Texas is not the first place that comes to mind when you think of Medieval-style castles. But there are scores of these impressive buildings you can visit near major cities. And they make a great weekend getaway! Texas castles have their own unique architecture and historic flair. I've stayed in some, enjoyed wine tasting in others and look forward to watching new ones get built in the future!
Best Castles in Texas
1. Take a self-guided tour of Bishop's Palace in Galveston
Go on a guided (or a self-guided) tour of the Bishop's Palace in Galveston. You should plan to arrive from 10 am – 4 pm (the castle closes at 4 pm!). Adult tickets are $16.95 and you can book them here.
Things can get a little confusing because the Bishop's Palace is also called the Gresham House. They are one and the same!
I was interested to learn that the mansion was built in 1887, for Colonel Joseph Gresham and his wife Josephine.
You may even catch one of the "Basement to attic" tours (offered about once a month). These give you a glimpse at parts of the house that are typically off-limits.
Find it at this Address: 1402 Broadway Street, Galveston, TX 7750, Phone: 409-762-2475
2. Tour Newman's Castle
I found Newman's Castle in Bellville to be a memorable day trip from Houston. It's a real castle, with castle-themed decor like swords and armor!
I adored the 3000-pound behemoth of a drawbridge. And the castle's incredible moat that has been rumored to shelter a gator or two! I felt like I was teleported to Medieval Europe.
I enjoyed learning about the fascinating castle history (it's not as long as you'd expect but I don't want to give away spoilers). You really need to visit for yourself!
Castle tours: You need reservations to visit. A tour costs $20 for adults and $15 for kids. Hours are Monday–Saturday 10:30am–1:00pm. The Castle Phone number is 979-487-6753.
A fun idea here is a private vacation photoshoot. It costs $300 and lasts about 2 hours. Reservations are easy on their website.
3. Book a stay at The Castle at Rockwall
If you want to stay in a castle, you can do so right here in Texas at The Castle At Rockwall. As an added bonus, you'll be in the lovely town of Rockwall where you can relax on the lake. If you are craving more activity and dining options, Dallas is just a quick 25-minute drive from this castle.
Wondering how large is the castle? It measures 8,000 square feet in size. It's exterior is just as impressive as some of my favorite castles in Scotland.
Choose from 6 castle suites to stay in. Each has a queen-sized bed, a large sitting area. I thought that the bathroom was great, especially the shower.
My husband Chris says that you have to head to The Harbor Rockwall in the evening for live music and a sunset sail!
Find it at this Address: 2071 Clem Road Ext, Rockwall, Texas 75087, Phone: 469-702-1222
For Photographers
4. Book a wine tasting at 290 Wine Castle at Chateau de Chasse
It took under an hour to drive to 290 Wine Castle at Chateau de Chasse from my house near Austin.
It felt somewhat surreal to see a proper castle in the heart of the Hill Country! You should go and visit for yourself to see what I mean.
One thing to note is that you can't bring kids here because of alcohol that's being served. They are very clear that NO one under age 21 is allowed on the premises.
If you are traveling with your dog, dogs are only allowed on the patio.
You can book a tour or just drop by for a wine tasting (prices from $25 per person). I liked their wood-fired, hand-tossed pizzas if you get hungry.
The castle is open every day except major holidays, but hours vary.
While you can't stay INSIDE the castle, you can actually see the castle from the outdoor pool at the Bentley Hotel on 290 just next door. The hotel is an affordable weekend getaway from Austin with rooms from $179 if you decide to make it an overnight trip!
Find it at this Address: 101 Durango, Johnson City, Texas 78636, Phone: 512-790-2654
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