15 Most Impressive Castles and Mansions in America You Can Actually Visit

Going to visit the sprawling estates that scream “old money” and grand fortresses with towers that touch the sky makes one imagine how the other half lives. Of course, with all the wealth in America, the country has its fair share of jaw-dropping mansions and castles.

Although it’s not as concentrated as the Loire Valley in France or as grand as Neu Schwanstein in Germany, here are 15 of the most impressive castles and mansions in America that are worth a visit.

1. Hearst Castle, San Simeon, California

Perched above the Pacific Ocean, Hearst Castle is the result of William Randolph Hearst’s extravagant vision. The estate spans 127 acres and includes 165 rooms, each brimming with art and antiques from around the world.

The outdoor Neptune Pool and indoor Roman Pool are as luxurious as they are visually stunning. The expansive gardens and terraces give iconic views of the California coastline.

Guided tours walk you through Hearst’s glamorous lifestyle and his connection to Hollywood’s elite.

2. Castello di Amorosa, Calistoga, California

Up in Napa Valley, this medieval-inspired castle doubles as a fully functioning winery. Completed in 2007, it took 15 years to build using authentic construction techniques. Visitors can tour the castle’s grand halls, armory, and even a torture chamber.

Beyond its historical ambiance, the estate produces highly regarded wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir. The vineyard surrounding the property makes it a favorite for wine enthusiasts.

3. Bannerman Castle, Pollepel Island, New York

Perched on a small island in the Hudson River, this crumbling castle is as mysterious as it is beautiful. Built in the early 1900s by Francis Bannerman VI to store military surplus, it now stands as a partially restored ruin.

Visitors can only reach the island by kayak or ferry. Guided tours shed light on Bannerman’s eccentric personality and the castle’s turbulent history, including a massive explosion in 1920. The surrounding views of the Hudson Highlands are equally captivating.

4. Biltmore Estate, Asheville, North Carolina

George Washington Vanderbilt II’s 250-room estate is America’s largestprivately owned home. Built in 1895, this French Renaissance-style mansion has intricate detailsandh opulent furnishings.

The estate’s grounds, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, feature sprawling gardens and walking paths. Highlights include the library, with its 10,000 volumes, and the Banquet Hall’s 70-foot ceiling. Seasonal events like the Christmas light displays add even more appeal.

5. Grey Towers Castle, Glenside, Pennsylvania

This stately castle, built in 1893, is now part of Arcadia University’s campus. Once the private residence of William Welsh Harrison, it’s an example of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture.

The interior features elaborate woodwork, stained glass windows, and an ornate grand staircase. The castle’s surrounding gardens and open spaces add to its appeal as a picturesque landmark.

6. Fonthill Castle, Doylestown, Pennsylvania

Built by archaeologist and tile maker Henry Chapman Mercer, this castle is a true work of artistic imagination. Completed in 1912, it features 44 rooms, 18 fireplaces, and more than 200 windows. Every corner is adorned with handcrafted ceramic tiles depicting everything from animals to historical scenes.

Visitors can explore its labyrinth-like design through guided tours that reveal Mercer’s eccentric personality and creative process. The castle sits on a sprawling estate that also includes the Moravian Pottery and Tile Works.

7. Lyndhurst Mansion, Tarrytown, New York

Lyndhurst is a Gothic Revival masterpiece built in 1838 overlooking the Hudson River. It was home to several notable figures, including railroad tycoon Jay Gould. The mansion’s interiors are lavishly decorated with period furnishings and artworks.

Visitors can stroll the expansive grounds and through the rose garden. Occasionally, seasonal events, such as art shows and theatrical performances, occur.

8. The Breakers, Newport, Rhode Island

This opulent mansion, constructed by the Vanderbilt family in 1895, is a symbol of Gilded Age excess. Modeled after an Italian Renaissance palace, its 70 rooms are adorned with imported marble, gilded ceilings, and intricate woodwork. The Great Hall has 50-foot-high ceilings!

Situated on a 13-acre estate, the property has views of the Atlantic Ocean. Audio tours provide insights into the Vanderbilt family and their extravagant lifestyle.

9. Hammond Castle, Gloucester, Massachusetts

Built in the 1920s by inventor John Hays Hammond Jr., this eclectic castle combines medieval European and modern design elements. Inside, you can explore a mix of grand halls, secret passageways, and Hammond’s private collection of antiques.

The castle also served as a laboratory where Hammond worked on groundbreaking innovations. Its location along the Massachusetts coastline makes it a worthwhile stop.

10. Scotty’s Castle, Death Valley National Park, California

Scotty’s Castle isn’t a traditional castle, it’s a desert retreat with a fascinating backstory. Built in the 1920s, it was funded by Albert Johnson but named after Death Valley legend Walter “Scotty” Scott, who entertained visitors with tall tales.

The Spanish Revival architecture has intricate tile work and a massive pipe organ, and feels out of place in the harsh desert surroundings.

If you are willing to go deep into the remote areas of Death Valley, you can tour the estate and learn about its role as a getaway for the rich and famous.

Note: Scotty’s Castle has been closed to the public since 2015 due to flood damage. Its reopeningg is tentatively planned for 2025.

11. The Getty Villa, Los Angeles, California

Built by oil tycoon J. Paul Getty in the 1970s and modeled after an ancient Roman villa, the villa houses an impressive collection of ancient Greek and Roman artifacts. It’s one of the best things to do in LA as a tourist and a place I always bring friends when they visit.

Explore its meticulously recreated Roman gardens, complete with fountains and sculptures. The building itself is built with beautiful columns and frescoes.

12. Nemours Estate, Wilmington, Delaware

Built in 1910 by industrialist Alfred I. du Pont, this 77-room mansion was designed to resemble a French château. The estate includes formal French gardens that are among the largest in North America.

Inside, admire lavish interiors of gilded woodwork, antique furnishings, and marble floors. Guided tours walk you through the life of the du Pont family and the estate’s history. The reflecting pool and fountains are especially striking.

13. The Swan House, Atlanta, Georgia

Completed in 1928, this elegant mansion was designed by renowned architect Philip Trammell Shutze. The house, with its classical facade and detailed interiors, has become an iconic Georgian landmark.

Tour the grand halls, sitting rooms, and extensive gardens. Its frequent use in film and television has only heightened its appeal as a local favorite destination.

14. Boldt Castle, Thousand Islands, New York

Set on Heart Island in the Thousand Islands region of beautiful New York State, this castle was built by millionaire George Boldt as a tribute to his wife. Construction began in 1900 but was halted after her sudden death, leaving parts of the castle unfinished.

Today, it is accessible by ferry only, but you can still tour its restored rooms and learn about its romantic yet tragic history.

15. Winchester Mystery House, San Jose, California

This may be one of the strangest and most haunting mansions on this list. Built by Sarah Winchester, widow of gun manufacturer William Wirt Winchester, it’s a massive mansion with 160 rooms that was constantly under construction for nearly 40 years.

Legend has it that Sarah believed she was haunted by the spirits of those killed by her husband’s guns and continuously added bizarre features to confuse them. Today, visitors can tour the eccentric house and its many oddities. It’s definitely a unique experience!

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