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I’ve always had a personal fascination with castles. There’s something captivating about their towering walls, intricate architecture, and the sense of history they carry within their stones.
While castles are often associated with Europe, many people don’t realize that the United States is home to some remarkable castles as well. These architectural wonders, while often younger than their European counterparts, are just as impressive in scale and beauty.
Some were built to resemble medieval fortresses, while others reflect more modern architectural influences. Many of these estates were commissioned by wealthy industrialists during America’s Gilded Age, serving as luxurious private residences.
Today, these castles stand as remarkable landmarks that you can visit, with some even offering accommodations for an overnight stay, giving visitors a chance to experience a taste of royal life.
In this guide, I’ve gathered 17 of the most beautiful castles you can visit in the United States. Each has its own unique character, filled with history, charm, and in many cases, breathtaking views, and I can’t wait to share them with you.
Have you visited any of these castles? Do you know of any hidden gems that deserve a spot on this list? Share your experiences in the comments!
Biltmore Estate (Asheville, North Carolina)Hearst Castle (San Simeon, California)Boldt Castle (Heart Island, New York)Hammond Castle (Gloucester, Massachusetts)Castle in the Clouds (Moultonborough, New Hampshire)The Kentucky Castle (Versailles, Kentucky)Loveland Castle (Loveland, Ohio)Bannerman Castle (Pollepel Island, New York)Oheka Castle (Huntington, New York)Fonthill Castle (Doylestown, Pennsylvania)Lyndhurst Mansion (Tarrytown, New York)Gillette Castle (East Haddam, Connecticut)Singer Castle (Dark Island, New York)Castello di Amorosa (Calistoga, California)Belcourt Castle (Newport, Rhode Island)Searles Castle (Great Barrington, Massachusetts)Thornewood Castle (Lakewood, Washington)Castle Closing Thoughts
Biltmore Estate (Asheville, North Carolina)
Image Credit: Biltmore
Biltmore Estate, built in 1895, is the largest privately-owned home in the United States. George Washington Vanderbilt II had this massive estate constructed as a retreat for his family. The Châteauesque-style mansion spans over 175,000 square feet and is surrounded by 8,000 acres of gardens, forests, and farmland.
Today, visitors can tour the lavishly decorated rooms, stroll through the stunning gardens, and enjoy the on-site winery. For those looking to extend their stay, the estate offers luxurious accommodations at The Inn on Biltmore Estate and the Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate.
Guests can expect world-class service, fine dining, and a variety of recreational activities, including horseback riding, hiking, and spa treatments. Owned by Vanderbilt’s descendants, Biltmore continues to be a symbol of American opulence and innovation.
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Hearst Castle (San Simeon, California)
Image Credit: Britannica
Perched high on a hilltop along California’s central coast, Hearst Castle is a striking Mediterranean Revival masterpiece. Construction of the estate began in 1919, under the direction of media tycoon William Randolph Hearst and renowned architect Julia Morgan.
The estate boasts 165 rooms, intricate mosaics, and spectacular gardens spread over 123 acres. Known for its Neptune and Roman Pools, Hearst Castle was once the playground of Hollywood’s elite and European royalty.
Today, it serves as a museum managed by California State Parks, offering visitors a glimpse into the extravagant lifestyle of one of America’s wealthiest families. While you can’t stay overnight at the castle itself, its grandeur makes it a must-see destination.
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Boldt Castle (Heart Island, New York)
Image Credit: I Love NY
Boldt Castle, located on Heart Island in the Thousand Islands region of New York, is a tragic symbol of love lost. George C. Boldt, a wealthy hotel magnate, began building this Rhineland-style castle in 1900 as a gift for his wife, Louise.
Sadly, construction stopped abruptly in 1904 when Louise died unexpectedly. Boldt was heartbroken, and the castle sat unfinished for over 70 years. In 1977, the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority took over the restoration, and today, visitors can tour the castle, accessible only by boat.
Its lush gardens and stunning stonework make it a romantic and picturesque destination. Boldt Castle is now a beloved landmark and a tribute to undying love.
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Hammond Castle (Gloucester, Massachusetts)
Image Credit: Meet Boston
Hammond Castle, nestled along the rocky Massachusetts coastline, is a blend of medieval charm and scientific wonder. Built in 1929 by John Hays Hammond Jr., a prolific inventor, the castle served as both his home and laboratory.
The architecture draws inspiration from medieval European castles, with towers, arches, and even a drawbridge. Inside, you’ll find a mix of medieval artifacts and Hammond’s personal collection of art and curiosities.
Hammond is known for pioneering advancements in radio control, and his inventions are showcased throughout the castle. Today, Hammond Castle operates as a museum, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience both its historical and technological significance.
