When you think of castles, your mind might drift to Europe—Scotland’s rugged fortresses or France’s fairytale châteaux. But what if I told you that some of the most breathtaking castles are right here in the USA? Yes, the United States is home to a handful of stunning, storybook-like castles—each with its own rich history, architecture, and charm. Whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, or just want the perfect Instagram photo, these 15 most beautiful castles in the USA deserve a spot on your 2025 travel list.
1. Biltmore Estate – Asheville, North Carolina
The Biltmore Estate isn’t just the largest privately owned home in America—it’s a full-blown Gilded Age masterpiece. Built in 1895 by George Washington Vanderbilt II, this French Renaissance château boasts 250 rooms, a winery, lush gardens, and views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The Downton Abbey–style guided tour
The 8,000-acre Biltmore Gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (the same guy who did Central Park)
Seasonal events like the Biltmore Blooms in spring and Candlelight Christmas Evenings
- Website: Visit the official Biltmore website for hours, tickets, and events.
2. Hearst Castle – San Simeon, California
Perched high above the Pacific Ocean, Hearst Castle is the definition of opulence. Created by newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst and architect Julia Morgan, it blends Mediterranean Revival style with ancient Roman flair—complete with a private zoo, art collection, and Neptune Pool.
The Grand Rooms Tour inside Casa Grande
The iconic outdoor Neptune Pool and Roman indoor pool
Scenic views of California’s Central Coast from the hilltop
- Website: Book tickets or virtual tours at the Hearst Castle official site.
3. Hammond Castle – Gloucester, Massachusetts
Built in the 1920s by eccentric inventor John Hays Hammond Jr., this medieval-style castle combines old-world charm with modern science. Nestled along the Atlantic coast, it’s like stepping into a European fortress—with secret passageways, Roman artifacts, and organ music echoing through the stone halls.
The Great Hall with its stained-glass windows
The underground pool and secret doors
Summer events like medieval fairs and candlelight tours
- Website: Plan your visit at Hammond Castle Museum.
4. Castello di Amorosa – Calistoga, California
You don’t need to fly to Tuscany for wine and castles. Just head to Napa Valley. Castello di Amorosa is a meticulously built 13th-century-style Tuscan castle that doubles as a working winery. It has a moat, drawbridge, towers, and even a torture chamber (just for show!).
Guided wine tastings inside the castle
The Great Hall with hand-painted frescoes
The dungeon and historical armory exhibit
- Website: Learn more or book a wine tasting at Castello di Amorosa.
5. Boldt Castle – Alexandria Bay, New York
Set on Heart Island in the middle of the St. Lawrence River, Boldt Castle is a love story frozen in time. Built in 1900 by hotel magnate George C. Boldt for his wife, construction abruptly halted when she tragically passed away. Today, it’s a romantic ruin turned restored gem, accessible only by boat.
The beautifully restored main castle rooms
The Alster Tower, designed as a playhouse
Panoramic views of the Thousand Islands region
- Website: Ferry info and ticket details available at Boldt Castle’s official site.
6. Thornewood Castle – Lakewood, Washington
Nicknamed the “House That Love Built,” Thornewood Castle was constructed in 1909 using parts of a 400-year-old English manor imported brick by brick. This Tudor Gothic castle on American soil served as a filming location for Stephen King’s Rose Red and is now a romantic B&B and wedding venue.
A stroll through the sunken English gardens
The original antique stained glass and oak paneling
A peaceful lakeside afternoon on American Lake
- Website: Plan your stay or tour at thornewoodcastle.com
7. Lyndhurst Mansion – Tarrytown, New York
Overlooking the Hudson River, Lyndhurst Mansion is a Gothic Revival treasure built in 1838. Once home to railroad tycoon Jay Gould, this castle-like estate is surrounded by lush parklands and dramatic architecture that captures the romantic spirit of 19th-century America.
The massive art collection and opulent interiors
Guided seasonal mansion tours
The nearby Sleepy Hollow and Hudson Valley area
- Website: Details and ticketing at lyndhurst.org
8. Fonthill Castle – Doylestown, Pennsylvania
Built by Henry Chapman Mercer, Fonthill Castle is like stepping into an artsy medieval dream. Constructed entirely of poured concrete in the early 1900s, its whimsical interior features over 44 rooms decorated with handcrafted tiles, books, and artifacts collected from around the world.
The Moravian tiles (also made by Mercer) that cover the walls and floors
The adjacent Mercer Museum
Hidden staircases and eccentric architecture
- Website: More info at mercermuseum.org/fonthill-castle
9. Castle in the Clouds – Moultonborough, New Hampshire
Perched atop the Ossipee Mountains with panoramic views of Lake Winnipesaukee, Castle in the Clouds (Lucknow Estate) is a 20th-century Arts & Crafts–style mansion that feels part fairytale, part wilderness retreat.
