The Chalfonte Hotel - Image 1
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Chalfonte Hotel Cape May

4.2
·389 reviews·Cape May, United States

Step back in time at the Chalfonte, a historic Victorian hotel offering charm, live music, and a prime Cape May location.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Thursday evenings (Summer/Fall)

Live music on the porch

CrowdMedium
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The Chalfonte Hotel - Image 1

Chalfonte Hotel Cape May

Best Time

Thursday evenings (Summer/Fall)

Live music on the porch

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step back in time at the Chalfonte, a historic Victorian hotel offering charm, live music, and a prime Cape May location.

4.2
(389 reviews)

"It feels like you’re really experiencing the full history of the town staying in such storied hotel."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Ahead for Music Nights

Rooms near the porch can be noisy during live music. Book early or request a quieter room.

🕰️ Embrace the Nostalgia

Expect vintage charm, creaky floors, and unique room layouts. It's part of the experience!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Howard Street Ramble

Howard Street Ramble

Hotel Porch

Experience vibrant live music every Thursday night on the iconic porch. A true Cape May tradition!

Instagram+1
Victorian Architecture

Victorian Architecture

Hotel Exterior & Interior

Marvel at the beautifully preserved Victorian-era hotel, a National Historic Landmark.

Instagram+1
Magnolia Room Dining

Magnolia Room Dining

Hotel Restaurant

Enjoy delicious meals in an elegant setting, offering a taste of classic seaside dining.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Historic Charm

The Chalfonte Hotel is a step back in time. Expect creaky floors and vintage decor. If you're seeking modern amenities, this might not be your spot. Embrace the nostalgia for a truly unique Cape May experience. Instagram

Live Music & Noise

The Chalfonte is known for its lively porch music, especially the Thursday night Howard Street Ramble. Rooms directly above or near the bar/music area can be noisy. Consider this when booking if you're a light sleeper. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Thursday evenings (Summer/Fall)
Why
Live music on the porch
Crowd
Medium
When
Fall mornings
Why
Crisp air, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Breakfast on the porch
Why
Delicious food, charming setting
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Here’s a perfect summer weekend itinerary in Cape May that balances relaxation, adventure, and great food: Friday: Arrival & Sunset Views Afternoon: • Check into your hotel, Airbnb, or a cozy B&B like Congress Hall or The Virginia Hotel. • Stroll around Washington Street Mall for boutique shopping and ice cream from Fine Fellows Creamery. Evening: • Enjoy dinner at The Lobster House for fresh s...
@capemayvibe
200.4K likes • 1.4M views

🎯 Book Ahead for Music Nights

Rooms near the porch can be noisy during live music. Book early or request a quieter room. InstagramReddit

🕰️ Embrace the Nostalgia

Expect vintage charm, creaky floors, and unique room layouts. It's part of the experience! Instagram

My favorite time of year in Cape May? Definitely fall. 🍁 The crowds are gone, the air is crisp, and everything feels like a cozy dream by the sea.
@capemayvibe
186.5K likes • 2.1M views
What We Talk About When We Talk About Historic East Coast Seaside Hotels 🥰😍🥹 Wait till the end to see the rules about playing cards 👀 The Chalfonte in Cape May, New Jersey is the reason this vintage hotel keychain collection was started. Are you ready to see the design?
bateswoodneedlepoint
14 likes • 545 views

🍽️ Porch Breakfast is a Must

Even if you're not staying, enjoy a delicious breakfast on the charming porch. Reddit

🔑 Physical Keys & Charm

Enjoy the old-school charm of physical room keys and keychains. Instagram

The Howard Street Ramble ~ Thursday Nights at the Chalfonte Hotel, Cape May, NJ ~ #Summer #JerseyShore #Historic #CapeMay @TheChalfonteHotel #Circa1876 #NationalHistoricLandmark #Preservation #Architecture #Live #Music #Drinks #Food #Entertainment #TheOldestSeasideResort #USA 🇺🇸
epf325
7 likes • 755 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Ahead for Music Nights

Rooms near the porch can be noisy during live music. Book early or request a quieter room. InstagramReddit

🕰️ Embrace the Nostalgia

Expect vintage charm, creaky floors, and unique room layouts. It's part of the experience! Instagram

🍽️ Porch Breakfast is a Must

Even if you're not staying, enjoy a delicious breakfast on the charming porch. Reddit

🔑 Physical Keys & Charm

Enjoy the old-school charm of physical room keys and keychains. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Walk to Beach & Town

Conveniently located just blocks from the beach and downtown shops. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.2
(389 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Guests praise the Chalfonte Hotel for its incredible historic charm, nostalgic atmosphere, and prime location near the beach and downtown. The Howard Street Ramble and the porch breakfast are frequently highlighted as enjoyable experiences. However, some guests note that rooms can be noisy due to live music and thin walls, and the front desk service can be inconsistent.

