The Southern Mansion is one of the most impressive historic inns on Washington Street, a large Second Empire house surrounded by gardens and wraparound porches. It was built in the 1860s for a wealthy family and later restored as a high-end bed and breakfast with a strong sense of period style. Interiors are rich with antiques, ornate woodwork, chandeliers and heavy drapes, and rooms and suites are named and decorated individually, some with fireplaces, whirlpool baths or canopy beds. The common rooms are generous, with a gracious parlor, breakfast room and porches where guests can read or enjoy afternoon refreshments. Breakfast is usually a full affair, and the owners and staff are known for their hospitality. The location is excellent: the Washington Street Mall and the Emlen Physick Estate are a short walk, and the beach is a pleasant stroll through the historic district. The inn is particularly popular for weddings, anniversaries and romantic weekends, and it caters mainly to adults rather than families with small children.
Choosing a room
Suites are the most spacious and romantic, with sitting areas and private bathrooms, while standard rooms are smaller but still richly furnished. Ask about fireplaces, balconies and porch access if you want a particular feature. Rooms on upper floors have better views of the surrounding gardens. Since the house is historic, expect stairs and some floors without elevator access.
Location and getting around
The inn sits on Washington Street, near the Physick Estate, with the pedestrian mall about a block or two away. You can walk to restaurants, shops, the trolley and the beach. There is usually on-site parking, which is a valuable perk in summer. The lighthouse and Cape May Point State Park are a short drive.
Who it suits
Couples, honeymooners and anyone wanting a refined, quiet stay in a historic house. It is not designed for young children, and some inns of this type have minimum-age policies, so confirm when you book. Travelers on a tight budget may prefer a motel or simpler inn, but the shoulder season often brings attractive rates.
Seasonal notes
Summer weekends often have minimum-night requirements and sell out early. Winter brings fireplaces, holiday decorations and lower rates, and the mansion is especially atmospheric during seasonal events.
Booking tips
Read the cancellation policy and minimum-stay rules carefully, since small inns are strict. Ask which rooms have porches, fireplaces or whirlpool baths, and mention any special occasion, because many hosts add touches such as flowers or a late checkout. Arrive in the afternoon to enjoy the gardens and any afternoon refreshments before dinner.
Why stay here
- ✓Restored Second Empire mansion
- ✓Full breakfast
- ✓Antique furnishings
- ✓Wraparound porches
- ✓Gardens
- ✓Rooms with fireplaces or whirlpool baths
- ✓Walkable to the Washington Street Mall
- ✓On-site parking
Good questions
Is breakfast included?+
Bed and breakfast inns of this kind typically include a full breakfast. Confirm when you book.
Is it suitable for children?+
The inn is designed mainly for adults. Check age policies when you book.
How close is the Washington Street Mall?+
It is a short walk, roughly a block or two.
