You won’t believe it.
There are castles in Texas that you can actually go inside.
From wine tasting, functional drawbridge and fairytale weddings, these hidden gems in Texas will make you think you’re living a medieval fantasy.
And you can actually stay overnight at one of these places and have the whole place to yourself!
1. Newman’s Castle
Location: Bellville, Texas
Imagine stepping into a real-life castle with a drawbridge, moat, and a towering portcullis—right here in Bellville, Texas!
Newman’s Castle is your chance to live out a medieval fantasy, all created by Mike Newman, a local baker who decided to bring a piece of European history to Texas.
Built by Newman, this castle is a reflection of one man’s dream and determination.
Starting with a vision, Newman transformed his property into a fortress complete with a five-story central tower and protective walls that encircle the courtyard.
Each piece of the castle, from the bricks to the impressive wooden doors, was handcrafted, showcasing the dedication to craftsmanship.
You can explore Newman’s Castle by booking a tour that includes a demonstration of the working drawbridge and portcullis.
The tour also takes you through the castle’s chapel, grand hall, and banquet hall, where you can marvel at the medieval-style decorations and furnishings that bring the past to life.
Tours are available but require a reservation, so be sure to book in advance.
These tours often include a delightful lunch prepared by Newman’s Bakery, giving you a taste of local cuisine along with your adventure.
Things To Do Nearby
While you’re in Bellville, take the opportunity to explore more of the small-town charm.
Enjoy a stroll through the downtown area of Belleville, featuring quaint shops and eateries.
And of course, you can’t miss Newman’s Bakery which is owned by the same people that own Newman’s Castle.
The Austin County Jail Museum is also a top pick that takes you back in time to what a jail used to be like in the past.
Links
For more information on booking and tour details, check out their website or contact them directly to secure your spot on this unique adventure.
2. 290 Wine Castle
Location: Johnson City, Texas
Have you ever dreamed of visiting a castle and enjoying fine wine at the same time?
The 290 Wine Castle at Chateau de Chasse in Johnson City offers just that—a unique combination of medieval architecture and Texas winemaking.
This castle offers a unique experience, blending the charm of old-world castles with the pleasure of wine tasting.
Feel like the King (or Queen) of the castle while sipping on some wine and enjoying a beautiful sunset.
The 290 Wine Castle stands on a hill overlooking expansive vineyards, making you feel as if you’ve stepped into Europe.
And don’t forget that there’s pizza on offer Friday through Sunday!
The castle was built to mimic those found in Europe, with stone walls and rustic decor that transport you to another time.
Inside, you’ll find a tasting room where you can sample wines made from grapes grown right on the property.
It has to be said that the inside has a more modern aesthetic than other places on this list like Falkenstein or Newman’s.
Visiting the 290 Wine Castle is easy.
They offer wine tastings and tours of the castle, which include exploring the vineyards and learning about the winemaking process.
It’s a fantastic way to deepen your appreciation for wine while enjoying the stunning surroundings.
In addition to wine tastings, the castle hosts various events throughout the year, including wine release parties and holiday celebrations.
These events are perfect for enjoying good wine, great food, and the unique atmosphere of the castle with friends and family.
The place can also accommodate weddings too.
Things To Do Nearby
While in Johnson City, take the opportunity to explore more of the Texas Hill Country.
The area is known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities.
Nearby, you can visit the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park to learn about the life and legacy of the 36th president of the United States.
Links
Be sure to check their website for the latest event schedules and visiting hours.
3. Falkenstein Castle
Location: Burnet, Texas
Imagine stepping into a fairy tale as you enter Falkenstein Castle, found in the scenic hills near Burnet, Texas.
This enchanting castle is a doorway to another time, inspired by the famous Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany which was built by King Ludwig II.
The owners, Terry and Kim Young, built Falkenstein Castle after falling in love with the Neuschwanstein Castle during a trip to Europe.
Their passion for medieval architecture shines through in every stone and turret and Falkenstein Castle offers a rare opportunity to explore a dreamlike structure.
Because the castle is a private property, it’s not open for daily public tours like some other places.
