Discover these 13 notable castles scattered across Colorado
You won’t find kings or queens at these Colorado castles, but you will find amazing architecture, spectacular views, and a chance to explore something that’s a bit out of the ordinary.
1. Bishop Castle
Built by a one-man team, Bishop Castle near the town of Rye is perhaps the most unique building in the state of Colorado. Recently deceased Jim Bishop bought the land for this roadside attraction in 1969 for $450 with the intention to build a cottage. He didn’t stop there, working on the property for decades. Swing by to explore adrenaline-inducing catwalks and towers, but navigate the site at your own risk. Learn more here.
2. Glen Eyrie Castle
Built in 1871 by General William Jackson Palmer, this Colorado Springs residence houses 17 guest rooms and 7 meeting rooms, including a 2,200-square-foot “Great Hall.” The property hosts tea parties for the public on a regular basis. Find more details here.
3. Miramont Castle
Found in Manitou Springs, Colorado, Miramont Castle now operates as a Victorian-era historic house museum. Visitors are able to explore 42 furnished rooms during a tour of the building. It’s also worth mentioning that there have been long-time rumors that the structure is haunted, though recent staff has said otherwise.
4. Dunafon Castle
Now operating as a wedding venue for the most part, Dunafon Castle was built just 15 miles west of Denver in 1941. Its location on a peninsula gives this spot spectacular views of Bear Creek. Learn more here.
5. Falcon Castle
Built in 1909 by John Brisben Walker, Falcon Castle is now in ruins following a destructive fire started by a lightning strike in 1918. It can still be visited with a trip to Morrison’s Mount Falcon via Mount Falcon trail. Read more about it here.
6. Cherokee Ranch and Castle
This 1450s Scottish-style castle was built from 1924 to 1926 on a massive swath of land – 3,400 acres today. It’s located in Sedalia, Colorado. Find out more about visiting this spot here.
7. Redstone Castle
Located near Aspen in Redstone, Colorado, this castle was built in 1903. The popular film The Prestige used it as a filming location in 2006. Find out more here.
8. The Ice Castles
Not quite as long-lasting as stone castles found around the state, the Ice Castles are constructed anew each year in various Colorado mountain towns, including places like Cripple Creek and Dillon in the past. Plan a trip to experience a destination unlike any other in the state. Find out more here.
9. Richthofen Castle
A 35-room mansion found in Denver, Colorado, the Richthofen Castle was completed in 1887 and added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975. This property is a private residence and tours are not offered, but the spot’s website features a ton of cool history about the structure.
10. The Brown Palace
This “palace” is a historic hotel that was built in downtown Denver in 1892, making it the second-longest operating hotel in the Mile High City. It was one of the first atrium-style hotels to be built, with 231 rooms spanning over 22 stories. Plan a stay or pop in to check out the building by visiting one of the dining establishments at the location. Learn more here.
11. Cano’s Castle
Decorated with odd metal objects like hub caps and beer cans, Cano’s Castle is found in Antonito, Colorado. It was created by Donald Cano Espinoza as a means of paying tribute to God for his survival of the Vietnam War. Don’t expect a tour, but you can spot the castle from afar.
12. Westminster Castle
Known by some as the “Big Red Castle,” Westminster Castle was built to be Westminster University in 1892. Today, it serves as classroom space for Belleview Christian Schools, making a spot on the list of the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.
13. Castle Rock
The last spot on this list is saved for a natural castle – Castle Rock, which is the namesake of the surrounding city. This recognizable geographical feature is passed by thousands a day as they travel between Denver and Colorado Springs. It’s easily spotted from I-25, with some hikes in the area, too.
