February 12th 2024

The U.S. News & World Report released their 14th annual ranking of the best hotels earlier this week.

“As the travel landscape evolves, there is a shift toward meeting the needs of modern travelers,” said Zach Watson, senior travel editor at U.S. News. “The hotel industry is striving to offer culturally authentic experiences and high levels of customer service, recognizing that today’s explorers seek connections with their destinations. The 2024 Best Hotels rankings offer travelers dependable options to stay for every type of trip, balancing location, amenities and quality service to ensure an enjoyable experience.”

The Best Hotels rankings also covered lodging destinations in Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Bermuda and Europe. The complete 2024 rankings are now online.

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Among the list were a few Jersey Shore gems, which were named the best in the state.

Congress Hall in Cape May was listed as the best hotel in New Jersey, taking the No. 556 spot nationally. This historic building was built in 1816 along the town’s famous beachfront. It’s a classic, yet luxurious destination for summer visitors and locals alike.

The Reeds at Shelter Haven in Stone Harbor follows a close second with a national ranking at No. 559. Since 2013, this hotel has offered a year-round resort experience with its beach-like atmosphere and salt spa.

The last Garden State hotel on the list finishes with The Virginia Hotel in Cape May at No. 747. This 24-room boutique is yet another historic hotel in Cape May built in 1879 located just a block from the beach.

The website says to be considered for the ranking, a hotel must meet the following requirements: select hotel class rankings, guest room minimum and property type.

“We combine the number of points earned by the hotel and divide that by the number of points for which the hotel was eligible. On a given list, hotels are ranked highest to lowest according to the calculated Hotel Score,” according to the U.S. News website.