Washington is packed with storybook-worthy spots that look like they were pulled straight out of a fairy tale.
But here’s the twist: most of these castles weren’t built by royalty…
They were built by dreamers, artists, and people who just thought, “You know what would be cool? A castle.”
This road trip is full of wild history and cool architecture that’ll make you say, “Wait… that’s in Washington?”
Let’s map out your DIY castle-hopping adventure through the Evergreen State.
1. Anacortes Castle
Anacortes Castle, a private residence designed to resemble a castle, sits right on the northern tip of Fidalgo Island in the town of Anacortes, just off Highway 20.
Designed in recent years by a local resident, this quirky little stone castle has turrets, a steep-pitched roof, and is surrounded by tall evergreens that make it look straight out of a storybook.
You can’t go inside (it’s privately owned), but you can totally stop by for photos and imagine what it’d be like to live in a mini medieval castle by the sea.
2. Alexander’s Castle
Next up is Alexander’s Castle, located inside Fort Worden State Park in Port Townsend, on the northeastern edge of the Olympic Peninsula.
This brick beauty was built in 1886 by Reverend John Alexander, before the fort even existed, because he thought his fiancée from Scotland was moving here (spoiler: she didn’t).
Now it’s one of the oldest buildings in the park, and you can actually book a night inside through the park’s lodging program—hello, castle sleepover!
3. Manresa Castle
Just a short drive away, still in Port Townsend, is Manresa Castle which is a grand, spooky stunner.
This massive, 30-room mansion was built in 1892 as a private home, later turned into a Jesuit retreat, and now it’s a hotel that’s famous for it’s eerie ghost stories.
If you’re into haunted history (or just want to sleep in a castle), you can book a room and see if you hear footsteps in the hallway at midnight.
4. Sequim Lavender Castle
Head west to Sequim and you’ll find the Sequim Lavender Castle, a fairy-tale-style house right in the middle of lavender country.
This cozy stone castle was hand-built by its owners and is surrounded by rows of purple blooms in the summer, making it feel like a little slice of heaven with mountain views.
It’s not open for public tours, but you can rent it as a vacation home so it’s perfect for sipping tea on the turret deck while soaking in those sweet lavender views.
5. Hoquiam’s Castle
Next, head south to Hoquiam’s Castle, a jaw-dropping Victorian mansion that’s more grand than medieval but still totally worth a visit.
Built in 1897 by lumber baron Robert Lytle, this three-story showstopper has stained glass windows, carved wood everywhere, and even a ballroom because why not?
You can tour the inside by appointment or book it for events, and trust me, it feels like stepping into a time machine with velvet curtains.
6. Thornewood Castle
Next, head inland to Lakewood for Thornewood Castle, the real deal when it comes to old-school European-looking buildings.
This Gothic-style manor was actually shipped over brick-by-brick from England in the early 1900s and rebuilt here.
It’s now a dreamy wedding venue and B&B, and it even starred in Stephen King’s Rose Red.
7. Stadium High School
Just up the road in Tacoma, you’ll find Stadium High School and yes, it’s a real high school that looks exactly like a castle.
Originally built in the 1890s as a fancy hotel (until a fire changed those plans), it ended up becoming one of the most jaw-dropping schools in the country, complete with turrets and epic views of Commencement Bay.
You can’t exactly wander the halls unless you’re a student, but you can stroll the grounds, snap pics, and fangirl a little.
It was also the filming location for 10 Things I Hate About You!
8. Spokane County Courthouse
Now let’s head east to Spokane, where the Spokane County Courthouse totally brings the French château vibes.
Built in 1895, this massive brick-and-stone landmark has spires, towers, and so many architectural flourishes it almost looks like a castle plucked out of Europe and plopped next to the Spokane River.
You can admire it from outside (especially at sunset when it practically glows), and it’s still a working courthouse, so people really do show up for jury duty here.
9. The Vercler Castle
And finally, just outside Spokane in the town of Veradale, you’ll find The Vercler Castle which is hands down the weirdest stop on this road trip.
This mini fortress was originally built in the 1940s, but was later torn down and rebuilt by homeowner Jeff Jensen, who just really, really loved castles.
It’s packed with cool touches like a moat, drawbridge, and even a dungeon (seriously).
It’s private property but you can still drive by and catch a glimpse of this homemade castle plus the owner is generally happy to provide tours to anyone interested.
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