The Last Beacon of Summer

Why Labor Day Is the Perfect Time to Escape to The Queen Victoria

As August wanes and the golden haze of summer begins to soften into September’s embrace, there’s a palpable shift in the air. The crowds begin to thin, but the energy remains vibrant. The Atlantic is still warm—and the humidity eases, making beach days more comfortable and evenings ideal for porch swings and strolls. Cape May glows with a kind of late-season magic that’s impossible to replicate. If you’ve been dreaming of a getaway but haven’t yet made it happen, Labor Day weekend is your last, best chance to seize summer by the hand—and there’s no better place to do it than The Queen Victoria.

A lovingly restored collection of Victorian homes in the heart of Cape May’s historic district, offers a front-row seat to this seasonal transition. As summer draws to a close this enchanted place is calling your name.

Labor Day Weekend Is Cape May’s Sweet Spot

More than just a long weekend—Labor Day is the curtain call of summer. The oppressive heat of July has mellowed into something softer, more romantic, with water temperatures lingering in the comfortable 70s, perfect for a dip without the peak-season crowds. Cape May slows just enough to savor every moment in America’s oldest seaside resort. At The Queen Victoria, you’ll find yourself wrapped in Victorian elegance, with all the modern comforts you crave. This beloved inn offers 31 uniquely decorated rooms and suites. Each space tells its own story, from antique furnishings and plush bedding to thoughtful touches like gas fireplaces or whirlpool tubs that make you feel like royalty. Start your day with a generous buffet-style breakfast featuring fresh fruits, homemade scones, eggs, and specialties like quiche or French toast, served in a sunlit dining area or on one of the picturesque porches. Location adds to the allure: Just one block from the pristine beach and steps from boutique shops, gourmet restaurants, and the vibrant Washington Street Mall in Cape May’s historic district. Late summer here is exhilarating, with fewer visitors allowing for intimate experiences like securing a prime spot at a beachside café or exploring without reservations.

The weekend bursts with events that celebrate the season’s end, such as the West Cape May Tomato Festival on August 30, a quirky tradition featuring tomato-themed contests, local vendors, and farm-fresh produce.

Aviation enthusiasts can thrill to the NAS Wildwood Aviation Museum’s AirFest from August 28 to 31, with air shows and WWII history exhibits.

Music fills the air at spots like Peter Shields Inn with live piano performances, while guided nature walks at the Cape May National Wildlife Refuge offer chances to spot migrating birds.

For fun in the sand, join the Labor Day Sandcastle Building Contest on August 30, or unwind with beach yoga sessions.

These festivities create a joyful send-off to summer, blending relaxation with adventure.

Don’t Let the Moment Slip Away

We get it—life is busy. But sometimes, the best decisions are the spontaneous ones. A quick weekend escape to Cape May can recharge your spirit in ways a staycation never could. Imagine waking up in a beautifully restored Victorian home, the scent of fresh-baked muffins wafting through the halls, and the promise of a carefree day ahead. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of the Prince Albert Hall or the cozy intimacy of the House of Royals, there’s a perfect nook waiting for you at The Queen Victoria, voted the best B&B in Cape May every year since 2007.

DontddDon’t miss that porch swing sunset or the last beach bonfire of the season. Booking now ensures you won’t be left watching the season end from afar. Head to queenvictoria.com to secure your spot; packages often include perks like complimentary bikes for exploring or discounts on local tours. The window on summer’s golden days is closing, so embrace it before it’s gone.

If You Miss the Summer, Fall Is Calling.

Let’s say life gets in the way and you can’t make it down for Labor Day, Cape May doesn’t close its doors when the beach umbrellas fold. In fact, fall brings its own kind of enchantment to The Queen Victoria. As the air turns crisp, and the town takes on a quieter beauty. It’s the perfect time to explore tree-lined streets, wine tastings at local vineyards, or go biking along the scenic promenade at Cape May Point State Park. The Queen Victoria transforms into a haven of warmth, with seasonal touches that make every stay feel like a holiday. Events keep the energy alive, like the Harvest Brew Festival on September 13, celebrating craft beers, local artisans, and music at the Emlen Physick Estate.

The New Jersey State Fireman’s Convention on September 12-13 in nearby Wildwood adds excitement with parades and exhibits.

October brings the Cape May Fall Festival from the 16th to 19th, focused on birding with field trips and programs.

November’s Autumn Exit Zero Jazz Festival from the 6th to 9th fills the air with world-class music.

Fewer visitors mean more personalized service, and rates often dip, making it an affordable luxury. And winter here is magical too. Cape May’s Victorian architecture becomes even more charming when dusted with snow, and The Queen Victoria glows with festive cheer. Bundle up for trolley tours of decorated homes or ghost tours that add a thrilling chill. Holiday events abound, from Christmas markets and parades.

Plan Now, Savor Later

Whether you’re booking a last-minute Labor Day escape or planting the seed for a fall retreat, now is the time to act. The Queen Victoria offers year-round beauty, but each season brings its own unique flavor—summer vibrant and alive, fall rich and reflective, winter cozy and nostalgic. Many guests return season after season, discovering new joys each time. From the beach to the fireplace, it’s a place that welcomes you back with open arms.

A Few Insider Tips for Your Stay

To make the most of your visit, book early—especially for holiday weekends, as rooms go quickly. Pack layers, since even in late summer, Cape May evenings can cool down, perfect for a light sweater and a glass of wine on the porch. Explore local events; the innkeepers are experts and can recommend everything from concerts to festivals. And leave room for spontaneity—some of the best moments happen when you wander, whether stumbling upon a hidden garden or chatting with a local artist. Cape May rewards curiosity.

Final Thoughts

The end of summer is bittersweet—but it doesn’t have to be a goodbye. It can be a beginning: of new traditions, spontaneous escapes, and rediscovering the joy of slowing down. The Queen Victoria is more than a destination—it’s a feeling that lingers long after you’ve packed your bags and headed home. So whether you’re chasing the last rays of summer or dreaming of a fireside winter retreat, Cape May is waiting. And The Queen Victoria is ready to welcome you. Don’t let the season end without a story worth telling. Book your stay at queenvictoria.com, and let the magic begin.