Published on July 25, 2026
CAPE MAY - FIRST AND ONLY
Carroll Gallery
May 1, 2026 - November 2, 2026
The year 2026 marks not only the 250th anniversary of our nation’s founding with the signing of the Declaration of Independence, it marks two significant anniversaries for the City of Cape May: the 175th anniversary of its incorporation as a city, and the 50th anniversary of its designation as a National Historic Landmark. Cape May, the first and only, hails its unique place in 2026 as “America’s First Seaside Resort” and the nation’s only National Historic Landmark City. As the nation commemorates its founding, Cape May proudly reflects on its own journey, honoring its heritage while embracing a future built on the strength of community, culture, and timeless charm. Cape May MAC partners with the City of Cape May to mount this once-in-a lifetime exhibit dedicated to celebrating these two remarkable and important Cape May anniversaries. Free admission.
REVOLUTIONARY CAPE MAY
Welcome Center
November 2025 - December 31, 2026
While Cape May, N.J. was remote and distant from the American Revolutionary War on land, it occupied a strategic location at the tip of the Cape. It was home to skilled pilots who knew the shoals of the ocean and bay, was already well involved in shipping trade, offered safe anchorage for ships on their way to and from Philadelphia, was already becoming known as a seashore resort, popular with Philadelphians, and could serve as a lookout on the activities of the British Navy, serving as Philadelphia’s early warning system. Learn about Cape May’s little-known naval role in the American War of Independence and the ingenuity of its citizens in battle on local waterways fighting to forge a new nation. Free admission.
For hours and more information: Carroll Gallery | Cape May MAC
