When you think of castles, your mind might wander to Europe’s towering fortresses or medieval tales of knights and royalty.
But did you know that New York State is home to some seriously impressive castles too?

From mysterious ruins hidden in the woods to grand estates with jaw-dropping views, these castles each have a story to tell.
Whether you’re into history & architecture or you’re just looking to discover something unexpected, these incredible spots are sure to capture your imagination.
1. Boldt Castle

Boldt Castle is a stunning, storybook-like mansion situated on Heart Island in the Thousand Islands region of the St. Lawrence River, right near Alexandria Bay.
Built in the early 1900s by hotel magnate George C. Boldt as a tribute to his wife Louise, this castle is known for its romantic backstory—although tragically, construction stopped when Louise passed away unexpectedly.
The six-story castle is packed with jaw-dropping features like an ornate grand staircase, a breathtaking ballroom, and intricate stained-glass windows.
You can also explore the nearby Yacht House, which houses massive antique wooden boats.
2. Bannerman Castle

Just a bit further south on the Hudson River, you’ll find the mysterious ruins of Bannerman Castle perched on Pollepel Island.
This crumbling castle was built in the early 1900s by Frank Bannerman VI to store surplus military equipment—yes, it was basically a giant ammo warehouse shaped like a castle!
The structure’s Scottish-style turrets and eerie, vine-covered walls give it a dramatic, haunted feel, especially when viewed from the river on a kayak or boat tour.
While it’s partially in ruins today, guided tours let you wander the island, hear wild stories about its explosive history, and snap pictures of the iconic “Bannerman’s Island Arsenal” sign still visible on the outside.
3. Belvedere Castle

In the heart of Central Park, Belvedere Castle operates as a lookout point with sweeping views of the park and New York City.
Built in 1869 as a decorative folly, this petite castle is made from gray Manhattan schist and designed to feel like something plucked out of a fairy tale.
It’s now home to a weather station and an exhibit space, where you can learn about the park’s ecology or simply climb up to the terrace for an unbeatable view of Turtle Pond and the Great Lawn.
This charming castle feels like a secret hideaway in the middle of NYC.
4. Singer Castle

Tucked away on Dark Island in the Thousand Islands, Singer Castle is like something out of a mystery novel, complete with secret passageways and hidden wine cellars.
Built in 1905 for Frederick Bourne, the president of the Singer Sewing Machine Company, this castle was designed as a luxurious private retreat.
Its medieval-inspired architecture features impressive towers and stone walls.
You can take a guided tour to discover its quirky features, like the trapdoors and spying windows, and imagine what life was like in this private escape fit for a sewing machine mogul.
5. Castle Gould

Over on Long Island, Castle Gould is a sprawling estate that brings a touch of European elegance to the Gold Coast.
Completed in 1904 by millionaire Howard Gould as a replica of Ireland’s Kilkenny Castle, it was originally intended as a residence but ended up being used as stables and a carriage house.
The massive limestone structure now serves as part of the Sands Point Preserve, where you can explore its striking architecture.
Although the castle is not open for tours, the Welcome Center and Gift Shop is located under the clock tower.
6. Highlands Castle
Perched high above Lake George, Highlands Castle feels like a dream brought to life, complete with jaw-dropping views of the Adirondacks.
Built in 1984 by John Lavender as a promise to his son, this private castle is a modern masterpiece crafted from hand-laid stone.
It’s not open for public tours, but you can book a stay on Airbnb in one of its luxurious suites and live like royalty for a night, surrounded by elegant chandeliers, stained-glass windows, and sprawling terraces.
7. Wing’s Castle
For a castle with an interesting twist, Wing’s Castle near Millbrook is a must-see.
Built almost entirely by hand using salvaged materials, this beautiful home is the lifelong passion project of artists Peter and Toni Wing.
The castle’s eclectic design includes towers, turrets, and oddball details like old theater seats, antique doorknobs, and even parts of old ships.
You can stay overnight in one of the castle’s unique guest rooms to hear the fascinating stories behind its construction and see the one-of-a-kind treasures hidden throughout.
8. Castle Rock