"Our room had a random door that was shut with a chair and side table in front. Found out pretty quickly that it lead into another bathroom. Not sure if it was employee or another guest. Either way the door was able to be opened if someone wanted to. There were cracks where you could see through. We could very easily hear conversations and people peeing. Gross and worrying.
Our room was directly over the bar. Live music was playing all night and people were getting loud. If you’re going to have a bar in your hotel i recommend not putting rooms directly over it. It’s an old building so the walls and floors are thin. A microphone and speakers doesn’t help either. Also the live singers were not good at all. Sounded like drunk karaoke."

cielo giandomenico

"Loved our stay at the Chalfonte! Had the corner suite on Howard St with private balcony directly above the nightly live music on the porch. Great spot if you’re ok with noise late into the night (screen door right next to room leading to open balcony). Front desk staff was hot/cold—a bit apathetic or bothered; others were very helpful.

It feels like you’re really experiencing the full history of the town staying in such storied hotel. Food options at the Magnolia Room are very good for an in-house restaurant. Felt like they were always understaffed, despite the hard work of the servers. Billing to your room is super convenient."

Jay Masanotti

"We had an amazing Breakfast on the porch at the Chalfonte Hotel.
The food was delicious! Omelet with cheese and tomatoes, yummy home fries and huge blueberry pancake.
Our server Emma was attentive and very sweet.
We were not staying there (we are locals) but the porch is open to everyone for breakfast.
It was very busy but we were served quickly.
Looking forward to returning to this charming landmark Hotel!"

Cindy DeLaney

What People Like

Historic Victorian charm
Prime location
Howard Street Ramble

What People Dislike

Room noise
Inconsistent service

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Chalfonte Hotel is located at 301 Howard Street, Cape May, NJ. It's easily accessible by car, and parking is available. You can also reach Cape May via ferry from Lewes, Delaware. Instagram

While Cape May is walkable, public transportation options within the town are limited. Many visitors prefer to drive or use ride-sharing services for longer distances. TikTok

The Chalfonte is ideally situated for exploring on foot. You can easily walk to the beach, Washington Street Mall, and many Victorian homes. Instagram+1

Yes, biking is a popular way to see Cape May. Many visitors rent bikes to explore the town and its scenic routes. TikTok

The Chalfonte Hotel is a prominent landmark in Cape May, known for its distinctive Victorian architecture, making it easy to spot. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, you do not need tickets to visit the Chalfonte Hotel. You can walk around the grounds and enjoy the exterior. Access to rooms, dining, and specific events may require reservations or payment. Instagram

The hotel itself is open year-round for stays. Dining hours and event schedules, like the Howard Street Ramble, vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website for the most up-to-date information. Instagram+1

Events like the Howard Street Ramble on the porch are generally free to attend, though you may wish to purchase food or drinks. Instagram+1

Yes, you can typically book rooms directly through the Chalfonte Hotel's official website or through various online travel agencies. TikTok

The Chalfonte hosts regular events like the Howard Street Ramble. They are also a popular venue for weddings and receptions. Instagram+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Chalfonte offers a nostalgic, historic vibe, reminiscent of a bygone era. It's known for its Victorian charm and relaxed atmosphere. Instagram+1

Rooms are historic and charming, reflecting the hotel's Victorian origins. Don't expect modern amenities like flat-screen TVs or elevators in all rooms. Instagram+1

Amenities include comfortable rooms, a restaurant (Magnolia Room), a bar, and often chair & umbrella service on the beach. Some rooms may have private balconies. InstagramReddit

While not explicitly advertised as a haunted hotel, its age and history lend themselves to ghost stories. Some visitors have reported unusual experiences. TikTok

The Howard Street Ramble is a popular summer tradition featuring live music on the Chalfonte's porch every Thursday evening. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Chalfonte features the Magnolia Room for elegant dining and a bar for drinks. They also offer breakfast on the porch, which is open to non-guests. InstagramReddit

The Magnolia Room offers classic American cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients, providing an elegant dining experience. Reddit

Yes, breakfast on the porch is highly recommended, with delicious options like omelets, home fries, and pancakes. Reddit

Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted in the hotel's dining areas. However, you can enjoy drinks at the bar. Instagram

While specific menus can vary, most restaurants offer some vegetarian options. It's advisable to check with the restaurant directly for vegan choices. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The wrap-around porch, the historic facade, and the charming interiors offer numerous photo opportunities. The surrounding Victorian streets are also picturesque. Instagram+2

