The United States might not have the historical gravitas that’s ubiquitous across the pond — but we don’t need it. Because we have something better: good, old-fashioned American imagination and ingenuity. Europe: we’ll see your Medieval castles and stony fortresses, and raise you expansive American chateaus complete with turrets, moats, drawbridges, and, yes, even a fire-breathing dragon. All across the country, there are incredible American castles open for all to experience; some are hiding right in plain sight, while others are tucked away in the most unexpected places. Here are 20 castles you might not expect to find hiding in the U.S. — but you’ll be totally delighted that they are!
Northeast United States The Norumbega Inn - Maine
The Norumbega Inn/Facebook There’s already a fairy tale quality to Maine, a place of rugged beauty and old edifices. And The Norumbega Inn fits right in with this Maine mood, as it’s a distinguished and stately stone house that can only be described as a real-life castle. It was built in 1886 for duplex telegraph inventor Joseph Barker Stearns and remained a private home for about 100 years before becoming a bed and breakfast in 1984. In 2013 it was sold to Susan Walser and Phillip Crispo, who have transformed it into the magical destination it is today. Come and spend the night in this winsome Maine castle; you’ll dine on food fit for a king and enjoy kingdom-level views of the Penobscot Bay from your fireplace-warmed room. The Norumbega, 63 High St, Camden, ME 04843, USA
Gillette Castle - Connecticut
Jeremy Dunham/iStock via Getty Images Plus In 1914, actor, director, and playwright William Hooker Gillette (of Sherlock Holmes fame) built this eponymous castle in East Haddam, Connecticut, as part of his estate. What’s so compelling about Gillette Castle is that even though the outside looks like ruins, the inside is full of modern luxuries and innovations. Gillette Castle is located on 122 staggeringly beautiful acres above the Connecticut River, and it’s open for self-guided tours. Come and marvel at Gillette’s attention to detail (each of the 47 doors inside is unique because William felt that no two should be the same) while delighting in this fascinating, royal-inspired masterpiece. Gillette Castle State Park, East Haddam, CT 06423, USA
Boldt Castle - Alexandria, New York
Jonathan W. Cohen/iStock via Getty Images Plus Boldt Castle is a beautiful place with a heartbreaking story. George C. Boldt, the owner of New York’s Waldorf Astoria Hotel, built this 120-room castle on an island in the St. Lawrence River for his wife, Louise, in 1900. Sadly, Louise died unexpectedly a few months before it was completed, and a heartbroken George ceased construction. The structure was left vacant for 73 years until the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority restored and opened it in 1977. When you’re out on the river and surrounded by the beauty of this region, you’ll think you’ve been swept away to a fairy tale land. Heart Island, Alexandria Bay, NY 13640, USA
Belvedere Castle - New York City, New York
Scott Dunn/Moment Collection via Getty Images New York City is probably the last place you’d expect to find a castle, but it’s here in the middle of one of the largest cities in the world that you’ll find a hidden castle that’s just the most fantastic little folly. One of the most iconic features in Central Park, Belvedere Castle is a miniature chateau that’s perched atop Vista Rock, the second-highest natural point in the park. Created by Central Park co-designer Calvert Vaux and architect Jacob Wrey Mould in the mid-1800s, the structure and adjacent terraces and pavilions were all called the “the Belvedere,” which means “beautiful view” in Italian. Completed in 1872, Belvedere Castle was envisioned as a place from which to enjoy views of the surrounding landscape and skyline, and that’s exactly what it remains to this day. Belvedere Castle, New York, NY 10024, USA
Fonthill Castle - Pennsylvania
Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle/Facebook Fonthill Castle is a charming chateau in Pennsylvania that was once home to Henry Chapman Mercer, an archeologist, artifact collector, and tile maker. He built this castle in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, from 1908 to 1912. Reflecting Medieval, Gothic, and Byzantine architectural styles, Fonthill Castle looks like something from an idyllic European countryside. Today, visitors can tour the grounds, including the nearby Mercer Museum, and learn about the life and legacy of this American visionary. Fonthill Castle, 525 E Court St, Doylestown, PA 18901, USA
Smithsonian Castle - Washington, D.C.
