There’s something quietly enchanting about stepping through the doorway of a bed-and-breakfast. It’s not only the entryway or the handcrafted moldings that makes you pause—it’s the feeling. The scent of freshly baked bread wafting from the kitchen. The warmth of real wood beneath your feet. The welcome that feels like it was meant just for you.
In a world dominated by fast bookings, self check-in codes, and copy-paste hotel décor, bed-and-breakfasts stand as a rare kind of refuge. They’re personal. Thoughtful. Local. Each one tells a story—not only about where you are, but about who’s chosen to make it a home for travelers passing through.
Years ago, I stumbled into this world by following a decades old dream. Now, I live it every day as the Innkeeper of a very special bed and breakfast in Sussex County NJ.
A Place Where Time Slows Down
The Whistling Swan Inn, tucked away in the small town of Stanhope, New Jersey, is one of those places that feels like it was plucked from the pages of a storybook. Originally built in 1905, the house has lived through generations, its wraparound porch and intricate woodwork whispering tales from another time. And yet, nothing about it
feels stuck in the past.
When guests arrive, they often breathe a little deeper, as if they’ve just stepped into stillness. Some come for a romantic escape, others to reconnect with old friends, or to write, to read, to rest. The moment they sink into the antique bed or sip tea on the porch, the weight of the world seems to lift.
Inside, each of the nine guest rooms is lovingly styled with vintage charm and modern comfort. Mornings begin with the clinking of coffee cups and the smell of homemade sourdough and other baked goods rising from the kitchen. The breakfast table isn’t just a place to eat—it’s where stories are shared, laughter is exchanged, and strangers become kindred spirits.
More Than a Stay—A Story to Step Into
Outside, the gardens bloom with a kind of quiet joy. Butterflies drift between milkweed and coneflowers, and a koi pond gurgles gently near the waterfall. A gazebo anchors the landscape, its soft lighting casting a glow that invites guests to linger—especially on
warm summer evenings.
From May through September, Jazz in the Garden brings the inn to life on the second Thursday of every month, transforming the backyard into a space filled with music, connection, and charm. The sounds of saxophone, upright bass, trumpet—or sometimes cello—and the rhythmic pulse of jazz drums drift through the evening air. Guests are welcome to bring a favorite chair and settle into the garden, where the music creates a gentle backdrop for conversation or quiet reflection. Freshly baked seasonal desserts, along with coffee and tea, are available for purchase, adding a sweet note to a magical night under the
stars.
But the magic doesn’t stop there.
Throughout the year, The Whistling Swan Inn hosts a calendar of immersive experiences that go far beyond traditional lodging. Monthly Victorian Teas transport guests back in time with delicate china, tiered trays, and seasonal themes that delight the senses. Murder Mystery Dinners invite guests to dress up, play a part, and become characters in a night of intrigue and laughter. And for those who just want a taste of the inn’s signature morning hospitality, our special brunches offer a chance to enjoy the same scratch-made breakfast usually reserved for overnight guests—no sleepover required.
The inn also continues to serve as a gathering place for intimate elopements, micro-
weddings, bridal showers, and milestone celebrations. Guests return year after year to mark meaningful moments here—because it’s more than just a place to stay. It’s a place to be remembered.
Things to Do Near The Whistling Swan Inn in Sussex County, NJ
Visitors to Stanhope, NJ are often surprised by how much there is to do nearby. Whether you’re staying for the weekend or just exploring for the day, Sussex County offers charming small towns, rich history, outdoor adventures, and plenty of places to eat, shop, and unwind.
Top Attractions Near Stanhope
Photo provided by Waterloo Village Historic Site
Start your adventure with a sunset dinner cruise on Lake Hopatcong aboard the popular Miss Lotta—just 10 minutes from the inn. Then step back in time at Waterloo Village, a preserved 19th-century canal town that’s a favorite among history lovers.
Antique enthusiasts will enjoy browsing the charming shops in Andover and Chester, while nature lovers can hike the scenic trails of Allamuchy Mountain State Park or head north to High Point State Park, where breathtaking panoramic views stretch across New Jersey, New York, and
Pennsylvania.
