23 Castles in NEW YORK (Grand, Majestic & Enchanting)
You don’t have to travel back to the old days to behold grand and majestic castles; you can find them right in New York.
Believe it or not, New York has plenty of gorgeous castles you might not know.
The state is home to lively and bustling cities, beautiful landscapes, exquisite hotels, and buildings.
However, you can still find castles that look straight out of medieval times.
Some of these castles hold stories from time past, making them tourist attractions, and some you can spend a night or two in.
Apart from the dreamy experience, who doesn’t want a getaway from work and stress?
What better getaway than a trip to behold stunning castles?
This article is specially curated for you if you want to explore a castle in New York, whether straight out of a fairy tale or one with important stories and history.
Check out the list below; you will surely find castles that will blow your mind.
And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Haunted Houses in New York.
Castles in Hudson Valley, New York.
1. Bannerman Castle
One of the best things to do along the Hudson Valley is to visit this jewel in New York.
Once an uninhabited site, you can only access the castle by hopping on a boat.
The castle was a military warehouse and arsenal for Francis Bannerman the Sixth.
Sadly, it caught fire, and only a small part of the structure was left.
Today, the castle is the property of the New York State Office of Parks.
It stands in a glorious state of ruins, so don’t expect to spend the night in the castle.
However, you can enjoy many fun activities, like cruise and walk tours, kayak tours, movie nights, and theatrical events.
You can also enjoy fine dining during one of the many dinner events like the Titanic First Class Dinner and Farm to Table Dinner.
Check out the castle and see what it’s all about.
Address: Beacon, NY 12508, USA
2. Lyndhurst Mansion
Overlooking the beautiful Hudson River in Tarrytown, this mansion is easily one of America’s finest.
The castle is in architect Alexander Jackson Davis’ signature gothic revival design.
Its brilliant architecture compliments the collection of decorative arts and park-like landscapes.
The mansion’s proximity to New York City makes it easily accessible by train or car.
Experience the mansion through different guided tours.
It takes you through the room, the observation tower, the kitchen, sculptures, art, furniture, and different floors.
You can also explore the landscape, fountain, bowling alley entry, and Hudson River views.
The mansion’s indoor and outdoor aesthetics is open to film, television, and photography professionals.
If you want to have a gothic-style wedding, book the mansion’s wedding venue.
The best part about this is that whether you visit it for the first time or return, there is always something new to discover and experience.
Address: 635 S Broadway, Tarrytown, NY 10591, United States
3. Beardslee Castle
A replica of an Irish castle in New York?
Oh yes, please!
Beardslee Castle offers a perfect blend of modern and ancient vibes.
However, the castle has been through it since it was built in 1860.
It was gutted by fire in 1919 and 1989, respectively, but it still stands as one of the best castles in New York.
The castle offers lovely receptions for weddings, banquets, and private events.
Want to know the best part?
Beardslee is also a restaurant with the finest of creative cuisines.
Chef Randall Brown serves some of the best tastings in New York, from wood grill meats to seafood, vegetarian meals, and many cuisines from different parts of the world.
The dinner menu changes weekly, so you can be sure to find something different to try every time you stop by.
Check out the wine room if you want a romantic dinner in style.
There is no better setting for a picturesque wedding than this castle.
You can have a memorable day with 8 acres of ground and a spacious banquet room.
Address: 123 Old State Rd, Little Falls, NY 13365, United States
4. Wing’s Castle
Not every day do you get to spend a night in a real-life castle, so you better take advantage of this one.
It is close to the Taconic State Parkway, 75 miles from New York City.
Hear how the castle is made with 80% recycled materials.
You have four beautiful spaces to choose from.
The Annex Suite has two private levels: a dining room, a kitchen, and a balcony overlooking the beautiful courtyard.
You can also choose The Dungeon Room, The Chamber Room, and The Cottage.
Each room has a queen-size bed, bespoke furniture, full private bathrooms, a coffee nook, a mini fridge, free WiFi, and many other modern amenities.
A night’s stay gives you a full complimentary breakfast, including a bagel, muffin, fresh fruits, tea, coffee, boiled eggs, juice, granola, and yogurt with berries.
Isn’t that living in luxury?
Visit this gorgeous place and enjoy all it has to offer.
Address: 717 Bangall Rd, Millbrook, NY 12545, United States
5. Olana State Historic Site
Frederic Church, a well-known painter, landscape designer, and architect, designed this estate overlooking the Hudson himself, along with Calvert Vaux.
He, his lovely wife, and four children lived here in the 18s.
The building is a villa with block masonry, towers, fancy windows, and porches.
Its architectural style is a mix of Victorian and Persian.
The exterior has Middle Eastern motifs in colored bricks, slate, ceramic tiles, wood, and stenciling.
Together, these elements create a unique state-of-the-art piece you can’t find anywhere else.
The historic site remains a tourist attraction for many in New York.
Who doesn’t want to behold such brilliant and unique architecture?
Plus, the stunning views of the Catskills Mountains and Hudson Valley?
The building is truly a work of art!
Enjoy music, workshop events, and art exhibitions.
You can also begin your day with a walk-in tour of Olana’s landscape and learn more about Frederic Church.
If you want, you can become a volunteer there as well.
Address: 5720 NY-9G, Hudson, NY 12534, United States
6. Castle Rock
Sitting on a hill on the Hudson River, this castle remains the perfect spot if you love to hike.
This beautiful building is not your average everyday discovery.
It is the estate of William H. Garrison, a former Illinois Central Railroad President.
Thick forests dramatically surround the stone castle-like building.
The 10,500-square-foot home has incredible views of the Hudson River and West Point.
There is a 0.7 miles gazebo trail where you can hike along the edge of the woodlands with a beautiful view of the surrounding environment.
Although there are no designated campsites, large camping is allowed.
You will pass through many meadows and bushes, so watch out.
If you want to enjoy a hike with a spectacular view, explore the Castle Rock.
Address: 31 Wing and Wing, Garrison, NY 10524, United States
7. Mohonk Mountain House
This Victorian Castle in Hudson Valley is easily one of the most picturesque buildings to enjoy a family getaway or sleepover.
The rooms have spacious arrangements perfect for a vacation and family gatherings.
Warm wood tones and paneling, antique-style furnishings, and open fireplaces reflect the Victorian luxury of this place.
Some room units come with private balconies overlooking the beautiful landscape and lake.
Beyond the rooms, you have many modern and luxurious amenity options.
Treat yourself to a pamper day on the sand and explore various spa treatments and therapy options.
If you are looking for a spot for the wedding of your dreams, it’s inside this castle.
With the beautiful scenery of the lake and landscape and spacious reception space, you can have a memorable mountain wedding.
Everything you need is here, so why not drop by and take a tour of this place?
Address: 1000 Mountain Rest Rd, New Paltz, NY 12561, United States
8. Frederick Ferris Thompson Memorial Library at Vassar College
If you ever get the chance to visit the Vassar College Campus, you will find this knockout castle inside.
The gothic-style building with limestone and Germantown stone stands out from the rest of the campus.
It has three wings, but the star of this place is the stunning Cornaro stained glass window in the west wing.
The image on the window shows Elena Cornaro Piscopia, a woman previously denied a Doctorate of Theology.
Today, she is known to be the first woman to receive a Philosophy Doctorate in European history.
Given Vassar’s history as a college for women, the window reminds them that they can be anything they want, regardless of what society says.
Isn’t that inspiring?
The Frederick Ferris Thompson Memorial Library is the main building inside the college with over a million books, 7,500 periodicals, serials, and newspaper titles.
Visitors can tour the library during spring, winter, and summer breaks.
Address: 15 Main Campus Dr, Arlington, NY 12603, United States
Also see our article on Abandoned Places in New York.
Castles in New York City, New York
1. Belvedere Castle
Step into this castle, and you will know what opulence and elegance truly mean!
“The Belvedere” means beautiful views in Italian, and this castle truly offers beautiful views.
It draws visitors to appreciate the stunning views of Turtle Pond, The Ramble, the Great Lawn, and the surrounding nature.
If the building is open, you can go up to the terrace for a higher vantage point view of Manhattan skyscrapers.
The castle has gone through different uses, from a weather station with offices inside the building and now a visitor center.
Belvedere is a place to be whether you are a New Yorker or a tourist looking to appreciate the sweeping views of New York.
The best part is that the castle is free to visit!
So, get your shoes on and race to the terrace for a breathtaking view.
Address: New York, NY 10024, United States
2. Castle Williams
On the northwest corner of Governor’s Island, you will find an eight-foot brick wall of a castle.
This circular structure of red sandstone is one of the best historic castles going can visit in New York City.
The historic castle from the early 18th century was a military defense against naval attacks.
After the 1830s, the castle served as a barracks for new troops and the island’s garrison.
Then, the US Army used it as a prison during the civil war and through the early 20th century.
Today, the National Park Service manages the castle as part of Governors Island National Monument.
It serves as a tourist attraction with the help of s tour guide who will take you through the history of the building and its many uses in the past.
Visit this prominent landmark in New York City and learn the history behind the building, and also enjoy the stunning architecture.
Address: New York, NY 10004, United States
3. Castle Clinton National Monument
Initially intended to protect the New York Harbour against British invasion in 1812, this historic castle represents the city’s growth and the nation.
The castle sits at the Southern Tip of Manhattan Island in Battery Park, and its beauty and magnificence still stand out today.
You can drive there or access it by ferry, subway, or bus.
This fortification has been used for many years and now welcomes millions of tourists, immigrants, sightseers, and theatergoers.
The castle is also where you can purchase ferry tickets to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
With no admission fee, visiting this castle can be a last-minute getaway with friends and family.
If you are a historical buff or castle explorer, visiting this National Monument is a must!
Address: Battery Park, New York City, NY 10004, United States
4. The Met Cloisters
You don’t need to travel to Europe to behold a medieval-style castle.
Head to this world-class metropolitan museum in Tryon Park, New York City.
It is the only museum that exclusively showcases art from the middle ages.
The building is a medieval structure by architect Charles Collens in Romanesque and Gothic styles.
It sits on a hill overlooking the calm Hudson River.
Beautiful nature and atmosphere surround the museum, with gardens, a well-maintained courtyard, and many greeneries.
So, you can sit, relax, and soak in the museum’s beauty and artful architectural design.
In addition to stone works and actual medieval structures from Europe, the museum is ever-growing and showcasing new works all year round.
The museum is perfect for anyone looking to escape from reality and spend the day appreciating this place’s art, design, and beauty.
Address: 99 Margaret Corbin Dr, New York, NY 10040, United States
5. Bayside Historical Society
Once an Officer’s Mess Hall and Club for the US Army Corps of Engineers, this gothic-style castle is a beautiful landmark in the NYC borough of Queens.
In 1986, the Bayside Historical Society was responsible for restoring the castle.
Today, it is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
The castle has many yearly events like exhibits, educational programs, and weddings.
Inside the castle, you can explore exhibits about the history of Bayside and its cultural diversity.
Each collection containing photographs, letters, and collectibles serves to preserve the bygone eras.
The Bayside is a perfect place to have a talk-of-the-town wedding.
You can have a fairy-tale wedding with a reception hall, grand ballroom, cathedral ceilings, and large windows with stunning views of the Fort Totten Park waterfront.
Lectures on interactive art and craft and shows displaying vintage cars are regularly held here.
An epic experience awaits you at Bayside.
Make that visit today!
Address: 208 Totten Ave, Queens, NY 11359, United States
Also see our article on Museums in New York.
Castles in Long Island, New York
1. Castle Gould
This 100, 000 square foot limestone beauty is the first of four mansions on this estate.
The castle has a fortified warehouse and a clock tower.
Fun fact about this place?
Howard Gould and his wife Katherine purchased it as their main residence, but it didn’t suit his wife’s taste.
The castle then served as a carriage house, serpent’s quarters, and the stable.
Today, the castle also houses a visitor center and the Great Hall with iron chandeliers, vaulted ceilings, and large windows overlooking a distant view of Long Island.
You can host grand weddings and private events at the Great Hall or rent the 7,000-square-foot sound stage for public events.
Although the main castle is not open for tours, you can view the breathtaking castle and take as much time as you want to take in the details and beautiful design.
Address: 127 Middle Neck Rd, Sands Point, NY 11050, United States
2. Oheka Castle
Experience a world of charm and luxurious ambiance at this place.
You will find this breathtaking historic mansion between New York City and the Hamptons on the Gold Coast of Long Island.
The castle is a perfect place to indulge in luxury away from home.
There is no luxury better than this!
You will find exquisite furniture, stunning art pieces, and grand chandeliers inside the castle.
The rooms have every necessary amenity to give you a relaxing and comfortable stay.
If you want to say ‘I do’ in style, this castle is the place.
The castle’s grand design, lush gardens, green landscape, and natural atmosphere make it one of the world’s top wedding venues.
Guided tours are available if you only want to behold the castle’s stunning architecture and natural beauty.
Check the calendar on the website for available dates and make your reservations.
Address: 135 W Gate Dr, Huntington, NY 11743, United States
3. Hempstead House
Welcome to the inspiration behind the classic ‘The Great Gatsby.’
You can also call it the Sands Point Preserve or the Gould Guggenheim Estate.
It sits on a 300-acre estate also holding the Oneka House.
This house, oops! , the castle is three stories high, 135 feet wide, and 225 feet long.
It takes 200 groundkeepers, farmers, and 17 house servants to keep this place beautiful.
All of these sounds straight from a fairy-tale, right?
No, it is real, and it even gets better!
It has 40 rooms and a stunning 60-foot-tall entry foyer.
The interior features grand halls, large windows, exclusive art pieces, and fireplaces in the rooms, each with its unique design.
People hold concerts, exhibitions, weddings, and plays at this gorgeous site all year round.
A tour of this place is a must whenever you find yourself on Long Island.
Address: 127 Middle Neck Rd, Sands Point, NY 11050, United States
Also see our article on Botanical Gardens in New York.
Castles in Finger Lakes, New York
1. Greystone Castle
Just an hour or less drive from Syracuse, the castle sits elegantly between North Main Street and West Chapel Street.
The castle’s grey stone exterior and castle-like design make it stand out and look right out of the story books.
It was reconstructed in the early 20th century after the original building burned around 1908.
So, the beautiful Greystone castle with the tower you see today results from the reconstruction.
Greystone is a perfect place to hold private events like weddings, birthday parties, photoshoots, bridal showers, and other intimate events.
You can have your wedding ceremony at any of the indoor spaces or the lovely outdoor patio.
There is a room for the bride and her bridesmaid to get ready.
The groom and his men are not left out; there is a room with a pool table behind the ceremony space.
If you are not up to all that, you can sit under the tall tower to click pictures or enjoy the light from the large stained glass windows.
Address: 201 North Main St, Canastota, NY 13032, United States
2. Belhurst Castle and Winery
This castle on the shores of Seneca in the heart of finger lakes is not on the National List of Historic Properties for nothing.
The castle takes you to a world of rich history, beauty, and stunning views.
A peaceful retreat awaits you with three unique lodging options: the Chamber, the Historic White Springs Manor, and Vinifera Inn.
Besides the top-notch lodgings, the castle offers delicious dining, two lounges, a luxurious spa and salon, and a state-of-the-art winery in one great site.
With three lodgings to choose from, you will find something you love.
Unwind and reboot your energy at the spa with massages, facials, and heavenly body treatments.
Remember to stop by the famous tasting room overlooking Seneca Lake and enjoy a glass of an award-winning collection of Belhurst wine, hard cider, and craft beer.
Take a break, have a romantic getaway or family vacation at this castle, curl up by the outdoor fireplace with a glass of wine, and enjoy a relaxing retreat.
Address: 4069 W Lake Rd, Geneva, NY 14456, United States
3. Connecticut Street Armory
Don’t be surprised when you walk through Connecticut Street and find a gigantic castle.
The 115-year-old structure is a state-owned stone and brick armory that sits 5,000 feet away from the shores of Lake Erie.
Its exterior is dried sandstone, making it look like a sandcastle.
The site used to be a 13.5 million-gallon reservoir for firemen in emergency cases.
After the reservoir was relocated to another base, they built the castle you see today.
It has a 6 story tower surrounding the building and a six-and-a-half tower at the main entrance.
Don’t expect tours inside this place because it remains used by the US Army as a storage facility and troop headquarters.
However, it’s a cool place to behold beautiful architecture and quiet ambiance and click a photo or two.
Address: 184 Connecticut St, Buffalo, NY 14213, United States
Also see our article on Top Attractions in New York.
Castles in Thousands Island Region, New York
1. Boldt Castle
Looking for a family vacation or romantic getaway spot? Boldt Castle has something for you.
In the heart of Thousands Island, this Castle on Lawrence River looks straight out of Europe.
The six-story building is a testament to love and grief.
Its beauty would have you returning every year to behold it again.
Construction on the Castle stopped after Mrs. Boldt passed away, leaving Mr. Boldt inconsolable and the property vacant for more than 70 years.
The Thousands Island Region now operates the castle, allowing the public to tour the elegant castle and experience the tragic love story of the Boldts.
You can spend hours touring the large expanse of acres.
Besides the castle’s interior, you can view the arch, stone gazebo, Power House, the Alster Tower, and more.
No need to schedule a visit; show up and explore the beautiful castle.
Address: 1 Heart Island, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607, United States
2. Singer Castle
Ready to be the King and Queen of the Castle for a day or two?
Experience an attraction like no other at this 100-year-old Castle on Dark Island.
You can find the castle just northeast of Boldt Castle in the Thousand Islands region of New York.
Its stunning architecture, lovely furnishings, and grand halls draw visitors annually.
A wing of the castle is available for bookings by the public.
The royal suite has king-sized canopy beds, a comfortable suede sofa and chair, a dresser, free WiFi, a TV, a sitting area, and every other amenity.
A continental breakfast of tea, coffee, pastries, and cold beverages helps kick-start your day.
You can enjoy breakfast in the dining room, terrace, tearoom, or drawing room.
Plan your special day at the castle if you want to say “I do” in grand style.
You will surely love your stay here.
Visit the castle and fulfill your fantasies of living like royalty.
Address: 1136 County Route 6, Chippewa Bay, NY 13623, USA
Also see our article on Small Towns in New York.
Castles in Adirondack, New York
1. Highlands Castle
What sets this castle apart from the rest is that it is incomparable.
It is open to you for rent, and you have many options.
You can stay in the main Highland Castle, the Idyllic Castle Cottage, or the Castle Gatehouse.
Each castle has its distinct character and design, with plush bedding and outdoor patios overlooking the stunning Lake George.
You won’t find a more unique and magical setting for your events, getaways, or family time.
Although the castles and suites are set in a private area overlooking Lake George, it is still close to all the fun activities.
The castle is only three minutes from beaches, restaurants, kayaking, boat rentals, hiking trails, a golf course, and shopping centers.
Guess the fun fact about this place?
You can decide to be extra and rent the whole castle for you and your family!
And why not?
After all, they say you only live once.
Address: 19 Skyline Dr, Bolton Landing, NY 12814, United States
2. Skene Manor
High up the mountain in Whitehall is this Victorian gothic-style mansion.
Judge Joseph H. Potter purchased the property on which the Skene Manor now sits and built a mansion called “The Mountain Terrace.”
A personal castle just for you and you alone?
Yes, please!
The castle has since passed through different hands.
Currently, Skene Manor Preservation Inc. manages the place.
The grounds are beautiful, the views are stunning, and the atmosphere is one of a kind.
When you see the castle, you will wish to move in right away.
You can do anything here, from a date to group outings to family getaways.
A gift shop and Victorian tea room also serve homemade snacks, sandwiches, soups, and desserts.
Stop by and tour this elegant castle, its bespoke furniture, and its design.
Address: 8 Potter Terrace, Whitehall, NY 12887, United States.
If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Wedding Venues, Churches, and Hidden Gems in New York.
Looking beyond New York? Check out our article on the most majestic Castles in Illinois and the Grandest Castles in California.