However, that doesn’t mean you’re completely out of luck if you want to see the castle’s beauty up close.
The castle is a popular venue for weddings because of its stunning appearance and romantic atmosphere.
The website specifically says: “No event is too big, or too small for the grounds of Falkenstein Castle.”
So the best way to find out whether your event could be held there is by contacting them.
Each visit feels like a personal encounter with history, thanks to the detailed craftsmanship that mirrors its German counterpart.
The interior is just as impressive as the exterior, featuring custom art, luxurious decor, and breathtaking views of the surrounding Texas Hill Country.
One of the best things about Falkenstein Castle is that you can book it on Airbnb and stay overnight.
Imagine that, a whole castle just to yourself!
Things To Do Nearby
While you’re in Burnet, take advantage of the local attractions.
Just a short drive from the castle, you can enjoy outdoor activities at Inks Lake State Park, which offers hiking, boating, and fishing.
The nearby Longhorn Cavern State Park is also worth a visit, where guided tours reveal stunning underground formations.
Visiting Falkenstein Castle is an experience that transports you to another era, filled with the romance and mystery of a European castle, right in the heart of Texas.
Don’t miss your chance to step inside this architectural marvel and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Links
For more information check the official website or contact the castle’s management.
4. The Castle at Rockwall
Location: Rockwall, Texas
Have you ever wanted to celebrate a special occasion in a castle?
The Castle at Rockwall, located just outside of Dallas in Rockwall, Texas, offers just that opportunity!
This modern castle, designed for grand events, combines the elegance of a historic castle with the amenities of a luxury venue.
The Castle at Rockwall is a relatively new addition to Texas, built to host weddings, corporate gatherings, and other large events.
Its design takes inspiration from traditional European castles with stone walls and dramatic archways, creating a stunning backdrop for any celebration.
While The Castle at Rockwall is primarily an event venue, it also opens its doors to the public for various events throughout the year, such as holiday parties or open house days.
You can also book a venue tour through their website.
If you’re planning to visit, it’s best to check their event schedule or contact them directly to find out more.
Things To Do Nearby
When you’re in Rockwall, you won’t want to miss exploring other local attractions.
Lake Ray Hubbard offers a variety of water activities, including boating and fishing, and the nearby downtown area features unique shops and restaurants.
Rockwall also hosts community events that are perfect for family outings.
Links
For more information on booking and events, be sure to visit their official website.
- The Castle at Rockwall Website
- The Castle at Rockwall Facebook
- The Castle at Rockwall Instagram
- Visit Rockwall
5. Bishop’s Palace (Gresham’s Castle)
Location: Galveston, Texas
Welcome to Bishop’s Palace, a true architectural masterpiece located in the historic heart of Galveston.
Known also as Gresham’s Castle, this grand residence was built in the late 1800s for Walter Gresham and his family by the renowned architect Nicholas Clayton.
You could argue it’s more of a grand Victorian house than a castle, but either way it looks cool and is worth a visit.
Its sturdy stone structure and intricate details have withstood the test of time, including the catastrophic 1900 Galveston hurricane.
As you step inside Bishop’s Palace, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a different era.
The tour of the palace lets you explore three floors of history where you can admire the beautiful stained glass windows, luxurious wood paneling, and intricate carvings that make this building unique.
Tours are available daily, and they offer a detailed look at Victorian life and the history of Galveston.Â
The audio tour option gives you the chance to go at your own pace, listening to stories and historical facts about each room and the family who lived there.
Things To Do Nearby
After visiting Bishop’s Palace, make sure to explore more of Galveston.
The city is rich with history, and you can visit places like the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier for fun rides and games.
There’s also the Moody Gardens which feature 3 iconic pyramids that offer immersive environments to explore a variety of different exhibits and events.
Bishop’s Palace is a piece of Galveston’s history that continues to captivate visitors from around the world and it’s well worth a visit.
Links
For more details on tours and visiting hours, check the Galveston Historical Foundation’s website.
Here you can also book tickets online to ensure your spot on this historic journey.
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