6+ Fairytale Castles in New York to Get Lost In

While New York is known for its skyscrapers and amazing food, it’s also home to over six castles that are straight out of a fairytale. Some where built as extravagant homes, others were romantic gifts, and one was originally a weather stations. As a NYC native addicted to castles and historical estates, I am beyond excited to show you these gorgeous castles and magical NYC destinations.

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Belvedere Castle

Central Park

With its majestic appearance, it’s hard to miss Belvedere Castle when in Central Park. It was built in 1869 by Calvert Vaux and Jacob Wrey Mould. Shockingly, this isn’t a castle from colonial NYC. Originally it was used as a National Weather Service station, tracking New York’s temperature and notorious wind conditions. Though it lacks the grandeur of European castles that you may expect, its Gothic and Romanesque elements create a striking silhouette against the skyline. Today, the Central Park Conservancy maintains the site, which offers one of the best panoramic views of the park and city beyond. While no overnight stays are available, the castle remains a beloved landmark for photographers and history lovers alike. For more about Belvedere Castle, check out this post.

Bannerman Castle

Pollepel Island, Beacon, NY 12508
Floating on the Hudson River, Bannerman Castle has an air of mystery and adventure. In 1901, Scottish immigrant Francis Bannerman VI built this fortress-like warehouse to store military surplus. The castle, modeled after European ruins, was abandoned after an explosion in 1920 destroyed much of the structure. The romantic decay of its remains, combined with its isolated island setting, makes it a popular spot for ghost tours and sunset cruises. Now maintained by the Bannerman Castle Trust, guided tours are available, but overnight stays are not. However, private events and film shoots often use the location, adding to its legendary status.

Bould Castle

1 Heart Island, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607
Bould Castle, another hidden treasure, was constructed in the early 20th century as a private estate. With a design inspired by medieval European castles, its high stone walls and dramatic towers create a striking presence. Though it remains a private residence, its history and architecture make it a fascinating piece of New York’s rich past.

Oheka Castle

135 W Gate Dr, Huntington, NY 11743
If you’ve ever dreamed of living like royalty, Oheka Castle offers the opportunity to do just that. Built in 1919 by financier Otto Hermann Kahn, this French-style château is the second-largest private residence in the U.S. Once a lavish retreat for the elite, it later served as a retreat for New York sanitation workers before being restored into a luxury hotel and wedding venue. Today, guests can stay overnight in one of its opulent rooms, dine at its world-class restaurant, or explore its carefully manicured gardens. With sweeping views of the Long Island countryside, Oheka remains one of the most glamorous destinations for those seeking a regal getaway.

The cool thing is that you can actually spend the night at this castle, so book a few nights below!

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Lyndhurst Mansion

635 S Broadway, Tarrytown, NY 10591
Just outside the city, Lyndhurst Mansion stands as one of the grandest Gothic Revival homes in the country. Built in 1838 by architect Alexander Jackson Davis for former NYC mayor William Paulding Jr., this castle-like estate later became home to railroad tycoon Jay Gould. The mansion, now owned by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, is open to the public for tours and seasonal events. Overlooking the Hudson River, the mansion’s dramatic turrets and stained glass windows make it a fairy-tale escape. Though overnight stays are not permitted, the nearby Tarrytown area offers historic inns and charming bed-and-breakfasts for those looking to extend their visit.

Castle Gould

127 Middle Neck Rd, Sands Point, NY 11050
Built in 1902 by Howard Gould, the son of Jay Gould, Castle Gould was intended to be a grand residence for his wife, actress Katherine Clemmons. However, she was unimpressed by the structure, and the couple never lived there. Instead, the castle became a carriage house and stable for the estate. Today, it is part of the Sands Point Preserve, where visitors can explore the grounds, attend cultural events, and admire the grand architecture. While overnight stays are not available, the castle’s location along the Long Island Sound provides a scenic and tranquil escape from city life.

These castles, each with their own unique story, offer a fascinating look at New York’s architectural and historical diversity. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an overnight stay, these castles provide an enchanting glimpse into a past where grandeur and imagination shaped the skyline in ways beyond steel and glass.

Williams Castle

Governor’s Island
Williams Castle, a lesser-known gem, was built in the late 19th century by a wealthy merchant who sought to create a secluded retreat from the bustling city. Though it has changed hands over the years, it retains much of its original grandeur, including intricate stonework and hidden passageways. While not currently open to overnight guests, visitors can still admire its historic charm from the outside.