George Rose/Getty Images News Collection The Smithsonian is a national treasure, and its eponymous Smithsonian Institute is a modern-day American castle. Located near the center of the National Mall in Washington D.C., this red, Norman-style castle stands out in a sea of grey presidential monuments and monoliths. It was made from red sandstone in 1855 and originally served as the home and office of Joseph Henry, the first Secretary of the Smithsonian. Today, however, it’s the visitor center for the Smithsonian Institute, and its history and uniqueness have made it an iconic (and iconoclastic) place in our nation’s capital. Smithsonian Castle, 1000 Jefferson Dr SW, Washington, DC 20560, USA
Midwest United States Kentucky Castle - Louisville, Kentucky
The Kentucky Castle/Facebook Deep in the heart of Kentucky atop a hill in Versailles, there is a majestic castle that overlooks a kingdom of rolling hills and pastoral countryside. The Kentucky Castle is a spectacular destination in and of itself; a place of pure revelry in the idyllic Kentucky blue hills. This majestic property is wonderfully unusual and has a top-rated spa, luxurious accommodations, and an award-winning farm-to-table restaurant. The Kentucky Castle is as beautiful as it gets, and you’ll be utterly blown away by this surprising royal treasure in the South. The Kentucky Castle, 230 Pisgah Pike, Versailles, KY 40383, USA
Landoll’s Mohican Castle - Ohio
Management/TripAdvisor Located deep in the heartland of central Ohio, Landoll’s Mohican Castle is a place of unprecedented and unexpected luxury. As its name suggests, this one-of-a-kind spot was designed to emulate the beauty of European castles by local entrepreneur Jim Landoll. It opened to the public in 2002 and features myriad pointed towers and spires, as well as lush foliage and greenery that’s downright enchanting. Throughout the property, you’ll find more than a dozen stunning suites and rooms from which to choose, each more fantastic than the next. You definitely won’t be expecting to find Landoll’s Mohican Castle in the middle of Ohio, but you’ll be most definitely glad you did. Landoll’s Mohican Castle - Luxury Hotel in Central Ohio, 561 Township Road 3352, Loudonville, OH 44842, USA
Ha Ha Tonka Castle Ruins - Missouri
Eifel Kreutz/iStock via Getty Images Plus Ha Ha Tonka State Park is one of Missouri’s crown jewels, and its eponymous castle ruins are a breathtakingly beautiful place shrouded in intrigue and mystery. From its perch, the ruins of a turn-of-the-century stone castle overlook the Missouri Ozarks, treating visitors to utterly sublime views of the Lake of the Ozarks and Ha Ha Tonka Spring. Viewing this landmark is an epic adventure in and of itself; you’ll find the castle via the park’s Castle Trail, a scenic, ADA-accessible trek that’s perfect for hikers of all abilities. Happening upon the ruins of what was once Ha Ha Tonka Castle, built between 1905 and 1922, will make you feel like a modern-day explorer. Ha Ha Tonka Castle Ruins, Natural Bridge Rd, Camdenton, MO 65020, USA
Southern United States The Biltmore Estate - Asheville, North Carolina
Biltmore/Facebook Easily the most famous castle in the United States, the Biltmore Estate is a place of pure magic. Built by George Vanderbilt between 1889 and 1895, this 178,926-square-foot mansion is located on 8,000 acres of pristine property just outside of Asheville, North Carolina. As the largest privately-owned home in America, it’s a place of stunning scenery, lush gardens, ornate architecture, and historic relevance. While the house itself is a major attraction (the Biltmore draws over a million visitors each year), the massive and meticulously kept gardens on the estate are heavenly and only enhance the home’s stunning beauty. The Biltmore is more than just a castle; it’s an entire kingdom. Biltmore Estate Drive, Biltmore Estate Dr, Asheville, NC, USA
Walt Disney World - Orlando, Florida
Walt Disney World/Facebook The most ubiquitous castle in the United States, the Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World is an American icon. Inspired by several European castles (primarily Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria and Craigievar Castle in Scotland), as well as the castle in the Disney film “Cinderella,” it took 19 months to build and opened to the public in July of 1971. This enchanting edifice is the symbol of Magic Kingdom, and one of the most popular photo ops in the country. Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom, Cinderella Castle, Orlando, FL 32836, USA
Falkenstein Castle - Texas
Castle Falkenstein Deep in the heart of Texas, there’s a place that defies every Lone Star State stereotype… except, of course, the saying that “everything’s bigger in Texas.” Falkenstein Castle was built in 1996 by a couple inspired by a recent trip to Germany. Billed as “A Texas-Sized Fairy Tale in the Hill Country,” the castle is a place of pure fantasy; a 14,000-square-foot palace with myriad balconies wherein guests can gaze upon the Texas Hill Country. A kingdom of 133 acres, those who believe in fairy tale endings can even have their wedding at Falkenstein Castle, which also has its own cathedral and luxurious accommodations. Falkenstein Castle Way, Cypress, TX 77433, USA
