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World War II Lookout Tower: A Sentinel of the Coast

Explore NJ's last WWII lookout tower in Cape May: panoramic views, rich history, and a tribute to American coastal defense.

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The World War II Lookout Tower in Cape May, NJ, stands as a historic sentinel, a concrete fire control tower that once scanned the horizon for enemy vessels. Today, it offers visitors panoramic coastal views and a glimpse into the region's wartime past.

A brief summary to World War II Lookout Tower

  • 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 may close due to weather.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for the climb to the top of the tower.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Sunset Beach to hunt for Cape May diamonds and see the wreck of the S.S. Atlantus.
  • Consider purchasing a combination ticket for the WWII Lookout Tower and the Cape May Lighthouse.
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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 this route.

  • Public Transport

    Take the NJ Transit Bus #313 towards Cape May and get off at the Cape May Terminal. From the terminal, 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 #313 costs approximately $1.60 - $6.25.

  • 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 10 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.

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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 a tangible link to America's coastal defenses during World War II. Built in 1942 as part of Fort Miles, this tower was one of fifteen along the coasts of New Jersey and Delaware, strategically positioned to detect enemy ships and submarines. Soldiers stationed in the tower used azimuth instruments, telescope-like devices, to triangulate the positions of German vessels. Information would then be transmitted to Battery 223, located along the shore at Cape May Point State Park. Although the battery never fired at an enemy, the tower played a crucial role in the defense system. Constructed in just weeks using a sliding tube-shaped form, the 71-foot tall tower is now the last freestanding World War II lookout tower in New Jersey. After falling into disrepair, the tower was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2003 and restored by Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture). Today, visitors can climb the restored steps to the sixth-floor spotting gallery, where observers are available to answer questions. The tower also features exhibits, including a Wall of Honor dedicated to local veterans. From the top, enjoy stunning views of Cape May Point, Sunset Beach, and the surrounding coastline. At the rear of the tower is the All Veterans Memorial, with an eternal flame.

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