World War II Lookout Tower
A restored WWII lookout tower offering historical insights and panoramic views of the Jersey shore and Delaware Bay.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
World War II Lookout Tower
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A restored WWII lookout tower offering historical insights and panoramic views of the Jersey shore and Delaware Bay.
"A well-preserved piece of WWII history with beautiful views, highly recommended!"
🎟️ Combo Ticket Savings
Save money by purchasing a combo ticket with the Cape May Lighthouse!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for the climb to the top and exploring the grounds.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
WWII Lookout Tower Summit
Top of the tower
Panoramic views of the Jersey shore and Delaware Bay, offering a unique perspective on wartime defense.
Interpretive Boardwalk
Base of the tower
Learn about the tower's history and its role in coastal defense through informative panels.
Coastal Defense History
Inside the tower
Discover the stories of researchers and the tower's rapid construction during WWII.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for History Buffs
Bundle Up for the Climb
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Combo Ticket Savings
Save money by purchasing a combo ticket with the Cape May Lighthouse!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for the climb to the top and exploring the grounds.
🗣️ Chat with Staff
Friendly staff share fascinating stories about the tower's history.
📸 Capture the Views
The summit offers stunning views perfect for photography.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Combo Ticket Savings
Save money by purchasing a combo ticket with the Cape May Lighthouse!
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfortable shoes for the climb to the top and exploring the grounds.
🗣️ Chat with Staff
Friendly staff share fascinating stories about the tower's history.
📸 Capture the Views
The summit offers stunning views perfect for photography.
🚶 Explore the Grounds
Even off-hours, the informative signboards around the tower are worth seeing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the World War II Lookout Tower a valuable historical gem in Cape May, offering fascinating insights into wartime defense and impressive coastal views. The friendly staff and well-preserved structure are frequently praised, with many recommending combo tickets for added value. While the climb is easy, some may find the historical context more engaging than the physical structure itself.
"Most people merely think of Cape May as just beaches, but there is so much more of historical value in the area.
The Cape May World War 2 Lookout Tower is one such valuable venue.
As noted, this was one of 15 observation towers built to quell the possibility of foreign troops and submarine incursions and invasions during the early days of World War 2 along the Jersey shore and Delaware Bay, when such events were considered a real likelihood.
The real marvel of this structure is that, despite being rather hastily built (in just weeks), it has withstood the test of time, even with all the hostile weather that this region has endured, for now over 80 years.
That is a true testament to the builders of this edifice.
There is much knowledge that can be learned from a venture inside, but even if your visit to this National Historic Site comes during off hours, or in the off season, it is still worth the time to spend a few minutes walking around the grounds outside, and taking in the sights of the tower itself, and the many informative signboards around the site.
Whether you go inside the tower or not, you will come away with a wealth of knowledge and perspective about the times of this tower"
Burt Shoobs
"On a not so beach day we took the kids to see the Atlantis and the tower, was a nice afternoon spent. They give you deal if you purchase tickets to the lighthouse as well 👍"
Amy Santoriello
"I visited the World War II Lookout Tower in Cape May, NJ, and had a great experience! The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable, adding interesting stories about the tower’s history and its role during the war. If you visit the Cape May Lighthouse, you can get a discount for admission here—definitely a nice bonus!
The views from the top are beautiful, with scenic sights of the beach and surrounding area. The climb is easy, even for someone not used to towers. The tower was reopened in 2009 after being restored, and it’s now a well-preserved piece of WWII history. Highly recommend stopping by if you're exploring Cape May!"
Olha B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The tower is located at 536 Sunset Blvd, Cape May, NJ 08204. It's easily accessible by car and is near Sunset Beach and the SS Atlantus Shipwreck.
Yes, there is typically parking available near the tower, especially if you're visiting during off-peak hours or seasons.
Yes, biking is a great option. Riders often find it easier to bike on the hard-packed sand at low tide or use the path around Gordon's Pond.
Yes, it's part of Cape May's rich historical landscape, often visited alongside the Cape May Lighthouse and the SS Atlantus Shipwreck.
While specific public transport routes might vary, the tower is a popular destination within Cape May, and local shuttles or trolleys might service the area during peak season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets typically range from $5-$10 per person for a tour inside the tower. You can also tour the outside for free.
Yes, you can often get a discount if you purchase tickets for both the World War II Lookout Tower and the Cape May Lighthouse.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or call ahead, especially during the off-season.
The climb to the top involves stairs, but the grounds and interpretive panels are accessible. The staff is known for being helpful.
While not always necessary, booking in advance, especially during peak season or for guided tours, is recommended to secure your spot.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the tower's interior, learn about its history from interpretive panels, and enjoy panoramic views from the summit.
A visit can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how much time you spend exploring the grounds and enjoying the views.
Yes, guided tours are often available and highly recommended, as the staff provides engaging historical insights.
The views are beautiful, offering scenic sights of the beach, the surrounding area, and the Delaware Bay.
While some TikTok videos mention ghost stories in Cape May, the WWII Lookout Tower is primarily known for its historical significance rather than paranormal activity.
📸 📸 Photography
Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds and softer light. Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) can also provide beautiful lighting for the tower and surrounding landscape.
You can capture architectural shots of the tower, panoramic landscape views from the top, and historical details on the interpretive panels.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local ordinances and any specific rules posted at the site before flying a drone.
Experiment with different angles from the beach, the boardwalk, and from the base looking up to capture its imposing structure.
Yes, photography is generally permitted inside the tower, allowing you to capture historical exhibits and the interior architecture.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Pack snacks and water, as exploring the tower and its surroundings can be an enjoyable afternoon activity. The nearby Sunset Beach and SS Atlantus Shipwreck also offer additional points of interest for a full day of exploration.
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
Don't miss the opportunity to ascend to the tower's summit for a unique perspective on the strategic importance of the Delaware Bay. Visiting during off-peak hours or in the shoulder seasons can provide a more immersive experience, allowing ample time to absorb the historical narratives and enjoy the panoramic views.
📸 Photographers
The summit provides breathtaking panoramic shots of the Jersey shore and the Delaware Bay, particularly beautiful during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Consider visiting on a weekday morning to minimize crowds and capture clearer shots. The surrounding coastal landscape also offers opportunities for nature photography. Remember to check for any specific photography guidelines or restrictions before your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into WWII Coastal Defense
Today, the tower has been meticulously restored and serves as a National Historic Site. Visitors can ascend to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views, imagining the vigilance required of those stationed there decades ago. The boardwalk surrounding the base features interpretive panels that delve into the tower's operational history, the lives of the researchers who worked there, and the broader context of coastal defense during the war.
Beyond its historical significance, the tower is also a popular spot for its scenic location. The views from the top encompass the beautiful Jersey shore, the vast expanse of the Delaware Bay, and the charming town of Cape May. This makes it an appealing destination not just for history enthusiasts, but for anyone looking to appreciate the natural beauty of the area from a unique vantage point.
Experiencing the Tower: Tips from Visitors
The climb to the top is described as easy and manageable, even for those not accustomed to heights or strenuous activity. The views from the summit are a major draw, offering sweeping vistas of the coastline and bay. Visitors also appreciate the informative interpretive panels along the boardwalk, which provide rich historical context even if you visit outside of tour hours.
For those looking to capture the essence of the tower, weekday mornings are often recommended to avoid crowds and enjoy optimal lighting for photography. Comfortable footwear is a must for navigating the stairs and grounds.
The tower's restoration in 2009 has ensured it remains a well-preserved piece of history, making it a highly recommended stop for anyone exploring Cape May. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit