Magnific Victorian ... Historic District

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Entire home

Horse and Carriages pass right by the house.

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Exceptional

9 bedrooms9 bathroomsSleeps 25511 sq m

Popular amenities

Washer

Barbecue grill

Kitchen

Air conditioning

Fireplace

Dryer

Explore the area

Cape May, NJ

Washington Street Mall2 min walk
Poverty Beach3 min walk
Cape May Convention Hall4 min walk
Atlantic City, NJ (ACY-Atlantic City Intl.)52 min drive

Rooms & beds

9 bedrooms (sleeps 25)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 4

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 5

2 Single Beds

Bedroom 6

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 7

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 8

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 9

1 Queen Bed

9 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 3

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 4

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 5

Bathtub · Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 6

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 7

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 8

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 9

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio

Porch or lanai

Kitchen

Office

Separate dining area

Outdoor play area

Garden

Dining Area

About this property

John F. Craig House (1866) Gothic Revival 609 Columbia Avenue

The first house built on Columbia Avenue, this former bed and breakfast turned private home is now a vacation rental. Located close to the mall and beach, it includes 9 bedrooms, 10 baths, 2 kitchens, ample parking and sleeps up to 25 people.
This beautiful home on prestigious Columbia Ave is 1 short block to one of New Jersey's best beaches and 1 block to downtown. The home has nine (9) bedrooms, 8 having a private bath with a total of 9 1/2 baths. Fully air conditioned and heated.
Two kitchens including To stove tops, three ovens, two microwaves, two dishwashers, traditional coffee maker,Kuerig coffee pod system, Food processor, blender, handmixer, crockpot and new this year an INSTANT POT ! Cook up a storm!

Large living room with fireplace, beautiful dining room and enclosed inside porch for those chilly evenings or for watching the horse and carriages pass by the front door. Secluded and private library. Off street parking, outside shower, and outdoor seating for those summer BBQs. Large entertainment room with big screen TV with lots of seating., also doubles as a bedroom at night with its own full bathroom. This home has everything you can possibly need for your enjoyment; WiFi throughout, 2 kitchens, a TV in every bedroom, DVD players and even a Beach Box already reserved for our guests right at the beach so no need to carry your chairs back and forth. Some bedrooms even have electric fire places for that romantic feel. Every detail accounted for, and all in pristine condition. Just come and enjoy! Perfect house for extended families, reunions or corporate events. Great escape for girls week away or guys golf outing. Lots of privacy for all. Come and make your own Cape May memories at this beautiful vacation home.

Property manager

Lori Lazan

Premier Host

Languages

English, Spanish

Amenities

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Free WiFi

Air conditioning

Outdoor space

Kitchen

Washer

Dryer

Pet-friendly

House Rules

Check in after 2:30 PM

Minimum age to rent: 28

Check out before 10:00 AM

Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17

Young Children must be supervised.

Events

Events allowed: family gatherings and birthday parties

Must be approved prior to booking, Inquire 1st

Pets

No pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Absolutely no smoking at this property of any kind

Renters required to sign lease with homeowner in 10 days of booking. My lease supersedes VRBO agreement. Lease supersedes VRBO

Potential renter must reach out to homeowner to ask any questions before using instant booking.

This is a non-smoking property inside and outside. No pets No eating in bedrooms No wet bathing suits on furniture

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

Parties and events (including family gatherings and birthday parties) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 25

Note from host: Must be approved prior to booking, Inquire 1st

Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property

Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

About the area

Cape May

Located in Cape May, this holiday home is in the city centre and near the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Cape May Beach and Sunset Beach, while Morey's Piers and Splash Zone Water Park are popular area attractions. Travelling with kids? Consider Raging Waters Water Park and Cape May Model Trains. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.

Cape May, NJ

What's nearby

Washington Street Mall - 2 min walk
Cape May Beach - 3 min walk
Poverty Beach - 3 min walk
Cape May Convention Hall - 4 min walk
Sunset Beach - 9 min drive

Getting around

Cape May, NJ (WWD-Cape May County) - 12 min drive

Restaurants

‪Taco Caballito Tequileria - ‬5 min walk
‪Ugly Mug Bar & Restaurant - ‬4 min walk
‪Delaney's - ‬5 min walk
‪Out There Coffee - ‬5 min walk
‪The Mad Batter Restaurant and Bar At The Carroll Villa Hotel - ‬6 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is Magnific Victorian ... Historic District pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Magnific Victorian ... Historic District?

Check-in begins at 2:30 PM.

What time is check-out at Magnific Victorian ... Historic District?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Magnific Victorian ... Historic District located?

