Papal Weekend Getaway Update

There not much room at the inn if you waited till the last minute to book a get-out-of-town getaway for the Papal weekend. A lot has changed since our last update a week ago. If you recall, prices were starting to spike at favorite destinations. Now the squeeze is on for available rooms, unless you're willing to settle for a long hike or a drive to beaches, bars and eateries. Here's the picture.
– Jay Lloyd

CAPE MAY, NEW JERSEY

The city of Cape May at this writing is completely sold out except for a couple of $1,000 a night rooms at the Marquis de Lafayette Hotel. There are rooms at modest rates in Rio Grande, Wildwood Crest and Wildwood. As an added attraction, there will be showings of Papal activities on Jumbotron television at the Cape May Convention Center.

OCEAN CITY

Published estimates indicate that Ocean City hotels are currently 65% booked with remaining available rooms located largely to the south of boardwalk activities and restaurants. No bars here. Ocean City is a dry town. Prices for what's available are running from the mid 100's to high 200's. There are still available rooms at modest pricing in Somers Point across the bridge.

ATLANTIC CITY

Rooms are still available at A.C. casino hotels for a low of $175 at the Tropicana to $305 at the Borgata. But the inventory is shrinking. Just out of town and away from the boardwalk, prices are lower and there are available rooms.

POCONO MOUNTAINS

There's been a spike in bookings at Pocono Mountain hotels and resorts in the past week. the mountains are currently seeing a 70% booking rate for the upcoming weekend. The best deal right now is Fernwood Resort on the Delaware River with rooms available for $139 a night. Rates go up to a high of $640 at the Mt. Airy Resort and Casino. Budget motels in the Pocono region still have available rooms at budget prices.

NEW YORK CITY

The Big Apple has long been a favorite escape valve for Philadelphia area getaway seekers. But signs were up last week on the New Jersey Turnpike in both directions warning of delays because of "major events." Meanwhile in New York, prices for available rooms have leveled out in the $400 plus range for what would normally be "budget" accommodations. With taxes that translates to over $500 a night. Or, if you want to chance running into the Donald, the Trump Soho is asking $925. Add the taxes and you're forking out over a grand a night. And for the really big spenders. Sorry. The Mandarin, Plaza and Waldorf are all sold out.

HERSHEY, PA

There is some good news. If Hershey is among your favorite getaway spots, prices have dropped at area hotels since our last update. Some have fallen below $100 a night. The Best Western Premier where I stayed for a KYW alum gathering has rooms available for $99. It has a pool, full restaurant service, a lively bar and is very kid friendly.

Note: If you plan to use public transportation for the Papal weekend getaway, better check schedules and parking at train and bus stations.