Southwest United States Bishop Castle - Rye, Colorado
jrog9832/TripAdvisor Located in the tiny Pueblo County town of Rye is a place that stands as a fantastic testament to the power of the human imagination: Bishop Castle. This incredible 160-foot structure is billed as being an “inspiring castle built entirely by one man.” Visionary Jim Bishop has been constructing his kingdom since 1969 when he purchased the land for just $450. To be clear, though, nothing about Bishop Castle feels homemade; Bishop’s attention to detail and craftsmanship are in a league all their own. With myriad spires and stairs, gorgeous stonework, and even a fire-breathing dragon, Bishop Castle is truly a modern masterpiece. Bishop Castle, 12705 CO-165, Rye, CO 81069, USA
Montezuma Castle - Arizona
DavidByronKeener/iStock via Getty Images Plus In Arizona, there is a striking desert castle that’s literally built into the earth. The Sinagua people built this 20-room castle on a cliff an entire millennia ago in what is now known as Camp Verde, Arizona. Established back in 1906, this natural monument was the third of its kind dedicated to preserving Native American culture and is one of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in all of North America. While Montezuma Castle is so fragile visitors aren’t allowed to go inside, the views from below this ancient dwelling are not to be missed. Montezuma Castle National Monument, Montezuma Castle Rd, Camp Verde, AZ, USA
Hovenweep National Monument - Colorado and Utah
Ellen Morris Bishop/Moment Collection via Getty Images More than 2,000 years ago, long before European travelers landed in North America, Ancestral Puebloan people lived in what is now known as the American Southwest. A drought around 1300 A.D. forced the people to leave their dwellings behind and migrate south. Luckily, some sites, such as Hovenweep National Monument, still stand. These Ancestral Puebloan ruins once served as home to 2,500 people and were built between 1200 and 1300 A.D. They are now part of the Hovenweep National Monument, which spans across southwestern Colorado and southeastern Utah. These ruins aren’t just staggeringly beautiful, but they’re also one of the best places to go stargazing in the country. Hovenweep National Monument, United States
Victoria Beach Castle - Laguna Beach, California
Thomas De Wever/iStock via Getty Images Plus In the middle of one of the most popular beaches in Southern California, there’s an anachronism that looks like something out of “Peter Pan” – or “Pirates of the Caribbean.” Victoria Beach Castle – also known as the “Pirate’s Castle” – is a 60-foot spire built into a rocky cliffside in Laguna Beach. This coastal treasure was actually constructed in 1926 by the owners of the house at the top of the cliff to serve as a private staircase to the beach. The owner, a wealthy SoCal eccentric, is said to have dressed up as a pirate and hide candies and coins between the rocks of the tower for the local kids to hunt and find. Today, Victoria Beach Castle is a real-life treasure on the California coast. Pirate Tower, 2713 Victoria Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, USA
Hearst Castle - San Simeon, California
RosyRJ/TripAdvisor On the California coast, there is a real-life castle in San Simeon that commands attention. Once the residence of the business tycoon, Hearst Castle is now a historic house museum, California State Park, and listed on the National Registrar of Historic Places. The estate of California media mogul William Randolph Hearst, the eponymous castle was built between 1919 and 1947 on 40,000 acres purchased by Hearst’s father, businessman, and politician George Hearst. On a tour of the property, you’ll see Heart’s incredible collection of artifacts from around the world (including real Egyptian and Roman sarcophagi and white marble Greek statues), as well opulent artwork, the remains of the old on-site zoo, the iconic, outdoor Neptune Pool, and the equally as impressive indoor Roman Pool, which is lined with blue glass and gold leaf mosaic tiles. A place of pure fantasy, Hearst Castle is the epitome of old Hollywood glamour, an iconic destination that’s truly bucket-list worthy. Hearst Castle, 750 Hearst Castle Rd, San Simeon, CA 93452, USA
Castello di Amorosa - Napa Valley, California
Smith Collection/Gado/Archive Photos Collection via Getty Images Located in California’s resplendent Napa Valley is the only authentic 13th-century Italian Tuscan castle in the country. Castello di Amorosa officially opened to the public in 2007 after being constructed over a span of 13 years. This commanding castle is a real-life kingdom; its 136,000 square feet includes 107 rooms, 8,000 tons of stones, eight different levels, and an enormous wine-barrel room. Castello di Amorosa even contains some truly medieval features, including a drawbridge, dungeon, and church. It’s a huge tourist attraction today, and definitely worth the splurge to tour its glorious grounds. Castello di Amorosa, 4045 St Helena Hwy, Calistoga, CA 94515, USA
Northwest United States Thornewood Castle - Washington