This family-friendly Cape May holiday home is located by the ocean, within a 5-minute walk of Washington Street Mall and Cape May Beach. Poverty Beach and Easy Lynne Theater Company are also within 5 minutes.

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.

Learn more

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth M.

25 June 2024

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

An amazing week!

We absolutely loved our stay at the John Craig house. The location in Cape May can't be beat - one block from the beach and one block from the outdoor mall, with shops all around. The house itself has so much character but is also very well maintained, with an amazing kitchen for a large group (two of everything, including fridges and ovens!). The owner was very responsive to any questions and and patient with us (clueless first time visitors to the Cape May). Overall, the house can't be beat for a vacation for a large group, and we hope to come back soon!

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jeff B.

22 Oct 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great weekend

Enjoyed the weekend stay at this historic property. Owner/manager was beyond gracious and helpful.

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carol H., Marion, OH

7 Oct 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Buckeye group

The hostess/owner was always available and e trembly helpful The home was clean, beautiful and close to downtown Cape May. We came by bus, so rented a golf cart from Orange Moose. Buses aren’t allowed on most streets in Cape May. Also, linens are not provided - we brought our own. The new kitchen was well stocked and comfortable around the large island. Steps are rather steep- it is an old home- but our group of 16 in our 70’s managed well. We enjoyed the large family room and TV and large front porch too! We walked most places, but used the golfcart for those who couldn’t walk as well.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Marie F L., Hubbardston,MA

18 Sept 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

70th twin birthday

Couldn't have picked better location. Block to beach. Two blocks to great food and shopping . We even had a "ghostly event ".

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Donnie D.

17 May 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely Perfect!!!

This house/property and owner are the absolute best! Above and beyond perfect!

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Debopreeti M.

8 May 2023

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent place to stay in Cape May

We had a wonderful time staying at the John F Craig House in Cape May for two days with our friends and family. The property was identical to what was described in the listing. We will definitely recommend this property to our acquaintances.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer S.

27 Oct 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Victorian home

The home is absolutely stunning, excellent location - walking distance to the beach, restaurants, shopping and all the wonderful activities Cape May has to offer. Our family had so much fun, and the host (Lori & Steven) were so helpful with recommendations, I can't say enough good things about the home and our stay. Thank you for sharing your beautiful home with our family.

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Daniel R.

13 Oct 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Historic Victorian in Cape May

Wonderful, spacious, quirky historic home in the heart of everything!

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2022

10/10 Excellent

Nancy O.

6 June 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect stay in a beautiful historic home

From start to finish the experience was everything we hoped for and more. The home was stunning but also comfortable and well appointed. It was an easy walk to all that Cape May has to offer. We also just enjoyed sitting on the front porch just watching the world go by. Lori was extremely communicative and friendly and was happy to answer all our questions. She even left us a welcome basket!! I can highly recommend this amazing home. We already miss it! We hope to return and use the home for our next family reunion.

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Joe P., Matawan, NJ

15 May 2022

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great house!

Wonderful space to stretch out and relax - so bear to so many places!

Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

donna m., Haskell USA

17 Oct 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

60th Celebration

We had 7 couples staying and the house was perfect for all of us. Everything was in walking distance except wineries and brewery. The host was very accommodating. Would recommend staying here with a large group.

Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Azita T.

2 Oct 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect for a family reunion

This house is in a great spot near the beach and shopping area. The bedrooms were large and comfortable, each with its own bathroom which is perfect for a large group. The two kitchens were well stocked with dishes, silverware, toaster, ... Taking our own sheets and towels was a little hassle but it was fine since due to Covid some in our group preferred to take our own anyways. Lori was so nice and friendly and met a few of us. All in all it was a nice getaway in Cape May.

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Carolyn N.

4 July 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Location

Amazing historic home in a great location. You can basically leave your car in the driveway and walk everywhere!

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Naline L.

