Chalfonte Hotel Cape May
Step back in time at the Chalfonte, a historic Victorian hotel offering charm, live music, and a prime Cape May location.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live music on the porch
Chalfonte Hotel Cape May
Best Time
Live music on the porch
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.
"It feels like you’re really experiencing the full history of the town staying in such storied hotel."
🎯 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!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Howard Street Ramble
Hotel Porch
Experience vibrant live music every Thursday night on the iconic porch. A true Cape May tradition!
Victorian Architecture
Hotel Exterior & Interior
Marvel at the beautifully preserved Victorian-era hotel, a National Historic Landmark.
Magnolia Room Dining
Hotel Restaurant
Enjoy delicious meals in an elegant setting, offering a taste of classic seaside dining.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Historic Charm
Live Music & Noise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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!
🍽️ Porch Breakfast is a Must
Even if you're not staying, enjoy a delicious breakfast on the charming porch.
🔑 Physical Keys & Charm
Enjoy the old-school charm of physical room keys and keychains.
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.
🕰️ Embrace the Nostalgia
Expect vintage charm, creaky floors, and unique room layouts. It's part of the experience!
🍽️ Porch Breakfast is a Must
Even if you're not staying, enjoy a delicious breakfast on the charming porch.
🔑 Physical Keys & Charm
Enjoy the old-school charm of physical room keys and keychains.
🚶♀️ Walk to Beach & Town
Conveniently located just blocks from the beach and downtown shops.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
The Chalfonte is ideally situated for exploring on foot. You can easily walk to the beach, Washington Street Mall, and many Victorian homes.
Yes, biking is a popular way to see Cape May. Many visitors rent bikes to explore the town and its scenic routes.
The Chalfonte Hotel is a prominent landmark in Cape May, known for its distinctive Victorian architecture, making it easy to spot.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
Events like the Howard Street Ramble on the porch are generally free to attend, though you may wish to purchase food or drinks.
Yes, you can typically book rooms directly through the Chalfonte Hotel's official website or through various online travel agencies.
The Chalfonte hosts regular events like the Howard Street Ramble. They are also a popular venue for weddings and receptions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Chalfonte offers a nostalgic, historic vibe, reminiscent of a bygone era. It's known for its Victorian charm and relaxed atmosphere.
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.
Amenities include comfortable rooms, a restaurant (Magnolia Room), a bar, and often chair & umbrella service on the beach. Some rooms may have private balconies.
While not explicitly advertised as a haunted hotel, its age and history lend themselves to ghost stories. Some visitors have reported unusual experiences.
The Howard Street Ramble is a popular summer tradition featuring live music on the Chalfonte's porch every Thursday evening.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
The Magnolia Room offers classic American cuisine with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients, providing an elegant dining experience.
Yes, breakfast on the porch is highly recommended, with delicious options like omelets, home fries, and pancakes.
Generally, outside food and drinks are not permitted in the hotel's dining areas. However, you can enjoy drinks at the bar.
While specific menus can vary, most restaurants offer some vegetarian options. It's advisable to check with the restaurant directly for vegan choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The wrap-around porch, the historic facade, and the charming interiors offer numerous photo opportunities. The surrounding Victorian streets are also picturesque.
Yes, you can take photos inside the public areas of the hotel, such as the lobby and dining rooms, to capture its historic ambiance.
While general photography is allowed, professional photoshoots or commercial filming may require prior permission. Always be respectful of other guests.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) provides beautiful light for capturing the hotel's architecture. Evenings during the Ramble offer a lively atmosphere.
Consider capturing the hotel's iconic physical keys and keychains for a unique, nostalgic shot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
🎶 Music Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historic Charm of the Chalfonte
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. Additionally, the hotel is within walking distance of the vibrant downtown area, including Washington Street Mall, known for its boutique shops and eateries. 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.
Experiencing the Howard Street Ramble
Many visitors rave about the energy and quality of the music, describing it as some of the best they've heard. It's a perfect way to spend an evening, whether you're a guest at the hotel or a local looking for entertainment. You can enjoy the music from the porch, and some rooms even offer private balconies with views of the performance. For those looking to enhance the experience, local vendors like 'Let's Be Frank' often set up shop, offering specialty drinks like espresso martinis. Remember that this event can draw a crowd, so if you're staying in a room nearby, be prepared for some ambient noise.
Chalfonte Hotel for Special Occasions
Reviews highlight the staff's attentiveness, from coordinating details to ensuring guest comfort on the day of the event. The hotel's ability to accommodate large families and provide a memorable experience is frequently mentioned. Beyond weddings, the Chalfonte is also recommended for parties and enjoyable brunches, making it a versatile location for various gatherings. The combination of its historic charm, beautiful setting, and dedicated staff makes it a top choice for creating lasting memories.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit