World War II Lookout Tower: A Sentinel of the Coast

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Step back in time at New Jersey's last restorable WWII lookout tower, offering panoramic coastal views and a glimpse into America's wartime defense.

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World War II Lookout Tower

The World War II Lookout Tower in Cape May, NJ, stands as a reminder of the area's crucial role in coastal defense during World War II. Built in 1942, this tower was part of the Fort Miles defense system, serving as an observation point for enemy vessels. Today, visitors can explore its history and enjoy panoramic views of the coastline.

A brief summary to World War II Lookout Tower

536 Sunset Blvd, Cape May, New Jersey, 08204, US
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Monday 12 pm-3 pm
Saturday 12 pm-3 pm
Sunday 12 pm-3 pm

Local tips

Check the opening hours before visiting, as they can vary, and the tower is sometimes closed due to weather.
Consider purchasing a combination ticket for the WWII Lookout Tower and the Cape May Lighthouse to save money if you plan to visit both.
Bring binoculars to enhance your viewing experience from the top of the tower.
Take time to explore Sunset Beach, located nearby, and search for Cape May diamonds.
Visit the All Veterans Memorial at the rear of the tower to pay tribute to those who served.

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Getting There

Walking

From the Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal, walk south on Lafayette Street, then turn left onto Sunset Blvd. The World War II Lookout Tower is located at 536 Sunset Blvd, a short walk from the intersection. There are no costs associated with walking.
Public Transport

Take the NJ Transit Bus #313 towards Cape May and get off at the Cape May Terminal. From there, you can walk (about 1.5 miles) or take a taxi to the World War II Lookout Tower. If walking, head north on the Washington Street Mall, take a left onto Ocean Avenue, and then left onto Sunset Blvd. The tower will be on your right at 536 Sunset Blvd. NJ Transit bus fares vary, but a one-way trip from Wildwood to Cape May is approximately $1.60. A taxi from the Cape May Terminal to the tower is approximately $10-$15.
Car

From any location in Jersey Shore, head south on US-9 S. Merge onto Garden State Pkwy S and continue until you reach Exit 0 for Cape May. Follow signs for Cape May and merge onto NJ-109 S. Continue straight until you reach Sunset Blvd. Turn left onto Sunset Blvd and the World War II Lookout Tower will be on your right at 536 Sunset Blvd. There is free on-site parking available.

Discover more about World War II Lookout Tower

Located on Sunset Boulevard in Cape May, New Jersey, the World War II Lookout Tower, also known as Fire Control Tower No. 23, is the last remaining restorable World War II tower in the state. Constructed in 1942 after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the tower was a key component of the Harbor Defense of the Delaware system, known as Fort Miles. This immense defense system included multiple fire control towers, gun batteries, barracks, and support buildings strategically positioned on both sides of the Delaware Bay. The tower's design, executed by the Army Corps of Engineers, involved a sliding tube-shaped form that allowed for rapid construction, taking only two and a half days to complete. Standing 71 feet tall with a 17-foot diameter, the six-level tower was equipped with azimuth instruments, telescope-like devices used to triangulate the positions of German vessels. Soldiers stationed in the tower scanned the ocean and bay for enemy warships and submarines, transmitting information to Battery 223, located along the shore at Cape May Point State Park. Although Battery 223 never fired at an enemy, it played a vital role in coastal defense. After being decommissioned in 1944 and later acquired by the Navy, the tower was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2003. In 2004, the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (now Cape May MAC) signed a 20-year lease and restored the tower, opening it to the public in 2009. Today, visitors can climb the tower, explore exhibits, and learn about the history of Cape May during World War II. The site also features the All Veterans Memorial, with an eternal flame and benches for contemplation. The tower is located near Sunset Beach, where the visible wreck of the SS Atlantus can be seen.