Rising dramatically above the Hudson River in Garrison, Castle Rock is a striking stone fortress surrounded by lush forest.
Built in 1881 by railroad magnate William H. Osborn, this private estate sits atop a 620-foot hill, making it a prominent feature of the river’s landscape.
While the castle itself isn’t open to the public, you can hike the Castle Rock Unique Area trail to get closer to its towering walls (although the private driveway to the castle is off-limits) and enjoy panoramic views of the Hudson Highlands.
The hike is short but steep, and is totally worth it for the breathtaking scenery that feels like a reward at the summit.
9. Beardslee Castle

The Gothic-style Beardslee Castle in Little Falls brings some spooky charm to upstate New York.
Built in 1860 to resemble an Irish castle, this limestone fortress now operates as a restaurant with a reputation for fine dining—and ghostly encounters.
It’s even been featured on the popular ghost hunting show ‘Ghost Hunters’.
The castle’s dramatic architecture sets the scene for an unforgettable meal, and if you’re into the paranormal, you might even spot a ghost on the property.
10. Amsterdam Castle

Amsterdam Castle, located in the Mohawk Valley, is a former National Guard Armory turned boutique hotel.
Built in 1895, its fortress-like design includes brick towers, turrets, and a sprawling drill hall that now serves as an event space.
Staying here truly feels like stepping back in time and don’t forget to visit the quirky, castle-themed bar.
11. Dundas Castle

Deep in the Catskill Mountains, Dundas Castle—often called Craig-e-Clair—is a hauntingly beautiful, abandoned estate shrouded in mystery.
Built in the early 1900s by Ralph Wurts-Dundast, it was originally meant to be a summer retreat, but the castle was never fully completed.
Its Gothic Revival design features stone archways, pointed towers and a sense of haunting beauty as nature has slowly reclaimed parts of the structure.
Though it’s on private property and closed to the public, it can be booked for events.
12. Elda Castle

Elda Castle, tucked away in Ossining, is a mysterious abandoned castle that looks like it could be the home of a witch.
Built in the 1920s by David T. Abercrombie, the founder of Abercrombie & Fitch, this once-opulent home showcases Gothic Revival architecture with stone walls and arched windows.
Though now in a state of disrepair, the castle’s abandoned halls and overgrown gardens are still a glorious sight to see.
The castle itself is off limits but you can see its crumbling remains from the outside.
13. Oheka Castle

Oheka Castle in Huntington showcases impressive Gilded Age luxury, standing proudly as one of the largest private residences ever built in the United States.
Completed in 1919 by financier Otto Hermann Kahn, this huge French-style chateau boasts over 100 rooms, formal gardens, and a storied past, including stints as a film set and a retreat for the elite.
Today, it operates as a boutique hotel and event venue, where you can tour its grand halls, dine in its elegant restaurant, or even stay overnight in one of its lavishly decorated suites.
14. Connecticut Street Armory

The Connecticut Street Armory in Buffalo is a castle-like structure that really stands out against the city landscape.
Opened in 1899, this massive fortress was designed in the Romanesque style, with thick Medina sandstone walls, towering turrets, and a sprawling drill hall that once housed military exercises.
While it’s not a traditional castle, this huge building definitely feels and looks like one, and it’s still used today for community events and gatherings as well as National Guard training and drills.
15. Greystone Castle

Greystone Castle in Canastota is a hidden gem with a long history and a distinctive Richardsonian Romanesque design.
Built in the early 1900s, this striking stone mansion features arched windows, intricate woodwork, and a dramatic turret that gives it a fairytale feel.
Originally built as the Canastota Methodist Church, it served as a place of worship until the late 1960s.
After closing as a church, the building fell into disrepair and was slated for demolition in the early 1990s until it was purchased and renovated, reopening in 1995 as a banquet facility.
Though privately owned today, it can be booked for events.
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