feel truly transported. Even the music — a selection of Italian favorites that span the course of several eras, serves to enhance your experience here.

At Little Italy, you won’t find the typical Americanized Italian food — chef/owner Giovanni Sanzone was raised in Sicily and together with his wife Sandy they have created a place where authentic cuisine is the rule, not the exception. Even their amazing desserts are imported from Milan. No attention to

bona-fide detail is spared: did we mention they make their own bread here? Okay, well then they make their own bread here… the bruschetta at Little Italy is a game-changer.

And when you think Italian you think family and that’s how it is here. Children are welcome and the kids’ menu features scaled-down versions of the grown-up pasta dishes. There’s also an Early Bird menu, served Sunday through Friday from 4-5pm, with delectable menu items offered for $13.99 — and that includes soup or salad and dessert. Don’t miss the Prime Rib special every Monday and Thursday, and if you’re lokoing for delicious ribs, you can find them here every Saturday. They also offer takeout for your ease and convenience — just give them a call. Little Italy is open for dinner and takeout starting at 4pm daily in season.

INSIDER TIP Get in on the action — go to their website and join Little Italy’s email list, where you’ll be privy to promotions and special savings for their internet Preferred Clients.

LITTLE ITALY « 5401 Atlantic Avenue, Wildwood Crest « (609) 523-0999 « www.littleitalywildwood.com

Cozze All’Italian Italian-style mussels coated in garlic, oil, fresh tomato and fresh herbs.

Bruschetta The classic, done right. Homemade toasted Italian bread topped with fresh tomato, onion, olive oil, garlic and fresh basil.

Insalata Siciliana Mixed greens with fresh mozzarella, roasted peppers, olives, capers, tomatoes and artichokes.

Penne Alla Giovanni Grilled chicken, sundried tomatoes, red pepper and broccoli in a white cream sauce over penne pasta.

Pesce Spada Alla Siciliana Fresh charbroiled swordfish topped with lemon, olive oil and fresh Italian herbs.

Filet and Crab Cake Super-filling, and extremely delicious, served with salad, potato and vegetable of the day.

Imported Desserts Italian classics like tiramisu, refreshing sorbets and a variety of Italian espresso.

Dinner « Price Of Entrées: $14-$29 « BYOB « No Reservations « Wheelchair Accessible « Accept V, MC, D « On-Site Parking « Takeout Available « Kids’ Menu

PAGE 98 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

MARIE NICOLE’S GRILL AT DIAMOND BEACH A casually sophisticated atmosphere serving great seafood, steaks and martinis

menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? Quietly nestled in the Diamond Beach section of Wildwood Crest, just before the charming Ocean Drive Bridge.

Penne Gorgonzola Penne pasta, jumbo lump crabmeat, crispy prosciutto, sweet peas, with gorgonzola cream sauce.

Peach Salad Sliced peaches, baby spinach, gorgonzola, candied walnuts and poppy seed vinaigrette.

Lobster Quesadilla Roasted lobster meat, sautéed spinach and tomatoes, caramelized onions, Monterey jack, topped with toasted corn salsa.

16oz NY Strip Dry spice rub, scalloped potatoes, bacon-creamed spinach, tempura onion rings.

Grilled New Zealand Rack of Lamb Sauteed baby zucchini, goat cheese whipped potatoes, basil-mint pesto.

Seafood Risotto Fresh lobster, jumbo lump crabmeat, shrimp and clams, Andouille sausage, fresh herbs, white wine garlic sauce.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Those who go over the bridge usually do so to enjoy the classic Americana of the Wildwood boardwalk. But Marie Nicole’s offers a different experience... it’s the ideal location to enjoy a delicious meal in a relaxed and sophisticated environment.

The newly extended bar is the perfect place to begin your evening. From hand-crafted cocktails and martinis to a vast selection of craft beers and wines from around the world, you may never want to leave. Enjoy appetizers from the casual bar menu, featuring homemade mac and cheese and crabcake BLT sliders. Marie Nicole’s still offers raw bar classics including house favorite, lobster and crab tini. Don’t want to leave the cozy new bar? The full dinner menu is available — or try the signature burger, topped with aged cheddar, caramelized onions and truffle mayo.

Although the space at Marie Nicole’s is intimate, you never feel crowded or rushed. As for the menu, you may have difficulty choosing from the expertly prepared prime meats, fresh seafood and pasta. The sesame-encrusted ahi tuna with ginger-soy dipping never fails to impress. Be certain to save room for anyone of their homemade desserts — the warm apple crumb with caramel ice cream is to die for!

Marie Nicole’s was voted Best of the Shore by both Philadelphia & South Jersey magazines and is proud to accept the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence for the past nine years.

INSIDER TIP Enjoy the patio if the weather is nice. Marie Nicole’s also offers a late-night menu including desserts and cocktails.

MARIE NICOLE’S GRILL AT DIAMOND BEACH

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9510 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood Crest

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(609) 522-5425

«

www.marienicoles.com

Enjoy professionally prepared cocktails at the cozy new bar. And then let the feast begin! Marie Nicole’s was voted Best of the Shore by Philadelphia magazine and has, for the last nine years, received the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence.

Dinner Only « Price Of Entrées: $19-$44 « Full Bar « Booking Advised « Wheelchair Accessible « Accept V, M, AE, D « Onsite Parking « No Takeout « Kids’ Menu

PAGE 100 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

NORTH END AMERICAN GRILL

Here is a place where you can truly kick back and relax... while enjoying good food and fun drinks menu Highlights Tequila-Marinated Fish Tacos Chopped tomato, onion and avocado, and apple-ginger slaw.

Roasted Veggie Flatbread Eggplant, zucchini, squash, rosemary, and shredded mozzarella.

Lobster Roll Potato roll, lobster, celery, onion, cucumber, dill-lemon mayo.

Baby Back Ribs Slow-roasted BBQ, sweet potato fries, apple-ginger slaw.

Seared Ahi Tuna Seaweed salad, mixed fresh vegetables, and honey teriyaki.

Lobster and Shrimp Fra Diablo Sautéed lobster, shrimp, spicy marinara over linguini.

Mojito Chicken Rum-marinated chicken, toasted coconut rice, and fresh salsa.

Maximus Burger 8oz black Angus beef, roasted peppers, caramelized onions, basil pesto and crispy prosciutto.

WHERE IS IT? On Olde New Jersey Avenue, in the heart of North Wildwood’s entertainment district.

WHY SHOULD I GO? North End American Grill is the new destination for food and fun in North wildwood.

The North End was created as a place for laidback locals and vacationers to enjoy upscale bar food and American cuisine. The atmosphere is inviting, with ample space for large parties, a casual setting for families, and an energetic and lively nightlife with indoor and outdoor lounges.

The showpiece of the North End is a 38-foot custom-built surfboard bar (the longest on the East Coast), shaped by local legend Brian Wynn. The entire restaurant, both inside and out, evokes the northern California surf atmosphere. That vibe continues on the outdoor patio, with a bar, custom-built bamboo benches and cozy seating. The North End patio is the perfect place to enjoy a cocktail. Kick back with friends and family while listening to live music and enjoying the summer breeze. There is a vast selection of beers and wines along with an elaborate menu of classic and signature cocktails made with fresh ingredients. Margaritas are a specialty!

The menu satisfies everyone — from appetizers like fresh fish tacos and pulled pork sliders to mouthwatering sandwiches and entrées like BBQ Glazed Mahi Mahi with Pineapple Fried Rice and BaconWrapped Filet Mignon. Experience the laidback California Cool atmosphere “down the Shore”!

INSIDER TIP Happy Hour at North End is something that you don’t want to miss — daily from 4-7pm, enjoy $5-$6 appetizers and special drink pricing on all beer, wine and well drinks.

NORTH END AMERICAN GRILL

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206 Olde New Jersey Avenue, North Wildwood

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(609) 435-5691

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www.northendamericangrill.com

From tasty appetizers to mouthwatering sandwiches and delicious dinners, North End American Grill is the ideal setting to enjoy lunch, dinner, late-night snacks or straightfrom-the-beach happy hour.

Lunch & Dinner « Price Of Entrées: $7-$25 « Full Bar « No Reservations « Wheelchair Accessible « Accept V, MC, AE, D « On-Site Parking « Takeout Available « Kids’ Menu

PAGE 102 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

PACIFIC GRILL

From grilled steaks to fresh seafood, enjoy island dining in the heart of beautiful Wildwood Some Menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? Right in the heart of Wildwood, and just steps from the boardwalk, at the corner of Pacific and Taylor Avenues.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because dining at Pacific Grill can make you feel like you’ve slipped away to an exotic tropical locale. Executive Chef John Schatz, already renowned for his critically acclaimed and award-winning Union Park Dining Room in Cape May, works with exotic flavors from the Pacific Rim and Bourbon Islands — to name but a few influences — to put a truly tropical twist on dinner out. Featured in multiple press articles and on the NBC10 television show Foodies, Pacific Grill offers the one-two punch of favorite traditional dishes prepared in wholly unique, innovative ways.

Yes, you’ll find pork loin on the menu — you’ll just find it with a sublime Hawaiian ginger glaze. Swordish?

Absolutely — and absolutely unique when paired with a citrus couscous and sour mango salsa. Are you getting the idea? Fresh, truly innovative cuisine presented in an elegant, straightforward way — this is what makes Pacific Grill guests return again and again.

And what an inviting space to return to — no bright pink walls or parrots to evoke the tropics here; soft yellows, greens and browns give the elegant dining room a casual and unpretentious feel. The ambience at Pacific Grill, like the food, says “relax and enjoy.” Global tastes on your local table, proving that you can get away from it all — even for a little while — at Pacific Grill.

INSIDER TIP There is free parking available for all Pacific Grill guests, two blocks from the restaurant behind Uncle Bill’s Restaurant (enter through the one-way entrance on Burk Avenue). Gluten-free menu is available.

Pacific Grill is BYOB or you can choose from a selection of local wines. Reservations are recommended.

PACIFIC GRILL

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4801 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood

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(609) 523-2333 « www.pacificgrillwildwood.com

Oysters on the Half Fresh Cape May Salts with tequila and lime.

Lobster Summer Roll Sweet lobster chunks in a soft roll served with a sesame dipping sauce.

Kobe Burger This is not your average burger. Eight ounces of Kobe beef, topped with creamy Boursin cheese, caramelized onion, and chipotle ketchup, this is not “I’ll just have the burger.”

Crab Cake With mango salsa.

Marinated Hanger Steak With charred banana glaze and yucca croquettes.

Pescado de Dia Whole grilled fish with basil oil and risotto.

Australian Lamb Racks Served with homemade chimicurri sauce and romesco fingerlings.

Swordfish Sour mango salsa with citrus cous cous.

Creme Brulee Rich velvety Madagascar vanilla custard topped with a burnt sugar crust.

Dinner Only « Price Of Entrées: $10-30 « BYOB « Booking Advised « Wheelchair Accessible « Accept V, MC, AE, D « Parking Lot « Takeout Available « Kids’ Menu

PAGE 104 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

The royal grille

Enjoy a delicious meal just inches from one of the best beaches in Wildwood. Come taste the view!

Some Menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? The Royal Grille is inside the Port Royal Hotel in Wildwood Crest, at Palm Road and the beach. You can’t miss it right off the bike path.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because the only thing better than the view here at The Royal Grille is the food, and with a view like this one, that’s saying quite a lot.

Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner daily in season, The Royal Grille has an expansive menu and an equally expansive panorama to go along with it, and the vibe here is in keeping with that great view – relaxed and unhurried. The friendly and efficient service encourages you to unwind and enjoy. The Royal Grille received a Certificate of Excellence from tripadvisor. com in 2013, so don’t just take our word for it. Chef Chuck Young is now entering his 25th season at the Grill, and says that “freshness is our specialty.” They utilize only the freshest ingredients here – including from Chuck’s own garden – and the dinner menu features local, fresh-caught seafood. Whether you’re

a guest at the Port Royal or not, this spot is definitely worth a visit.

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day – why not start yours with a homemade Belgian Waffle as you watch the morning bicyclists peddle past? Or grab a relaxing lunch before spending an afternoon on the beach. And speaking of spending, you will find the prices are exceptionally reasonable. And yes – the little Royals are always welcome here, and they have their own kids’ menu options at the Grille. You’ll find the dinner menu here covers a lot of bases – whether you’re looking to grab some soup and a sandwich or a full dinner entrée with salad, veggies, roll and butter, the Royal Grille has got you covered. The Royal Grille – come taste the view!

INSIDER TIP During peak season, The Royal Grille offers outdoor seating on their beachfront, pool-side patio, located steps from the Wildwood Crest bike path. The views here can be breathtaking!

THE ROYAL GRILLE « 6805 Ocean Avenue, Wildwood Crest « (609) 729-2211 « www.theportroyalgrille.com

Eggs Benedict Two poached eggs, savory Canadian bacon on an English Muffin with holandaise sauce.

The Royal Stuff Texas-style French toast, stuffed with yummy cream cheese, then topped with fresh strawberries, homemade fruit sauce and powdered sugar.

Island Granola Bowl Creamy Greek yogurt and The Royal Grille’s own homemade granola, drizzled with honey and loaded with seasonal fresh fruit.

Royal Fish Tacos Two corn tortillas filled with grilled mahi, shredded cabbage and their own mango salsa.

Served with tortilla chips and black bean corn salsa.