Families love the old-fashioned fun at Wild West City, where guests can pan for gold and enjoy live-action old west shows—just a short drive away.
Best Places to Eat Near Stanhope, NJ
When it’s time to eat, you’ll find something for every craving, from cozy cafés to elegant lakeside dining:
Bell’s Mansion – Housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century mansion, this restaurant offers a rotating menu of upscale seasonal dishes, craft cocktails, and an inviting outdoor patio overlooking their beautiful gardens. There is also live music on select
evenings.
André’s Lakeside Dining – Set on the serene shores of Seneca Lake, they offer a fresh twist on fine dining with Asian- and French-inspired dishes, a seasonal menu, and beautiful lake views.
Stonewood Tavern – Located in nearby Byram Township, this is a favorite neighborhood spot known for its warm
ambiance, American cuisine with Mediterranean influences, a rustic atmosphere, a full bar and welcoming service.
Shakey Jake’s Café – A beloved local hangout in Stanhope that blends casual comfort with bold flavor. Known for its hearty pub fare, the menu ranges from wings and Cuban sandwiches to Almond Sesame Chicken and Cajun Steamers. Often described as a dive bar with charm, it offers a welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and a full bar. While it may look unassuming from the outside, it’s a go-to for flavorful meals and good times.
Craving Something Sweet?
Locals rave about these spots for a delightful treat:
Cliff’s Homemade Ice Cream (Ledgewood) – An old-fashioned roadside stand with
over 60 hand-dipped flavors and generous portions. A beloved staple since 1975.
Windy Brow Farms (Fredon) – Known for its inventive small-batch ice cream—like their famous Taylor ham and French toast flavor—this working farm also offers fresh produce, baked goods, and seasonal events. Brick oven Pizza and music Saturday and Sunday evenings in the summer!
Tranquility Farms (Tranquility) – A family-owned farms offering homemade ice cream, fresh fruits and veggies, and seasonal décor. Their sunflower fields and pumpkin patches are a local highlight. This summer they are celebrating 75 years of family and fun!
Where to Get Coffee Near the Inn
A perfect day starts (or ends) with a great cup of coffee. Some of our favorite spots include:
Roosters Coffeehouse (Roxbury) – A cozy, community-minded café known for its welcoming vibe, art-covered walls, and thoughtfully sourced beans roasted right in
New Jersey.
Pren Café (Chester) – This cheerful café offers classic comfort food with a modern twist—think fresh herbs, locally sourced meats, and daily-baked pastries, along with expertly crafted drinks. Strongly encourages disconnecting, provides a variety of board games and books for guests to entertain.
The Magic of Choosing Something Different
At its heart, a bed-and-breakfast is about choosing something more meaningful. It’s
about slowing down, being welcomed warmly, and resting in a space that was lovingly created to feel like home.
So if you’ve been longing for a getaway that feels personal, restorative, and just a little bit magical, you’ll find it here. The Whistling Swan Inn is a place where slow mornings are savored, stories unfold over breakfast, and guests are more than just visitors—they become part of the inn’s ever-growing story. Whether you’re seeking stillness, celebration, or simply something different, this is a space where you can land gently and feel truly welcomed.
A bed-and-breakfast offers value that hotels often can’t match—freshly prepared breakfasts, warm hospitality, and an experience designed with care, not algorithms. At the Whistling Swan Inn, what’s included goes beyond amenities—it’s the feeling of truly being welcomed, known, and remembered.
Come Write Your Chapter With Us
We’re just an hour from New York City—but worlds away from everything that weighs you down. Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend, celebrating a special occasion, or simply craving something quiet and beautiful…
We’d love to welcome you home to the Swan.
Ready to experience it for yourself? Book your stay directly through our website for the best rates, exclusive offers, and a chance to discover why so many guests return again and again. Let the Whistling Swan Inn be your next great escape.
Stanhope, NJ – Sussex County’s Hidden Gem