Yes, you can take photos inside the public areas of the hotel, such as the lobby and dining rooms, to capture its historic ambiance. Instagram

While general photography is allowed, professional photoshoots or commercial filming may require prior permission. Always be respectful of other guests. Instagram

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful light for capturing the hotel's architecture. Evenings during the Ramble offer a lively atmosphere. Instagram

Consider capturing the hotel's iconic physical keys and keychains for a unique, nostalgic shot. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Chalfonte Hotel offers a unique experience for families looking for a taste of history. While rooms are historic and may not have all modern conveniences, the hotel's proximity to the beach is a major plus for families. Instagram The charming atmosphere can be engaging for children, offering a different kind of vacation experience. Consider booking rooms that are not directly above the bar or music areas if noise is a concern for younger children. Reddit The porch breakfast is also a family-friendly option. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While Cape May can be a pricier destination, the Chalfonte Hotel can offer a more accessible option compared to some of the newer, luxury hotels. TikTok Look for deals or consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) when rates might be lower. TikTok The ability to enjoy free events like the Howard Street Ramble and the convenience of walking to many attractions can also help save money on transportation and entertainment. Instagram

💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways

The Chalfonte Hotel provides a wonderfully romantic setting with its historic Victorian charm and intimate atmosphere. Instagram Enjoy a quiet breakfast on the porch, stroll hand-in-hand to the beach, or experience the live music on Thursday nights. InstagramReddit The hotel's ambiance is perfect for couples seeking a nostalgic and peaceful escape. Instagram

🎶 Music Lovers

If live music is your passion, the Chalfonte Hotel is a must-visit, especially for the Howard Street Ramble on Thursday nights. Instagram+2 The unscripted performances offer a unique musical experience. Instagram Even if you're not staying at the hotel, consider visiting the porch to enjoy the tunes and soak in the lively atmosphere. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Charm of the Chalfonte

The Chalfonte Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it's a living piece of history. Opened in 1876, it's one of the oldest seaside resorts on the East Coast and a designated National Historic Landmark. Instagram+2 Visitors often remark on the hotel's authentic Victorian ambiance, from the creaky hardwood floors to the physical room keys and charming keychains. Instagram This commitment to preservation means you won't find the typical modern hotel amenities like elevators in all areas, but rather an immersive experience that transports you to a different era. Embrace the nostalgic atmosphere and the unique character that comes with such a storied establishment. Reddit

Staying at the Chalfonte offers a distinct advantage for exploring Cape May. It's conveniently located just a few blocks from the beach, making it easy to enjoy the shore. Instagram Additionally, the hotel is within walking distance of the vibrant downtown area, including Washington Street Mall, known for its boutique shops and eateries. Instagram This prime location allows guests to easily immerse themselves in the charm of Cape May, whether they're heading to the beach, exploring local shops, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Victorian streets. TikTok

Experiencing the Howard Street Ramble

The Howard Street Ramble is a highlight of any summer or early fall visit to the Chalfonte Hotel. Held every Thursday evening on the hotel's iconic wrap-around porch, this event has become a beloved Cape May tradition. Instagram+2 It features live, unscripted music that blends genres like rock and folk, creating a lively and engaging atmosphere. Instagram+1 The music typically runs for about three hours, offering a fantastic opportunity to enjoy local talent in a beautiful setting. Instagram

Many visitors rave about the energy and quality of the music, describing it as some of the best they've heard. Instagram It's a perfect way to spend an evening, whether you're a guest at the hotel or a local looking for entertainment. Instagram You can enjoy the music from the porch, and some rooms even offer private balconies with views of the performance. Reddit For those looking to enhance the experience, local vendors like 'Let's Be Frank' often set up shop, offering specialty drinks like espresso martinis. Instagram Remember that this event can draw a crowd, so if you're staying in a room nearby, be prepared for some ambient noise. Reddit

Chalfonte Hotel for Special Occasions

The Chalfonte Hotel is a highly sought-after venue for weddings and special events, offering a romantic and historic backdrop. InstagramReddit The elegant Magnolia Room and the picturesque exterior, especially the wrap-around porch, provide stunning settings for receptions and celebrations. Reddit Couples and their families often praise the hotel's staff for their exceptional service, efficiency, and friendliness, which are crucial for a smooth event. Reddit

Reviews highlight the staff's attentiveness, from coordinating details to ensuring guest comfort on the day of the event. Reddit The hotel's ability to accommodate large families and provide a memorable experience is frequently mentioned. Reddit Beyond weddings, the Chalfonte is also recommended for parties and enjoyable brunches, making it a versatile location for various gatherings. Reddit The combination of its historic charm, beautiful setting, and dedicated staff makes it a top choice for creating lasting memories. Reddit

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