Marinated Pork Sandwich Perfectly seared pork tenderloin, topped with broccoli rabe and sharp provolone on a toasted roll. Delicious.

Crab Cake Jumbo lump crab, gently seasoned with their signature spices, then broiled to perfection and served with a homemade chipoltle aioli.

Perfection on a plate.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner « Price Of Entrées: $7-$24 « BYOB « Wheelchair Accessible « Accept V, MC, D « Off-Site Parking « Takeout Available « Kids’ Menu

PAGE 106 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

stubborn brothers Beach Bar & Grille

Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean just steps from the famous Boardwalk, this beach bar is a relaxing, tropical venue with upscale food and entertainment Some Menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? Morey’s Surfside Pier and the Beach at 25th Street. Just look to where the rest of the people walking off the beach are headed and listen for the sounds of live music and crashing waves.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Cool. Fun. Laidback. Anyone can stick up a shack on the sand, stock it with beers and call it a beach bar but Morey Bros, Will and Jack have spent the last five years disagreeing on a simple name. They’ve called it Oasis Café, Soggy Dollar and now Stubborn Brothers — but no matter the name, it’s the best place to hang up your wet beach towel and grab a cold one with your sibling, friend or foe.

Stubborn Brothers’ laidback mood, tropical drinks, oversized Adirondack chairs and beach-influenced fare have made it THE SPOT to grab some shade and a bite to eat.

Just steps from the beach and Ocean Oasis Water Park & Beach Club, the lofty deck claims the best views of the dolphins jumping out of the Atlantic.

The equally impressive menu compliments the stunning views and relaxed beach bar vibe. Betsy Garr, Food and Beverage Manager, creates dishes featuring, a beachinfluenced fare with fresh vegetables and local ingredients. Stubborn Brothers’ signature dishes include the crab cake sandwich, fried green tomatoes and the shrimp Mediterranean wrap. The beach bar offers over 10 specialty cocktails featuring tropical ingredients, fresh fruit and original combinations. Don’t miss the signature drinks Captain Jack’s Pirate Punch, or a Cape May Brewing Company handcrafted beer.

Dress code is swimsuit casual and bare feet are not only ok but also encouraged.

Come, relax and enjoy, Mon! INSIDER TIP Enjoy the ocean view while keeping your eyes peeled for dolphins jumping out of the Atlantic Ocean.

Fried Green Tomatoes A southern classic.

Fresh green tomatoes pan-fried to a golden crisp. Served with Siracha sauce.

Key Wood Fritters A Wildwood twist on a Florida Keys staple.

Fresh conch diced and mixed with fresh vegetables and fluffy batter then perfectly fried. Served with a side of Key Lime mustard sauce.

Baja Fish Tacos Soft flour tortillas stuffed with fresh grilled fish, cool crisp cool, confetti lettuce, black bean salsa and cheddar jack cheese.

Oasis Signature Chicken Sandwich Surf to satisfaction with a grilled chicken breast topped with crispy bacon, smoked Gouda cheese and honey mustard. Served on a fresh ciabatta roll.

Caprese Salad Mixed greens topped with local Jersey tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, cool basil, balsalmic and extra virgin olive oil.

Key West Crab Cake Jumbo lump crab cake made right in house served with Key Lime mustard.

STUBBORN BROTHERS BEACH BAR AND GRILLE « Morey’s Pier at 25th Street, North Wildwood « (609) 729-3700 « www.moreyspiers.com

Lunch & Dinner « Price Of Entrées: $13-$29 « Full Bar « Wheelchair Accessible « Accept V, M, D, AE « Street Parking « Takeout Available « Kids’ Menu

PAGE 108 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

TWO MILE LANDING RESTAURANTS & MARINA Local seafood, choice steaks and spectacular sunsets at two waterfront restaurants...

Some Menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? Located on Ocean Drive at the foot of the Cape May toll bridge on your way to Wildwood Crest, Two Mile Landing Restaurants and Marina offers the most expansive and unobstructed waterfront views in the area.

WHY SHOULD I GO THERE? Two Mile offers two restaurants at one location. If you’re up for a casual afternoon or evening, the Crab House has an indoor dining room, two outdoor eating areas, and THREE bars.

The vibe here is relaxed, fun, and familyfriendly. Singing along to the live music isn’t frowned upon — it’s encouraged! The music is live daily in season. The Crab House has a fun, loud, lively atmosphere with casual sandwiches, fresh seafood and frozen drinks to remind you that at the Crab

All-You-Can-Eat Blue Claw Crabs Garlic crabs, local lobster, snow crabs and Alaskan King crab legs.

Cape May Clam Bake Shrimp, clams, scallops, mussels, lobster and Blue Claws, potatoes and corn in a garlic butter broth.

Crab Cake Sandwich Choice of broiled or fried, served with tartar or cocktail sauces.

BBQ Baby Back Ribs Tender and delicious, and slathered with the Crab House’s own in-house barbecue sauce.

Lobster and Mashed Potato Egg Roll These delectable little dumplings are gently fried and served with a lemon chive sour cream.

Raw Bar Shrimp cocktail, clams on the halfshell, Delaware Bay oysters — or just go for broke and get a little of everything in the Shanty Sampler.

Surf and Turf A tender filet and a succulent lobster. Life is good.

House it’s always summer vacation.

Looking for a slightly more formal feel?

Two Mile Restaurant offers a more upscale menu and atmosphere that makes an effort not to take itself too seriously. It doesn’t need to. The cocktails and cuisine speak volumes. All the casual fine-dining marks are hit here — spectacular steaks, succulent house-caught seafood, exquisite appetizers, artisanal pizzas and more.

Choose a beverage from the martini menu, or select from 21 beers and 12 wines on tap alone. Then kick back, relax and enjoy the waterfront views and service.

INSIDER TIP: Out for the day on your boat — or your kayak, for that matter? Pull up to the Two Mile, dock your vessel, and relax with lunch, dinner or cocktails.

TWO MILE LANDING RESTAURANTS

«

Two Mile Landing, Ocean Drive, Wildwood Crest

«

(609) 522-1341

«

www.twomilecrabhouse.com

Lunch & Dinner « Price Of Entrées: $6-$32 « Full Bar « No Reservations « Wheelchair Accessible « V, MC, AE, D « Parking and Boat Dockage « Takeout « Kids’ Menu

PAGE 110 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

URIE’S RESTAURANT

From the dockside and raw bars to the arcade and soft serve ice cream bar for the kids, this waterfront gem has something for everyone Some Menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? Urie’s is right off the George Redding Bridge, at the entrance to the Wildwoods on the waterfront – just look for that familiar neon palm tree sign.

WHY SHOULD I GO THERE? Because you don’t get to be a landmark dining destination for nearly 60 years unless you really know what you’re doing, and Urie’s is just such a place. Established in 1956, Urie’s has grown into an iconic, must-visit for generations of visiting families, year after year. And family is a key word at Urie’s, which has been catering to vacationing and local families since its inception. There’s no need to worry about whether or not the kids will be welcome at this restaurant – they have a newly-expanded arcade right on the premises, after all!

With stunning waterfront views that you can enjoy from inside the dining room or out on the deck, lunch, dinner, or cocktails at Urie’s gives you that get-away-

from-it-all feeling. But it’s the food that keeps folks coming back – it’s no wonder Urie’s has been voted “Best Waterfront Dining” by South Jersey Magazine. From the freshest of seafood dishes, to standby sandwich favorites and steaks, every taste is accommodated here.

And you simply can’t beat the value – your family dollar will go a long way at Urie’s. They even have an early bird menu from 4-6pm. Oh, and the crabs! All you can eat crabs – Maryland Blue, Alaskan Snow and Dungeness – take your pick and eat to your heart’s delight. Urie’s is open seasonally for lunch, dinner and cocktails. Follow them on Facebook for the latest on entertainment, specials, and anything else that’s happening at Urie’s.

INSIDER TIP: Keep Urie’s in mind for your wedding or other special events. Their banquet facilities can accommodate up to 500 guests. And with views and food like Urie’s, they’ll be talking about your event for years to come. Visit their website for package specifics.

URIE’S RESTAURANT « 588 West Rio Grande Avenue, Wildwood « (609) 522-4189 « www.uries.net

All-You-Can-Eat Crabs Whether you like Alaskan Snow, Dungeness, or Maryland Blue crabs, Urie’s will keep feeding you until you say uncle.

Raw Bar Take your pick – Cherrystone Clams on the half-shell, New Brunswick Oysters on the half-shell, or Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail – a delicious way to kick off dinner.

Roast Prime Rib A slow roasted 14 oz cut, served with au jus and horseradish.

Urie’s Bake This one is a showstopper: 1/2 pound of Dungeness Crabs, 1/2 pound of Snow Crabs, and a 1-pound lobster, all steamed to perfection and served up with seasoned curly fries and an ear of corn.

Voo Doo Juice From the extensive cocktail menu: A delightful blend of Cruzan pineapple, raspberry, banana and coconut rums, mixed with pineapple, orange and cranberry juices and then served up for two.

Lunch & Dinner « Price Of Entrées: $19-$36 « Full Bar « No Reservations « Wheelchair Accessible « V, MC, AE, D « Parking Lot « Takeout « Kids’ Menu

PAGE 112 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

wrecker’s beach grill

When the water park action works up your appetite, make a pit stop at Wrecker’s Beach Grill for the classic summertime favorites Some Menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? Morey’s Mariner’s Landing Pier and the Beach at Schellenger Avenue.

WHY SHOULD I GO? It’s the closest place to the beach to grab lunch and eat under umbrellacovered tables on the outdoor patio, which overlooks the beach and Atlantic Ocean. The menu is packed with classic summertime favorites to satisfy all of your cravings. Fill up on cheesesteaks, wraps, salads, personal pizzas and more, along with ice-cold beverages and soft serve ice cream.

The root beer floats and Low Tide French Fries are a beachgoer’s favorites! Lil’ Pirate Meals include chicken tenders, hot dogs and mac and cheese. Too hot to eat a meal? Wrecker’s Beach Grill has soft-served ice cream, ice cold Coca-Cola and lemonade shake-ups. Looking for a healthier option? Wrecker’s also has fresh fruit, homemade hummus and veggie burgers.

Are you traveling with a hungry group that’s just coming off of the beach or out of the water park? Just like their patio umbrellas, Wreckers Beach Grill has you covered. Stop by for a platter from their Wiki Kiniki Kabana menu. Try the pirate’s platter for a hungry group of swashbucklers; overflowing with chicken tenders, buffalo bites, spicy pickle spices, fried mac and cheese and a generous portion of French fries and dipping sauces, this platter will feed the masses! Wreckers Beach Grill also offers wraps, fresh fruit, nacho and a kid’s meal platter with pizza, chicken tenders and a large portion of French fries.

Whether you’re visiting Raging Waters or hanging out at the beach, Wrecker’s Beach Grill welcomes even the sandiest, wettest bare feet onto the deck to grab a bite and soak in the shade while still enjoying the beach and the amazing view of the Atlantic Ocean.

INSIDER TIP Visit moreyspiers.com for specials, events, and the Beachfront Blog. For the social savants, be sure to follow Morey’s Piers on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

WRECKER'S BEACH GRILLE « Inside Raging Waters Waterpark, Wildwood« (609) 729-3700 « www.moreyspiers.com

Cuban Fries Crisp fries tossed in Chef Wally J’s Cuban Spice served with a cilantro dipping sauce.

Fried Pickle Slices Served with honey mustard dipping sauce.

Caribbean Mango Salad Mixed greens with tomato wedges, sliced mangos, shredded cheddar cheese, cucumbers and pecans with an island-style mango dressing.

Artichoke & Asiago with Grilled Chicken Wrap Grilled chicken wrapped in an artichoke and Asiago cheese spread, diced tomatoes and lettuce.

Grilled Chicken White Pie Virgin olive oil, diced tomatoes, onions, grilled chicken and mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.

Beach Bum Burger Their special blend of prime cuts of beef, cooked to order and topped with lettuce, tomato, and onions.

Go for the single, double, or triple patty!

Lil’ Pirate Meals All of the favorite kid’s meals-chicken tenders, hot dog or mac and cheese.

Lunch Only « Price Of Entrées: $6-$14 « Wheelchair Accessible « Accept V, MC, D, AE « Off-Site Parking « Takeout Available « Kids’ Menu

PAGE 114 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

ALOHA SMOOTHIE COMPANY One of the newest and healthiest places on the Wildwood Boardwalk

WHERE IS IT? On Morey’s Adventure Pier — look for the brightly colored food container smack dab in the middle of all the action. It’s the healthiest place on the Boardwalk, you won’t miss it.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Big Wave Burrito is finally making their big debut to the Wildwood Boardwalk and bringing the best of Cape May to Adventure Pier with the ALOHA Smoothie Company. ALOHA Smoothie Company will be offering a full line of natural frozen fruit smoothies and acai bowls with options to add various toppings to each. The eclectic array of toppings includes; fresh fruit, organic coconut, organic chia seeds, hemp seeds, goji berries and more! ALOHA will also offer an organic acai sorbet and will feature a full line of organic beverages to quench your thirst on a hot summer’s day. One of the fan favorites is the classic Rio Bowl — an amazing acai smoothie in a bowl topped with fresh banana, local honey and homemade granola. Come feel the Hawaiian aloha spirit and partake in a delicious nutritious meal. The healthiest and freshest new option on the Wildwood boardwalk!

