Shore to Score: Cape May Courts World Cup Fans

South Jersey businesses and tourism officials are preparing for the FIFA World Cup, hoping to attract some of the millions of visitors expected in the greater Philadelphia and New York City regions. Cape May County has initiated a monthlong marketing campaign titled "Shore to Score," utilizing billboards, social media, and print advertisements to encourage World Cup attendees to visit local beaches and attractions.

Establishments such as Elaine's Cape May, a hotel, bar, and restaurant, have been planning for the event since winter. They are enhancing their services, including ordering special employee and customer apparel and preparing to broadcast all matches on multiple screens, with a large inflatable screen for major games. The aim is to create a festive, party-like atmosphere.

Cape May County's director of tourism, Diane Wieland, stated that the campaign's message is clear: visitors attending World Cup matches can easily extend their trip to include a visit to the Jersey Shore, which is about a 90-minute drive away. Businesses are optimistic that even a fraction of World Cup visitors could significantly increase traffic during June, providing a welcome boost before the peak summer season. Officials believe that once visitors experience the area, they are likely to return.