CAPE MAY, N.J. — The Jersey Shore has long been a staple for regional getaways, but Cape May's iconic Congress Hall is proving it can compete on a national stage. In the recently announced 2026 USA TODAY 10Best Readers' Choice Awards, The Brown Room—Congress Hall's sophisticated cocktail lounge—officially secured the coveted No. 1 spot for Best Hotel Bar in the United States.

This victory is the second major accolade for the oceanfront resort this month. Just last week, travel experts and public voters named Congress Hall the No. 4 Best Historic Hotel in the country, cementing its status as a premier destination that seamlessly blends 210 years of heritage with modern, top-tier luxury.

A Post-Prohibition Legacy

Often referred to as "Cape May's living room," The Brown Room is steeped in history. The lounge occupies the exact footprint where Congress Hall opened the resort's first legal bar after Prohibition ended in 1934. The hotel itself dates back to 1816 and has hosted four U.S. Presidents over its long lifespan.

Today, the lounge honors that 1920s and 30s Manhattan energy. Guests can expect a sophisticated, exotic atmosphere complete with a stylish fireplace, weekend live music, and bartenders outfitted in crisp, classic white jackets.

What's on the Menu?

USA TODAY voters and travel experts specifically praised The Brown Room for its masterfully curated offerings:

  • Craft Libations: The menu is headlined by exclusive spirits, including The Cape Resorts Barrel Select Patrón Añejo (a custom, single-barrel 100% Blue Weber agave tequila aged over 12 months) and a private-barrel Old Forester Cape Resorts Signature Bourbon. Standout cocktails include the classic "Congressional Cosmo" and the "Cherry Bourbon Sour," which balances fresh lemon juice with premium Luxardo maraschino cherries.
  • Elegant Bites: The culinary side of the lounge matches its drink program, featuring high-end shareables like tuna tataki, classic moules frites, and a rich Cape May crab dip.

"We are absolutely thrilled and deeply honored that USA TODAY's readers and our incredible guests have named the Brown Room the best hotel bar in America," said Billy Scott, General Manager of Congress Hall. "To receive this crown right after being voted a top five historic hotel is an exciting milestone for our team. The Brown Room has not only history but magic within its walls... We cannot wait to raise a glass with our loyal guests and welcome new travelers."

For residents of the Greater Philadelphia region, New Jersey, and Delaware, the No. 1 hotel bar in America is just a short drive away. Alongside the award-winning lounge, Congress Hall offers oceanfront dining at the Blue Pig Tavern, luxury treatments at the Sea Spa, and fresh ingredients sourced directly from Cape Resorts' own 62-acre Beach Plum Farm.