INSIDER TIP Follow them on Facebook for specials, updates and new flavors! It’s the best and healthiest way to cool off after a long day at the beach or on the rides. Party trays and drop–off catering services are also available.

ALOHA SMOOTHIE COMPANY « 715 Beach Avenue, Cape May

«

(609) 729-3700 « www.moreyspiers.com

Some Menu Highlights Rio Bowl An amazing acai smoothie in a bowl topped with fresh banana, local honey, and homemade granola.

Classic Strawberry Banana Smoothie A refreshing and healthy way to sastisfy your sweet tooth. Made with the freshest fruit and served ice cold.

Organic Acai Sorbet This delicious berry flavored sorbet is packed with antioxidants and healthy omegas.

Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink PAGE 115

FISH AND FANCY

A fabulous selection of seafood, freshly prepared in a super-clean premises Some Menu Highlights “Mussels Madeline” One of the selections from the munchies menu, this is a new starter. Served in Fish and Fancy’s signature Fra Diavalo sauce, it’s fresh and not too spicy... just right!

Key West Coconut Shrimp Jumbo shrimp dipped in sweet batter and rolled in fresh coconut, a Florida keys tradition! Served with their delicious Polynesian sweet & sour sauce.

WHERE IS IT? Exit Wildwood via Rio Grande Avenue onto 47 North. Follow 47 North about 4.5 miles and turn left onto Fulling Mill Road. At the end of Fulling Mill Road, turn left onto Bayshore Road. Fish and Fancy is located 0.8 miles on the left.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Cape May has some great restaurants, but if you don’t eat out EVERY night, there are some tasty alternatives. One of those is Fish and Fancy. They have a ridiculous amount of fresh and savory seafood dishes, made right there as you watch — perfect if you want to eat at home but don’t feel like cooking.

The menu is huge, so here are the highlights. On the Munchies menu, there are sweet corn fritters, broccoli bites and stuffed mushrooms. The broiled platters feature lump Baltimore crab cakes, jumbo stuffed shrimp and tender lobster tails. It’s hard to resist the fried platters — deviled crab cakes, coconut shrimp, and a large seafood combo, which includes flounder, shrimp, scallops, a deviled crab cake and a fresh breaded oyster. And don’t miss their award-winning cream of crab soup.

INSIDER TIP There are plenty of veggie options, and you can order chicken by the bucket.

Party trays and drop–off catering services are also available.

FISH AND FANCY

«

2406 Bayshore Road, Villas

«

(609) 886-8760 « www.fishandfancy.com

Homemade Chowders All the soups are made daily, including the Manhattan and New England clam chowders and the cream of crab, which Fish and Fancy is known for.

Seafood Combination A generous portion of flounder, oyster, shrimp, scallops, a deviled clam and a crab cake.

Kids Menu Fish and Fancy offers kiddy items for $4.99!

Weekly Specials Great new specials every week.

Outdoor Seating Dine outside when the weather is nice.

PAGE 116 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

JOHNSON’S POPCORN

Since 1940 Johnson’s Popcorn has lured millions of visitors into stores with the aroma of hot caramel tossed over giant kernels of popcorn Some Menu Highlights Salty-n-Sandy Artisan cheddar popcorn mixed with Johnson’s Original Caramel flavor.

Chocolate Drizzle The perfect treat for any chocolate lover. Fresh caramel popcorn drizzled with our premium dark chocolate.

Caramel Made with only the finest ingredients.

Their caramel popcorn is air popped and hand churned, made right on the Wildwood Boardwalk.

WHERE IS IT? Johnson’s Popcorn is based in Ocean City, but their Wildwood location is at 2701 Boardwalk.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because let’s face it, you probably don’t give your popcorn a lot of thought. You buy some dehydrated flattened bag at the store and toss it into the microwave. Or you absently pay a small ransom for an overpriced tub of it at the movies. Thank goodness the people at Johnson’s Popcorn have been thinking about popcorn — and the wonderful ways to improve upon it — since 1940, when they opened their first location in Ocean City. And lucky for us they brought their outstanding confections to the Wildwood boardwalk last year.

This is not your average popcorn snack. Johnson’s Caramel Popcorn is hand-mixed the old-fashioned way — in big copper kettles using freshly popped corn. And they don’t stop at their tantalizing signature caramel flavor. There are several varieties of Johnson’s to choose from, including Cheddar Cheese, Chocolate

Drizzle and Peanut Crunch. You can buy it by the flavor, by the size or by the price range. You say you’re looking for something for that faraway friend who has everything? Johnson’s Popcorn ship anywhere, from a 10-ounce tub to a 3-1/2 gallon tin.

If you’ve got a Johnson’s Popcorn lover in your life, you’ll also want to check out their great line of gifts — everything from baby bibs to T-shirts to hats, bags and beach gear available online. So remember, whether you’re grabbing a bucket for an afternoon on the beach, or picking up a tin for the length of your vacation... life is short, eat more popcorn.

INSIDER TIP Keep Johnson’s Popcorn in mind the next time you’re in the market for party favors. Their petite 2.5-ounce tubs are the perfect size and they’ll customize them to your liking. Just the thing for you next shower, mitzvah — it even adds a fun touch to a wedding — and just perfect for beach nuptials.

JOHNSON’S POPCORN « 2701 Boardwalk, Wildwood « (609) 522-0038 « www.johnsonspopcorn.com

Peanut Crunch Original caramel popcorn mixed with lightly salted Spanish peanuts for an amazing crunch.

The popcorn and the peanuts are cooked together to create the perfect cluster.

Platinum Edition This fan favorite is a combination of two of their great flavors.

Johnson’s start off with a batch of their Peanut Crunch then melt some of their premium dark chocolate and generously drizzle it over the popcorn, making sure every kernel has chocolate!

Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink PAGE 117

KOHR BROTHERS

Frozen custard made from Archie Kohr’s original 1919 recipe. The original still tastes the best!

WHERE IS IT? Right on the boardwalk, it’s located in the iconic blue and white building with the unmistakable twist cone on the top. Don’t worry about missing them, they have four great locations along the Boardwalk.

WHY SHOULD I GO? All the hits, none of the misses is what makes The Original Kohr Brothers Frozen Custard one of the most popular treat around. You say you want your ice cream taste with your yogurt calorie count? This is the place for you.

Don’t take our word for it, though; if there ever was a case of “tasting is believing,” this is it. Kohr Brothers Custard is made, like ice cream, with the finest and freshest eggs, cream, grade A milk and sugar, but with much less fat and sugar than ice cream. Because yes, you’re on vacation and you want to treat yourself, but yes, you’re on vacation and have to walk around in a swimsuit, too.

Established back in 1919, the Kohr Brothers Custard recipe has stood the test of time, as generations of beachgoers standing in line at any of their locations in five states up and

down the east coast can attest. Whether you’re a purist, going for a single flavor rich and creamy vanilla cone, or want to kick things up a bit with their famous chocolate and peanut butter twist or go all out with the Ultimate Waffle Cone dipped in chocolate with peanuts and rainbow jimmies, Kohr Brothers is a must-try. This is the kind of treat that also makes sense – you can feel good about giving it to your family, because it’s decadent without being overindulgent. And luckily, it’s so delicious that it’s a favorite from the toddler to the senior sets.

The proof is in the custard – and its 95 year history.

INSIDER TIP After you get home and start day dreaming about your chocolate-dipped peanut butter and chocolate twist cone, you can declare your Kohr Brothers Frozen Custard devotion to the world with their exclusive merchandise – baseball caps or their cool (get it?) “dip it” t-shirts in several awesome colors. Visit their website to order online, and show your Kohr’s colors when you hit the boards this summer.

KOHR BROTHERS « 3500 Boardwalk, Wildwood « (609) 522-1029 « www.kohrbros.com

Some Menu Highlights Classic Flavors If you’re a custard purist, then you’ll love Kohr Brothers. traditional vanilla and chocolate custard recipes.

Daily Flavor Twists Kohr’s Brothers will combine a variety of flavors every day to offer different swirl choices. The orange and vanilla twists, aka the creamsicle, has a cult following.

Waffle Cones Because sometimes the standard cone just won’t do.

PAGE 118 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

RAVIOLI HOUSE

The quality of the sauce, hand-cut fresh chicken and the delicious ravioli are the same as they were 40 years ago Some Menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? The Ravioli House is on Bennett Avenue in Wildwood. But if you can’t find it, ask anyone, because everyone knows where it is.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because while there are some fine restaurants in Wildwood — places that are truly established — there is one that truly qualifies as an institution and that one is the Ravioli House. This is the kind of place that’s tough to write about in a two-page spread because its story could fill a book. It’s the oldest restaurant in continuous operation in Wildwood (it opened in 1970) and the DeSanctis family is still at the helm, with matriarch Theresa just as hands-on as she was from the start.

We’ve all had pasta, probably, but if you haven’t had homemade pasta you’re missing out. And it’s all homemade here — spaghetti, fettuccini, angel hair, rigatoni, linguini, gnocchi, cavatelli and, of course, ravioli. There are homemade sauces, too. Trust us when we say that your appetite WILL be satisfied after a visit to

the Ravioli House. (You might want to hop on their comprehensive website and vet your selections in advance, or follow them on Facebook.) Not in a pasta mood? Not a problem — go for one of their chicken or veal specialties or have pizza because that’s homemade as well.

The extensive menu selections are dizzying and tempting.

Not surprisingly the desserts are to die for as well — cakes, pies and pastries, all homemade in the onsite pastry shop. There is a children’s menu, too, so bring the whole family. The Ravioli House is open for dinner on weekends from March until May, and then daily through October, from 4pm until close.

INSIDER TIP Ravioli House frozen pastas are available to take home — much better to have on hand than a box of dried pasta from the grocery store. Their delicious soups are also available — pop some in your freezer and enjoy a taste of Ravioli House whenever the mood strikes you. (Which will likely happen often.)

RAVIOLI HOUSE « 102 E. Bennett Avenue, Wildwood « (609) 522-7894 « www.theraviolihousewildwood.com

Antipasto Roasted olives, marinated fresh mozzarella, sharp provolone, rolled Italian meats – or just order a little bit of everything with the Antipasto Assortment.

Soups Three from-scratch selections: Chicken Pastina, Pasta ’n’ Beans and the classic Italian Escarole Soup.

Homemade Pasta Pick your favorite pasta, match it up with one of your favorite sinful sauces.

Trip Around Italy A little bit of everything: stuffed shells, gnocchi, spaghetti with meatballs AND sausage.

Chicken Ala Valdostana Fresh chicken breast stuffed with shrimp, spinach, ricotta cheese, lightly breaded and served with a roasted garlic cream sauce.

Veal Saltimbocca Tender veal stuffed with spinach, cheese and prosciutto, sautéed in wine and mushrooms. An absolute classic — for a good reason.

Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink PAGE 119

SCHELLENGER’S RESTAURANT

Begin your trip to Wildwood with a visit to Schellenger’s for fresh seafood and unique decor. Just take a look at the roof!

Some Menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? It’s right on Atlantic Avenue in the heart of the island — you can’t miss this classic Wildwood landmark, with its stunning nautical themed atmosphere both on the interior and exterior!

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because you’re on vacation and the best part of being on vacation is eating whatever the heck you want — especially at the affordable prices you’ll find at Schellenger’s. They’re here to help, with hands down one of the largest menus in town. Whether you know EXACTLY what you want or you haven’t got a clue, this is the place for you. Schellenger’s has everything from soups, sandwiches and appetizers all the way up to The Fisherman’s Feast, their sumptuous specialty dish that will fill you up with a delectable variety of the very freshest seafood around.

Schellenger’s has been a Wildwood institution for more than 35 years and that doesn’t happen by accident — being family owned and having the same dedicated

chef for over 20 years is certainly part of the equation.

And while they’re known for their outstanding freshly caught seafood offerings they have plenty to satisfy the pickiest of landlubbers, too — burgers, pasta, steaks and chicken. No one leaves Schellenger’s hungry. Familyfriendly, casual dress (shoes, please!), free parking and major credit cards accepted. And don’t forget about their full bar featuring specialty seasonal drinks, classic cocktails, and a full beer and wine list. Schellenger’s restaurant is a no-brainer when it comes to memorable family vacation dining.

INSIDER TIP Schellenger’s is located in the heart of town, right next to the boardwalk and all of its attractions. Don’t forget that all menu items are available for take out. And if you’ve had too many of their outstanding signature cocktails, no worries — the trolley stops at Atlantic and Schellenger Avenues every 20 minutes.

SCHELLENGER’S RESTAURANT « 3516 Atlantic Avenue, Wildwood « (609) 522-0433 « www.schellengersrestaurant.com

Specialty Drinks A full bar shaking up classic martinis and refreshing cocktails.

The perfect addition to your island vacation!

Appetizers From clams on the half, to creamy spinach dip and traditional buffalo wings, Schellenger’s has something for every appetite.

Fisherman’s Feast Whole lobster, crabmeat, shrimp, bay scallops, calamari, clams, mussels and fish over pasta.

Surf & Turf Kick your filet mignon and lobster tail up a notch by having it stuffed with succulent Maryland crab.

Atlantic Cape Filet White fish, grilled, breaded, fried or cajun style.

Ribeye Steak This 16oz portion of certified choice beef comes with your choice of baked potato or french fries.

Lobster Ravioli With a tomato basil cream sauce and topped with a whole lobster claw.