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Castle in the Clouds (Moultonborough, New Hampshire)
Image Credit: New England
High above Lake Winnipesaukee in the White Mountains, Castle in the Clouds offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into early 20th-century luxury. This Arts and Crafts-style mansion was built in 1914 for Thomas Gustave Plant, a wealthy shoe manufacturer.
The estate sits on over 5,000 acres, with picturesque trails, waterfalls, and panoramic vistas. Visitors can tour the mansion, which retains much of its original furnishings, and learn about Plant’s fascinating life, including how he lost his fortune.
The estate’s mountaintop location and charming design make it a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to escape into nature and history.
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The Kentucky Castle (Versailles, Kentucky)
Image Credit: The Journal-Courier
The Kentucky Castle, located just outside of Lexington, is a relatively modern castle with a rich history of its own. Originally built in 1969 as a private home, the structure was inspired by European castles with its grand turrets and thick stone walls.
Over the years, the castle changed hands and went through extensive renovations, transforming it into a luxury hotel and event venue. Today, guests can stay in one of the castle’s lavish suites, each uniquely designed and offering modern comforts with a touch of royal flair.
Visitors can also enjoy the farm-to-table restaurant, unwind at the on-site spa, or take part in a variety of experiences like cooking classes and bourbon tastings. The Kentucky Castle’s unique blend of medieval charm and southern hospitality makes it a popular destination for weddings, retreats, and special events.
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Loveland Castle (Loveland, Ohio)
Image Credit: Flckr
Loveland Castle, or Château Laroche, is a labor of love that took over 50 years to build. Harry D. Andrews, a Boy Scout troop leader and World War I veteran, began constructing the castle in 1929 using stones from the Little Miami River.
He single-handedly built the medieval-style structure as a tribute to his love for history and chivalry. Andrews even lived in the castle while he was building it.
Today, the castle serves as a museum dedicated to knights and medieval history, with artifacts and displays reflecting Andrews’ passion. While it’s primarily a day-tour destination, the castle can be rented for overnight stays for small groups, offering a unique experience in its simple yet charming setting.
Guests can expect a more rustic experience, perfect for those seeking a night immersed in medieval-inspired history.
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Bannerman Castle (Pollepel Island, New York)
Image Credit: CityDays
Bannerman Castle is a striking ruin located on Pollepel Island in the Hudson River, just north of New York City. Built in 1901, this Scottish-style castle was used by Francis Bannerman VI to store surplus military goods that his company sold.
After a mysterious explosion in 1920 destroyed part of the castle, it slowly began to deteriorate, leaving the hauntingly beautiful remains that stand today. Visitors can take guided boat tours to the island to learn more about the castle’s history and explore its ivy-covered ruins.
Bannerman Castle’s isolated location and rich backstory make it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
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Oheka Castle (Huntington, New York)
Image Credit: Lucky to Live Here Realty
Oheka Castle, built in 1919, is a luxurious estate nestled on Long Island’s Gold Coast. Financier Otto Hermann Kahn commissioned the French Châteauesque-style castle as a lavish summer home, making it the second-largest private residence in the United States at the time.
The castle boasts 127 rooms and is surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens inspired by French formal design. Today, Oheka Castle operates as both a luxury hotel and an event venue, making it a popular spot for weddings, special events, and elegant getaways.
Guests can stay overnight in one of the 32 opulent rooms, which blend historic charm with modern amenities, offering plush bedding, luxurious baths, and picturesque views of the estate.
The castle also provides access to its restaurant, which offers fine dining experiences, as well as a bar and terrace for relaxing after a day of touring.
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Fonthill Castle (Doylestown, Pennsylvania)
Image Credit: Mercer Museum
Fonthill Castle, built between 1908 and 1912, is a unique structure designed by Henry Chapman Mercer, an archaeologist and tile maker. The castle reflects an eclectic mix of medieval, Gothic, and Byzantine architectural styles.
What sets it apart is its construction, Mercer built the castle entirely out of concrete. Fonthill served as Mercer’s home and a place to display his vast collection of artifacts and handmade ceramic tiles, many of which he designed himself.
Visitors can tour the castle’s labyrinth of rooms and corridors, which are filled with intricate tile work, antiques, and art. Fonthill Castle stands as a testament to Mercer’s artistic vision and passion for preserving history.
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Lyndhurst Mansion (Tarrytown, New York)
Image Credit: Lyndhusrt
Lyndhurst Mansion is a Gothic Revival estate built in 1838 along the banks of the Hudson River. The mansion was originally designed for William Paulding Jr., a former mayor of New York City, and later expanded under the ownership of railroad tycoon Jay Gould.
With its pointed arches, turrets, and grand windows, Lyndhurst exemplifies the Romantic movement in American architecture. Visitors can take guided tours through the mansion’s opulent rooms and explore the expansive grounds, which include landscaped gardens and sweeping views of the river.
Managed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, Lyndhurst remains one of the finest examples of 19th-century Gothic Revival architecture in the country.