19 June 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A must stay charming gem

This was a wonderful house for our friends and family who ranged in age from 17-90 years old to celebrate gathering as the pandemic lessened. At any time we had about 12 staying. We appreciated the details present in Lori and Steven’s home. The house blends Victorian charm with modern conveniences. Vintage carved wood frames and furniture, period wall paper and unique lamps adorn the house. We almost wanted a rainy day so we could spend time examining all the art. At the same time power strips were everywhere and the internet connection was strong enough to support the few who needed to work during the week. The luxury of a Victorian formal parlor and a modern second large family room was a perfect place for our family and friends to gather for Netflix and puzzles. We loved having two kitchens full of accoutrements to support culinary needs from wine stoppers to pots, platters and dish towels . This is the first vacation home I have rented where it was impossible to run out of dinner plates. We had multiple dinners on the patio where three round tables with umbrellas are set up. If you have never been to Cape May you will love the charming houses-the town has more Victorians than anywhere in the US except San Francisco and this house is located in the heart of the charming historic district . We spent many happy hours on the wide Victorian porch admiring a view of a new little war memorial park and its multiple benches. From the porch, we also had a wonderful vantage point to see the architectural elements of neighboring houses such as the Gingerbread lacing the porches and the Mansard roofs. Horse and carriages occasionally going by added to the charm. The hosts are warm, friendly, and extremely responsive and atune to the needs of a family. They even have a beach box at the beach with a couple umbrellas and chairs. Everything is close and walkable...walk down the block one way to the beach and walk a couple blocks the other way into town. We created many memories here with friends and family and plan to be back.

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jack S.

9 June 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

An Ideal Setting for a Big Family Reunion

The John F. Craig House — a charming, well-maintained Victorian with almost too many bedrooms (each with a private bathroom) to count — did not disappoint as the setting for our three-generation family reunion. From the rocking chairs on the wraparound porch to the library alcove to the dining room with space for all 15 of us, there was always some place comfortable to relax, catch up and enjoy each other’s company. Lori was extremely accessible and reachable throughout the lead-up to our stay, including providing us with leads on restaurants, as well as in response to any questions we had while on-site in Cape May. The location was also ideal, with the beach and restaurants/shops just a few minutes’ walk away.

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2021

10/10 Excellent

Dara G.

23 May 2021

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect group getaway

If you are looking for a place to gather for a larger group this is the place to be! Location is close to everything beach, shopping and on a beautiful street. The house was well maintained and comfortable. We had a group of couples with older children and the set up was perfect , privacy and spacious gathering areas. Having the two kitchens was great for when we all were cooking. Lori was friendly and helpful. I’m looking forward to making our way back there another time.

Stayed 2 nights in May 2021

10/10 Excellent

Petrina D.

16 Sept 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A wonderful modern Victorian celebration

We had a great time in this historic home that has all of the modern day conveniences. From conversations on the porch, to 18 of us around the dining room table to chats in the parlor, we were able to savor our vacation time together. The property is close to the beach and close to the center shopping mall, perfect location for vacation needs and we did not have to worry about parking. Perfect for reunions or extended family gatherings.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Lisa S.

13 Aug 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Exceptional location for a family vacation

Our family felt so comfortable in the John F. Craig house. We had all the space we needed to spread out, room to hang out together, but also privacy when desired.

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2019

10/10 Excellent

Barry F.

14 July 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Reunion 50th Anniversary

Two minutes to beach, two minutes to groceries, lots of tours, very quiet house, well equipped kitchen, great porch, great outside tables and chairs, 10 beach tags, beach chairs and umbrellas, high chair, booster seat, crib. The only thing missing is sheets and towels, but we would definitely do it again if we could. Maybe at our 100th anniversary!

Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Joell R.

2 July 2019

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great getaway

Our group of 19 fit perfectly in this incredible Victorian home on such a beautiful street, so close to the beach, shops and restaurants. We enjoyed getting a little lost in the large home on the first day. Each morning many of us would start our day on the front porch and end our evenings there, watching the house and buggy pass by. The owner of the home was highly responsive to any minor issues and was such a pleasure to deal with. The house was charming...two kitchens made everything a little easier and everyone having their own bathroom inside their bedroom was absolutely wonderful. Individually controlled thermostats inside the 2nd and 3rd floor bedrooms were also very nice. If anyone is a light sleeper I highly recommend choosing either of the 2 bedrooms off the rear stairs on the second floor...I slept great! Our week together passed too quickly.

Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2019

This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Linda F.

4 June 2018

This house was beautiful and spacious!

My family and I had the pleasure of staying in this beautiful Victorian home on Memoraial Day weekend. We had a great time. You can see that the owner has taken careful thought in decorating each room intricately to match the style of the home. We loved the privacy of each bedroom coupled with it’s own bathroom. Having two kitchens was great for our large family gathering. Everything functioned and there was details of home living in every room. We loved the great room and the large dining room table. This house has convenient parking, great proximity to the beach and shopping. We look forward to returning to this house again next year. Thank you allowing us to enjoy our time at Cape May in your lovely home.

Stayed 4 nights in May 2018

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Andrea B.

21 Oct 2016

Wonderful

We were in Cape May for our daughter's wedding. We needed a house to accommodate our large family. The house couldn't have been more perfect. Every bedroom was beautiful each with their own bathroom. We filled every bed in house and it was virtually soundproof. Wonderful porch with plenty of seating and a huge tv in the family room. The house was spotless, amazing and very well located. The owner was lovely. I can't recommend it highly enough.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Ken K.

