Hidden Cape May

Seasonal Themes

In Cape May, fall transforms the coast into a monarch butterfly haven and offers thrilling views of hawks and eagles hunting overhead. Both seasons deliver unforgettable wildlife experiences.

Experience the magic of migration during fall in Cape May! Migratory animals with wings such as birds, insects, and bats are bottlenecked in Cape May as they navigate south each fall. We will begin at the iconic Cape May Hawkwatch, a research site operated by the Cape May Bird Observatory since 1976. Here, we will witness a variety of raptors as they soar past the scenic overlook and will hear from researchers about current trends in raptor populations. Next, we will shift gears to a smaller migratory creature…the monarch butterfly. We will visit the Nature Center of Cape May for a short walk through their pollinator garden which contains the favorite native plants of monarchs. Then, we will watch a monarch be tagged and released as we wish it farewell on its trip to Mexico.

Venture out with the Nature Center of Cape May to explore our town’s hidden trailways and natural phenomena.

Hidden Cape May: Natural Wonders

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Call: (888) 944-1816

About Your Host

The Nature Center of Cape May

The Nature Center of Cape May was founded in 1992, with the twin goals of creating a responsible stewardship program for open space surrounding Cape May Harbor and providing environmental education for people of all ages. The Center’s focus on “hands-on” activities reflects a philosophy of personal responsibility for education.

Adopted by the New Jersey Audubon in 1995, the Nature Center of Cape May is a staffed nature center and open to the public. The environmental education campus, located on the shores of beautiful Cape May Harbor in Cape May, includes the Trucksess Welcome Center, a three-story observation tower, indoor observation lounge, three classrooms, exhibit aquaria, a small gift shop, and multiple themed display gardens. The harbor and adjacent area provide natural classrooms that are used in the center’s programs. In addition, the nature center is close to a diversity of habitats, which are easily incorporated into its programs.

To learn more about the Nature Center of Cape May, visit NJAudubon.org.