You're probably thinking of the Chalfonte Hotel (609-884-8409 or 888-411-1998; Chalfonte Hotel). They used to run an arts-themed Children's Festival during the third week of July. Sad to say, they scrapped the program a years ago. Instead, the hotel opted to join forces with a local, non-profit center for the arts, Youth Art Program (Y.A.P.). Going for a total of four weeks that includes the last week of June and July; then the first two weeks of August. The program is a half day arts program, is geared to kids age 6 and up, and brings in performers, photographers, dancers, sculptors and other artists to share their passions and do workshops with the kids. The arts program sets this up, at the Center for Community Arts, three blocks away from the hotel.

As Cape May properties go, though, this one's quite family-friendly--they even offer a special dining room for kids. They also host concerts by candlelight on Tuesday evenings (not likely to drive your kids to heights of ecstasy, perhaps, but a nice touch). The oldest hotel in Cape May (since 1876), the Chalfonte has that old-fashioned, family resort-ish ambiance that keeps families returning each summer season. It's located three blocks from the beach and shopping--
this is big, since you don't want to drive around traffic-clogged Cape May if you can help it--and it boasts a really first-rate restaurant. It's a Victorian hotel, and it's Victoriana that attracts many people to this seaside town in the first place. In fact, Cape May has so many Victorian gingerbread houses that the town itself has been designated a National Historic Landmark.

While Cape May is full of good-quality inns and B&Bs, many do not accept children under age 12. Keep in mind that a Victorian hotel offers a flashback to a simpler time. This means no TV, no air conditioning and you may share a bathroom with other guests. If that sounds a bit too authentic for your bunch, you might want to opt for less character and more modern amenities at a place such as the beachfront Atlas Inn (888-285-2746) or the Marquis de Lafayette (800-257-0432.) You can still get a good look at those charming Victorians on a walking tour; the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts sponsors several guided tours. For a look at some of Cape May's lodgings options, visit Cape May or call Cape May Reservations at 800-729-7778. For last-minute lodging options, call the Cape May Welcome Center at 609-884-9562.

Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Originally published in June 2006.