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World War II Lookout Tower: A Sentinel of the Delaware Bay

Explore NJ's last WWII lookout tower in Cape May: a historic sentinel offering panoramic views & a glimpse into America's coastal defense.

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The World War II Lookout Tower in Cape May, NJ, is the last restorable WWII tower in the state. Built in 1942 as part of Fort Miles, it served as an observation post to detect enemy vessels and direct artillery fire. Today, it stands as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's coastal defense during the war.

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 conditions.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the tower and its exhibits.
  • Consider purchasing a combination ticket to save money if you plan to visit other historical sites in Cape May.
  • Take your time climbing the tower, as the stairs can be steep.
  • Bring binoculars to enhance your viewing experience from the top of the tower.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Cape May Lighthouse, head south on Lighthouse Avenue toward Sunset Boulevard. Continue straight until you reach Sunset Boulevard, then turn left. Walk along Sunset Boulevard for about 0.5 miles. The World War II Lookout Tower will be on your right at 536 Sunset Blvd.

  • Public Transport

    From the Cape May terminal, take the New Jersey Transit bus toward Wildwood. Get off at the stop at Sunset Boulevard and Beach Avenue. From there, walk east on Sunset Boulevard for about 0.3 miles, and you will find the World War II Lookout Tower at 536 Sunset Blvd on your left. The bus fare is approximately $1.60 - $2.25.

  • Driving

    From the center of Cape May, drive west on Sunset Boulevard for approximately 10 minutes. The World War II Lookout Tower will be on the left at 536 Sunset Blvd, with a parking lot located across the street. Parking is free.

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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 reminder of the area's crucial role in homeland defense during World War II. Constructed in 1942 as part of the Fort Miles defense system, the tower was one of fifteen strategically positioned along the coasts of New Jersey and Delaware to detect enemy vessels. Soldiers stationed in the 71-foot tall 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 guns of Battery 223 were never fired at an enemy, the tower played a vital role in protecting the Delaware Bay and the Philadelphia Navy Yard from potential attack. Today, the tower has been restored and serves as a museum. Visitors can climb the tower's six levels, explore exhibits detailing its history and the role of Cape May during the war, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. The All Veterans Memorial, located at the rear of the tower, provides a contemplative space to honor those who have served.

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