Top 10 Famous Historic Castles in the USA, Check Best Times To Visit!

When most people picture castles, Europe springs to mind. However, the United States is home to some of the most famous historic castles. From the glamour of Hearst Castle in California to the romantic tragedy of Boldt Castle in New York, these American gems blend history, architecture, and cultural intrigue. There are grand estates, medieval-inspired mansions, and centuries-old forts that feel like they’ve leapt out of a fairytale. Here’s a guide to the top 10 famous historic castles in the USA, plus five bonus picks that are equally worth your visit.

Why Visit Castles in the USA?

These castles aren’t just architectural structures but they tell the story of amazing American ambition, creativity, and heritage. Whether it’s the Gilded Age opulence of Hearst Castle or the royal legacy of Iolani Palace in Hawaii, each one offers a unique glimpse into the significance of America's heritage. Let us explore their history and significance in this article.

List of Top 10 Famous Historic Castles in the USA

You must have heard of Hearst Castle, Castello di Amorosa, and many others, which must be making you curious about the most famous historic castles in the USA. Here is a quick look at ten of the finest. From coastal estates to Gothic mansions and even America’s only royal palace, these landmarks showcase architecture, history, and cultural heritage at their best.

Source: National Park Service, Official Castle Websites & State Tourism Boards

Let us read about each one of them below: 

1. Hearst Castle, California 

It is a gilded age icon, which was built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. This is a lavish estate that has 165 rooms, terraced gardens, and a world-class art collection.
Why Visit: Opulence and art on California’s coast.

Source: Architectural Digest

2. Biltmore Estate, North Carolina 

The is America’s grandest home and is the largest private home in the USA, with 250 rooms, vineyards, and gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmsted.
Why Visit: America’s most famous castle-style mansion.

3. Boldt Castle, New York 

This castle was constructed by George C. Boldt for his wife, and it sits on Heart Island in the Thousand Islands. Work stopped after her death, leaving a romantic legacy.
Why Visit: A tragic love story made eternal.

Must Read How well do you know the American History Here!

4. Castello di Amorosa, California 

The castle is a medieval-style Napa Valley winery with moats, towers, and hand-crafted stonework.
Why Visit: Wine tasting in a Tuscan-inspired castle.

5. Fonthill Castle, Pennsylvania 

Built entirely of poured concrete by archaeologist Henry Chapman Mercer, this is a Mercer’s handmade fantasy which features eclectic tiles and unusual design.
Why Visit: Quirky architecture meets craftsmanship.

6. Belvedere Castle, New York 

Loctaed in the Central Park of Manhattan, this Victorian folly offers sweeping city views.
Why Visit: An iconic escape in the heart of NYC. 

Source: House Beautiful

7. Iolani Palace, Hawaii 

The castle built in 1882 for King Kalākaua is still one of the royal residences in America. It remains a national treasure of Hawaiian history.
Why Visit: The only official royal palace in the USA.

8. Lyndhurst Mansion, New York 

Overlooking the Hudson River, Lyndhurst Mansion showcases Gothic Revival architecture at its finest.
Why Visit: A step into America’s Gothic elegance. Source: House Beautiful

Also Read About List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the US Here!

9. Meadow Brook Hall, Michigan 

Built in the 1920s by heiress Matilda Dodge Wilson, this mansion is recognised as one of “America’s castles.”
Why Visit: Tudor grandeur and cultural heritage.

10. Castillo de San Marcos, Florida 

It is one of the oldest Masonry Fort which dates back to the 1600s. Moreover, this St. Augustine fortress is the oldest masonry structure in the continental US.
Why Visit: Rich colonial history and enduring strength.

More Castles Worth Visiting in the USA

You must look at the famous historic castles which are worth visiting in the USA: 

• Squire’s Castle, Ohio: A picturesque ruin in Cleveland.

• Scotty’s Castle, California: A Death Valley architectural mystery.

• Loveland Castle, Ohio: A hand-built medieval replica.

• Smithsonian Castle, Washington, DC: A Gothic landmark on the National Mall.

• Falkenstein Castle, Texas: Bavarian-inspired fantasy in the Hill Country.

Final Thoughts

These famous historic castles in the USA showcase more than just architecture as they reflect ambition, romance, and cultural pride. Whether you’re strolling through Hearst Castle’s grand halls or exploring the rustic beauty of Squire’s Castle, each site invites you to step into another era.