Mainstay Inn Bed and Breakfast Cape May
About
Step back in time at this beautifully preserved Victorian inn that offers guided tours perfect for curious kids interested in history and architecture. The Mainstay Inn showcases authentic period furnishings and décor from the 1800s, giving families a fascinating glimpse into how people lived during Cape May's golden era as a seaside resort town.
Highlights
- ✓Authentic Victorian furnishings and décor from the 1800s
- ✓Knowledgeable tour guides who share fascinating stories about Cape May's history
- ✓Beautiful architectural details including ornate woodwork and period wallpapers
- ✓Chance to see how wealthy Victorian families vacationed at the Jersey Shore
Pro Tips
- 1.Call ahead to confirm tour availability and times, as the schedule may vary and tours are the primary way to experience the historic rooms
- 2.Visit on weekday mornings when tours tend to be less crowded and guides can answer more questions from curious kids
- 3.Combine your visit with a walking tour of Cape May's historic district to see more Victorian architecture and make it a full historical adventure
- 4.Remind children this is a working B&B with delicate antiques, so it's a 'look but don't touch' experience
- 5.Park along Columbia Avenue where street parking is typically available, and arrive 10 minutes early to check in for your tour
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings from Tuesday through Thursday offer the quietest tour times with more personalized attention from guides. Spring and fall provide comfortable weather for exploring Cape May's historic district before or after your visit.
What to Know
Tours typically require a small admission fee (call ahead for current pricing). This is an active bed and breakfast, so respect the guests' privacy and stick to tour areas only.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with varying hours. Summer months see the highest visitation due to Cape May's beach season. Holiday seasons may feature special Victorian-themed decorations.
Nearby Eats
Head to Uncle Bill's Pancake House (a 5-minute walk) for classic family breakfast fare, or try The Mad Batter for creative brunch options in a casual, kid-welcoming atmosphere.
More Activities Near Cape May
Emlen Physick Estate
Step back in time at this beautifully preserved 1879 Victorian mansion where kids can explore authentic period rooms and learn what life was like for children in the Gilded Age. The guided tours are interactive and engaging, with docents who excel at capturing young imaginations with stories of the Physick family and Victorian-era customs. It's an educational adventure that brings history to life in Cape May's largest and grandest historic home.
Museum of Fine Arts & Popular Culture
This intimate contemporary art museum offers a welcoming introduction to the visual arts for young visitors in historic Cape May. With rotating exhibits designed to engage children's creativity and educational programs that make art accessible, it's a perfect rainy-day activity or cultural break from the beach that won't overwhelm little ones.
Cape May Welcome Center
Start your Cape May family adventure at this welcoming information center, perfectly designed to help you plan the ideal itinerary with kids. The interactive exhibits introduce little ones to the area's fascinating Victorian history and maritime heritage, while parents can grab maps, brochures, and insider tips from knowledgeable staff who specialize in family-friendly recommendations.
Cape May - Lewes Ferry
The Cape May-Lewes Ferry transforms a simple crossing into an unforgettable 85-minute maritime adventure across Delaware Bay. Kids will be thrilled by the possibility of spotting dolphins swimming alongside the ferry, while parents appreciate the spacious decks, onboard amenities, and the fact that this scenic journey doubles as practical transportation between two charming coastal destinations.