4 Best Castles in Texas
Castles in Texas? It's not something I thought we would find when we first moved to Texas but actually, within just a few hours’ drive, you can discover everything from grand historic estates and quirky architectural gems to romantic retreats that feel worlds away from the everyday. My guide has some of the most unique castles I came across during our last ten day road trip that I think you’ll love to explore in the Lone Star State.
A self-guided tour of Bishop's Palace in Galveston
We absolutely love Bishop's Palace, and have been many times. This is one of my favorite historic landmarks in Texas, and it’s easily one of the best hidden gems to explore on a weekend getaway to the island. In addition, I love combining a trip to the beach with a visit to this historic castle.
I drove 1 hour southeast from Houston to Galveston, a barrier-island city on the Gulf with heaps of unique things to do here.
I love that Bishop’s Palace was built in the late 1800s. It's one of the most beautiful Victorian residences in the country. It's truly an underrated treasure of Galveston’s history.
The mansion is also known as Gresham’s Castle. Take your time and walk through ornate rooms filled, admire stained glass, staircases, carved wood, and stonework.
The tours were a highlight for me. I especially loved the sweeping views of the ocean from the upper floors.
- Location Map
- Style: Victorian (with Gothic and Romanesque touches)
- Tours: Self-guided and audio tours available
- Nearby Food: ShyKatZ
What I loved best:
Afterward, I had a hot roast beef sandwich with horseradish, melted Swiss, and just the right amount of crisped bread at ShyKatZ Deli.
Tour Newman's Castle
Looking for an easy castle day trip from Houston? Tour Newman's Castle. It has impressive castle-themed decor like swords and armor that completely won me over! ewman's Castle is super unique, a real-life medieval-style castle built by a local baker!
The castle feels straight out of a fairytale. I loved walking across the drawbridge into the great hall. It made me feel like I had stepped back in time.
I found the details amazing. There was the moat under the drawbridge, a chapel, the dungeon and very detailed towers.
This Texas castle is family friendly. The tours are interactive and entertaining for all ages.We climbed to the top of the tower for countryside views.
- Location Map
- Location: Bellville, TX (1.5 hrs from Houston)
- Style: Medieval-inspired fortress
- Tours: Reservation-only through Newman’s Bakery
What I loved best:
You can grab yummy pastries at Newman’s Bakery before or after your castle adventure.
A stay at The Castle at Rockwall
Looking for a fairytale-inspired castle weekend getaway in Texas? The Castle at Rockwall is a real standout!
12 drove 35 minutes northeast from Dallas to Rockwall on the shores of Lake Ray Hubbard.
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.
I love that it looks like a real medieval castle. You'll find turrets, stone walls, and grand halls that make you feel like royalty as soon as you arrive.
The gorgeous grounds are romantic and the courtyard felt like stepping into a storybook.
I found the interior stunning, with vaulted ceilings, chandeliers, and elegant stonework. I especially loved the ballroom and I thought it would be so cool to get married here.
For couples, The Castle at Rockwall is one of the best romantic spots in Texas.
Wine tasting at 290 Wine Castle at Chateau de Chasse
This is my favorite Hill Country castle. Why? First off, it's the closest Texas castle my home. Moreover, it’s easily one of the best spots for a unique weekend getaway if you love wine-tasting.
We drove 1 hour west from Austin along Highway 290 into Johnson City (population about 2,100).
The castle itself is striking. You can admire its turrets and stone walls that make you feel like you’ve been transported to Europe. the grounds are spacious and they offer castle tours.
The tasting room has a variety of wines. Sunset views are magical too.
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 exciting getaway from Austin with rooms from $179 if you decide to make it an overnight trip!
- Location Map
- Style: French-inspired chateau
What I loved best:
For me, this is is one of the best castles in Texas because it's easy to reach and unique!
I especially loved the medieval stone courtyard which was like a fairytale.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, we've found that buying the America the Beautiful Pass is cost effective.
