15 Best Castles in New York, From Manhattan to the Finger Lakes

Explore New York's historical architectural wonders! From the medieval-inspired Belvedere Castle in Central Park, Manhattan, to the enchanting Boldt Castle nestled in the Thousand Islands, discover unique landmarks. Journey upstate to the majestic Letchworth State Park and the Finger Lakes, and explore the best castles New York state has to offer. This travel guide features historic sites with scenic settings and tourism information.

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.

Exploring Beyond the Walls: A Closer Look

Now, let's delve deeper into a few of these spectacular castles:

Boldt Castle: This heart-wrenching monument to love stands as a testament to George Boldt's devotion to his wife, Louise. Construction abruptly ceased upon her untimely death, leaving the castle forever unfinished. Today, visitors can explore the grand halls, imagine the lavish life that was intended, and feel the echoes of a love story cut short. The picturesque location on Heart Island in the Thousand Islands adds to the romantic allure.

Lyndhurst Mansion: A masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture, Lyndhurst Mansion is a dramatic and imposing structure overlooking the Hudson River. Its intricate details, opulent interiors, and sprawling grounds offer a glimpse into the life of the wealthy in the 19th century. Guided tours provide insights into the history of the families who lived there and the architectural significance of the building.

Bannerman Castle: The ruins of Bannerman Castle on Pollepel Island are a sight to behold. Once a warehouse for military surplus, the castle's decaying structure adds to its unique charm. Exploring the island and the remaining walls of the castle is a truly unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into a fascinating chapter of American history.

Oheka Castle Hotel & Estate: Indulge in the luxury of Oheka Castle, a stunning French Chateau-style hotel on Long Island. With its lavish gardens, elegant interiors, and Gilded Age ambiance, Oheka offers a truly regal experience. It's a popular venue for weddings and events, offering a fairytale setting for special occasions.

Plan Your Castle Adventure

Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply seeking a unique getaway, New York's castles offer something for everyone. From the grandeur of the Hudson Valley to the scenic beauty of the Finger Lakes and the urban landscape of Manhattan, embark on a journey through time and discover the hidden gems that await within these magnificent walls. Remember to check the accessibility details and plan your visit in advance to make the most of your castle adventure.