Lucy the Elephant…the hotel? Yes, it’s true! Our beloved pachyderm briefly transforms into a hotel just in time for St Patrick’s Day next week in order to raise funds for its upkeep. Unfortunately, if you wanted to get in on this historic fun, you’re too late. Bidders already reserved the only open nights available.
Margate’s Lucy the Elephant
A Quick History
Built in 1881, Lucy was a kitschy way to attract real estate buyers and developers to the Jersey Shore. By the 1960s, she fell into disrepair and sat dormant. In 1970, what would eventually become the Save Lucy Committee offered to move her about 100 yards away. Her refurbishment and upkeep fell into their loving hands. This year, she celebrates her 138th birthday. That makes her older than both the Statue of Liberty (1886) and the Eiffel Tower (1887).
Airbnb Fundraiser
Save Lucy partnered up with Airbnb for an extremely rare stay inside Lucy. (She was, after all, a summer home in the early 1900s. When she opened up for reservations last week, they were quickly booked within minutes. Three lucky people paid $138 each ($138 per night/Lucy’s 138th birthday) to spend one night inside Lucy’s grand interior. Proceeds benefitted Save Lucy’s continuing efforts to keep her a shining star in our community. Seeing as this was such a success, hopefully, the committee might see fit to allow it to happen again in honor of her next birthday. Or, if we’re lucky, maybe before.
Visiting Lucy
Yes, it would have been nice to have stayed inside Lucy’s grand interior for even one night. However, you can still visit the old gal anytime. For just $8.50 per adult and $4 per child (ages 3 to 12), a guide takes you on a 30-minute tour of this six-story landmark. Learn all about her past and what you can do to protect her future. Even if you don’t go on the guided tour, you can still go see her up close and in person (from the outside) anytime for free. While you’re there, step inside the gift shop to pick up a bit of memorabilia for yourself or your loved ones.
Sherri Lilienfeld, Apex Prime Realty, Your Source for Jersey Shore Real Estate