Thornewood Castle In Washington, Thornewood Castle (known as “the house that love built”) sits on the shores of American Lake in Washington, and it is absolutely stunning. Thornewood’s tale begins with Mr. Chester Thorne, one of the founders of the Port of Tacoma. Chester bought the 400-year-old Elizabethan manor in England and had it dismantled and shipped, brick by brick, to Lakewood to be included in the building of Thornewood. Chester had the castle and gardens built as a gift to his wife, Anna Thorne, and construction took three years to complete. The gardens at this enchanting castle are extraordinarily beautiful and will sweep you off your feet. This castle is truly one of the most romantic labors of love in existence, and happily, you can experience the magic when you book an overnight stay. Thornewood Castle, 8601 N Thorne Ln SW, Lakewood, WA 98498, USA
Non-Contiguous United States Iolani Palace - Hawaii
gregobagel/iStock via Getty Images Plus The one true royal dwelling on this list, Iolani Palace is Hawaii’s official royal residence and a place of majesty and beauty. The extraordinary edifice was built in 1882 in downtown Honolulu by King Kalakaua as a means of strengthening the then-Kingdom of Hawaii’s global clout and prestige. When the Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown in 1893 by the U.S., Iolani Palace served as the capitol building until it underwent extensive renovation, reopening as a museum in 1978. Taking design inspiration from European palaces, Iolani is said to be the sole example of American Florentine style (a mix of Italian Renaissance and Hawaiian architectural styles) and is the only official royal residence on U.S. soil. It is a beloved cultural center in Hawaii, and you’ll definitely want to tour this pristine palace while you’re there. Iolani Palace, 364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
You don’t have to travel to Europe to enjoy a royal experience. Our wondrous country is home to some truly magical and impressive feats of the human imagination, inviting all to marvel and be inspired. Because when it comes to imagining truly great things, that’s where Americans shine most of all.
The Norumbega Inn/Facebook
There’s already a fairy tale quality to Maine, a place of rugged beauty and old edifices. And The Norumbega Inn fits right in with this Maine mood, as it’s a distinguished and stately stone house that can only be described as a real-life castle. It was built in 1886 for duplex telegraph inventor Joseph Barker Stearns and remained a private home for about 100 years before becoming a bed and breakfast in 1984. In 2013 it was sold to Susan Walser and Phillip Crispo, who have transformed it into the magical destination it is today. Come and spend the night in this winsome Maine castle; you’ll dine on food fit for a king and enjoy kingdom-level views of the Penobscot Bay from your fireplace-warmed room.
The Norumbega, 63 High St, Camden, ME 04843, USA
Jeremy Dunham/iStock via Getty Images Plus
In 1914, actor, director, and playwright William Hooker Gillette (of Sherlock Holmes fame) built this eponymous castle in East Haddam, Connecticut, as part of his estate. What’s so compelling about Gillette Castle is that even though the outside looks like ruins, the inside is full of modern luxuries and innovations. Gillette Castle is located on 122 staggeringly beautiful acres above the Connecticut River, and it’s open for self-guided tours. Come and marvel at Gillette’s attention to detail (each of the 47 doors inside is unique because William felt that no two should be the same) while delighting in this fascinating, royal-inspired masterpiece.
Gillette Castle State Park, East Haddam, CT 06423, USA
Jonathan W. Cohen/iStock via Getty Images Plus
Boldt Castle is a beautiful place with a heartbreaking story. George C. Boldt, the owner of New York’s Waldorf Astoria Hotel, built this 120-room castle on an island in the St. Lawrence River for his wife, Louise, in 1900. Sadly, Louise died unexpectedly a few months before it was completed, and a heartbroken George ceased construction. The structure was left vacant for 73 years until the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority restored and opened it in 1977. When you’re out on the river and surrounded by the beauty of this region, you’ll think you’ve been swept away to a fairy tale land.
Heart Island, Alexandria Bay, NY 13640, USA
Scott Dunn/Moment Collection via Getty Images
New York City is probably the last place you’d expect to find a castle, but it’s here in the middle of one of the largest cities in the world that you’ll find a hidden castle that’s just the most fantastic little folly. One of the most iconic features in Central Park, Belvedere Castle is a miniature chateau that’s perched atop Vista Rock, the second-highest natural point in the park. Created by Central Park co-designer Calvert Vaux and architect Jacob Wrey Mould in the mid-1800s, the structure and adjacent terraces and pavilions were all called the “the Belvedere,” which means “beautiful view” in Italian. Completed in 1872, Belvedere Castle was envisioned as a place from which to enjoy views of the surrounding landscape and skyline, and that’s exactly what it remains to this day.