20 Oct 2016

Magnificent

Stayed there in early October with friends from all over the country for our son's wedding...what a beautiful place, Very comfortable and spacious for large groups, everyone loved it!! Walking distance to everything, no need to use a car. Beautiful rooms, huge entertainment center and wonderful owners who were very accommodating and gracious! Hope to stay there again some day, well worth it!!

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Rosemary D.

4 Aug 2016

Incredible home for a large group!!

My family has had at least 6 family reunions in Cape May - our family is scattered around the country but we always seem to come back to CM. The John F. Craig House is, by far, the most incredible home we have ever stayed in. It has 9 bedrooms with bathrooms, a huge entertainment room; large dining room,, small library, sunroom, living room and 2 kitchens. Oh, and did I mention the front porch for relaxing and watching the carriage rides go by or the back yard with several umbrella tables and a large modern grill! Plus there is ample parking for up to 7 cars ( none of which you will need once you arrive - everything is within walking distance). I rarely write reviews but I could not help myself - this house is amazing. If you do not want to rent it, at least take a stroll past to take a look - you will not be sorry.

This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Corina A.

6 July 2016

Great for a family reunion

Loved staying in the house for 1 week as part of our family reunion! Each room has its own bathroom and air-conditioning unit. There were 23 of us aged 6-81and we all fit comfortably and had a great time!!! Plenty of seating to eat inside or outside. Easy walk to the beach, shopping and enjoying Cape May with all of its history and beauty. No real need for a car since all is so very conveniently close. House came with some beach passes - not enough for all of us - but we were able to get weekly passes for those who needed them that were not very expensive. Lori, the owner, was very accommodating and easy to communicate with. Would highly recommend this house to anyone and would love to stay in it again in the future!

About the host

Hosted by Lori Lazan

Steve and I live in Northern NJ about 2.5 hours from our Cape May Properties.
We barely knew Cape may before purchasing properties there. We fell in love with the town. We now feel like we know a lot about Cape May but we are always learning.
Steve works in NYC in Information technology while I manage the vacation rental properties.
By education I am a health care professional ( Physician Assistant) but chose to stay at home with my children full time. Together we have 4 children ( one each from a previous marriage and 2 together) So at this point in my life when the youngest ones are about to start college, I am enjoying the work involved with managing vacation rentals and communicating with guests from all over the country and other countries too. I've been fortunate to get to meet some of our renters and some have even become friends.

Why they chose this property

My husband and I fell in love with this 1866 home on first site and imagined spending some family time with our 4 children there but loved that it had enough room for extended family as well. Having a house that sleeps up to 25 really has it's advantages. We imagine that at least one of our kids will want to get married in Cape May. One got engaged there!
The previous owners took very good care of the house as do we and it is truly a "labor of love"
The architecture is beautiful and the interior has so many of the original details of the home. We feel very at home here and very blessed.

What makes this property unique

Situated on beautiful Columbia Avenue, considered by many to be the nicest block in Cape May. Just 1 block to the Beach and 2 blocks to the Main Strip with shops and restaurants so this town is very walkable from this property. You barely need a car to do anything.
The house has ample parking up to 7 cars while parking is hard to come by in Cape May April thru October.
We also offer a beach locker right on the beach for you to keep your belongings all week which is extremely convenient.
Lots of privacy in this home with many nice sized bedrooms with their own bathrooms so you can have your alone time when sharing a home with a large group. Each bedroom has a TV as well which can help you relax in your own quarters.
Excellent WIFI high Speed internet throughout.
Fabulous Porch to people watch and enjoy the Horse and Buggies clip clop by. ( I still get excited and run to the front door to see them when I hear their hoof steps)
Having two kitchens has made this house very easy to entertain. Cooking is easy and convenient.
With 3 ovens and 2 stove tops and 2 microwaves and 2 dishwashers, the work time is cut in half.
Cape May is a very special and unique place. Not only does it have truly fabulous restaurants but it offers many things that other beach towns don't. There are Wineries and breweries, farms and nature walks, history and beautiful architecture, and live theater. It's a year round town that has much to do in the Fall and the Spring and the Holiday season. Just 15 minutes to the Zoo, 10 minutes to the Ferry to Delaware for outlet shopping and 45 minutes to Atlantic city, its a convenient spot. Don't miss the Exit 0 Jazz festivals and in fact all the festivals and entertainment the City of Cape May has to offer.
Our house has been chosen for their holiday tours because of it's beauty and location.
Any time of year, come make our home your home in Cape May