Located in the Heart of Historic Downtown Cape May, NJ
About the Inn - History of the Mason Cottage, Cape May B&B
Downtown Cape May Accommodations [Near the Beach]
Historic Accommodations in Cape May, NJ
The Victorian home located at 623-625 Columbia Avenue in Cape May, NJ, known today as the Mason Cottage Bed & Breakfast Inn, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The building was designed by famed architect Stephen Decatur Button and is the quintessential example of Victorian architecture. The inn has three stories and is considered a second empire style building, featuring a mansard roof, high ceilings, full-length windows, and an expansive veranda that wraps around three sides of the building.
Edward Warne, a prominent Philadelphia attorney and developer, purchased the vacant lot in 1869 and finished construction in 1871, just in time for the summer season. During its construction, the decision was made to divide the house into two residences, one for Warne and his wife Elizabeth, and the other for their son John and his new wife (which is why you will notice two sets of elaborate stairwells at the inn).
The house remained with the Warne family for several decades until internal family tensions prompted its sale. In 1940, the property was acquired by the Mason family. Wilber Davis Mason, Sr., soon transformed the house into a guesthouse to accommodate travelers. This era marked the beginning of the property's long-standing tradition of hospitality, which continues to this day. In 2009, the current owners undertook extensive renovations to modernize the inn while preserving its historic, Victorian charm.
Guests today can enjoy the blend of historical ambiance with modern amenities such as private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and a variety of guest services. The inn's downtown location in Cape May's historic district makes it an ideal base for exploring the town’s numerous Victorian buildings, boutique shops, restaurants and the beach, all within walking distance.
Are you An Early Riser?
There are plenty of activities to keep you busy before the rest of town awakes. Take a stroll along the beach (only one block away) and watch the sunrise. The peacefulness of town this time of the day will leave you feeling refreshed and energized.
If you're looking for something a bit more active, take our complimentary bicycles (available to our guests, in-season) and enjoy a leisurely ride along the ocean on the Promenade (bikes are permitted on the Cape May Promenade until 10 AM).
If you're in the mood for a quiet morning, enjoy a cup of coffee or tea on the veranda of the Mason Cottage (our self-serve bar near the guest pantry offers a lovely selection of tea and coffee and is available 24/7). The peaceful surroundings and beautiful gardens make for the perfect start to your day.
During the colder months, the parlor is the perfect spot to relax by the fire with your morning coffee or tea and enjoy a good book. This tranquil haven allows guests the time needed to unwind and fully embrace the beauty and calmness of the season.
Breakfast at the Mason Cottage, Cape May Bed & Breakfast inn
Enjoy a delicious 2-course, seated breakfast each morning during your stay (whenever possible, we source Local Cape May Products).
Our Breakfast Item Changes Daily and alternates between a sweet dish and savory dish.
Upon checking in at the inn, we will go over the breakfast seating time.
Choose to dine inside in the dining room or outdoors (in the warmer months) on the expansive veranda that wraps around three sides of the inn, overlooking the gardens, along Columbia Avenue.
With advance notice, we are more than happy to accommodate our guests with special dietary concerns: Gluten-Free | Vegetarian | Vegan | Lactose Intolerant