Belvedere Castle, New York, NY 10024, USA
Mercer Museum and Fonthill Castle/Facebook
Fonthill Castle is a charming chateau in Pennsylvania that was once home to Henry Chapman Mercer, an archeologist, artifact collector, and tile maker. He built this castle in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, from 1908 to 1912. Reflecting Medieval, Gothic, and Byzantine architectural styles, Fonthill Castle looks like something from an idyllic European countryside. Today, visitors can tour the grounds, including the nearby Mercer Museum, and learn about the life and legacy of this American visionary.
Fonthill Castle, 525 E Court St, Doylestown, PA 18901, USA
George Rose/Getty Images News Collection
The Smithsonian is a national treasure, and its eponymous Smithsonian Institute is a modern-day American castle. Located near the center of the National Mall in Washington D.C., this red, Norman-style castle stands out in a sea of grey presidential monuments and monoliths. It was made from red sandstone in 1855 and originally served as the home and office of Joseph Henry, the first Secretary of the Smithsonian. Today, however, it’s the visitor center for the Smithsonian Institute, and its history and uniqueness have made it an iconic (and iconoclastic) place in our nation’s capital.
Smithsonian Castle, 1000 Jefferson Dr SW, Washington, DC 20560, USA
The Kentucky Castle/Facebook
Deep in the heart of Kentucky atop a hill in Versailles, there is a majestic castle that overlooks a kingdom of rolling hills and pastoral countryside. The Kentucky Castle is a spectacular destination in and of itself; a place of pure revelry in the idyllic Kentucky blue hills. This majestic property is wonderfully unusual and has a top-rated spa, luxurious accommodations, and an award-winning farm-to-table restaurant. The Kentucky Castle is as beautiful as it gets, and you’ll be utterly blown away by this surprising royal treasure in the South.
The Kentucky Castle, 230 Pisgah Pike, Versailles, KY 40383, USA
Management/TripAdvisor
Located deep in the heartland of central Ohio, Landoll’s Mohican Castle is a place of unprecedented and unexpected luxury. As its name suggests, this one-of-a-kind spot was designed to emulate the beauty of European castles by local entrepreneur Jim Landoll. It opened to the public in 2002 and features myriad pointed towers and spires, as well as lush foliage and greenery that’s downright enchanting. Throughout the property, you’ll find more than a dozen stunning suites and rooms from which to choose, each more fantastic than the next. You definitely won’t be expecting to find Landoll’s Mohican Castle in the middle of Ohio, but you’ll be most definitely glad you did.
Landoll’s Mohican Castle - Luxury Hotel in Central Ohio, 561 Township Road 3352, Loudonville, OH 44842, USA
Eifel Kreutz/iStock via Getty Images Plus
Ha Ha Tonka State Park is one of Missouri’s crown jewels, and its eponymous castle ruins are a breathtakingly beautiful place shrouded in intrigue and mystery. From its perch, the ruins of a turn-of-the-century stone castle overlook the Missouri Ozarks, treating visitors to utterly sublime views of the Lake of the Ozarks and Ha Ha Tonka Spring. Viewing this landmark is an epic adventure in and of itself; you’ll find the castle via the park’s Castle Trail, a scenic, ADA-accessible trek that’s perfect for hikers of all abilities. Happening upon the ruins of what was once Ha Ha Tonka Castle, built between 1905 and 1922, will make you feel like a modern-day explorer.
Ha Ha Tonka Castle Ruins, Natural Bridge Rd, Camdenton, MO 65020, USA
Biltmore/Facebook
Easily the most famous castle in the United States, the Biltmore Estate is a place of pure magic. Built by George Vanderbilt between 1889 and 1895, this 178,926-square-foot mansion is located on 8,000 acres of pristine property just outside of Asheville, North Carolina. As the largest privately-owned home in America, it’s a place of stunning scenery, lush gardens, ornate architecture, and historic relevance. While the house itself is a major attraction (the Biltmore draws over a million visitors each year), the massive and meticulously kept gardens on the estate are heavenly and only enhance the home’s stunning beauty. The Biltmore is more than just a castle; it’s an entire kingdom.