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Gillette Castle (East Haddam, Connecticut)
Image Credit: Estuary Magazine
Gillette Castle, completed in 1919, was the personal home of actor William Gillette, best known for portraying Sherlock Holmes on stage. The castle, perched on a hill overlooking the Connecticut River, was designed by Gillette himself, reflecting his eccentric personality and love for theatrics.
The stone structure has an almost fairy-tale appearance, with its irregular shape and whimsical details, including hidden doors, puzzle-like locks, and a complex system of mirrors that allowed Gillette to spy on his guests.
Now part of a state park, Gillette Castle is open for tours, giving visitors a glimpse into the mind of a creative genius who left his mark on both the theater and architecture.
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Singer Castle (Dark Island, New York)
Image Credit: I Love NY
Singer Castle, completed in 1905, was built as a hunting lodge for Frederick Bourne, the president of the Singer Sewing Machine Company. Located on Dark Island in the St. Lawrence River, the castle was designed with a medieval flair, featuring towers, battlements, and even a secret dungeon.
Hidden passageways run throughout the castle, adding to its air of mystery and intrigue. Today, Singer Castle is open for guided tours, and visitors can explore its richly decorated rooms and stunning views of the river.
For a truly unforgettable experience, guests can stay overnight in the castle’s exclusive royal suite, which includes elegant period furnishings, luxurious bedding, and private access to the castle after hours.
Guests also enjoy breakfast with views of the river, making it a rare and intimate opportunity to fully experience this historic castle.
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Castello di Amorosa (Calistoga, California)
Image Credit: Yountville CA
Castello di Amorosa, located in Napa Valley, is a modern-day replica of a 13th-century Tuscan castle. Built between 1994 and 2007 by winemaker Dario Sattui, the castle was designed to reflect the grandeur and craftsmanship of medieval Italian fortresses.
With over 100 rooms, including a great hall, dungeon, and chapel, Castello di Amorosa immerses visitors in a world of old-world European charm. The castle also functions as a winery, offering tastings and tours for those interested in sampling Napa’s famous wines.
Visitors can wander through its stone halls, cross its drawbridge, and even explore the torture chamber for a true medieval experience.
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Belcourt Castle (Newport, Rhode Island)
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Belcourt Castle, a Gilded Age mansion completed in 1894, is one of Newport, Rhode Island’s many grand estates. Designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt, the castle reflects a blend of Renaissance and Gothic styles, with its ornate interiors and elaborate facades.
The mansion was originally built for Oliver Hazard Perry Belmont, a wealthy socialite and heir to a banking fortune. Over the years, Belcourt has changed hands several times and undergone various renovations.
Today, it is open for guided tours, showcasing the mansion’s opulent furnishings, antique collections, and rich history. Belcourt’s timeless elegance continues to draw visitors seeking a glimpse into Newport’s glamorous past.
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Searles Castle (Great Barrington, Massachusetts)
Image Credit: The Boston Globe
Searles Castle, constructed in 1888, is a stunning French Gothic-style mansion built for wealthy heiress Mary Sherwood Hopkins. Designed by renowned architect Stanford White, the castle resembles a French château with its steep roofs, towering spires, and intricate stonework.
Searles Castle has a fascinating history, including stories of secret tunnels and mysterious happenings on the estate. Though it is now a private residence, the castle occasionally opens for public events, allowing visitors to admire its grand architecture and scenic surroundings.
Its secluded location in the Berkshires adds to the castle’s mystique and charm, making it a true hidden gem.
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Thornewood Castle (Lakewood, Washington)
Image Credit: Thornewood Castle
Thornewood Castle is a Tudor Gothic mansion with a rich, historical background. Built between 1909 and 1911, the castle was constructed using bricks from a 400-year-old English manor that Chester Thorne, a prominent businessman, had shipped to Washington State.
Thornewood is known for its old-world elegance, with stained glass windows, antique furnishings, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Today, the castle operates as a bed and breakfast, offering guests a chance to stay in one of its historic rooms.
Accommodations range from cozy rooms to spacious suites, each tastefully decorated with period furnishings. Guests can also enjoy the peaceful gardens and beautiful views of American Lake, making it a serene retreat.
The castle is also a popular wedding and event venue, with its cinematic charm providing the perfect backdrop for special occasions.
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Castle Closing Thoughts
America’s castles offer a unique blend of history, architecture, and wonder. These magnificent structures tell stories of ambition, love, and the American dream. You don’t need to cross an ocean to experience castle magic, it’s right here in our backyard!
I hope this tour of American castles has sparked your curiosity. Maybe you’ll visit one of these amazing places on your next trip. Who knows? You might even spend a night in a castle and feel like royalty yourself!
Remember, every castle has a story. So go out there, visit these incredible buildings, and make some castle memories of your own!
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Publish date : 2024-10-18 01:31:00
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