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A short while after the turn of the twentieth century, the inn was sadly abandoned. After lying dormant for many years, however, it was finally rediscovered and restored to its original beauty. The Historic Smithville Inn was opened to the public in 1952 as a 42 seat restaurant.

After a full day of shopping in the crisp autumn weather, this restaurant proves to be a most welcoming place for dinner. Delicious aromas drift through the air outside inviting passers-by in for a meal they won't soon forget. The inn serves a wonderful array of colonial-inspired continental cuisine. House specialties include tender prime rib au jus, sweet crab cakes, rich New England clam chowder, flakey chicken pot pie, oven-roasted turkey, and Dijon-coated rack of lamb. For dessert, a terrific variety of velvety cakes, creamy puddings, and tangy fruit cobblers are available. Although I've been going to Smithville yearly, I've yet to try every entree served in this fantastic restaurant. Until then, I shall remain terribly confused as to which is my favorite!

Upon walking into Little Egg Harbor Soap Company's Smithville location, visitors are hit with a wonderful menagerie of different scents. The many handcrafted varieties of soap are displayed before patrons in brick form along rows of tables. Since the soaps are sold by weight, customers may either choose a pre-cut four ounce piece or have a larger sized soap cut for them.

Products here are boasted as being "dessert for your skin" and I couldn't agree more. No matter what skin-type or scent preference, visitors are sure to find something to strike their fancy. All of these vegetable-based beauties start with a natural blend of coconut, olive, sunflower and palm oils. Further enhancement for each batch comes from the addition of essential oils, grains, nuts, flowers and herbs. Hence, a variety of blends emerge specific to different needs. Feeling run-down? Try the Spa Bar eucalyptus blend for refreshment. Stressed out? Relax in the tub with a Lavender Bar. Doing battle with sensitive, problem skin? Try the Bobbi Sue Bar to calm the beast. All of these soaps will leave skin feeling soft, smooth, refreshed and nothing more. No tightness, no irritation!

In addition to soap, Little Egg Harbor Soap Company offers a variety of shampoos, lotions and bath salts. For a terrific all-purpose gift, several different gift baskets are available as well.

Every variety of coffee is roasted in a small batch to ensure the full peak of each flavor. With names like Vanilla Cookie, Chocolate Pecan, and Orange Creamsicle listed among over 125 flavors, it's safe to say there's a coffee for everyone. The same can also be said for the 120 different types of teas available in loose or bagged form. Upon entering through the shop door, patrons find themselves enveloped by a forest of shelves stacked high with sweet and tangy preserves. These are perhaps the best jams and jellies to be found this side of Amish Country. Selections include chunky, smooth, buttery, and sugar-free varieties for diabetics.

In addition to all these wonderful homemade specialties, Cook's Corner offers a wealth of beautiful Fitz and Floyd china. These unique creations come in a wide selection of seasonal and holiday designs. A teapot or canister filled with a sweet smelling collection of teas often makes a perfect gift for moms and newlyweds alike. Visitors to Smithville mustn't pass by this little shop without at least stopping in to try a fresh brewed latte!

In addition to over 60 regular store fronts, the festival brings in some additional 100 vendors who set up shop in the parking lot. Filled with handmade crafts, clothing and jewelry, these booths induce a sort of indecisive "lunatic dance" among shoppers. We flit and flutter from one stand to the next searching for our perfect find only to realize that everything we see is perfect!

Once inside the village itself, visitors find themselves amidst a fantastic medley of German food booths. Hot pretzels, rich drafts, spicy wursts and more keep everyone in warm, happy spirits.

After filling up on Oktoberfest specialties, it's time for some fun and, of course, more shopping. Let the kids show off their cool new face-paint in a giraffe "jumporee". Learn about the joys of adopting a Greyhound. Have a family portrait done caricature-style. Feed the ducks before joining them in a paddle around the pond. Get a jump on some holiday shopping after tasting a deep-fried Oreo cookie.

Oktoberfest in the Historic Smithville Village is a great time for the entire family--even the dog! No matter what style, hobby or interest, there's something for everyone at this fun-filled autumn festival!

Upon entering this adorable outfit, visitors find themselves amidst a wonderland of British goodies. Fine English toffees, chocolates, gourmet foods, and fruity candies make for delectable indulgence. Wide varieties of history and travel books offer fun, informative reads. A nice selection of hats and sweatshirts provide a way to show off some ethnic pride. Add to this the beautiful ornaments at Christmastime and we’ve got the makings of a fantastic gift shop!

In the back room, things are a bit more subtle. Patrons are seemingly transported to a place and time reminiscent of Sherlock Holmes’ day. Classical British music plays softly in the background while smells of the rich tobaccos and fine teas permeate the air. Hand-carved chess pieces beg to have a go around their checkered battlefields while china tea sets offer an invitation to relaxation.

There are plenty of great things to be had in this charming little shop. Be sure to stop in and have a look around. The proprietress is very friendly, helpful and, by the way, speaks with a real English accent!