Castles are often associated with Europe, but did you know that the United States is home to some impressive fortresses as well? From medieval-style stone fortresses to grandiose mansions with regal turrets and towers, the USA has an impressive array of castles to explore. Here are the 8 best castles in the USA that everyone must see!
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1. Biltmore Estate, North Carolina
The Biltmore Estate is a grandiose castle in Asheville, North Carolina. The mansion was built in the 1890s for George Vanderbilt and boasts 250 rooms, including a banquet hall, a library, and a collection of fine art. The estate is set on 8,000 acres of land and includes a winery, a farm, and beautiful gardens.
The Biltmore Estate is one of the most visited tourist attractions in North Carolina, drawing in millions of visitors every year. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in history, architecture, or just looking for a beautiful place to visit. The estate’s gardens are particularly stunning, with formal gardens, a walled garden, and a rose garden.
2. Boldt Castle, New York
Boldt Castle is a magnificent castle located on Heart Island in the Thousand Islands region of New York. The castle was built by George Boldt, the owner of the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York City, as a gift for his wife. The castle features 120 rooms and has impressive gardens and fountains.
Boldt Castle is a stunning example of the grandiose architecture of the Gilded Age. Visitors can explore the castle’s extensive grounds, which include beautiful gardens and fountains, as well as take a tour of the castle itself. The castle also hosts events throughout the year, such as concerts and festivals.
3. Hearst Castle, California
Hearst Castle is a grandiose castle located in San Simeon, California. The mansion was built for newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst in the early 20th century and boasts 56 bedrooms, a movie theater, and a massive pool. The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Hearst Castle is one of the most famous castles in the USA and is often considered one of the most impressive. It’s located in a beautiful part of California and offers visitors the chance to explore the grandiose mansion and its extensive gardens. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle and learn about the fascinating history of the Hearst family.
4. Hammond Castle, Massachusetts
Hammond Castle is a medieval-style fortress located in Gloucester, Massachusetts. The castle was built in the 1920s by inventor John Hays Hammond Jr. and features a great hall, a drawbridge, and a moat. The castle is now a museum and includes an impressive collection of medieval artifacts and artwork.
Hammond Castle is a unique and fascinating castle to visit. Its medieval-style architecture sets it apart from many of the other castles on this list. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and learn about the life of John Hays Hammond Jr. The castle also hosts events throughout the year, such as haunted tours during Halloween.
5. Oheka Castle, New York
Oheka Castle is a grandiose mansion located in Huntington, New York. The castle was built in the 1920s for financier Otto Hermann Kahn and features 127 rooms, including a grand ballroom, a library, and several guest suites. The castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers stunning views of Long Island Sound. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle and its grounds.
6. Glen Eyrie Castle, Colorado
Glen Eyrie Castle is a stunning castle located in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The castle was built in the 1870s and is now a retreat center and conference facility. The castle features beautiful gardens, a chapel, and a dining hall, and is surrounded by scenic natural beauty. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle and its grounds, as well as enjoy various outdoor activities.
7. The Breakers, Rhode Island
The Breakers is a grandiose mansion located in Newport, Rhode Island. The mansion was built in the 1890s for the Vanderbilt family and features 70 rooms, including a ballroom, a library, and a music room. The mansion is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can take guided tours of the mansion and its grounds.
8. Fonthill Castle, Pennsylvania
Fonthill Castle is a unique castle located in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. The castle was built in the early 1900s by archaeologist and tile maker Henry Chapman Mercer and features 44 rooms and an impressive collection of tiles and other decorative objects. The castle is now a museum and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and forests.
These are just a few of the impressive castles that can be found throughout the USA. From grandiose mansions to medieval-style fortresses, there is something for everyone to explore and admire. So, if you’re looking for a unique and fascinating destination for your next vacation, be sure to add one of these impressive castles to your list!