PAGE 120 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

THE TACO JOINT

Serving up authentic tacos from around the world, this taco joint dishes up something for everyone — even margaritas! menu Highlights

WHERE IS IT? Morey’s Mariner’s Landing Pier at Schellenger Avenue tucked behind Jumbo’s bringing the fiesta back to Wildwood!

WHY SHOULD I GO? Morey’s Piers Executive Chef, Wally Jurusz, has been traveling and tasting the best tacos from food trucks, to Mexican restaurants, canteens and everything in between. Tough job we agree, but somebody’s got to do it. What he came up with resembles (if it existed) a street food truck on the Boardwalk in Central America serving up high quality fresh tacos and quesadillas.

The Taco Joint captures the flavor and style of both Mexican and SoCal right here in Wildwood serving up shrimp, fish, pork, chicken and beef tacos and quesadillas including a variety of fresh salsas and freshly prepared nachos. Check out the specials board for local fresh seafood and if you’re lucky you’ll find Cape May scallops. Top it all off with a margarita because what else pairs better with tacos? If you’re not full yet the Taco Joint has dessert featuring fried cheesecake with duce de leche or bananas that will finish off what you started at the Taco Joint.

INSIDER TIP Visit moreyspiers.com for specials, events, and the Beachfront Blog. For the social savants, be sure to follow Morey’s Piers on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

THE TACO JOINT « Mariner’s Landing and Schellenger’s Avenue, Wildwood « (609) 729-3700 « www.moreyspiers.com

Chicken Taco Freshly grilled chicken with saved lettuce, Monterey jack cheese, pico de gallo and cilantro cream sauce in a soft flour tortilla.

Mahi Mahi a la Plancha Taco Mahi-mahi, fresh from the sea, then grilled and served with shaved cabbage, red onions, pico de gallo and fresh crema in a flour tortilla.

Carne Asada Tacos San Diego style marinated beef in a corn tortilla with shaved lettuce, jack cheese, pico de gallo and salsa roja.

Tacos al Pastor Soft corn tortillas filled with marinated pork, grilled pineapple, red onion, lettuce, jack cheese and pico de gallo.

Mexican Bang-Bang Shrimp Taco Crispy popcorn shrimp with shaved lettuce, jack cheese, and tomatoes in a flour tortilla topped with a smokey-sweet chile sauce.

Korean Short Rib Taco Korean bbq beef with a cabbage-cucumber slaw in a flour tortilla.

Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink PAGE 121

TONY LUKE’S FOOD TRUCK ON ADVENTURE PIER A South Philly classic has made its way to the world-famous Wildwood Boardwalk

Some Menu Highlights Steak Sandwiches Go for the classic grilled steak on a fresh roll then hit the condiments bar to top it off just how you like it. Of course, fried onions are always avialable.

Cheese Steak Take the classic steak sandwich up a few notches by adding melted American cheese, or go with the Philly favorite, Cheez Whiz.

Boardwalk French Fries

WHERE IS IT? On Morey’s Adventure Pier — look for the food trailer smack dab in the middle of all the action. Don’t worry, you’ll smell the fried onions.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because Tony Luke’s is world famous for Philly Cheesesteaks and old-Philly style sandwiches like their classic roast pork sandwich that has been perfected over generations. A true global phenomenon, Tony Luke’s is no longer just a sandwich shop in South Philadelphia. By opening two locations in Wildwood they have brought a delicious taste of South Philly to the shores of beautiful Wildwood. Did we mention that their mouthwatering sandwiches are also award winning? Tony Luke’s has twice been hailed

by Gourmet magazine for their outstanding quality and innovation, renowned by GQ magazine for their mouthwatering menu and now, Tony Luke’s is a member of Philadelphia magazine’s Hall of Fame! They’ve also been named as the top cheesesteak in Cape May County three years in a row. This one-of-a-kind sandwich shop has also been featured on episodes of Throwdown! with Bobby Flay, Dinner: Impossible, Man v Food and Food Wars.

Boardwalk revelers can choose from Tony Luke’s original cheesesteak or the very popular roast pork sandwich. The roasted pork Italian with spinach, or broccoli rabe, and cheese is a fan favorite. And don’t forget the rules to ordering your steaks! Order yours with Wiz or American when calling out your cheesesteak. Seasoned French fries or cheese fries are also made to order and all sandwiches can come with or without onions. Is your mouth watering yet?

Tony Luke’s brings you only the best cuts of meat with top quality ribeye steak that is shipped directly from cattle farms in the Midwest. Their meat products are 100% all natural and antibiotic and hormone free. Even the vegetables used in their sandwich toppings are grown right here in Southern New Jersey.

INSIDER TIP Don’t forget to visit their Wildwood Crest location at 6200 New Jersey Avenue for a full menu with tons of good eats to choose from. Visit www.tonylukes.com for stores, news and merchandise.

TONY LUKE'S FOOD TRUCK « Morey’s Adventure Pier, Wildwood « (609) 729-3700 « www.moreyspiers.com

The sandwiches at Tony Lukes stand up fine on their own.

But when you add hot and crispy french fries to your order, you’re really getting a treat.

Cheese Fries Not in the mood for a cheese steak but can’t resist treating yourself with a Boardwalk staple?

Go with the cheese fries. Tony Lukes will take their hot and fresh fries then smother them with a layer of melted cheese. Be careful though, you may have to fend your friends away — they’re that good.

PAGE 122 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

CAPT’N JACK’S ISLAND GRILL

STEWART’S ROOT BEER

WHERE IS IT? Capt’n Jack’s Island Grill is at 2701 Boardwalk in Wildwood, between Juniper and Poplar Streets.

WHERE IS IT? Look for the familiar orange and white Stewart’s logo right up on the boardwalk in Wildwood.

WHY SHOULD I GO? There are so many reasons, but we’ll start with these: Sangria Sunday, Margarita Monday, Twisted Tuesday, Wine Down Wednesday, Thirsty Thursday, Fishbowl Friday….are you getting the picture? However, Capt’n Jack’s Island Grill is a relaxed, familyoriented place, with island-inspired food, live music, a roof-top deck with spectacular views, and plenty of fun to go around. Whether you are bringing the family in for a bite, or your friends to hang out at the bar, have a few beverages, and watch a game on one of the many strategically-placed TV’s, Capt’n Jack’s is a spot everyone in your own band of pirates can enjoy. They also have a great big menu, offering everything from fish tacos to quesadillas, burgers to salads, and of course, special menu items for the little pirates in your crew.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because there’s more than just crazy good, creamy and delicious root beer here at Stewart’s. If you’re looking for a quintessentially American, family-friendly dining experience, Stewart’s is it. The legendary franchise is now in its 88th year, and that doesn’t happen by accident. And sure, the root beer (and the floats – did we mention the floats?) may be what they’re best known for, but if you haven’t eaten here, you will be pleasantly surprised by the quality – not to mention the value – of the food. Burgers, hot dogs, steak and chicken breast sandwiches, French fries, onion rings, and more – all your favorite casual fare done right.

There are also salads and wraps, if you’re looking for something beyond the burgers and fries routine.

INSIDER TIP Find Capt’n Jack’s Island Grill on Foursquare, Yelp, and TripAdvisor, and follow them on Facebook to keep up on today’s food and drink specials. Open 7 days a week in season.

INSIDER TIP Follow the Wildwood Stewart’s Restaurant on Facebook. You’ll be up to date on daily specials, local events, and photos of your next favorite float, shake and sundae creations.

CAPT’N JACK’S ISLAND GRILL « 2705 Boardwalk, Wildwood « (609) 523-1700

STEWART’S ROOT BEER « 2901 Boardwalk, Wildwood « (609) 770-8538

A fun, family friendly restaurant right on the Wildwood Boardwalk

Stop in for a classic Boardwalk burger and fries with a cool, crisp root beer

The Guide To Eating Out In The Wildwoods

Phone Number

B: Breakfast L: Lunch D: Dinner

Price Range Of Entrées

Is It BYOB Or Is There A Bar?

Should I Book A Table?

N/A

Is It Accessible?

Credit Cards Accepted

Is There On-Site Parking?

Is Takeout Available?

Is There Food for Children?

N/A

YES

V,MC,AE,D

NO

YES

YES

Wheelchair

Aloha Smoothie

729-3700

B,L,D

$5-$10

Alosi’s Bistro

729-5333

B,L,D

$7-$26

BYOB

YES

YES

V,MC,D

NO

YES

YES

Alumni Grill

523-1111

L,D

$5-$10

BYOB

NO

YES

V,MC,AE,D

YES

YES

YES

522-1062

D

$18-$50

BAR

NO

YES

V,MC,AE,D

YES

YES

YES

Boathouse Restaurant

729-5301

L,D

$19-$39

BAR

NO

YES

V,MC,AE,D

YES

YES

YES

Breakfast in the Sky

846-1624

B

$42

N/A

YES

YES

V,MC,AE,D

NO

NO

YES

Cape May Brewing Co.

849-9933

Brewery

$5-11

Brewery

N/A

YES

V,MC,AE,D

YES

YES

Root Beer

Capt’n Jack’s Island Grill

523-1700

L,D

$10-$20

BAR

NO

YES

V,MC,AE,D

NO

YES

YES

Crab House

522-1341

L,D

$7-$25

BAR

NO

YES

V,MC,AE,D

YES

YES

YES

Curley’s Fries

729-3700

L,D

$5-$11

N/A

N/A

YES

V,MC,AE,D

NO

YES

YES

Beach Creek

The Establishment at 100

523-8100

D

$10-$30

BAR

YES

YES

V,MC,D

YES

YES

YES

Fish and Fancy

886-8760

L,D

$5-$21

BYOB

NO

YES

V,MC,D

YES

YES

YES

Hawk Haven Vineyard

846-7347

Winery

$5-$40

Winery

N/A

YES

YES

YES

NO

Island Grill

884-0200

D

$13-$26

BYOB

YES

YES

YES

YES

YES

Jake’s Steaks

729-3700

L,D

$8-$16

N/A

N/A

YES

V,MC,AE,D

NO

YES

YES

Joe’s Fish Co.

729-3700

L,D

$8-$27

BAR

NO

YES

V,MC,AE,D

NO

YES

YES

Johnson’s Popcorn

522-0038

L,D

$18-$23

N/A

N/A

YES

V,MC,AE,D

NO

YES

YES

Jumbo’s

729-3700

L,D

$9-$28

BAR

NO

YES

V,MC,AE,D

NO

YES

YES

Kohr Brothers

522-1029

B,L,D

$3-$7

N/A

N/A

YES

V,MC,D

NO

YES

YES

Little Italy

523-0999

D

$14-$29

BYOB

NO

YES

V,MC,D

YES

YES

YES

Marie Nicole’s Grill

522-5425

D

$19-$44

BAR

YES

YES

YES

NO

YES

North End American Grill

435-5691

L,D

$7-$25

BAR

NO

YES

V,MC,AE,D

YES

YES

YES

Pacific Grill

523-2333

D

$10-$30

BYOB

YES

YES

V,MC,AE,D

YES

YES

YES

Ravioli House

522-7894

D

$10-$26

BYOB

YES

YES

V,MC,AE,D

YES

YES

YES

Royal Grille

729-2211

$7-$24

BYOB

NO

YES

NO

YES

YES

B,L,D

V,MC,AE,D

NONE

V,MC,AE,D

V,MC,D

Schellenger’s Restaurant

522-0433

D

$15-$35

BAR

YES

YES

V,MC,AE,D

YES

YES

YES

Stewart’s Root Beer

770-8538

L,D

$7-$11

BYOB

NO

YES

V,MC,AE,D

NO

YES

YES

Stubborn Bros Beach Bar

729-3700

L,D

$9-$18

BAR

NO

YES

V,MC,AE,D

NO

YES

YES

The Taco Joint

729-3700

L,D

$5-$14

N/A

N/A

YES

V,MC,AE,D

NO

YES

YES

Tony Luke’s Food Truck

729-3700

L,D

$6-$15

N/A

N/A

YES

V,MC,AE,D

NO

YES

YES

Two Mile

522-1341

D

$12-$35

BAR

NO

YES

V,MC,AE,D

YES

YES

YES

Urie’s Restaurant

522-4189

L,D

$19-$36

BAR

NO

YES

V,MC,AE,D

YES

YES

YES

Wrecker’s Beach Grill

729-3700

L

$6-$14

BAR

NO

YES

V,MC,AE,D

NO

YES

YES

Shopping

PAGE 126 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Shopping

artbox

Enjoy something very different on the boardwalk this year... the coolest art-and-shopping experience in the area WHERE IS IT? Housed in those brightly colored shipping containers on Adventure Pier.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because the Wildwood Boardwalk has never seen anything like artBOX. Put simply, it’s the most imaginative shopping experience on the island.

The shipping container village is your first clue that there’s something different going on here.

Those containers contain maritime-themed artwork and merchandise designed by talented artists from this region AND the rest of the country.

And you can even see the artists in action — there’s Pete Bieling, Jr blowing glass (that’s him on the left) that he transforms into beautiful jewelry and must-have souvenirs like marbles and paperweights; his father, Pete Bieling, Sr working on his very quirky paintings that celebrate sea life (that’s him on the right); and David Macomber, who’s one of the most talented multi-media artists in the area (see page 128 for more on David).