Biltmore Estate Drive, Biltmore Estate Dr, Asheville, NC, USA
Walt Disney World/Facebook
The most ubiquitous castle in the United States, the Cinderella Castle at Walt Disney World is an American icon. Inspired by several European castles (primarily Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria and Craigievar Castle in Scotland), as well as the castle in the Disney film “Cinderella,” it took 19 months to build and opened to the public in July of 1971. This enchanting edifice is the symbol of Magic Kingdom, and one of the most popular photo ops in the country.
Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom, Cinderella Castle, Orlando, FL 32836, USA
Castle Falkenstein
Deep in the heart of Texas, there’s a place that defies every Lone Star State stereotype… except, of course, the saying that “everything’s bigger in Texas.” Falkenstein Castle was built in 1996 by a couple inspired by a recent trip to Germany. Billed as “A Texas-Sized Fairy Tale in the Hill Country,” the castle is a place of pure fantasy; a 14,000-square-foot palace with myriad balconies wherein guests can gaze upon the Texas Hill Country. A kingdom of 133 acres, those who believe in fairy tale endings can even have their wedding at Falkenstein Castle, which also has its own cathedral and luxurious accommodations.
Falkenstein Castle Way, Cypress, TX 77433, USA
jrog9832/TripAdvisor
Located in the tiny Pueblo County town of Rye is a place that stands as a fantastic testament to the power of the human imagination: Bishop Castle. This incredible 160-foot structure is billed as being an “inspiring castle built entirely by one man.” Visionary Jim Bishop has been constructing his kingdom since 1969 when he purchased the land for just $450. To be clear, though, nothing about Bishop Castle feels homemade; Bishop’s attention to detail and craftsmanship are in a league all their own. With myriad spires and stairs, gorgeous stonework, and even a fire-breathing dragon, Bishop Castle is truly a modern masterpiece.
Bishop Castle, 12705 CO-165, Rye, CO 81069, USA
DavidByronKeener/iStock via Getty Images Plus
In Arizona, there is a striking desert castle that’s literally built into the earth. The Sinagua people built this 20-room castle on a cliff an entire millennia ago in what is now known as Camp Verde, Arizona. Established back in 1906, this natural monument was the third of its kind dedicated to preserving Native American culture and is one of the best-preserved cliff dwellings in all of North America. While Montezuma Castle is so fragile visitors aren’t allowed to go inside, the views from below this ancient dwelling are not to be missed.
Montezuma Castle National Monument, Montezuma Castle Rd, Camp Verde, AZ, USA
Ellen Morris Bishop/Moment Collection via Getty Images
More than 2,000 years ago, long before European travelers landed in North America, Ancestral Puebloan people lived in what is now known as the American Southwest. A drought around 1300 A.D. forced the people to leave their dwellings behind and migrate south. Luckily, some sites, such as Hovenweep National Monument, still stand. These Ancestral Puebloan ruins once served as home to 2,500 people and were built between 1200 and 1300 A.D. They are now part of the Hovenweep National Monument, which spans across southwestern Colorado and southeastern Utah. These ruins aren’t just staggeringly beautiful, but they’re also one of the best places to go stargazing in the country.
Hovenweep National Monument, United States
Thomas De Wever/iStock via Getty Images Plus
In the middle of one of the most popular beaches in Southern California, there’s an anachronism that looks like something out of “Peter Pan” – or “Pirates of the Caribbean.” Victoria Beach Castle – also known as the “Pirate’s Castle” – is a 60-foot spire built into a rocky cliffside in Laguna Beach. This coastal treasure was actually constructed in 1926 by the owners of the house at the top of the cliff to serve as a private staircase to the beach. The owner, a wealthy SoCal eccentric, is said to have dressed up as a pirate and hide candies and coins between the rocks of the tower for the local kids to hunt and find. Today, Victoria Beach Castle is a real-life treasure on the California coast.
Pirate Tower, 2713 Victoria Dr, Laguna Beach, CA 92651, USA
RosyRJ/TripAdvisor
On the California coast, there is a real-life castle in San Simeon that commands attention. Once the residence of the business tycoon, Hearst Castle is now a historic house museum, California State Park, and listed on the National Registrar of Historic Places. The estate of California media mogul William Randolph Hearst, the eponymous castle was built between 1919 and 1947 on 40,000 acres purchased by Hearst’s father, businessman, and politician George Hearst. On a tour of the property, you’ll see Heart’s incredible collection of artifacts from around the world (including real Egyptian and Roman sarcophagi and white marble Greek statues), as well opulent artwork, the remains of the old on-site zoo, the iconic, outdoor Neptune Pool, and the equally as impressive indoor Roman Pool, which is lined with blue glass and gold leaf mosaic tiles. A place of pure fantasy, Hearst Castle is the epitome of old Hollywood glamour, an iconic destination that’s truly bucket-list worthy.
