Inn of Cape May

One of the inns I had admired though never stayed at was "The Inn of Cape May." This oceanfront beauty looks much as it did when it was built near the end of the 19th century. The Inn is included on the National Register of Historic Places so you know it has to be special. The Inn was originally named "The Colonial" but that was changed to the "The Inn of Cape May" when the Menz family purchased the property and refurbished it in 1993. One of the Inn's distinguishing features are its two "witch hat" turrets, and mansard roof covered in "fish scale" shapped shingles.

The four-story inn (with elevator still run by an attendant) is really a delight inside and out. It has just a FANTASTIC wrap-around, shaded front porch where you can rock to your heart's content. Walk right up to the little service window at Aleathea's Porch Bar for something tall and cool to drink. Upon entering the Inn's lobby, you will be transported to another century. Antiques and art abound; a little antique & gift shop, named "Aleathea's
Parlour," awaits those like me who can't resist browsing all kinds of interesting pieces and maybe finding that "something" you can't live without. I found antique postcards that I just had to have (you know I love postcards!!).

The Inn also has a wonderful restaurant named Aleathea's that services breakfast, lunch and dinner. To add to the already wonderful ambience, the dining room features live entertainment from 6pm to 10pm on weeknights & Sundays, and 7:30pm to 11:00pm in summertime. Aleathea's Rose Room is a special room for wedding receptions and other special affairs.

Unique Quality: If you can't resist staying at this fabulous place any longer, you are in good company. Wallace Warfield Simpson, the future British Duchess of Windsor, John Philip Sousa, "Diamond Jim" Brady, Henry Ford and Louis Chevrolet all have enjoyed stays at the Inn. At the time, the Inn was the first to offer hot & cold running water, and in-room service buzzer.

The Inn's guest rooms spread out over several floors, have air-conditioning, TV, but no phones!! Each room is uniquely decorated in a Victorian style with antiques, wicker or comfortable upholstered furniture and has either a city or ocean view, with rates adjusted for the view. Most rooms have private baths. The Inn also has its own pool for those wishing to take a dip without getting sandy in the process.

Rates include a full breakfast daily, include parking for one car and the first 2 children under age 8 are free as is their breakfast. Small refrigerators can be rented for some rooms at the rate of $10 per day which is convenient for storing a bottle of wine, sodas, milk or other small items. Additional persons are $20 per day which includes their breakfast as well. There is a cash key deposit applicable, and the cancellation policy is somewhat stringent --- there is no refund for less than a 48 hr. cancellation notice. Check the rules for other cancellation situations.

Directions: On the corner of Beach Dr & Ocean Ave, right across from the beach, 2 blocks from the Washington St. Mall. Within walking distance to restaurants, shops(Emlyn Physick Estate). Within driving distance of Cape May Lighthouse, nature preserve.