The centerpiece of artBOX is the Exit Zero Store, which is packed with original art, prints and the coolest range of Wildwoods merchandise you can find. There are wooden

ARTBOX « Adventure Pier, 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood « (609) 729-3700 « www.moreyspiers.com

PAGE 128 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Shopping

artbox

Head for the brightly painted shipping container colony on Adventure Pier... and enjoy the coolest shopping experience in the Wildwoods

prints of classic Wildwoods postcards and retro beach scenes; T-shirts and mugs that celebrate the rich tradition of the boardwalk’s most beloved attractions; a quirky range of T-shirts, prints and coasters that celebrate Wildwood’s Garden State Parkway exit number (we think you’ll love the exit fourbee shirts in particular); and a top-quality collection of home accents, from cast-iron dolphin bottle openers to vintage compasses and anchor-

ARTBOX « Adventure Pier, 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood « (609) 729-3700 « www.moreyspiers.com

embroidered pillows. There’s also a carefully selected range of beautiful books for adults and kids — they’ll love the pirate popup book.

Also take a stroll through the galleries in the various containers and enjoy a fabulous selection of paintings and sculptures that will fire your imagination.

So come and enjoy an altogether different boardwalk experience — artBOX opens daily at 4pm.

PAGE 130 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Shopping

the morey store

Been there? Done that? Well now you really CAN buy the T-shirt (and lots more besides) at this cool little boardwalk shop.

Some store Highlights

WHERE IS IT? Morey’s Mariner’s Landing Pier just beyond the Tea Cups but right before Guest Services and the Sea Serpent Roller Coaster.

WHY SHOULD I GO? If you love Morey’s Piers you have to visit The Morey Store, the ultimate (not to mention the only) destination for Morey’s Piers official merchandise and commemorative souvenirs. Are you having a screaming good time on the roller coasters? Get the Coaster Check Off T-Shirt. Do you love the Cuban Spiced Curley’s Fries? Get Chef Wally’s Cuban Spiced Rub and cook at home like a chef. Forgot your beach towel? Get the largest, fluffiest Morey’s Piers towel. Didn’t bring a sweatshirt up to the boards on a chilly summer night? The Morey Store has that too.

The Morey Store features brand apparel for the whole family, all of Chef Wally’s famous spices, and so much more. With new merchandise arriving throughout the season, no trip to Morey’s Piers is complete until you have visited the Morey Store.

The Morey Store is open every day Morey’s Mariner’s Landing Pier is open. Call 609-522-3900 ext. 1826 for more information.

INSIDER TIP Visit www.moreyspiers.com for specials, sales, events, and the Beachfront Blog. For the social savants, be sure to follow Morey’s Piers and The Morey Store on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

THE MOREY STORE « 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood « (609) 522-3900 « www.moreyspiers.com

Not Just Cool T-Shirts The Morey Store features clothes for the entire family and just the nerdy tourist shirts. The Morey blanket is perfect for the back of your sofa.

Water Parks Merchandise The Morey Store is the only place you will find official Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks merchandise.

Digital Picture Frames The perfect keepsake to remind you of your family vacation to Morey’s Piers and Jersey Shore.

Forget Something?

The Morey Store has sunscreen, beach towels and key chains.

Sometimes you can even find a pair of flipflops!

Chef Wally’s Original Spices You can’t find these delicious spices anywhere else in the world!

The Coaster Check List Tee If you’re a coaster fanatic, you’ll need the Check List tee to back up your bragging.

Sunny C. Gull Morey’s Piers adorable stuffed animal. And don’t forget Curley the French Fry!

PAGE 132 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Shopping

shark sugar

Artist David Macomber is inspired by the ocean... and you’ll likely be inspired by his creations WHERE IS IT? You can find artist David Macomber’s work at artBOX on Adventure Pier (see pages 122-125) and online at www.sharksugar.com WHY SHOULD I GO? Because, as David says, “I take photos and create art to remind people that like the ocean, life is rough but... itswell.” His work reflects both his deep respect and love for the ocean, but it also has a playfulness and wit that you might just find irresistible.

While attending Brooks College of Design for two years, David started developing his loose, colorful style and love for typography. He enjoyed the weather of California, but was called home by the seasons of the mid-Atlantic.

Over the last few years, David has been building his art and design career and is one of the men responsible for the creation of the exciting artBOX concept.

You will often see him working on his art there — so stop by and say hello!

SHARK SUGAR « Wildwood & Cape May « www.sharksugar.com

PAGE 134 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Shopping

SUNSET BEACH GIFT SHOPS, GRILLE AND GOLF

One-stop gift shopping, for yourself or your favorite seashore lover, PLUS one of the top 25 beaches in America, according to TripAdvisor!

Some store Highlights Cape May Diamonds What’s a girl’s best friend? Whatever her age, she’ll love looking for quartz pebbles on the beach (they make a 200mile journey from the Delaware Water Gap until the churning currents around the Concrete Ship fling them onto the beach).

Shells The most varied and reasonably priced, shell selection north of Florida. A great way to spend a family afternoon.

Good Eats It is a proven fact that the gourmet and specialty foods, soups and candy they have at Sunset Beach will make you smile.

Treasures Of The Earth A unique and affordable variety of jewelry. Plus, in their rock shop you’ll browse minerals, fossils and rocks that will interest the eager eyes of the curious to the serious collector.

Apparel Hoodies and hats, T-shirts, dresses and footwear for the family.

WHERE IS IT? As you make the two-mile drive down Sunset Boulevard in Cape May, you’ll see the lighthouse. Head further down, toward the sunset, and you’ll see the red light that marks the end of the road and the start of your adventure.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Many reasons! For starters, Sunset Beach was named in TripAdvisor’s 2013 Top 25 US Beaches. And no wonder — sunsets are spectacular here.

And don’t worry that your kids will be over the whole sunset thing — there’s plenty of other stuff to do. There’s a beautiful miniature golf course, and more fun can be had browsing the three gift stores. Hungry? Sunset Beach Grille serves burgers, dogs and other classics.

Sunset Beach is also the home of one of the most enduring Cape May traditions — the lowering of the American flag every night at sunset in the summer to the strains of Kate Smith singing “God Bless America.”

Come an hour or two before the ceremony and search for Cape May diamonds, the quartz stones that wash up on this stretch of beach. Or, head into the gift shop and buy some already polished. Sunset Beach is open year-round.

INSIDER TIP Visit in December, 2014 for Hospitality Nights, featuring live music, food, giveaways and lots of fun. One of the big attractions year-round is the famous Concrete Ship. Why did they build it out of concrete, you might ask? Come find out!

SUNSET BEACH GIFT SHOPS, GOLF & GRILLE « Sunset Beach, Cape May Point

«

(609) 884-7079

«

www.sunsetbeachnj.com

PAGE 136 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Shopping

CAPE MAY SPORTS MEMORABILIA

High quality sports cards and memorabilia at really, really reasonable prices. It’s a win-win every time!

Some store Highlights

WHERE IS IT? At 405 West Perry Street in Antiques Emporia, right on the corner where Cape May meets West Cape May. WHY SHOULD I GO? Whether you ARE the sports nut in your life, or you know and love a sports nut, this is the motherlode of sports-oriented finds in the area. It doesn’t matter what your game is — football, baseball, hockey, basketball and more — they are all represented here in the form of yearbooks, vintage trading cards, as well as PSA and JSA-authenticated framed items and signed baseballs, bats and programs, to mention but a few. There is a large selection of New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia teams on display here, so no infighting necessary with whatever fan you happen to be shopping with, thank you very much.

INSIDER TIP Visit their website, capemaysportsmemorabilia.com, to tour the store or shop online. Sign up for their mailing list and you will receive information about new collections available and discounts throughout the year. Click on the eBay link on the Cape May Sports Memorabilia home page if you are looking for current auction items. Is there a specialized gift you are searching for? Click the “contact us” tab and email them your special requests.

CAPE MAY SPORTS MEMORABILIA « 405 W. Perry Street, West Cape May

«

(609) 898-3332

«

Vintage Baseball Cards Whether you’re looking for early 1900 cards, stars, rookies, complete sets, team sets, and starter sets or lots, look here.

Signed Sports Memorabilia Baseballs, bats, jerseys, equipments, cards, books and much more.

Yearbooks And Programs Cape May Sports Memorabilia focuses on carrying New York and Philadelphia baseball and football teams, along with a wide variety of other teams.

Baseball Programs They have quite the collection of programs from All-Star and World Series baseball games of your favorite teams.

Sports Books Cape May Sports Memorabilia carries a large selection of vintage hardcover book titles, including some hard to find books... for example, My 66 Years in The Big Leagues by Connie Mack for the Phillies fans.

www.capemaysportsmemorabilia.com

Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Shopping PAGE 137

THE ORIGINAL FUDGE KITCHEN

Licorice, chocolate truffles, almond clusters, coconut clusters and, of course... fudge Some store Highlights Creamy Fudge Black Forest, Chocolate Chip, Chocolate Peanut Butter, Seasalt Caramel, Bing Cherry Vanilla, Vanilla Nut... hungry yet? No matter the weather, The Original Fudge Kitchen always has someone serving free samples. Why? Because one taste will cause you to abandon all New Year’s resolutions.

Anyway, a little of what you fancy does you good. And don’t forget: every autumn, make sure you enjoy Pumpkin Fudge!

Holiday And Special Occasion Headquarters Hearts made of whipped creamy fudge for Valentine’s Day. Irish Potatoes for St Patrick’s Day. Easter eggs with all kinds of shapes, sizes and centers. Not forgetting traditional Christmas candies. You name the occasion, and they have a treat for it!

Irish Potatoes These confectionery delights are made of fresh cream and coconut, hand-rolled and dipped in fresh cinnamon.

WHERE ARE THEY? Roberts Avenue on the Boardwalk, 3 blocks north of the Convention Center. Another location at 22nd Avenue on the Boardwalk in North Wildwood.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because their motto is “Simply the best” for a reason. Chances are good that you won’t get past the front door without trying a piece of something special.

There’s always a smiling employee waiting outside with a tray of treats. Take a taste, then stroll inside and soak in the smells of freshly whipped fudge, and feast your eyes on an incredible range of colorful candies and irresistible chocolates.

The fudge is whipped right here by expert candy makers and is the same recipe that’s been used by the Bogle brothers — Joe and Paul — for more than 40 years.

Picking out favorite candies isn’t easy, what with chocolate-covered strawberries, pretzels, licorice Scottie dogs, licorice allsorts (Joe’s favorite), chocolate truffles, candy seashells, malt balls, almond clusters, and more to choose from. Joe and Paul have been candymakers in Cape May for decades and own six stores along the South Jersey coast.

INSIDER TIP The Original Fudge Kitchen is open every day March 1 thru November 1, then weekends the rest of the year You can shop online at fudgekitchens.com and be sure to check them out on Facebook by typing The Original Fudge Kitchen!

THE ORIGINAL FUDGE KITCHEN

«

4120 Boardwalk, Wildwood & 22nd Avenue, North Wildwood

«

800-23-fudge

«

www.fudgekitchens.com

PAGE 138 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Shopping

ITALIAN GARDEN

L’Erbolario, Alviero Martini, Murano... exclusively from Italy Some store Highlights

WHERE IS IT? On Carpenter’s Lane behind the Washington Street Mall in Cape May. WHY SHOULD I GO? If you love Italy, if you love Italian products, if you love unique fragrances and luxurious skin care, and most importantly, if you want to look beautiful, you must visit Italian Garden and experience L’Erbolario. This is a line of botanical perfumes brimming with neroli, ambraliquida, citrus, myrhh, tarragon, iris, and cedar; soothing hand and body treatments with olive and argan oils; and restorative facial care enriched with aloe, royal jelly, calendula, chamomile and, new this year, the super-hydrating hyaluronic acid cream.

Italian men take their grooming as seriously as women, and so does Italian Garden.

Extracts derived from vetiver, myrtle, bark and fern add a fresh, crisp scent to fragrances, shaving creams and “dopobarba.” Find products for les bambini in the Children’s Garden.

INSIDER TIP Murano glass jewelry and Alviero Martini handbags add to the allure of the collections, which have been expanded with many new fragrances, including one that is going to be the talk of the town! Stop by to chat, munch on biscotti and enjoy product samples.

ITALIAN GARDEN « 510 Carpenter’s Lane, Cape May « (609) 884-2300

L’erbolario These amazing products are worldrenowned and hard to find — thank goodness for Italian Garden, which has a full collection of fragrances and body care products of the L’Erbolario beauty line.

Alviero Martini Bags Perhaps you’ve seen Italian women sporting an upscale bag imprinted with an old world map

by Italian designer Alviero Martini.

These lovely bags bespeak world travel, elegance and beauty.

Murano Glass Jewelry Glass-blowing is an Italian art form drenched in Old World tradition.

Besides the traditional Murano Collection, new this year is a jewelry line created by a local artist, combining the beauty of Murano with the enchantment of sea glass found here in Cape May. Each piece is unique in color and design and made exclusively for Italian Garden — and you!

Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Shopping PAGE 139

MR J.’S MUSIC SHOP

OUT OF THE PAST ANTIQUES

WHERE IS IT? In North Cape May, one short block from the picturesque Delaware Bay.

WHERE IS IT? On the corner of West Perry at 394 Myrtle Avenue in Cape May.

WHY SHOULD I GO? If you want to make music, learn to play music, buy guitars, amps, horns and musical supplies, or need an expert repair carried out on a musical instrument... basically if there’s anything music-related occurring in your brain, you’re going to want to visit Mr J.’s Music Shop. It’s a mom-and-pop shop that has been serving the musical needs of the Cape May area for over 25 years.

