America's First Seaside Resort
Discover Congress Hall, a historic seaside resort in Cape May, New Jersey, welcoming guests with gracious hospitality for over 200 years.
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The Seaside Original Since 1816
In an iconic setting along Cape May’s famous beachfront, Congress Hall is a true American classic; relaxed yet elegant, luxurious yet fun. Rooted in tradition, its interiors and architecture reflect a history carried forward with care. Bright, considered design enlivens these beloved, centuries-old spaces, shaped by generations of seaside travelers—and preserved for those still to come.
Discover Congress Hall
Simple pleasures by the sea
A stay at Congress Hall centers on the simple pleasures of a classic American seaside vacation. Mornings begin with the ocean close at hand, beach chairs, towels, and umbrellas waiting in place, while afternoons move easily between rest, activity, and time outdoors. Seasonal dining, wellness offerings, and family traditions unfold naturally from sunup to evening, creating space for connection and return.
“A magical experience… a classic East Coast beach vacation brought back to life.” —Forbes
In Every Season
Cozy up by the fire this winter at Congress Hall, where historic charm meets seasonal serenity. Embrace winter’s most appealing indulgence: an invitation to hibernate in style, with festive cocktails, delicious dining, and romantic packages for two.
Bloom with us this spring at Congress Hall. Lush with tulips, daffodils, and other blossoms, the grounds offer a graceful escape. From Spring Break adventures, to Easter celebrations on the lawn, there is something for the entire family.
A “Classic American Summer” awaits at Congress Hall, with sunlit beach days, poolside lounging, and cocktails on the Veranda. Guests may enjoy complimentary activities, including beach yoga, Beach Bootcamp, and more.
Summer’s light gives way to autumn at Congress Hall—cozy, colorful, and effortlessly charming. Fireside dining, and crafted cocktails set the tone, while seasonal décor brings warmth throughout.
Step into a winter wonderland at Congress Hall, where the Grand Lawn glimmers with lights, a carousel, and the Congress Hall Express. Sip spiced cider in the Enchanted Vendor Village, or return fireside after Breakfast with Santa.
Packages
Veranda Dinner Series Overnight Package
Plan a deluxe getaway at Congress Hall and indulge in inspired ocean-view dining crafted by Executive Chef John Zaitoun.
Pre-Summer Kickoff
Savor the magic of summer before the rush of the season officially begins with a golf cart rental, a private pool or beach tent, and more.
Classic American Summer: Beach Tent Package
Join us on the beach in front of Congress Hall for an American beach vacation at its best, complete with a two-day summer beach tent rental.
Blue’s Clubhouse: Overnight Package
Plan a Cape May getaway that guarantees fun for your little ones, and a relaxing night alone for you and your special someone.
250th Anniversary Symphony Celebration: Overnight Package
Join us on the Grand Lawn of Congress Hall for a once‑in‑a‑generation 250th Anniversary Symphony Celebration.
Post-Summer Splendor
Let the magic of summer linger a little longer with a golf cart rental, a private pool or beach tent, and more.
Magic Hour Cruise on the A.J. Meerwald
Set sail on the A.J. Meerwald for a golden evening of light bites and refreshments on the water.
Phantom Ball: Overnight Package
Step into a world of glamour, mystery, and over-the-top Halloween magic at Congress Hall’s Phantom Ball.
Murder Mystery Weekend
Solve a whodunit at the nation’s oldest seaside hotel! Join us for a Murder Mystery getaway in Cape May.
Thankful for Cape May
Celebrate Thanksgiving in classic American style with a buffet in the Congress Hall Ballroom.
A Cape May Christmas
Experience the charm of a Cape May Christmas, and enjoy a delicious buffet dinner in the Grand Ballroom of Congress Hall.
Glitter Ball New Year’s Eve Getaway
Dance your way into 2027 at Congress Hall's Glitter Ball, featuring live music, an open bar, and a delicious dinner.
Rise, Shine & Relax: Breakfast Package
Rise, shine & relax—and leave the rest to us. Enjoy a delicious American breakfast in the Blue Pig Tavern each morning of your stay.
An Ebbitt Room Evening
Make an evening of fine dining at the award-winning Ebbitt Room the highlight of your Cape May vacation.
Book Ahead & Save
It pays off to plan ahead. Book a deluxe Congress Hall getaway ahead of time and save!
Sea Spa Retreat
Indulge and unwind with our Sea Spa Retreat, featuring deluxe overnight accommodations and a credit to the Congress Hall Sea Spa.
Gather at Congress Hall
Congress Hall’s historic character combines the grandeur and elegance of Cape May's most revered landmark hotel with the appeal and convenience of a modern resort.
Our Stories
Through infernos, hurricanes, and war, Congress Hall's story is rich, and it continues to be written, day by day.
The American Summer, Preserved
Cape May, New Jersey, is a place where summer unfolds at its own pace. On the lawn at Congress Hall, guests settle into rockers facing the sea...
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Three Generations
For one local family, Cape Resorts is more than a workplace—it's woven into their story. Spanning multiple generations, their journey is one of commitment, leadership, and success.
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Dishes and Holloware
When Congress Hall was renovated in 2001, an excavation of the foundation produced a true find: a box that dated back to the late 19th century.
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The Key to Hospitality
In 2010, on the corner of Broadway and Perry Street, a contractor who'd been widening Cape May's drainage system spotted a key inscribed with the initials A.K.
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Makers of Merry
It began as a conversation over
cups of hot chocolate in the
lobby of Congress Hall during
the 2010 Christmas tree-lighting
ceremony...
Read More cups of hot chocolate in the
lobby of Congress Hall during
the 2010 Christmas tree-lighting
ceremony...
The History of Congress Hall
For more than two centuries, Congress Hall has offered hospitality to locals and visitors alike. It began life in 1816 as a simple boarding house...
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