The hike or trolley ride up to the castle
Original 1914 technology like intercoms and central vacuum
The viewpoint terrace—especially in fall!
- Website: Visit castleintheclouds.org for seasonal hours and events.
10. Berkeley Castle – Berkeley Springs, West Virginia
Modeled after an English castle and built in the 1880s, Berkeley Castle is one of the most underrated medieval-style castles in America. With stone towers, battlements, and legends of hauntings, this castle has history, charm, and mystery all in one.
Seasonal castle tours and events (check availability)
Views over historic Berkeley Springs, a 1700s-era spa town
A unique small-town + castle combo weekend getaway
- Website: Check updates and tour options via local tourism here.
11. Bannerman Castle – Pollepel Island, New York
Sitting mysteriously on a small island in the Hudson River, Bannerman Castle looks like something out of a fantasy novel. Built in the early 1900s by munitions dealer Francis Bannerman VI as a warehouse and residence, it’s now a partially ruined Gothic-style fortress that you can tour by kayak or boat.
The guided walking or kayaking tours to the island
Open-air theater shows and outdoor movie nights
Sunset views over the Hudson Valley
- Website: Book your visit at bannermancastle.org
12. Belvedere Castle – New York City, New York
Yes, there’s a castle in Central Park! Built in 1869 as a Victorian “folly,” Belvedere Castle offers sweeping views of the park and is now a visitor center and weather station. While it’s smaller than others on this list, its unique location in Manhattan makes it a hidden gem.
Climbing the stone towers for park views
Seeing the Turtle Pond and Shakespeare Garden nearby
Visiting at sunset for skyline photo ops
- Website: Learn more at centralparknyc.org
13. Scotty’s Castle – Death Valley National Park, California
Built in the 1920s in the middle of Death Valley, Scotty’s Castle is a Spanish Revival–style mansion full of quirky history. Despite the name, it wasn’t actually owned by “Scotty,” the conman who claimed it—it was the vacation home of a wealthy Chicago couple charmed by the desert and legends.
Stories of Walter “Scotty” Scott’s tall tales
The underground tunnels and solar power system
Ranger-led ghost tours (seasonal)
Website: nps.gov/deva (Note: Check for restoration updates before visiting)
14. Gillette Castle – East Haddam, Connecticut
Perched above the Connecticut River, Gillette Castle is the eccentric former home of actor William Gillette—famous for portraying Sherlock Holmes on stage. The castle’s stone exterior hides a whimsical interior full of secret passages, handcrafted locks, and quirky gadgets.
The wood-carved interior and trick mirrors
River cruises with castle views
Gillette Castle State Park hiking trails
- Website: Explore more at portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Gillette-Castle
15. Loveland Castle – Loveland, Ohio
Officially called Château Laroche, this small hand-built castle was constructed stone-by-stone by medieval enthusiast and WWI veteran Harry Andrews. It’s now home to the Knights of the Golden Trail and filled with handmade swords, armor, and artifacts.
Guided tours led by modern-day “knights”
The museum of medieval weapons and armor
A quirky and affordable off-the-beaten-path experience
- Website: Plan your adventure atlovelandcastle.com
Final Thoughts
While Europe might have centuries of castle culture, these American gems prove you don’t have to cross the Atlantic to experience magic, grandeur, and mystery. Each of these castles offers a unique story and unforgettable experience, perfect for a romantic weekend, family getaway, or solo exploration in 2025.
So pack your camera, wear comfy shoes, and let your imagination roam free—because the most beautiful castles in the USA are waiting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Are there real castles in the United States?
Yes! While most U.S. castles were built in the 19th and 20th centuries, many were inspired by European architecture and feature authentic designs, towers, and historical charm.
2. Can you stay overnight in any of these castles?
Yes. Some castles like Thornewood Castle (WA) and Castle in the Clouds (NH) offer accommodations or event rentals. Others may be day-visit only.
3. Are these castles family-friendly?
Absolutely. Most castles offer guided tours, gardens, and exhibits that are great for kids and families. Always check the website for age-specific activities.
4. Do I need to book tickets in advance?
It’s highly recommended, especially for popular spots like Biltmore Estate and Hearst Castle, as tours can sell out during peak seasons.
5. Which castle is best for photography?
Photographers love Boldt Castle, Castello di Amorosa, and Gillette Castle for their scenic views, architecture, and dramatic settings.
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I am Sabiq Rasel is an Entrepreneur and broadcaster. I believe that every sip of coffee holds the potential for a moment of inspiration, creativity, and every cup tells a story.