And you are in some very good company, too, because that is the place where all the best musicians either living or performing in the Cape May area go. Owned by two music teachers, Mr J.’s is as much a part of the Cape May music scene as the sound of ocean waves playing under every note.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Everywhere you look are lovely surprises — a tea set from the 1920s, a cylinder from a turn-of-the-century Edison phonograph, a Wallace Nutting handcolored photograph, tiny books from the 1940s and trinkets that would have been found in bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens and lounges from the first half of last century. This shop is full of distinctive hard-to-find treasures.

The best way to describe this shop? If your granny and HER mother had good taste and managed to keep, in a collection of big boxes in the attic, many of their kitchen items, reading materials, and other household goods, and you opened all those boxes and placed them in a very cute little store... that’s what Out of the Past is like.

INSIDER TIP You’ll get to view Mr J.’s massive autograph collection of countless artists that adorn the walls of the shop. And there’s a story behind each one. Listening in on Mr J.’s tales of 30-plus years in every aspect of the music business is worth the visit alone.

INSIDER TIP You never know what you’re going to discover here. So even if you don’t find something that tickles your fancy on one particular visit, come back again. And make sure you check their Facebook page (Out of the Past Antiques) for regular updates.

201 Townbank Road, North Cape May « (609) 886-4646 « ljurewicz5@comcast.net

394 Myrtle Avenue, Cape May « 609-884-3357 « www.outofthepastantiques.com

Equipment, accessories, lessons, inspiration...

It’s like a perfectly ordered grandmother’s attic

Health&Beauty

PAGE 142 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Health & Beauty

Evolution Salon & Spa

From your scalp to your toes, and all points in between, here’s a place where you can rejuvenate that special person... you!

Some Salon Highlights

WHERE IS IT? North Cape May, in the Cape Shopping Center across from Wawa on Bayshore Road.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because if anyone deserves to be pampered, it’s you, right? Opened in March 2013 by Holly Patrick, Evolution is a full-service salon and spa offering everything any gal — or guy — in need of some TLC could want. Holly, who worked in the beauty biz for seven years prior to hanging up her own shingle, says being the boss is good. “It’s been a learning experience, but brings me pure happiness,” she told us. Looking to get rid of some of your stress? Perhaps a massage is just the ticket, and Evolution has a menu to choose from: whether you just need an invigorating scalp massage, a classic Swedish massage, or the fivestar Evolution Signature massage, you’ll be right as rain in no time.

Sometimes a new hairdo is all it takes to

EVOLUTION SALON & SPA

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Hair Care From a do-over, like a perm or a brand new color, or simple maintenance like protein or detox treatments.

Nails You’ll Notice From simple paraffin treatments to the fullon spa-style manicure.

And don’t forget your toes.

Weddings Pre-game-day pampering in the form of special occasion hair and make-up.

Waxing Get rid of that pesky razor for good, and let Evolution wax your way to sleek, smooth, sexy skin.

Skin Care Soothe and refresh your skin with a luxurious facial from a full menu of Dermalogica skin care treatments.

Massage If it’s true that beauty comes from the inside out, the perfect massage will ensure your most relaxed, revived, beautiful version of you. Something for everyone, from a quick scalp invigoration to a maternity massage.

Stress be gone.

rejuvenate, and Evolution offers excellent cuts, coloring, blow outs and other treatments, including a detoxifying treatment, which removes chlorine and well water deposits, a must if you spend time at the shore. Need a bit more attention than that? No worries — Evolution offers waxing services, manicures and pedicures (including an Express Pedicure, for those of us on the go), and a full menu of facial skincare treatments. Go to their comprehensive website to select what you’d like, and follow them on Facebook for special offers. Evolution proudly uses and sells Redken hair and Dermalogica skin care products. Call for an appointment, or walk-ins are always welcome.

INSIDER TIP: Evolution is not just for ladies. “We cover men head to toe, too!” says Holly. Haircuts, manicures, pedicures and facials are all available for your favorite gentleman.

3704 Bayshore Road, North Cape May

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609-889-6900

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www.evolutioncapemay.com

Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Health & Beauty PAGE 143

Hair: A Styling Salon

Whether you’re looking for a cut, fresh new color, manicure, or complete makeover, this full service salon will exceed your expectations Some Salon Highlights

WHERE IS IT? Hair is in the heart of Wildwood Crest, centrally located on New Jersey Avenue.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Because you know as well as we do that your hair is your crowning glory. It’s the one detail of your look that you really can’t fake. Clothes may make the man, or the woman, but unless your hair is good to go it’s all just… clothes. And eventually, the clothes come off. The right hair color, cut and style can make all the difference in the perfect look for you — it can even take years off your image.

To that end, a visit to Megan D’Amico and her crew over at Hair is definitely in order. Yes, it’s a cliché to call them cutting edge — but that’s just what they are. The staff at Hair is always learning, taking continuing education courses to keep them up to the minute with the latest trends and techniques.

And who benefits? Well, their clientele, of course. As great as the Hair team is, though, it’s no accident that they also use the absolute top-of-the-line products for your hair. Coppola,

Matrix, Pureology, Redken and Moroccan Oil are some of the top-notch names that will be used on your hair. Simply the best products for the best results — it’s that… well, simple.

That’s the philosophy at Hair.

Speaking of simple the vibe is simple, elegant and airy at Hair. A few minutes early for your appointment? Relax in their waiting area, with television and a refreshment bar provided for your comfort and enjoyment. Then put yourself in the capable hands of the Hair team. Whether it’s for a nourishing hair masque of a total new you with a new cut and color you’ll leave feeling like a new woman. Or man, or child for that matter. The Hair team welcomes the whole family, and their prices make it doable. They also offer manicures, pedicures and facial waxing.

INSIDER TIP: Visit their retail area on your way out — all of their top-quality products are available for sale, so you can keep your new ’do looking tip-top at home, too.

HAIR: A STYLING SALON « 6401 New Jersey Avenue, Wildwood Crest « 609-522-4247 « www.hairwildwoodcrest.com

Starters Tired and dry tresses? Start off with a deep conditioning treatment, complete with a scalp and neck massage, to refresh and revitalize your hair.

Styling Hair’s stylists are up to date in the latest trends and fashions.

Bring in a photo of the style you like or let their talented stylists work their magic to create a design that’s just right for you.

Color From highlights to lowlights, a new color or a touch up, Hair’s stylists will conjur up the perfect color formula for you.

Manicure and Pedicures The perfect accessory to a great new hairstyle. Go ahead, treat yourself.

For The Guys Try the Ultimate Grooming Experience. A scalp and neck massage, hot towel facial, wash, conditioning, rewash, cut, and style.

Activities

PAGE 146 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Activities

EAST COAST JET BOAT ADVENTURES, PARASAILING & WAVERUNNER Experience the newest adventure activity in South Jersey, and a whole range of fabulously fun water sports

WHERE IS IT? Just 10 minutes away in Cape May, at Utsch’s Marina in Schellenger’s Landing. Go over the Cape May bridge, take your first right and follow the signs to Utsch’s Marina.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Quite a few reasons, actually! East Coast Jet Boat Adventures is the hot new activity in South Jersey. Experience a 45-55 minute ride aboard the fastest and only true New Zealand-style jet boat on the east coast that can operate in the open ocean. The boat is powered by twin supercharged diesel 700hp engines which allows for incredible acceleration, speed and maneuverability.

With East Coast Parasail, you’ll experience the high-flying thrills and panoramic views of the Jersey Shore. You don’t need any skills or experience whatsoever... East Coast’s Master US Coast Guard-Licensed captains and crew will take care of everything for you.

Last but not least... if you are looking for a cool and refreshing way to enjoy your vacation, try renting a personal watercraft, also called a Jet Ski or Waverunner. This is a great way to live life to the fullest this summer without breaking your budget.

INSIDER TIP Reservations are recommended for all water sports. Do all of them and save BIG! Call today for details. Book online and save 15%. Just use code WW15.

EAST COAST JET BOAT, PARASAILING & WAVERUNNER « 1121 Route 109 @ Utsch’s Marina, Cape May

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(609) 898-8754

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www.eastcoastparasail.com

PAGE 148 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Activities

Ecoventures

Kids can learn to boogieboard, skimboard, fish and snorkel from real biologists. Join them for nature walks, tie-dye, and more. It’s the shore way to a great vacation.

WHERE IS IT? EcoVentures Adventure Programs are held at select oceanfront hotels and resorts in Wildwood Crest and Cape May, so visit their website for current program locations.

WHY SHOULD I GO? EcoVentures offers daily outdoor adventures for boys and girls, ages 4-13. Programs take place from 10am to 4pm, Monday-Friday and give children the opportunity to experience beachside activities like fishing, skimboarding, snorkeling, hands-on crafts, and more, all while learning about marine biology and the environment. They even provide lunch!

This is the perfect opportunity for the whole family to enjoy their vacation. While the kids are with EcoVentures learning to fish, boogieboard, and having a blast with new friends, parents are free to enjoy a peaceful day of their own. CPR/First Aid certified instructors will lead activities that vary each day. To give each participant plenty of attention and instruction, EcoVentures has a great instructor-to-child ratio and small group sizes. You do not need to be staying at the hotel to participate.

INSIDER TIP Space is limited so pre-registration is strongly suggested. Sign up by the day or week directly on the EcoVentures website or by calling the number below. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram to see the latest promotions and specials.

ECOVENTURES « 1901 New Jersey Avenue, North Wildwood « (609) 742-5656 « www.ecoventuresUS.com

PAGE 150 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Activities

EXIT 0 INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL

The November showpiece immediately became a world-class event... now a spring outdoor festival has been added to the calendar. Great news for music lovers!

ABOUT THE FESTIVAL When the former Cape May Jazz Festival ended for good in 2010, it took with it a 17-year tradition of hot jazz and good times.

Fans were upset, unmoored, incredulous. And Michael Kline? “I remember when they made that announcement, we decided to take the bull by the horns and do it on our own.”

And with that, the Exit 0 International Jazz Festival was born. Produced by Kline, a Cape May resident (by way of New Orleans) with a long career in jazz music, the inaugural weekend in 2012 was a smash hit. “It’s a blur now,” Kline says, “I’m not sure how we pulled it off, but everybody came together, and I felt it was a huge success in every way.”

The second annual event, last November, raised the bar even higher, attracting world-class performers like Dianne Reeves and Eddie Palmieri, who

have won 12 Grammys between them.

And this year? The fall showpiece (November 7-9) will be augmented by a brand new spring edition, May 30-June 1, which will take the best of the fall — headline concerts in Cape May Convention Hall and music in the clubs throughout the weekend — and debut a one-day outdoor stage at the beautiful Emlen Physick Estate. “The addition of the outdoor stage will give our audience a full festival experience. I’m proud of Cape May and love to show it off, and now the festival has a venue where we can showcase our tremendous food, local brews and wines, and SJ artisans and crafts,” says Kline.

The hub of the November festival is Cape May Convention Hall, where the headliners perform. But the soul of the festival spreads through the streets of downtown Cape May, with top-class shows going

EXIT 0 INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL

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Cape May

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on at various venues, thanks to the festival’s Pops Pass, which, at $38, is the musical bargain of the year. This ticket will enable you to see around 20 brilliant acts over the course of the weekend — for music lovers it doesn’t get much better than that.

And there’s music to satisfy every taste, even if you think you’re not big on jazz. “A good festival should be able to present music in a fun way where everyone feels at home, from the jazz aficionado to the first-time fan,” says Kline. “Our festival presents creative, exciting music that sweeps our audiences off their feet. The key is Cape May. It has such a welcoming feel. I want entire families coming to our festivals. Grandma loves the headline shows in Convention Hall and Aunt Suzie’s second lining to a brass band at Cabanas.”

Are you ready to party?

888-943-1864 « www.exit0jazzfest.com

PAGE 152 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Activities

HISTORIC COLD SPRING VILLAGE

Enjoy a wonderful living history museum, with 26 restored buildings on a beautiful 30-acre wooded site ABOUT THE VILLAGE The 1800s come to life in 26 restored historic buildings where interpreters in period clothing demonstrate blacksmithing, woodworking, pottery, tinsmithing, basket weaving and open hearth cooking. Visitors make personal connections with the past through interactive, educational, hands-on family activities. The Village features special weekend events, free weekday horsedrawn carriage rides, a Welcome Center, Country Store, Bakery, Ice Cream Parlor and Cold Spring Grange Restaurant. The Village is open Tuesday-Sunday from midJune through Labor Day. Here are 2014’s themed weekends and special events…

May 31-June 1: Cold Spring Country Fair June 7-8: Hands-On History June 14-15: Military Timeline June 21-22: Paranormal Pursuits June 28-29: Quilt & Fiber Arts Show July 5-6: Celebrate the Garden State July 12-13: 10th Annual Celtic Festival July 19-20: Hands-On History July 26-27: Railroad Days August 2-3: Down on the Farm August 9-10: Paranormal Pursuits August 16-17: Classic Car Show August 23-24: Seafarers’ Weekend August 30-31: Hands-On History September 6-7: Revolutionary War Encampment September 13-14: Civil War Weekend

HISTORIC COLD SPRING VILLAGE

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720 Route 9, Cape May

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(609) 898-2300

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www.hcsv.org

PAGE 154 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Activities

MOREY’S PIERS

The quintessential Wildwood experience, Morey’s Piers offers three beachfront parks with amusement rides that range from slow and steady to extreme thrills

WHERE IS IT? Follow the screams, laughs and the scent of Curley’s Fries and head towards the bright glow of the Giant Ferris Wheel on America’s #1 Boardwalk!

