Architecture

All across New Jersey, visitors can see a wide array of architectural styles and designs that span centuries and reflect our rich cultural heritage.
 
One of the more notable areas of the state is nestled in southern New Jersey. Along with excellent restaurants and accommodations, and with its meticulously restored and maintained period homes, Historic Cape May represents the essence of the Victorian era.
 
One Cape May landmark is Congress Hall. Built in 1816, this beachfront hotel has been updated and now boasts 21st-century luxury in a historic setting, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.
 
Come discover beautiful Cape May with a walking or a trolley tour of the 600 authentically restored Victorian homes or – better yet – spend the night in one of its stately B&Bs.
 
At Cape May State Park, the 1859 Cape May Lighthouse majestically guards the ocean waters. You can climb its 199 steps to the top and take in a spectacular view of sun, sand and surf. With dunes, freshwater coastal marsh and ponds, forested islands and varied uplands, this is also a great location for viewing the fall bird migration.
 
The park features World War II Fire Control Tower 23. It is New Jersey’s last remaining World War II tower and was part of the immense Delaware Bay harbor defense system known as Fort Miles. The tower was recently restored and is now open to the public.
 
Step back into the past when you visit nearby Bridgeton. Home to a historic district, the town features 2,200 Colonial, Victorian and Federalist buildings. 
 
Another historic building and Jersey City's most-visited "destination" site is undoubtedly the Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal. Developed by the Central Railroad of New Jersey in the 1880s, this terminal complex that stretched along the Jersey City waterfront was the site of the first ferry service from the west side of the Hudson River to Manhattan.