Discovering the Jersey Shore: The Best Route from Burlington City to Cape May

If you're dreaming of sandy beaches, sunny weather, and a relaxed atmosphere, the Jersey Shore should be on your list. And there's no better place to enjoy it than Cape May, a charming and historic town with Victorian architecture, boutique shops, and seafood restaurants. But how do you get there from Burlington City, NJ? Here are some options, with driving times and recommendations for stops along the way.

Route 1: The Garden State Parkway

If you want to take the fastest and most direct route, the Garden State Parkway is your best bet. From Burlington City, you can take the 130 South to exit 1B, which leads to the Parkway. The distance is about 100 miles, and the driving time is around 2 hours, depending on traffic. You'll follow the Parkway all the way to Cape May, where you can exit at Exit 0 and follow signs to the town center.

Along the way, you can stop at the Atlantic City Expressway service area for a quick break and some snacks. Or, if you have more time, consider a detour to the Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge, a beautiful natural area with hiking trails and bird watching opportunities.

Route 2: The Delaware Bayshore Scenic Byway

If you prefer a more scenic and leisurely route, consider taking the Delaware Bayshore Scenic Byway. From Burlington City, take the 130 South to the 49 East, which will lead you across the Delaware River to Fort Mott State Park. From there, follow signs for the Bayshore Byway, which runs along the Delaware Bay coast.

The distance is about 120 miles, and the driving time is around 3 hours, depending on stops and traffic. Along the way, you'll pass through quaint towns like Greenwich and Bivalve, and have the chance to see historic lighthouses, wetlands, and fishing villages. Stop at the Cape May Ferry Terminal in Lewes, DE for a scenic ferry ride to Cape May.

Route 3: The Pinelands Scenic Byway

For a peaceful and scenic drive through a unique natural area, take the Pinelands Scenic Byway. From Burlington City, take the 130 South to the 70 East, which leads to the Pinelands Byway entrance in Whiting. The distance is about 90 miles, and the driving time is around 2 hours.

The Pinelands are a vast wilderness area with pine forests, sand dunes, and freshwater streams. You can take a side trip to the town of Tuckerton and visit the Tuckerton Seaport Museum, or stop at the Batsto Village, a preserved 19th-century ironworks town. From the Byway, you can take Route 9 South to reach Cape May.

Final thoughts

No matter which route you choose, driving from Burlington City to Cape May is a great way to experience the diverse landscapes and attractions of southern New Jersey. Remember to plan for traffic and possible detours, and take breaks along the way to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery. Once you arrive in Cape May, explore the town's beaches, shops, and landmarks, and don't forget to sample the local seafood!