WHY SHOULD I GO? Morey’s Piers is a classic seaside amusement park that’s been family owned since 1969. Voted one of the top three seaside amusement parks in the world by Amusement Today, Morey’s Piers has more than 100 rides and attractions spanning 18 acres along six beach blocks and includes three amusement piers and two beachfront water parks. Convenient to the major population centers of the northeast, yet a world apart, Morey’s Piers along with Morey Resorts combines the pure joy of an amusement park, the sights and sounds of a classic boardwalk and outstanding accommodations with the rhythm of beach life.

Morey’s Piers offers THREE piers packed with rides ranging from mild to high-intensity, including six world-class roller coasters and extreme rides as well as traditional favorites like the old-fashioned Carousel, bumper cars and the spinning Tea Cups.

Surfside Pier mixes family fun with thrills in an environment

fueled by neon colors, bright lights and music. Get ready for highenergy with thrilling attractions like “It”, The Great Nor’Easter coaster and AtmosFEAR. Plunge into the sea of life on the newly renovated Zoom Phloom and take a spin on Cygnus X-1.

Mariner’s Landing Pier brings your childhood memories back to life with the atmosphere of a traditional seaside amusement park full of classic rides like the Tea Cups, Bumper Cars, Carousel and the Giant Wheel. Swing high in the sky on the brand new Wave Swinger featuring 72 vignettes of art depicting Wildwood’s colorful history creating a spinning art gallery on Mariner’s Landing.

Adventure Pier is the pier that ROCKS, packed with high thrill extreme rides, Morey’s world famous wooden coaster, artBOX and the 3-Point Challenge Basketball Game. Soar through the air over the beach on the SkyCoaster, feel the G-force of the SkyScraper or shoot your way to the moon on the SlingShot. A brand-new stage will feature School of Rock and live entertainment througout the summer. Plus, two radio stations will liven up the pier that ROCKS with a brand new onsite Boardwalk studio. Got game? Visit the allnew World Cup Soccer Challenge and compete like the pros.

MOREY'S PIERS « 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood « (609) 729-3700 « www.moreyspiers.com

PAGE 156 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Activities

MOREY’S PIERS

Rated one of the world’s top three seaside amusement parks, with two water parks, three piers, five restaurants, and more than 100 attractions!

Visit Jumbo’s on Mariner’s Landing for seafood, steaks, giant pizzas, a raw bar and more casual fare. Grab a slice at the quick service counter or sit down for a family meal inside or outside on the deck. Joe’s Fish Co., on Surfside Pier, offers savory seafood with an eclectic twist. Joe’s also offers brick oven pizza, wraps and plenty of non-seafood dishes. Enjoy a selection of beer and wine or Joe’s signature margarita.

At Ocean Oasis, get your grub on at the NEW Stubborn Brothers Beach Bar & Grille with lively libations and a mouthwatering menu. Inside Raging Waters Water Park, Wrecker’s Beach Grill offers lunch and snack items including cheesesteaks, wraps, burgers, hot dogs and more. Swim up to Trader Sam’s in River Adventure to enjoy a refreshing River Float served right in the river!

Turn breakfast into an adventure aboard Morey’s

Piers 156-foot high Ferris wheel. Breakfast in the Sky is an incredible mix of delicious food and stunning views.

Guests will be whisked away on a dream-like journey, leisurely soaring high above Wildwood on Morey’s Piers Giant Wheel, while indulging in a unique culinary experience complete with fine china, white linen tablecloths, and wheel-side service.

This unique breakfast experience was one of the last famous ideas of Morey’s Piers’ late founder, Will Morey, Sr. Years later, to sentimentally honor their father’s last whimsical wish, the second-generation Morey Brothers, have set the dream in motion — literally! It’s a MUST-DO for anyone visiting the Wildwood Boardwalk.

INSIDER TIP Visit Moreyspiers.com for insider tips, events, the Beachfront Blog and great weekday specials.

For the social savants, be sure to follow Morey’s Piers on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

MOREY'S PIERS « 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood « (609) 729-3700 « www.moreyspiers.com

PAGE 158 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Activities

OCEAN OASIS WATER PARK AND BEACH CLUB

From the tranquil Lazy River and live music, to the gravity defying Cliff Dive Slide, Ocean Oasis has fun for the entire family

WHERE IS IT? Just past the scent of Curley’s Fries and the sky high AtmosFEAR on Morey’s Surfside Pier at 25th Street. Listen for the sounds of tropical music and the splashes of water.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Ocean Oasis Water Park and Beach Club moves to the beat of its own tropical rhythm. Private cabanas commune around a fire pit forming an atmosphere of tranquility set apart from the most exciting collection of waterslides and play areas at the Jersey Shore.

Calling all thrill-seekers! Take the plunge on the thrilling Cliff Dive slide and drop five stories in three seconds! Go head to head in a race to the finish line with your family on the newest slide, six-lane WipeOut! Surfs up at Bonsai Beach where kids and parents can enjoy the interactive play area complete with water jets, climbing ropes and slides especially for the little ones.

Getting tired? Lie back and enjoy live music as you float through

the Lazy River or indulge in a cocktail at the swim up bar.

Enjoy top-notch eats and live entertainment at Stubborn Brothers Beach Bar & Grille. The stunning views and relaxed beach bar vibe are complimented by the equally impressive menu. Food & Beverage Manager, Betsy Garr, creates delectable dishes featuring beach-influenced fare with fresh vegetables and local ingredients. Stubborn Brothers’ signature dishes include the Key West Crab Cake Sandwich, fried green tomatoes with a chili aioli and a Mediterranean shrimp wrap. The beach bar offers over 10 specialty cocktails featuring tropical ingredients and fresh fruit in original combinations.

INSIDER TIP Visit moreyspiers.com for insider tips, events, the Beachfront Blog and great specials. For the social savants, be sure to follow Morey’s Piers on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

OCEAN OASIS WATER PARK AND BEACH CLUB « 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood « (609) 729-3700 « www.moreyspiers.com

PAGE 160 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Activities

RAGING WATERS WATER PARK

Plunge the Shotgun Falls, drift through the Sky Pond, or spend the day with the kids at Shipwreck Shoals. This wet-and-wild experience should not be missed.

WHERE IS IT? Just beyond the Giant Ferris Wheel on Morey’s Mariner’s Landing Pier at Schellenger Avenue.

If you’ve hit the beach, you’ve gone too far.

WHY SHOULD I GO? Raging Waters Water Park will make your heart race with wet and wild adventure!

Like a shipwreck at the mouth of a mighty river the park is packed with treasures for the whole family to uncover whether it’s private cabanas, the float-up snack bar serving root beer floats while you float in the new River Adventure and experience the twists and turns while embarking on this endless expedition of family fun! Up for a challenge? Take the whole family over to the activity pool and try out all of the family friendly obstacles. Plummet over Shotgun Falls, drift through the Wildwood skyline on the Sky Pond Journey and discover all of the unique water attractions.

RAGING WATERS WATER PARK « 3501 Boardwalk, Wildwood « (609) 729-3700 « www.moreyspiers.com

Raging Waters offers two unique kiddie play areas.

Discover the water canons at Shipwreck Shoals or play boys against girls at Camp KidTastrophe. The three level activity area boasts fun for the whole family with cargo nets, climbing ropes, water guns, water sprays and slides in these interactive children’s play areas.

Whether you’re in Raging Waters Water Park or hanging out at the beach grab lunch at Wrecker’s Beach Grill and eat under the umbrella-covered tables on the outdoor patio overlooking the beach. The menu is packed with classic summertime favorites to satisfy all of your cravings. Fill up on cheesesteaks, wraps, salads, personal pizzas and more!

INSIDER TIP Visit moreyspiers.com for insider tips, events, the Beachfront Blog and great specials. For the social savants, be sure to follow Morey’s Piers on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram.

PAGE 162 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Activities

ATLANTIC PARASAIL

There’s no better way to enjoy Cape May than floating 500 feet in the air above it. It’s extremely invigorating!

WHERE IS IT? Located on the south end of Wildwood Crest. Take Pacific Avenue south through the Crest, go a half mile past The Two Mile Crab House and look for the yellow building on the right. It’s about a quarter mile before the toll bridge.There is plenty of free parking!

WHY SHOULD I GO? This is the ORIGINAL parasail company in New Jersey, celebrating its 26th year in operation. The company operates brand-new 35-feet (largest in the world) parasail boats, certified by the USCG for your safety and comfort. The professional captain and flight technician handle everything — you don’t need to have any previous parasailing experience. Parasailing is a water sport that is FUN, SAFE, and can be enjoyed by the whole family. Anyone aged 5-95 can fly, in tandem or triple, depending on the combined weight of the parasailors and weather conditions.

The season runs from May 15 through September. During summer months, it’s open daily, 8am to sunset, weather permitting. Trips depart 8am, 9:30am, 11am, 12:30pm, 2pm, 3:30pm and 5pm. Each excursion lasts approximately 90 minutes and can take 12 parasailors. Atlantic offers a Photo Package, using a digital camera to capture your memories.

INSIDER TIP Now available! Book online at www.atlanticparasail.com, enter promo code COOLWW6, and receive $6 off each parasailor. Reservations are required so if you do not want to book online please call them a few days in advance at 609522-1869, they accept Visa and Mastercard to hold a reservation.

ATLANTIC PARASAIL

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Cape May Inlet Marina, 1001 Ocean Drive, Wildwood Crest

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(609) 522-1869

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www.atlanticparasail.com

Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Activities PAGE 163

NAVAL AIR STATION WILDWOOD

When education and pure fun combine, special things happen. Welcome to one of those special places!

WHERE IS IT? Take Rio Grande Boulevard out of Wildwood to Route 9 South and turn left onto Route 9. Take Route 9 South to Breakwater Road and make a right. The airport is 1/2 mile on your right. Look for all the planes about a quarter-mile on your right and follow signs to museum.

WHY SHOULD I GO? History! And airplanes. How can you need more reason than that? The Cape May County Airport is built on what used to be a naval air base during the Second World War, a place where brave young men trained to fly the “quirky” SB2C Helldiver. And by “quirky” we mean, in the words of one pilot, “the worst airplane ever built.”

Only the bravest or most reckless of pilots flew the Helldiver — and they lived, trained and worked right here. Surrounded by undeveloped wetlands, they disturbed few while dive-bombing over sparkling rivers and farm fields (before heading off to the South

NAS WILDWOOD AVIATION MUSEUM

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500 Forrestal Road, Cape May County Airport

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(609) 886-8787

Pacific, where the Helldiver sank more enemy ships than any other plane in the war).

Their presence is still felt, more than 70 years later, because the Aviation Museum is still exactly the way they left it. But, oh, the difference 70 years has made in aviation! And you can see that difference made clear as you get up close and personal with the F-14 Tomcat, F-16 Fighting Falcon, the UH-1 Huey, the T-33 Thunderbird, and a Coast Guard rescue helicopter you can actually sit in.

INSIDER TIP The museum has interactive exhibits, videos and even original posters from the era. A blast for vets, their grandkids, and history buffs of all ages, the museum is always growing. Good to know: Naval Air Station Wildwood was recently added to the National Register of Historic Places, so look for even more exciting things to happen here in the future!

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www.usnasw.org

PAGE 164 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Activities

THUNDER CAT DOLPHIN WATCH SPEEDBOAT The only way to sea life!

WHERE IS IT? Just 10 minutes from downtown Wildwood, they are located at the very south end of Wildwood Crest. Take Pacific Avenue from anywhere and head south into Wildwood Crest.

The road will turn into Ocean Drive. Continue past the “Crest Tavern” and then pass the Two Mile Landing Crab House, both on your right. Travel 1/4 mile further and they are on the right. Look for the Yellow building but DO NOT go over the Toll bridge into Cape May. There is plenty of free parking & bathrooms. If needed, please call for directions, GPS may not work.

WHY SHOULD I GO? If you are seeking a sun filled, breeze blowing through your hair, flying on the ocean kind of day, then jump aboard the Thunder Cat Dolphin Watch Speedboat. They offer the most up close and personal tour anywhere at the Jersey Shore. Cruise along the beaches of Wildwood and Cape May experiencing sea life at its best! Enjoy the thrill of seeking out those irresistible Atlantic bottle-nosed dolphins. With only 49 seats available reservations are strongly advised. Located just a few hundred yards from the Cape May Inlet, you can maximize your time with the dolphins and create an unforgettable fun family vacation thrill ride.

ANYTHING ELSE I SHOULD KNOW? Open from mid-May through mid-September. Your 90-minute excursion departs at 9am, 11am, 1pm, 3pm — and 5pm when needed. Reservations are recommended — book at Thundercatdolphinwatch.com. Save $5 each person when you book online!

Promo code: WWB5OFF. All major credit cards accepted. Space is limited so please call ahead.

Be sure to bring your cameras to capture the moments. Thunder Cat also offers cold refreshments and snacks. And no, you will not get wet!

THUNDER CAT DOLPHIN WATCH

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Cape May Inlet Marina, 1001 Ocean Drive, Wildwood Crest

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(609) 523-2628

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www.thundercatdolphinwatch.com

Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Activities PAGE 165

JERSEY SHORE ADVENTURES

NATURE CENTER OF CAPE MAY

WHERE IS IT? Jersey Shore Adventures is a stand-up paddleboard company, offering rentals, lessons, tours, yoga and fitness classes in stand-up paddleboarding (or SUP).

WHY SHOULD I GO? Stand-up paddleboard is one of those things that happens to be good fun AND good for you. Whether you’re in it for an off-the-beaten path shore vacation activity, or as a way to keep fit, you cannot discount the fun factor of stand-up paddleboarding. Plus, if you fall (okay, when you fall), it’s just a kerplunk into the water – which is way easier than hitting the ground like you might with other activities.

The Jersey Shore Adventure team is fully certified by the World Standup Paddleboard Association, and they have a roster of activities to fit any schedule, fitness level and budget. Whether you’re looking for some scenic sunset paddling, or want to kick things up a notch to a crossfit-type workout on a board with their SUP Fit classes, Jersey Shore has got you covered. Are you into yoga? Just add water – and increase both the Zen factor AND the intensity of your session. Follow them on Facebook, and check their website often for rates, class schedules, and events.

WHERE IS IT? On Delaware Avenue in Cape May, near the US Coast Guard base.

Stand Up Paddle Board Lessons, Tours, Yoga & Fitness

10th Street and the Bay, North Wildwood « (609) 780-7194 « www.jerseyshoreadventures.com

Explore all the amazing things around the cape... this is a children’s wonderland!

WHY SHOULD I GO? The Nature Center offers adult, family and children’s programs, from guided kayaking trips, cycling tours, family hikes, private garden tours, beginner birding field trips and wildlife-friendly gardening programs.

Summertime brings children’s day camps, Monday through Friday throughout July and August, for preschool through ninth grades. It’s designed with summer visitors in mind — campers may attend just one day or all summer.

The Nature Center’s day doesn’t end with the setting sun. Join them for evening family programs, including full moon kayak tours, evening campfires and moonlight beach strolls in search of bats, ghost crabs and other nocturnal creatures.

Fall is the time to enjoy the change of seasons and the panoramic view from the welcome center’s three-story observation tower. It’s also the perfect time to join migrating Monarchs for a tour of the wildlife meadows and gardens.

1600 Delaware Avenue, Cape May

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(609) 898-8848

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www.njaudubon.org/centers/nccm

Real Estate

PAGE 168 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Real Estate

COASTLINE REALTY

Family-owned and operated full service real estate office with expert local knowledge and award-winning realtors

ABOUT THE COMPANY Coastline Realty specializes in waterfront and luxury properties along the Cape May County coastline. Carol Menz, GRI, SRES, CRS, SFR, ABR is the broker/owner of Coastline Realty, an independent, family-owned and operated office that’s been in business for 40 years. Coastline Realty is a full-service real estate agency. Their agents can show you any home in the Cape May County Multiple Listing Service. Looking to relocate or sell your home and would like one of their agents to help you through the process? Ask one of their agents to prepare for you a package of homes listed and sold in your desired neighborhood.

The Menz family roots run deep in the Wildwoods. Greatgrandpop Al Menz Sr moved to Wildwood in the early 1900s starting many businesses with his two sons, Bob and Al Jr, over the years — the first of which was freight and produce delivery from Philadelphia to Wildwood. Carol, Duck and Ami Menz own and operate Coastline Realty. Their agents are well-versed in the area as most have lived or worked in the Wildwoods over the years and continue to list and sell real estate there.

COASTLINE REALTY

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Coastline Realty offers many vacation rentals in the area for the summer season, as well as in the off-season. Do you need a home large enough for a wedding group or family reunion? They have plenty to choose from. Select from their many vacation properties.

Availability goes fast. Call today or visit their website!

Why should you call Coastline?

• Because being one of the top offices in the area is hard work and they work hard for you.

• Selling or buying a home is a complex process and Coastline agents are your full-service experts. Honesty, integrity and trustworthiness are the building blocks of their reputation.

• They know the Cape May County area — the best restaurants, nightlife, boating, and best places to visit, all year-round.

• They are knowledgeable in the Wildwoods, Diamond Beach, Cape May, Cape May Point, West Cape May, Lower and Middle Township areas, historic preservation, construction, investment properties, hotels, B&Bs, interior design. They know who’s who — the plumbers, electricians, handymen, and so on.

1400 Texas Avenue, Cape May

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(609) 884-5005

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• They are savvy negotiators with your best interest at heart and have real estate skills that are surpassed by none.

• Their experienced team of realtors know the inventory of available properties and will help find your dream home. Be assured Coastline will manage your entire transaction from marketing to SOLD! • They have been a Cape May County Chamber of Commerce member for 40 years and have experience marketing, selling and renting properties in every price range in the county.

• Friends and family have no concerns when they give out Coastline’s name and number. It is smooth sailing at Coastline Realty. They want to be your friends for life, not just during your real estate experience. Call and chat today.

Ask about designations and awards held by agents at Coastline Realty: Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR); Certified Residential Specialist (CRS); Graduate Realtor Institute (GRI); Short Sale and Foreclosure Resource (SFR); Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES) and more.

www.coastlinerealty.com

PAGE 170 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Real Estate

HOFFMAN AGENCY

A full-service agency with nearly 70 years in the business, the Hoffman Agency is your Wildwood real estate specialist

ABOUT THE COMPANY Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest commitments you will ever make, and the team at the Hoffman Agency is all about commitment. Take a moment to consider the constant flux of the real estate market – even in just the past decade or so. Then consider that the Hoffman Agency has been in business since 1945 – that’s nearly 70 years. That is commitment, the kind of commitment that pays off for their clients, whether they’re buyers, sellers, or renters.

The Hoffman Agency team of over a dozen agents – including one dedicated solely to rentals – covers every inch of the Wildwoods. If you’re looking for that perfect summer rental, you can rest assured that the experienced agents at Hoffman will not only work for you but with you, establishing just what constitutes the right place for you – whether it’s your first visit to the

Wildwoods or you are a faithful returning vacationer. The agents who work here also live here, and they know that while the miles of clean, free beaches are the draw, there’s so much more that Wildwood offers – to visitors and residents alike. Their website offers information on activities year-round, as well as other links to events and areas of local interest.

And if you decide to make a piece of the Wildwoods your permanent place in the sun, the Hoffman Agency team is committed (there’s that word again) to guiding you through the process. There are fewer businesses that rely more on word-of-mouth than real estate, where recommendations from satisfied clients are what keeps the wheels turning. Nearly 70 years in business means the Hoffman Agency is most definitely doing something right. “We work together as a team,” Broker

Carole Pantalone told us. “And we are so thankful for our loyal clients. Our business since the beginning has been one of close relationships, and we’re so fortunate to have been able to share so many positive real estate experiences with our clients. We strive to be their ‘go to’ real estate experts.” Carole also added that the Hoffman Agency is a proud supporter of the Wounded Warrior Project, a veterans service organization that offers a variety of programs, service and events for wounded veterans of the military actions following the events of September 11, 2001.

Visit the Hoffman Agency’s comprehensive website to browse their large and varied inventory of sales listings – you can check rentals out there, too. Or give them a call, stop by the office yearround, or follow them on Facebook and Twitter for up-to-theminute information on listings.

HOFFMAN AGENCY « 6301 Pacific Avenue, Wildwood Crest « (609) 522-8177 « www.hoffmanagencies.com

PAGE 172 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Real Estate

LONG & FOSTER REAL ESTATE - WILDWOODS

Specializing in helping buyers and sellers throughout the beautiful Wildwoods, their team of experienced and devoted realtors can turn your dreams into reality

ABOUT THE COMPANY Long & Foster Real Estate in Wildwood Crest - formerly Cabrera Realty - serves visitors to the Wildwoods and Diamond Beach, along with local buyers and sellers, offering the services of both a dynamic sales team and a dedicated rental department.

Vacations are your special time to get away from it all. But too often, they are few and far between. That’s why you want to make sure your vacation is the best it can be – by relying on the experience and expertise of the staff at Long & Foster. The rental department staff oversees the vacation reservations year-round, which is no small feat when you consider that they have over 200 rental properties here in the Wildwoods. Whether it’s an efficient no-fuss one-bedroom condo for two, or an extravagant five-bedroom home for an extended family that you’re seeking, the vacation property inventory at Long & Foster is as diverse as its clientele. And the staff is committed to finding the right home

away from home for your rental needs. Are you looking to rent here in the Wildwoods for an extended period of time? Long & Foster’s team has you covered and has plenty of year-round rental inventory for you to choose from. Visit their rental website at LFVacations.com for more information The sales agents at Long & Foster are residents of the area, and they pride themselves on being uniquely qualified to serve as informed resources in the current complex real estate market.

With a wealth of experience and a breadth of certifications, Long & Foster sales agents are experts in connecting the right sellers and buyers to their primary homes or secondary vacation home. From purchase to financing to connecting with utilities to remodeling and beyond, they’re here to help. They’re also here for you for the entire life of your home, so you can enjoy living - at home. And don’t forget about their extensive property management program, available year round, that will give you that

priceless peace of mind knowing that your vacation property is well looked after.

From the personalized attention you’ll receive from every agent, to the front desk staff who answer your initial phone call, each and every Long & Foster team member brings dedication to customer service to the table. And speaking of answering calls – that’s not the only way to stay in touch here: follow them on Facebook and Twitter, connect on LinkedIn, keep up with their blog post, or simply get on their email list. When the perfect rental or sales property comes on the market, you’ll be the first to know.

INSIDER TIP: Long & Foster has invested in an exclusive mobile app called Glad To Have You, which connects their guests to not only all the details of their particular rental property, it also provides tons of information, GPS, maps and the skinny on local events, restaurants, shopping, weather – you name it.

LONG & FOSTER REAL ESTATE - WILDWOODS « 6201 New Jersey Ave, Wildwood Crest « (609) 729-8840 « www.longandfoster.com/wildwoods

PAGE 174 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Real Estate

SEAPOINTE VILLAGE REALTY

Located on prestigious Diamond Beach, this full service agency prides themselves on delivering the most professional service in a most personalized matter

ABOUT SEAPOINTE VILLAGE Seapointe Village is a master planned private community, comprised of townhouses, condominiums, and single family homes, and is set on 17 privatelyowned oceanfront acres in the lovely Diamond Beach section of Wildwood Crest. As if that’s not enough to tempt you, Seapointe Village has all the perks of a luxury resort, paired with the benefits of ownership opportunities. Swimming pool?

Seapointe Village has four freeform pools – with hot tubs, naturally – including a new indoor/outdoor heated pool with wet deck area that is open year-round. Want a tennis court? They have two – basketball courts, too. Health and fitness room, video game room, playground and Kid’s Central for the kids, gas fire pit

and gazebo, steam bath, sauna, and four – count ‘em – four gas barbecue grilling area for you and your family and friends. Grab a bite at the Seapointe Beach Grill, or rent your boogie boards, beach umbrellas and chairs from the Beach Hut. There’s a retail Guest Shop to pick up any crucial vacation must-haves you may have forgotten, and Guest Services personnel to suggest leisure activities or make local dining recommendations. Are you getting the picture? Whether you’re renting or buying through Seapointe Village Realty, you simply have to park the car and forget about it.

If all of this sounds too good to be true, let broker/owner Jim Morey and his Seapointe Village Realty team show you that it’s not. Whether you are looking for a week-long vacation or a

seashore family residence, Seapointe Village Realty can help you navigate the ins and outs of acquiring your own piece of paradise.

Seapointe Village Realty will provide the personalized attention you’re looking for. Scroll through rental and sales listings on their user-friendly website, follow them on Facebook and Twitter, or simply make an appointment to see what Seapointe Village has to offer. Why not today?

INSIDER TIP: When you want to rent or buy into the little slice of heaven that you’ve found in the Wildwoods – why not have a fully-licensed team of NJ Licensed Real Estate Brokers and agents to help you make that dream a reality?

SEAPOINTE VILLAGE REALTY « 9900 Seapointe Boulevard, Wildwood Crest « (609) 729-7100 « www.seapointerealty.com

Caption to come Photograph by Judy Momorella

PAGE 180 Welcome to THE WILDWOODS Food & Drink

Welcome to the Wildwoods Where to Eat, Shop & Play in America’s Favorite Family Resort

¯Here is the essential new guide book that

¯Over and above that, we deliver information on

delivers the lowdown on America’s Favorite Family

attractions that are just a few miles from these

Resort, brought to you by the publishers of Exit

towns, whether it’s the old-world charm of Historic

Zero magazine, just over the bridge in Cape May.

Cold Spring Village, the excitement of Naval Air

We believe that the Wildwoods and Cape May

Station Wildwood at Cape May County Airport, or

together offer an irresistible slice of Americana.

Cape May County Park and Zoo, recognized as one

¯On one hand you have the proudly tacky,

of America’s best.

kaleidoscopic, neon-flooded, high-energy vibe of

¯If you are looking at this book in the room of

the Wildwoods; on the other hand you have Cool

a motel, hotel, B&B or inn, please DON’T take it

Cape May, a magical city where you go to kick

with you — leave it for the next guest. Buy your

back, enjoy superb food, a vibrant arts scene, and

own copy — it’s a bargain at just $15! The book is

its world-famous Victoriana. As a one-two punch,

for sale at The Morey Store on Mariner’s Landing;

the combination of the Wildwoods and Cool Cape

at the Exit Zero Store at artBOX on Adventure

May is as good as it gets when it comes to the

Pier; or online at www.ezstore.us/publications.

classic American vacation.

¯Enjoy the book. Enjoy your vacation!

AN EXIT ZERO PUBLICATION