Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Common Questions Asked By Our Guests

What is Historic Cold Spring Village?

Historic Cold Spring Village (HCSV) is an open-air living history museum that invites all visitors to find meaning, pleasure, relevance, and inspiration in the exploration of southern New Jersey’s past. It is a nonprofit, educational museum that is open during the spring-summer season. The centerpiece of the museum is a re-created rural Southern New Jersey town of the “homespun era” set on more than 30 acres.

Where is HCSV?

HCSV is located between Route 9 and Seashore Road just three miles north of Cape May City and four miles south of Rio Grande. 

How long should I plan for my visit?

While an average visit is between three and four hours, a number of visitors choose to return for a second day.

Is there an additional charge for the second-day visit?

Yes. Each admission ticket to Historic Cold Spring Village is good for one day only.
Click here for information on Unlimited Admission with a Village Membership!

How large is the Village?

HCSV is the largest outdoor living history museum in New Jersey. The historical landscape of more than 30 acres includes 27 restored buildings brought from across Cape May County as well as some authentic reconstructions. In addition to the historic buildings, visitors will find a working farm.

Is admission required to shop or dine?

The Country Store, Bakery and Ice Cream Parlor are inside the museum grounds. A 30-minute retail pass is available for free at the gatehouse. The Country Store and Bakery are open when the museum is open, selling coffee, cold beverages, sweets, and baked goods. The Cold Spring Grange Restaurant and Cold Spring Brewery are located outside the museum- no admission is required to enter.

Where may I eat at Historic Cold Spring Village? How about picnicking? Is it okay to bring food in?

Several dining opportunities are available for visitors. The Cold Spring Grange Restaurant is located at 735 Seashore Road, outside the Village gates.
Within the Village, the Bakery, Ice Cream Parlor, and Country Store sell snacks, and hot and cold beverages. The Village Eatery is open when the museum is open.
Visitors may order food from an outside delivery service or Cold Spring Grange Restaurant and enjoy it inside Cold Spring Brewery.

Historic Cold Spring Village does not allow picnicking on the grounds. We kindly ask that you do not bring outside food into the Village.

What transportation options are available to HCSV from Cape May/Wildwood?

Your best option would be a car rental or taxi/shuttle service.

Does Historic Cold Spring Village offer strollers, motorized vehicles, or wheelchairs for rent?

No.

May I bring my dog to HCSV?

Yes! Dogs are welcome on the village grounds but must be kept on a leash. When walking dogs on the property, please be considerate of other visitors and livestock and clean up after your dog. Service Dogs are welcome in the Village buildings but all other animals must be kept outdoors. Please do not allow your dog to harass livestock. HCSV assumes no responsibility for incidents involving dogs.

Can I smoke on Village grounds?

No. Smoking or vaping is prohibited on Village grounds.

Are there overnight accommodations at Historic Cold Spring Village?

There are no overnight accommodations at the Village, but there are many places to stay in the Cape May Area area, including inns, national chain hotels, and campgrounds. For more information, visit the Cape May Chamber of Commerce Web site at http://www.cmccofc.com or the Greater Wildwood Hotel and Motel Association site at http://www.wildwoods.org/.

Is there parking for RVs and campers at the Village?

Yes. There is plenty of free daytime parking, with spaces for larger vehicles. While there are no facilities for overnight parking/camping at the Village, there are a number of nearby campgrounds. Many are listed under “Campgrounds” at the following link: http://www.allstays.com/Campgrounds/nj-cape-may-campgrounds.htm.

Can I host a paranormal investigation at the Village?

Yes. Please contact the Administration Office at 609-898-2300 or 4info@hcsv.org to schedule. Investigation teams must provide a valid certificate of insurance and be accompanied by an HCSV employee for the duration of the investigation. HCSV Foundation reserves the right to refuse the sharing of any “evidence” found in the event it conflicts with Historic Cold Spring Village’s mission.