A Night on the Veranda at Congress Hall in Cape May

Nestled within the historic Congress Hall in Cape May, the Veranda Bar offers a charming and sophisticated setting for a delightful experience. Whether you're a local or just visiting, the Veranda Bar promises an unforgettable evening with its scenic views, refreshing cocktails, and delectable bites. Read along to see why Veranda Bar is my go-to spot in Cape May.

First off, if you know me, you know that the first thing I ordered was Prosecco. And let me tell you, this one was absolutely divine – so much so that I did something I rarely do: I ordered a second glass! The bubbles were perfect, and the flavor was just right, making it a true treat.

Next up was the cured farm meats and cheese board. This was an absolute delight, featuring locally sourced meats and cheeses that were bursting with flavor. The board also included seasonal jams and artisan crackers, which perfectly complemented the meats and cheeses. The presentation was impressive, with the board loaded full of goodies. And the best part? The staff were incredibly accommodating, happily providing extra crackers and jams when I asked.

Adding to the enchanting atmosphere was the light guitar string music wafting from the lawn. The gentle strumming provided the perfect background melody, enhancing the relaxing and sophisticated ambiance. It was so soothing, and it made our evening feel like a scene from a movie. The music truly tied the whole experience together, making it even more memorable.

I can't recommend the Veranda Bar at Congress Hall enough. Check out my video review of the experience I had here – I think you'll see just how special this place is!

The Cape May Zoo is the ultimate family destination down the shore. It is free fun for all.

The Cape May County Zoo was created in 1978 within the Cape May County Park.

At the opening of the zoo, the animals consisted of an African lion, primates (spider monkeys), various barnyard animals, and New Jersey wildlife animals.

In the early 1980s, the zoo gradually incorporated into its displays more exotic animals, such as black bears, bison, antelope, primates, and birds.

Beginning in 1986, a Cape May Zoo renaissance began. Donations were solicited and there was a major reconstruction. Some of the projects that were completed consisted of a complete perimeter fence, a new lion exhibit, a Bengal tiger exhibit, a cougar exhibit, a giraffe and camel exhibit, a reptile house, and the construction of a medical building and diet preparation building.

Throughout the 1990s, renovations and new exhibits continued, with the construction of an African Savannah, which consisted of 57 acres that display giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and ostriches. Reconstruction of a reptile house replaced the original reptile house that was destroyed by fire in 1998, and a "World of Birds" walk-through Aviary was constructed.

From the zoo's beginning in 1978, the animal population was around 70 animals and today the zoo consists of 550 animals representing 250 species.

Planning on visiting the Zoo? This information will help you plan your trip.

Admission
The Zoo is FREE.
Donations help to keep them FREE!

Parking
Parking for cars is FREE.
Full-size buses are $80.
Short school buses are $40.

Zoo Hours
The current Zoo hours are:
10:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
7 days a week - They are open every day!
(Except for Christmas)

A wallaby is more than just a small kangaroo! Both kangaroos and wallabies are marsupials, meaning they carry their young around in a pouch and are similar enough that scientists have placed them in the same order, family, and subfamily. Wallabies are much smaller, though. The wallabies are back in their yard at the zoo! After enlarging their yard, installing a new fence, adding dirt and grass seed, and putting in a new hut (complete with a front porch), the wallaby mob has returned from their temporary yard next door.

This loveable species is the world's largest rodent! Endemic to South America, they inhabit forested and savanna areas near fresh water. They are semi-aquatic and have webbed feet to help them get around!  At the Zoo you'll find Budette, Marigold, Buttercup, Capychino, and Goomba. They are all on exhibit daily, so stop by to say hello.

At the Cape May Zoo you can find Fred and his crew, the Galapagos Tortoises! Fred is 500+ lbs. Galapagos tortoises are the largest living species of tortoise and can weigh up to 919 lb. They have lifespans in the wild of over 100 years. Captive Galapagos tortoises can live up to 177 years!

Reticulated Giraffes call the Cape May County Zoo home. The boys rule at the Zoo. Kifeda was born there on November 11, 2017. They also have Jambazi and Beau who buzz around the yard like lively brothers when the weather's nice.

Their African Lions came to the zoo in November of 2014 from Jacksonville NJ. Our Male Lex and female Bella are siblings born in 2011. Their main keeper enjoys working with them and compares them to big dogs. try sticking around to hear them roar!