Known for having some of the trendiest destinations in the world, California may be among the least of states to think when it comes to castles, but the Golden State actually boasts some of the most impressive castles in the U.S. None of these treasures date back to the Middle Ages, but they will definitely amaze tourists with their historic charm and splendor.

So, one doesn’t have to travel to Europe to see castles, as perfect alternatives are right in America’s third-largest state. Each castle features unique and interesting tales that have been shared from one generation to another. Visiting them will allow vacationers to learn their intriguing history and enjoy their beauty. Planning a historic trip to the Golden State? Don’t miss these breathtaking castles in California.

Related: 10 California Landmarks That You Should See At Least Once In The Golden State

10 Hearst Castle

Located in San Simeon, Hearst Castle is one of the most breathtaking castles one can visit in the Golden State. It is beautifully positioned on a hilltop and has impressive pools, gardens, and terraces surrounding it.

Dating back to the 20th century, this castle is the most famous of all the castles in the state and belonged to William Randolph Hearst, who used to be the wealthiest person in his days. The newspaper publisher had a net worth of $30 billion. If this was today, he would be the world’s wealthiest person. He hired architect Julia Morgan, who he told about his planning of wanting to construct “a little something,” which ended up being incredibly massive and stunning.

Hearst Castle covers a space of 68,500 square feet and has more than 168 rooms, 58 of which are bedrooms. During their visit, vacationers can stroll through the castle, including those rooms as well as the gardens, pools, and terraces.

• Dating back to:
  the 20th century

• Area covered:
  68,500 square feet

• Number of rooms:
  Over 168 (58 are bedrooms)

9 Scotty’s Castle

Also known as the Death Valley Ranch, Scotty’s Castle is another impressive California castle, located in one of the hottest places in the U.S. It is positioned on the northern side of the Death Valley (hence the name), in the Grapevine Canyon.

People may think that the owner of this castle is Scotty, but that’s not the case. Scotty only talked his friend, Albert Mussey Johnson, into building the gorgeous structure. Today, vacationers can tour the castle and learn about its history, during their visit to the Death Valley.

• Dating back to:
  the 1920s

8 Castello Di Amorosa

Also referred to as the Amorosa Winery Castle, Castello di Amorosa is one of the most beautiful castles in the U.S., and is situated right in the stunning Napa Valley. Stretching over 121,000 square feet of space, the castle boasts 107 rooms.

It has a total of eight floors (four underground and four above the ground) and has a fascinating history behind its existence. Built by Dario Sattui, a famous winemaker, it resembles a medieval Italian castle and has incredible features, such as towers, high walls, a courtyard, a stable, a drawbridge, and a church.

• Dating back to:
  1994

• Area covered:
  121,000 square feet

• Number of rooms:
  107

7 Rubel Castle

One of the most iconic historic landmarks in California, Rubel Castle is an incredible piece. It was constructed by a rich businessperson called Michael Rubel in 1884 and boasts a stunning Victorian look.

Nestled in Glendora, this California castle offers some of the most memorable experiences, thanks to its breathtaking surroundings, including vineyards and rolling hills. Several travelers have organized special events, such as weddings and engagement celebrations in this beautiful castle.

During a visit to the landmark, vacationers can take guided tours, which allow them to get an insight into the castle’s history.

Related: 10 Swimming Holes In California That You’ll Be Thankful For This Summer

6 Knapp’s Castle

Located in the Los Padres National Forest, one of the must-visit natural wonders in the USA, Knapp’s Castle is among the most beautiful castles in California. While it is among the abandoned ones, every vacationer will definitely fall in love with the remains of the castle.

Constructed in 1916, this castle belonged to Frances Holden, who made his way into the castle in 1940. Knapp’s suffered a fire outbreak only about 5 weeks after the owner moved in. The ruins are incredibly breathtaking and visitors can explore them.

5 Lobo Castle

Located in Lobo Canyon, Lobo Castle covers a space of two and a half acres. It is one of the most breathtaking castles in California, and since it is found in the Santa Monica Mountains, it is one of the best day trips from Los Angeles.

It is bordered by a stunning terraced garden and oak trees and is a popular spot for filming and taking epic Instagram pictures. It went through major renovations between 1999 and 2007, which have given a whole new look. Some of the castle’s most incredible features include a dungeon and a guest tower.

• Year renovated:
  1999-2022

4 Mt. Woodson Castle

Located in San Diego, home to Balboa Park, one of the most beautiful city parks in the U.S., Mt. Woodson Castle was constructed in 1921 as Amy Strone, a famous dress designer’s dream home. It boasts 27 rooms and covers an area of 12,000 square feet.

Located at the base of Mt. Woodson, it has always been used as a wedding venue, and definitely looks like it came out of this world!

• Year built:
  1921

• Area covered:
  120,000 square feet

• Number of rooms:
  27

3 Castle Green

Dating back to 1898, Castle Green is definitely one of the most beautiful historic castles in the U.S. and guarantees unforgettable experiences. Located in Pasadena, one of the best cities in California, this castle occupies the heart of the city and boasts breathtaking Victorian and Moorish architectural features.

Initially used as a hotel, Castle Green is now under the ownership of the city of Pasadena and travelers can enjoy exploring its grand halls, chambers, and impressive works of art in the rooms.

2 Sam’s Castle

Located near Pacifica, Sam’s Castle is one of the top attractions to explore in the city. It was built in 1906 after Attorney Henry Harrison McCloskey decided to develop an earthquake-and-fire-proof castle, which was successfully done.

The castle ended up with the name “Sam” because Sam Mazza purchased the building in 1959. At the time, the building seemed to be seriously deteriorating, but Sam restored it and gave it a whole new look.

The public can visit the castle, which is under the management of the Sam Mazza Foundation.

1 Preston Castle

Preston Castle never housed royalty, but it’s an iconic California castle nonetheless. Built in 1894 as the Preston School of Industry—a reform school—the building fell into disrepair after the State stopped using it in 1960.

Since then, the Preston Castle Foundation has worked to preserve the building’s Romanesque Revival-style architecture and grounds. Visitors to the small town of Ione, California can wander the grounds, but getting up close to the castle’s facade requires a tour reservation.

Bonus: Sleeping Beauty Castle

Located in Disneyland, Sleeping Beauty Castle is one of the most breathtaking castles in California, and going to Disney is, of course, among the best things to do in Anaheim. Its construction began in 1954 and was completed the following year, the same time Disneyland Park was launched.

Walt Disney’s goal was to build something that would be his park’s most notable monument and would have been grand, but he didn’t want to overwhelm his guests when they visit. It is only 23 meters tall but is one of the most iconic castles in California and the world.