America’s 10 Best Castle Hotels

Although the United States doesn’t have a king or queen, our country is home to dozens of castle hotels — some of which date back 200-plus years — fit for royalty. The best part? Each property offers its own distinct and regal-inspired touches, whether in the form of striking architecture, fairytale-worthy decor, or postcard-worthy gardens. From a chic Long Island chateau to a charming Kentucky hideaway, we’ve compiled a list of the best castle hotels across America. 

Editor’s note: Certain amenities at theses properties are closed due to COVID-19. Always follow all local and state guidelines for travel at your destination.

1. Castle Hotel & Spa, NY 

Located just 25 miles outside of The Big Apple, Castle Hotel & Spa feels miles away from the hustle-and-bustle of New York City. The magnificent structure overlooks the Hudson River and was constructed in two phases between 1887 and 1910. Today, it retains its original fairytale-worthy stone walls and wood paneling. Inside, you’ll find 31 spacious and elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites — the latter of which have wood-burning fireplaces and marble bathtubs. Property highlights include an outdoor pool (seasonal) manicured gardens, a one-mile landscaped trail (ideal for romantic strolls or hikes), a tranquil spa, and an on-site eatery serving Haute French cuisine. 

2. Kentucky Castle, KY

Receive the royal treatment at Versailles’ (no, not *that* Versailles) Kentucky Castle. This 55-acre luxury property was built in 1969 and is complete with manicured gardens plus 14 guest rooms and suites — each with high ceilings and four-poster beds. Guests are immediately greeted by the grand lobby, which is outfitted with a gorgeous chandelier and painted ceilings. The on-site spa is housed in a charming cottage overlooking a horse farm, where guests can opt for a range of services like cryotherapy and massages. Savor authentic farm-to-fork cuisine at Castle Farms. The eatery utilizes fruit and vegetables from the on-site garden— combined with other locally sourced ingredients — to concoct mouthwatering dishes like maple vanilla bourbon-glazed pork and apple butter and pecan-glazed salmon. Perhaps the best amenity of all is the buzzing bourbon bar, which is filled with artworks of — you guessed it — horses: plus a wide selection of bourbons. (It is Kentucky, after all.) 

3. Landoll’s Mohican Castle, OH

Landoll’s Mohican Castle, which is located equidistant between Cleveland and Columbus, spans 30 acres. The European-inspired castle has all-suite accommodations (not including the two cottages available for rent), each with luxe amenities like fireplaces, heated bathroom flooring, and Jacuzzi tubs – along with a fully stocked minibar (complete with champagne, of course). Before you skip town, treat yourself to a massage or aromatherapy treatment at the hotel spa. Afterwards, enjoy a meal at the on-site Copper Mug Bar & Grille, which underwent a massive makeover in 2016 after being featured on Gordan Ramsey’s Hotel Hell. That’s not the property’s only claim to fame, though: It was also featured on an episode of Ghost Hunters. (Several guests have reported paranormal sightings, and, today, the property hosts ghost hunts and haunted history tours.) However, don’t let that derail your plans: Landoll’s Mohican Castle is still charming in every sense of the word, from the serene surroundings to the cozy suites.  

4. Norumbega Inn, ME

Built in 1886, this elaborate castle-turned-luxury-bed-and-breakfast is located in the quaint town of Camden. Outside, guests can wander the manicured grounds and stroll through lush gardens. Inside, there are eleven accommodations (nine guest rooms and two suites), each with postcard-worthy coastal views (best enjoyed on the shared or private balconies, depending on the room category), vintage-inspired clawfoot tubs, and in-room fireplaces. The on-site restaurant, helmed by chef and co-owner Phil Crispo, is best known for its use of local ingredients. Expect everything from gourmet, three-course breakfast spreads (freshly baked pastries are a staple) to multi-course tasting menus. 

