Want to feel like royalty without leaving the country? Trust me, you don’t have to travel far to experience the magic of a castle. These castles in the United States offer a mix of fairytale architecture, rich history, and breathtaking settings—perfect for a magical getaway closer than you might think.

Highlights:

  • Biltmore Estate in North Carolina – When I think of grand estates, this one comes to mind. America's largest privately owned home is a must-see, with gardens and views that never fail to impress.
  • Hearst Castle in California – If you’re looking for opulence along the Pacific Coast, this castle is exactly what you need. I’ve seen the stunning views firsthand, and they’re just as dramatic as the architecture.
  • Boldt Castle in New York – This romantic island retreat has always felt like something straight out of a storybook. If you’re after a secluded spot with plenty of charm, this is your place.
  • Lovelace Castle in Kentucky – Gothic elegance meets the Bluegrass State here. It’s got that perfect mix of mystery and beauty—just walking around it feels like you’re stepping into another era.
  • Bishop’s Palace in Texas – This one’s a favorite of mine for its Victorian grandeur, plus the views of the coast are just as spectacular as the castle itself.

Unique Castles in the United States:

Step Into Gilded Age Grandeur: Tour the Stunning Lyndhurst Mansion

Lyndhurst Mansion

Step Into Gilded Age Grandeur: Tour the Stunning Lyndhurst Mansion -  

Walk Through Centuries of Stories: If You Love Colonial History, Then Explore Bacon’s Castle

Andrew Zimmerman/stock.adobe.com

Walk Through Centuries of Stories: If You Love Colonial History, Then Explore Bacon’s Castle -                                    

Sip Like Royalty: Taste Wines in a True Tuscan Castle at Castello di Amorosa

Castello di Amorosa, Jim Sullivan

Sip Like Royalty: Taste Wines in a True Tuscan Castle at Castello di Amorosa -                                    

Dine With Ghosts: Experience Food and Legends at Beardslee Castle

Beardslee Castle

Dine With Ghosts: Experience Food and Legends at Beardslee Castle -  

Find Fairytale Views: Discover Central Park’s Hidden Gem at Belvedere Castle

ksch966/stock.adobe.com

Find Fairytale Views: Discover Central Park’s Hidden Gem at Belvedere Castle -                                    

Live the Vanderbilt Dream: Roam the Grandeur of America’s Largest Home at Biltmore Estate

Ivan/stock.adobe.com

Live the Vanderbilt Dream: Roam the Grandeur of America’s Largest Home at Biltmore Estate -                                    

Marvel at Victorian Splendor: Tour the Ornate Beauty of Bishop’s Palace

otman/stock.adobe.com

Marvel at Victorian Splendor: Tour the Ornate Beauty of Bishop’s Palace -                                    

Fall in Love With a Legend: Wander Romantic Ruins at Boldt Castle

quasarphotos/stock.adobe.com

Fall in Love With a Legend: Wander Romantic Ruins at Boldt Castle -                                    

Explore a Mysterious Fortress: If You Love Adventure and History, Then Visit Bannerman Castle

karenfoleyphoto/stock.adobe.com

Explore a Mysterious Fortress: If You Love Adventure and History, Then Visit Bannerman Castle -                                    

In Summary...

(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)