When people think of New York, skyscrapers and city lights usually come to mind. But beyond the bustling streets of Manhattan, the Empire State is home to some of the most breathtaking castles in the United States — relics of history, romance, and architectural grandeur. From private estates to mysterious ruins, here are the most beautiful and fascinating castles in New York you must visit.
🕍 1. Boldt Castle – A Love Story on Heart Island
Located in the Thousand Islands region, Boldt Castle is perhaps the most famous in New York. Built by millionaire hotel magnate George C. Boldt in the early 1900s, the castle was intended as a Valentine’s Day gift for his beloved wife, Louise.
Tragically, construction stopped when Louise suddenly passed away, leaving the castle abandoned for over 70 years. Today, Boldt Castle has been beautifully restored and welcomes visitors from around the world. Its romantic architecture, heart-shaped island, and scenic views make it one of New York’s most enchanting attractions.
📍 Location: Heart Island, Alexandria Bay
💡 Best for: Romantic getaways, photography, and history lovers
🏰 2. Bannerman Castle – The Ruins on the Hudson
Floating mysteriously on Pollepel Island in the Hudson River, Bannerman Castle is one of New York’s most hauntingly beautiful landmarks. It was built in 1901 by Francis Bannerman VI as a storage facility for military surplus goods.
Over the years, the castle suffered from fires and explosions, leaving it in partial ruins. Today, visitors can tour the island, explore the remains, and attend outdoor movie nights or historical tours organized by the Bannerman Castle Trust.
📍 Location: Pollepel Island, Beacon, NY
💡 Best for: Adventure seekers, ghost enthusiasts, and history buffs
🏯 3. Singer Castle – The Secret Passage Castle
Built in 1905 on Dark Island, Singer Castle was originally owned by Frederick Bourne, the president of the Singer Sewing Machine Company. Designed by Ernest Flagg, this four-story marvel includes secret passageways, dungeons, and hidden rooms used by servants to move unnoticed through the castle.
Unlike Boldt Castle, Singer Castle is fully furnished and still maintains much of its original charm. Visitors can even book overnight stays in the royal suite for an unforgettable experience.
📍 Location: Dark Island, St. Lawrence River
💡 Best for: Overnight stays, family tours, and architectural exploration
🏰 4. Belhurst Castle – Wine and Elegance by Seneca Lake
Once a private residence, Belhurst Castle in Geneva, New York, is now a luxurious hotel, spa, and winery overlooking Seneca Lake. Built in the 1880s, the castle is steeped in legends of secret tunnels, smugglers, and even ghostly apparitions.
Today, it’s a favorite destination for weddings, fine dining, and relaxing weekends. Guests can sip award-winning wines while enjoying stunning lake views and timeless stone architecture.
📍 Location: Geneva, NY
💡 Best for: Luxury stays, wine lovers, weddings
🏰 5. Oheka Castle – Long Island’s Fairytale Mansion
Located in Huntington, Long Island, Oheka Castle is one of the grandest private residences ever built in America. Constructed in 1919 by financier Otto Kahn, this 127-room French-style château once hosted the elite of the Jazz Age and served as inspiration for “The Great Gatsby.”
Today, Oheka Castle functions as a luxury hotel, event venue, and filming location for movies and music videos. With manicured gardens, elegant interiors, and a sense of royal charm, it’s often referred to as New York’s real-life fairy tale castle.
📍 Location: Huntington, Long Island
💡 Best for: Luxury stays, weddings, photography, film locations
✨ The Magic of Castles in New York
Whether hidden in the forests of the Hudson Valley or standing proudly on an island in the St. Lawrence River, New York’s castles tell stories of love, ambition, and imagination. These architectural treasures remind us that even in America’s busiest state, there’s still room for magic, mystery, and history.