5. Castle Hill Resort and Spa, VT

Transport yourself back in time with a stay at Castle Hill Resort and Spa in Vermont. Architecture enthusiasts, design lovers, and history buffs alike can admire the property’s Old World charm, which lies in the form of original wood paneling, ivy-covered stone walls, and antique furnishings. There are ten guest rooms and two resort homes (which the property refers to as one- to three-bedroom “condominiums”). Some of the guest rooms also have fireplaces and separate seating areas. On-site amenities include a spa (treatment rooms are housed in a historic carriage house), an outdoor swimming pool, and tennis courts. Meanwhile, the Castle Dining Room attracts locals and travelers alike with its delicious three-course dinner menu (seasonal), as does the Castle Library (where you can grab cocktails, warm up by the fireplace, and curl up with one of the many books). 

6. Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, CA

This California property is best known for its striking facade (which is said to be a mix of Mission Revival, Spanish Gothic, Mediterranean Revival, and Moorish Revival influences). Enchanting details and decor touches abound, from the stone exterior and grand archways to the domed towers and flying buttresses, to the five-story rotunda and medieval-inspired clock. The 238 guest rooms, each with private balconies overlooking the surrounding city, are just as stunning. Depending on the room category, soom have vaulted ceilings, gorgeous chandeliers, stained glass, fireplaces, and hand-painted tile flooring. There are also 27 suites with separate parlor rooms and seating areas. 

 The expansive property is also home to eight drinking and dining venues, a Tuscan-inspired spa, landscaped gardens, a heated pool, and an on-site museum where guests can learn more about the 1876-era structure’s history. 

7. Oheka Castle, NY

Oheka Castle – located on Long Island’s famed Gold Coast – was constructed nearly 100 years ago as the second-largest private residence in the country. The French chateau-inspired, Gatsby-worthy castle has since undergone an extensive restoration; however, original features like the handcrafted iron railing and moldings remain intact. Every one of the 32 luxurious rooms and suites is equipped with plush linens and elegant furnishings. (In-room massages can also be arranged to further enhance your stay.) The on-site OHK Bar and Restaurant is best known for its formal, sun-drenched, chandelier-filled setting and upscale eats (think filet mignon, lobster mac and cheese, and more). The perfectly landscaped gardens – which span 23 acres total and include eight reflecting pools and three fountains – have since been recreated to reflect the original drawings.

8. The Inn On Biltmore Estate, NC

This incredible Asheville property, which is part of the famed Biltmore Estate (the former home of George Vanderbilt II), is nothing short of show-stopping. Today, the 250-room castle retains its opulence. The Inn itself opened in 2001. Each of the 210 guest rooms is spacious with private balconies, marble bathrooms, and whirlpool tubs. Amenities include nightly turndown service, a pristine spa, and a swimming pool. There’s also the Library Lounge, which serves up cocktails and shared plates, and The Dining Room, where you can indulge in chef-prepared breakfast, lunch, and dinner – plus afternoon tea service. The expansive 8,000-plus-acre grounds are also home to awe-inspiring gardens, an on-site museum, its own winery, and 22 miles of hiking trails. Here, you’ll also find the Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate, which offers upscale accommodations at a lower price point.  

9. Glen Eyrie Castle, CO

The Colorado Springs castle appears as if it was pulled straight out of a fairytale with its English Tudor-inspired exterior. The structure was built in 1871 by General William Jackson Palmer, the city’s founder. Today, the castle itself has 17 guest rooms, some of which have claw-foot tubs, rocking chairs, and window seating. (Additional accommodations in other on-site buildings are also available.) Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, 16 acres of private hiking trails, and an array of outdoor games (cornhole, anyone?). Take your stay to the next level with afternoon tea service in the light-filled Great Hall, which boasts large windows and soaring ceilings. 

10. Castle Hotel, FL

Unlike the other castle hotels on the list, this one was actually built as a hotel and was constructed less than 30 years ago in 1995. After joining Marriott’s Autograph Collection, the Orlando property was completely renovated, resulting in its majestic white-and-silver-hued exterior and Bavarian influences in the forms of crystal chandeliers, lots of mirrors, gold antlers, mounted trophies, and amethyst accents (an eye-catching amethyst stalagmite sits in the grand lobby). The rooms are equally as regal, with gold-and-purple decor, tufted headboards, and marble bathrooms. There’s also a sparkling swimming pool and the Poseidon Spa. Arguably the best feature of all is the rooftop terrace, where you can enjoy refreshing cocktails — plus prime views of Universal (and Hogwarts Castle).