Hearst Castle, 750 Hearst Castle Rd, San Simeon, CA 93452, USA
Smith Collection/Gado/Archive Photos Collection via Getty Images
Located in California’s resplendent Napa Valley is the only authentic 13th-century Italian Tuscan castle in the country. Castello di Amorosa officially opened to the public in 2007 after being constructed over a span of 13 years. This commanding castle is a real-life kingdom; its 136,000 square feet includes 107 rooms, 8,000 tons of stones, eight different levels, and an enormous wine-barrel room. Castello di Amorosa even contains some truly medieval features, including a drawbridge, dungeon, and church. It’s a huge tourist attraction today, and definitely worth the splurge to tour its glorious grounds.
Castello di Amorosa, 4045 St Helena Hwy, Calistoga, CA 94515, USA
Thornewood Castle
In Washington, Thornewood Castle (known as “the house that love built”) sits on the shores of American Lake in Washington, and it is absolutely stunning. Thornewood’s tale begins with Mr. Chester Thorne, one of the founders of the Port of Tacoma. Chester bought the 400-year-old Elizabethan manor in England and had it dismantled and shipped, brick by brick, to Lakewood to be included in the building of Thornewood. Chester had the castle and gardens built as a gift to his wife, Anna Thorne, and construction took three years to complete. The gardens at this enchanting castle are extraordinarily beautiful and will sweep you off your feet. This castle is truly one of the most romantic labors of love in existence, and happily, you can experience the magic when you book an overnight stay.
Thornewood Castle, 8601 N Thorne Ln SW, Lakewood, WA 98498, USA
gregobagel/iStock via Getty Images Plus
The one true royal dwelling on this list, Iolani Palace is Hawaii’s official royal residence and a place of majesty and beauty. The extraordinary edifice was built in 1882 in downtown Honolulu by King Kalakaua as a means of strengthening the then-Kingdom of Hawaii’s global clout and prestige. When the Hawaiian monarchy was overthrown in 1893 by the U.S., Iolani Palace served as the capitol building until it underwent extensive renovation, reopening as a museum in 1978. Taking design inspiration from European palaces, Iolani is said to be the sole example of American Florentine style (a mix of Italian Renaissance and Hawaiian architectural styles) and is the only official royal residence on U.S. soil. It is a beloved cultural center in Hawaii, and you’ll definitely want to tour this pristine palace while you’re there.
Iolani Palace, 364 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
For more enchanting places to add to your bucket list, be sure to check out these 16 places around the U.S. that are straight out of a fairy tale!
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The OIYS Visitor Center
American castles May 25, 2022 Sarah M. What are some American castles you can stay in? One of our favorite American castles is located in humble Kentucky. The castle that sits on a hill in Versailles, Kentucky has long been a fixture in the area and it’s been thrilling to watch it come to life over the past few years. Now called the Kentucky Castle, it is a premier boutique hotel, restaurant, spa, and event space that offers such a wide range of experiences throughout the year. From rooftop workout classes to themed dinners, the Castle is now the king of creative events and experiences on its property. We are partial, however, to its overnight accommodations, which let you feel like real-life royalty for your stay! Our favorite American “castle” to spend the night, however, is The Biltmore. America’s real-life castle nestled in the idyllic hills of Asheville, North Carolina, it’s a place of stunning scenery, lush gardens, ornate architecture, and historic relevance. Attracting over a million visitors each year, the Biltmore is a must-visit destination for anyone with an appetite for wanderlust. And if you want to take your bucket-list experience of this bucket-list destination to the next level, opt to spend the night at The Inn on Biltmore Estate. With over 200 rooms adorned with antique furnishings, bespoke decor, and sumptuous extras, there’s no place in the country quite like this well-appointed inn. And the opportunity to see the sun rise over the kingdom built by American royalty? That’s something you shouldn’t pass up. What are some unique castles in the US? In terms of unique castles in America, there’s nowhere quite as cool (pun intended) as the Ice Castles in Utah. A winter wonderland comprised of ice castles and sculptures totaling 25 million pounds, this experience is truly extraordinary. While this event now happens annually at a few locations across North America, the Ice Castles originated in Alpine, Utah, in the backyard of ice artist Brent Christensen, who created a frozen playland for his kids during one particularly long winter. Christensen’s ice caves and castles proved irresistible for the neighborhood kids, and he began to imagine bigger winter wonderlands – which brings us to today’s epic Ice Castle events. Opening dates always depend on the weather, but the attraction is typically open from early January through early March. Ice Castles is an awe-inspiring, must-see winter phenomenon that brings fairytales to life, complete with dazzling LED-lit sculptures, frozen thrones, ice-carved tunnels, slides, and fountains.
