Congress Hall in Cape May, NJ is America’s oldest seaside resort. Since its original opening in 1816, the hotel has remained a relaxed haven of fun and historic charm. Set amidst perfectly landscaped grounds that overlook posh sandy beaches, the iconic resort is just a few steps from the ocean where guests relax by the Atlantic in a signature yellow and white striped private beach tent. Standing on one of the property’s balconies overlooking the veranda, lawn, and the endless ocean, it’s not hard to imagine what it may have been like to stay at Congress Hall as one of its many distinguished guests at the turn of the 19th century. For a truely unique experience, book the Presidential Suite. A pinnacle of old-world luxury, the suite offers a spacious parlor with a wet bar and two queen sleeper sofas. Attached is a bedroom overlooking the lawn, a king canopy bed, and a marble bathroom with a Jacuzzi tub.
The property’s signature restaurant, The Blue Pig Tavern, is tucked in the corner of Congress Hall. Named after the hotel’s nineteenth-century gambling parlor, there’s no better place to enjoy classic American fare. The menu includes delicious farm-to-table delights featuring fresh produce, herbs, and eggs from Cape Resorts’ very own Beach Plum Farm located just 1-mile away from the hotel. And as the sun starts to set, step out the doors of Congress Hall onto the Veranda and order a libation from the extensive list of farm-fresh cocktails.
Downstairs you’ll find The Boiler Room, Cape May’s speakeasy and live performance lounge, offering wood fire pizza and a fun atmosphere with a downtown New York vibe. If posh is more your style, just upstairs at The Brown Room, you’ll find a stylish lounge occupying the same spot as Congress Hall’s first legal post-Prohibition cocktail bar. When it’s time to relax and be pampered, guests can escape to the Sea Spa, acknowledged by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the top 75 Hotel Spas in the United States.
And how is the property adapting to current events? “The flags are up, the flowers planted, and our team is back, with new protocols in place. The safety and well-being of our guests, associates, and community is and always has been our top priority,” said Curtis Bashaw, managing partner of Cape Resorts. “And while the summer of 2020 will be different, in many ways it will be the same. Our traditions, our hospitality – all are unchanged. We know you will feel at home as we continue our commitment to providing simple pleasures in the space that you need.”
Congress Hall manages to beautifully combine simple pleasures of the past with modern luxuries of today. Whatever the season, you will be delighted by the array of choices that make it easy to fill your days and nights here. Visit caperesorts.com for more information.
words by Kara Studzinski
