Whether you’re looking for a unique adventure near NYC, or always believed you were destined for royalty, New York has some pretty enchanting castles to explore. Some are available to rent, while others host educational tours. Find some of the most majestic castles near NYC below:
1. Belvedere Castle, Central Park
Yes, you can stumble on a castle right in Central Park! Belvedere Castle, one of the park’s most precious features, was constructed atop Vista Rock in 1872 by Central Park co-designer Calvert Vaux and architect Jacob Wrey Mould. Fun fact: the castle didn’t always have windows or doors as it was originally intended to be an open-air lookout tower, shared Central Park on its website. However, it remains a perfect picturesque spot boasting stunning views of the Great Lawn, the Ramble and Turtle Pond. It’s also makes a great background for a picnic!
Where: Mid-Park at 79th, New York
2. Bannerman Castle, Pollepel Island
New Yorkers can take a stunning boat ride to this enchanting castle on a remote island for a unique day trip out of the city. Bannerman Castle dates back to 1901 and has a history tied to the American Revolution when surrounding waters once used “chevaux de frise” to protect the Hudson Highlands territory and damage British ships. The island and castle now offer weekly tours. And if you’re not into walking tours, they even offer one via kayak or canoe! Learn more about Bannerman Castle here.
Where: Beacon, NY
3. Wings Castle, Millbrook
Located in the middle of the Hudson Valley, Wings Castle is a unique B&B that’s just 75 miles from NYC. The brain child of NY artists Peter and Toni Ann Wing, Wings Castle offers four different rooms, medieval decor, and sweeping patio views. The entire castle took 47 years to complete, and the entire experience is quite impressive. Learn more about Wings Castle here.
Where: 717 Bangall Rd, Millbrook
4. Saratoga Springs Castle, Saratoga Springs
This 8-acre private Airbnb is home to a gorgeous garden and pond, vaulted ceilings, and a double circular staircase. Invite all your friends to join as the property fits up to 16 guests with seven bedrooms total and five and half baths. Book your stay here.
Where: Saratoga Springs area, NY
5. Castle on Glen, Elmira
You don’t have to be royalty to live like one! At Castle on Glen you can feel like a king or queen and even dress like one with their assortment of costumes available for dress up. There’s endless corners and curves to explore within the house (even an interactive treasure hunt), but if you need even more ways to fill your stay there’s a nearby local farmer’s market, incredible restaurants, museums and state parks.
Where: 320 Glen Avenue, Elmira
6. Boldt Castle, Alexandria Bay
Boldt Castle was a project that began as a gesture of affection for George C. Boldt’s wife, Louise Boldt. However, construction had come to a holt after her unexpected death and it wasn’t until Thousand Islands Bridge Authority decided to restore and preserve the castle that it became the cherished attraction it is today. The castle is now available for family vacations, romantic stays or weddings. Learn more about visiting on their website here.
Where: 1 Heart Island, Alexandria Bay
7. Casso Basso, Westhampton
This historical restaurant in Westhampton, Long Island has been family-owned and operated since 1928. What makes it so unique beyond a delicious menu of Italian classics, is the 18th century castle adorned with sculptures across the lawn. It’s sure to make a most unique dining experience.
Where: 9 Montauk Hwy, Westhampton
8. Lord’s Castle, Piermont
A stay at Lord’s Castle is sure to transport you to another time period, and its all just 40 minutes from Manhattan! The massive property has a total of 30 rooms including a yoga space and a mahogany library. Set atop 20-acres of land, go for a splash in the pool or watch the Hudson River flow nearby. There in the wintertime? No worries, there’s enough to keep you entertained indoors and not to mention warm with its 15 fireplaces.
Where: 50 Ash St, Piermont (Piermont Historical Society)