The OIYS Visitor Center
American castles
May 25, 2022
Sarah M.
What are some American castles you can stay in? One of our favorite American castles is located in humble Kentucky. The castle that sits on a hill in Versailles, Kentucky has long been a fixture in the area and it’s been thrilling to watch it come to life over the past few years. Now called the Kentucky Castle, it is a premier boutique hotel, restaurant, spa, and event space that offers such a wide range of experiences throughout the year. From rooftop workout classes to themed dinners, the Castle is now the king of creative events and experiences on its property. We are partial, however, to its overnight accommodations, which let you feel like real-life royalty for your stay! Our favorite American “castle” to spend the night, however, is The Biltmore. America’s real-life castle nestled in the idyllic hills of Asheville, North Carolina, it’s a place of stunning scenery, lush gardens, ornate architecture, and historic relevance. Attracting over a million visitors each year, the Biltmore is a must-visit destination for anyone with an appetite for wanderlust. And if you want to take your bucket-list experience of this bucket-list destination to the next level, opt to spend the night at The Inn on Biltmore Estate. With over 200 rooms adorned with antique furnishings, bespoke decor, and sumptuous extras, there’s no place in the country quite like this well-appointed inn. And the opportunity to see the sun rise over the kingdom built by American royalty? That’s something you shouldn’t pass up. What are some unique castles in the US? In terms of unique castles in America, there’s nowhere quite as cool (pun intended) as the Ice Castles in Utah. A winter wonderland comprised of ice castles and sculptures totaling 25 million pounds, this experience is truly extraordinary. While this event now happens annually at a few locations across North America, the Ice Castles originated in Alpine, Utah, in the backyard of ice artist Brent Christensen, who created a frozen playland for his kids during one particularly long winter. Christensen’s ice caves and castles proved irresistible for the neighborhood kids, and he began to imagine bigger winter wonderlands – which brings us to today’s epic Ice Castle events. Opening dates always depend on the weather, but the attraction is typically open from early January through early March. Ice Castles is an awe-inspiring, must-see winter phenomenon that brings fairytales to life, complete with dazzling LED-lit sculptures, frozen thrones, ice-carved tunnels, slides, and fountains.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
One of our favorite American castles is located in humble Kentucky. The castle that sits on a hill in Versailles, Kentucky has long been a fixture in the area and it’s been thrilling to watch it come to life over the past few years. Now called the Kentucky Castle, it is a premier boutique hotel, restaurant, spa, and event space that offers such a wide range of experiences throughout the year. From rooftop workout classes to themed dinners, the Castle is now the king of creative events and experiences on its property. We are partial, however, to its overnight accommodations, which let you feel like real-life royalty for your stay!
Our favorite American “castle” to spend the night, however, is The Biltmore. America’s real-life castle nestled in the idyllic hills of Asheville, North Carolina, it’s a place of stunning scenery, lush gardens, ornate architecture, and historic relevance. Attracting over a million visitors each year, the Biltmore is a must-visit destination for anyone with an appetite for wanderlust. And if you want to take your bucket-list experience of this bucket-list destination to the next level, opt to spend the night at The Inn on Biltmore Estate. With over 200 rooms adorned with antique furnishings, bespoke decor, and sumptuous extras, there’s no place in the country quite like this well-appointed inn. And the opportunity to see the sun rise over the kingdom built by American royalty? That’s something you shouldn’t pass up.
What are some unique castles in the US?
In terms of unique castles in America, there’s nowhere quite as cool (pun intended) as the Ice Castles in Utah. A winter wonderland comprised of ice castles and sculptures totaling 25 million pounds, this experience is truly extraordinary. While this event now happens annually at a few locations across North America, the Ice Castles originated in Alpine, Utah, in the backyard of ice artist Brent Christensen, who created a frozen playland for his kids during one particularly long winter. Christensen’s ice caves and castles proved irresistible for the neighborhood kids, and he began to imagine bigger winter wonderlands – which brings us to today’s epic Ice Castle events. Opening dates always depend on the weather, but the attraction is typically open from early January through early March. Ice Castles is an awe-inspiring, must-see winter phenomenon that brings fairytales to life, complete with dazzling LED-lit sculptures, frozen thrones, ice-carved tunnels, slides, and fountains.
