A Journey Through Time: 15 Must-See New York Castles
From grand estates overlooking the Hudson River to whimsical creations nestled in the Finger Lakes, each castle tells a unique story. We've compiled a list of 15 of the most captivating castles, each offering a glimpse into a bygone era and an unforgettable experience.
Here's a summary table to kickstart your exploration:
Castle Name Location Style Highlights Accessibility Boldt Castle Alexandria Bay, Thousand Islands Rhineland Revival Unfinished love story, stunning island setting, grand architecture. Boat tour access only. Lyndhurst Mansion Tarrytown, Hudson Valley Gothic Revival Dramatic architecture, opulent interiors, scenic Hudson River views. Guided tours available. Bannerman Castle Pollepel Island, Hudson River Scottish/Medieval inspired Ruins of a military surplus warehouse, unique historical significance, picturesque decay. Boat tours available. Wing's Castle Millbrook, Hudson Valley Medieval/Fantasy inspired Hand-built castle by the Wing family, quirky and artistic atmosphere, bed and breakfast. Limited public access, reservations required. Olana State Historic Site (Not technically a castle, but castle-esque) Hudson, Hudson Valley Persian/Victorian Home of painter Frederic Church, unique architectural blend, panoramic views. Guided tours available. Beardslee Castle Little Falls, Central New York Irish Castle Restaurant and Inn, reportedly haunted, traditional Irish architecture. Open to the public for dining and accommodation. Oheka Castle Hotel & Estate Huntington, Long Island French Chateau Luxury hotel and event venue, lavish gardens, Gilded Age elegance. Hotel guests and event attendees. Castle Hotel & Spa Tarrytown, Hudson Valley Norman Style Luxury hotel and spa, breathtaking views, elegant interiors. Hotel guests and spa patrons. Grey Towers National Historic Site (Not technically a castle, but castle-esque) Milford, Pennsylvania (Close to NY border) French Chateau Home of Gifford Pinchot, first Chief of the US Forest Service, influenced conservation. Guided tours available. Sing Sing Correctional Facility (Castle-like appearance) Ossining, Hudson Valley Beaux-Arts Historical prison with imposing architecture, offers a glimpse into the penal system's past. Museum on site. The Cloisters (Metropolitan Museum of Art branch) Manhattan, New York City Medieval European Museum dedicated to medieval art and architecture, constructed from European medieval structures. Open to the public. Sands Point Preserve (Hempstead House) Sands Point, Long Island Gothic Revival Once a grand estate, now a museum and park with stunning views of the Long Island Sound. Open to the public. Castle Rock Garrison, Hudson Highlands Italianate Villa (Castle-esque) Former home of illustration artist, now owned by the Open Space Institute, tours may be available. Limited public access, check for tour availability. Belhurst Castle Geneva, Finger Lakes Romanesque Revival Hotel, winery, and restaurant, situated on the shores of Seneca Lake. Open to the public for dining, accommodation and wine tasting. Thornewood Castle Lakewood, WA (Filmed many movies) Gothic Tudor Was used to filmed multiple movies. Open to the public for filming and accommodation.
