20 Stunning Castles in the United States That Will Take Your Breath Away
While castles might conjure images of Europe’s rolling hills and ancient architecture, the United States is home to some equally stunning castles that are just as worthy of a visit. Whether they were inspired by European designs or built with unique American flair, these castles offer breathtaking beauty, rich history, and a sense of grandeur you wouldn’t expect.
From coastal estates to mountain fortresses, here are the 20 most beautiful castles you can visit right here in the U.S.
Biltmore Estate – Asheville, North Carolina
The Biltmore Estate is America’s largest privately-owned home, resembling a French château with its grand architecture. Built by George Washington Vanderbilt II, this 250-room estate is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers stunning gardens and tours.
It’s a must-visit for lovers of history and architecture.
Hearst Castle – San Simeon, California
Perched high on a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Hearst Castle is a lavish, Mediterranean-inspired estate. Built by newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst, the castle features grand rooms, art collections, and opulent gardens.
Its sweeping ocean views make it one of California’s most iconic landmarks.
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Boldt Castle – Alexandria Bay, New York
Located on Heart Island in the Thousand Islands region, Boldt Castle is a stunning example of turn-of-the-century architecture. This Rhineland-style castle was originally built as a tribute to love, and its picturesque setting makes it feel like a fairytale come to life.
Take a boat ride to explore the castle and its lush grounds.
Hammond Castle – Gloucester, Massachusetts
Hammond Castle combines medieval architecture with Gothic design, perched on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Built by inventor John Hays Hammond, it now operates as a museum filled with fascinating artifacts.
The castle’s ocean views and historic charm make it a popular destination.
Castello di Amorosa – Calistoga, California
This 13th-century-inspired Tuscan castle is located in the heart of Napa Valley and doubles as a winery. With its stone towers, moat, and underground wine cellars, Castello di Amorosa feels like a step back in time.
Enjoy a tour of the castle followed by wine tastings in this beautiful vineyard setting.
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Lyndhurst Mansion – Tarrytown, New York
Lyndhurst Mansion is a stunning Gothic Revival castle set along the banks of the Hudson River. This grand estate offers visitors a glimpse into the Gilded Age with its lavish interiors and sprawling gardens.
The castle’s distinctive design and scenic location make it a standout destination.
Fonthill Castle – Doylestown, Pennsylvania
Built by archaeologist Henry Chapman Mercer, Fonthill Castle is a concrete masterpiece with intricate tilework and eclectic design. Its rooms are filled with Mercer’s personal collections, creating a truly unique and quirky experience for visitors.
The castle’s mix of Gothic and Medieval architecture is fascinating to explore.
Loveland Castle – Loveland, Ohio
Loveland Castle, also known as Château Laroche, is a medieval-style castle built by one man, Harry Andrews, over several decades. The small but mighty castle offers beautiful stonework, gardens, and a peek into Andrews’ dedication to medieval history.
It’s a charming and offbeat destination in Ohio.
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Searles Castle – Windham, New Hampshire
Searles Castle, inspired by medieval European castles, was built in the late 1800s and features grand stone towers and lush grounds.
Today, it’s a popular venue for weddings and events, offering visitors a chance to see its elegant architecture and sweeping views.
Gillette Castle – East Haddam, Connecticut
Gillette Castle sits atop the hills of the Connecticut River, offering panoramic views and an unusual design. Built by actor William Gillette, it features quirky features like hidden mirrors and built-in couches.
Its rugged stone exterior and scenic setting make it a unique destination.
Iolani Palace – Honolulu, Hawaii
Iolani Palace is the only royal palace in the United States, once home to Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs. This stunning building is a symbol of Hawaiian history and offers guided tours showcasing its regal interiors and historic significance.
Its tropical setting adds to the palace’s beauty.
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Bannerman Castle – Pollepel Island, New York
Bannerman Castle sits on a small island in the Hudson River, once used as a military surplus warehouse. The castle ruins offer a hauntingly beautiful sight, and guided tours allow visitors to explore the remnants of its storied past.
A boat ride to the island makes this a unique day trip.
Cinderella Castle – Orlando, Florida
While not a traditional castle, the iconic Cinderella Castle in Walt Disney World captures the magic and grandeur of a fairytale. Its towers and spires make it one of the most recognizable “castles” in the world, beloved by visitors of all ages.
The nighttime fireworks display adds extra magic to the experience.
Grey Towers Castle – Glenside, Pennsylvania
This stunning stone castle, located on the Arcadia University campus, is modeled after European castles. With its turrets, grand halls, and intricate woodwork, Grey Towers Castle feels like a piece of Europe in the U.S.
Visitors can tour this historical gem and admire its beauty.
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Bishop’s Palace – Galveston, Texas
This grand Victorian-style castle, also known as Gresham’s Castle, boasts ornate architecture and stunning stained glass windows. Located in Galveston, the Bishop’s Palace is filled with intricate details, from carved wood to fine stonework.
It’s a true Texas treasure.
Castle Hill on the Crane Estate – Ipswich, Massachusetts
Set on 2,100 acres overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Castle Hill on the Crane Estate offers a mix of grandeur and natural beauty. The estate’s Italian Renaissance-style mansion and sprawling grounds make it a beautiful spot for tours and events.
The ocean views are simply breathtaking.
The Kentucky Castle – Versailles, Kentucky
This stunning limestone castle sits in the heart of Kentucky’s horse country. It’s not just a beautiful landmark—it also serves as a luxury hotel, offering guests the chance to stay in a real castle.
With beautiful gardens and a serene setting, it’s perfect for a royal getaway.
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Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens – Akron, Ohio
This Tudor Revival-style mansion is as grand as any castle, with 70 acres of beautifully manicured gardens. Stan Hywet Hall offers tours of its elegant interiors, showcasing early 20th-century craftsmanship and design.
The surrounding gardens are a highlight for any visitor.
Singer Castle – Dark Island, New York
Located on the St. Lawrence River, Singer Castle offers a mysterious, medieval atmosphere. Built as a summer retreat for the president of the Singer Sewing Machine Company, it features hidden passages and secret rooms.
A boat tour is the best way to reach this enchanting island castle.
Castle in the Clouds – Moultonborough, New Hampshire
Perched high in the mountains, Castle in the Clouds offers panoramic views of New Hampshire’s lakes and mountains. This turn-of-the-century mansion features stunning architecture, lush gardens, and scenic hiking trails.
It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty and historic charm.
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