Castle Quest: Top 10 Must-Visit Medieval Edifices in the USA

When we think of castles, our minds often wander to the picturesque landscapes of Europe, where towering turrets, stone walls, and drawbridges tell tales of centuries gone by. But did you know that you don’t have to cross the Atlantic to experience the magic of medieval architecture? The United States boasts its own enchanting collection of castles, each with its unique story and charm documented by Frazer Living Blog

• Boldt Castle – NY

Nestled amidst the beauty of the St. Lawrence River’s 1000 Islands, Boldt Castle is inspired by the castles on the Rhine. Commissioned by millionaire hotel magnate George C. Boldt in 1900, this six-story castle boasts 120 rooms, tunnels, Italian gardens, a drawbridge, and even an indoor swimming pool. Tragically, construction came to a halt in 1904 after the death of George’s wife, Louise. Today, it’s been lovingly restored and acquired by the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority.

•  Singer Castle – NY

Originally known as “The Towers,” Singer Castle on Dark Island was constructed between 1902 and 1904 by Frederick Gilbert Bourne, President of the Singer Manufacturing Company. This exquisite castle is complete with four floors, a four-story tower, and an elegant boathouse. Tours reveal its medieval charm, with a decor reminiscent of a hunting lodge adorned with trophies from around the world.

•  Hammond Castle – Massachusetts

Located on the shores of Gloucester, Massachusetts, Hammond Castle is a unique creation by John Hayes Hammond, Jr., an eccentric American inventor and protege of Alexander Graham Bell and Thomas Edison. The castle is a blend of Cape Ann granite and actual European castle pieces, housing a treasure trove of Roman, Medieval, and Renaissance artifacts. With drawbridges, towers, and an indoor swimming pool, it’s a testament to Hammond’s intriguing life and interests.

• Lyndhurst Castle – NY

Built in the Gothic Revival style and overlooking the Hudson River, Lyndhurst Castle is a masterpiece of architecture. Originally commissioned in 1838 as a retreat for New York City Mayor William Paulding, the castle was later expanded by George Merritt and purchased by railroad tycoon Jay Gould. Today, visitors can explore the castle’s original furnishings, stained glass, and picturesque landscape design.

Bettendorf Castle – Illinois

The story of Bettendorf Castle takes us from Luxembourg to Illinois. Theodore Bettendorf, inspired by the castles along the Rhine River, embarked on a 36-year journey to construct this Gothic-style castle. Perched on a bluff, it features crenelated battlements, a functioning drawbridge, and a water-filled moat. The castle is a testament to one man’s love for his homeland.

• Castello di Amorosa – California

Located in Napa Valley, Castello di Amorosa is a winery and a castle, a true double treat for lovers of architecture, history, and wine. Constructed over 15 years using ancient methods and materials, it’s an authentic 13th-century Tuscan castle. With a moat, drawbridge, towers, and even a torture chamber, it’s a breathtaking architectural gem.

• Gillette Castle – Connecticut

Perched high on one of the hills overlooking the Connecticut River, Gillette Castle resembles a medieval fortress. Designed by William Gillette, the actor famous for portraying Sherlock Holmes, it boasts quirky features like steampunk-like doorknobs, secret doors, and even hidden mirrors that allowed Gillette to spy on his guests, including luminaries like Albert Einstein and Calvin Coolidge.

• Fonthill Castle – Pennsylvania

Built by Henry Chapman Mercer between 1908 and 1912, Fonthill Castle is a whimsical creation. Mercer, an expert in prehistoric archaeology, constructed this storybook stone castle with 44 different rooms, 22 stairways, and a plethora of Gothic doorways. It’s a colorful mosaic of creativity, with each room housing Mercer’s handcrafted Moravian tile and prints.

• Smithsonian Castle – Washington D.C.

The Smithsonian Institution, established from a generous donation by James Smithsonian, saw the construction of the Smithsonian Castle in Washington, D.C. An excellent example of Romanesque architecture, the castle houses the Smithsonian Information Center amid its Victorian arches and exquisite woodwork. It provides a perfect starting point for exploring the various properties of the Smithsonian.

• The Cloisters – NY

Owned by the Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Cloisters transports visitors to medieval European monastic life. Designed in the Romanesque and Gothic styles, it features authentic architectural settings, cloisters, and a stunning collection of medieval art. The captivating complex overlooks the Hudson River and contains themed galleries, gardens, and chapels.

America’s castles may not date back to the Middle Ages, but they offer a fascinating glimpse into the country’s interpretation of medieval and Gothic architecture. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or simply seeking a fairytale experience, going on a Castle Quest in the USA is an enchanting journey that should not be missed.