Castles in Florida
Castles in Florida? Sand castles? The Cinderella Castle?
Don’t be fooled but thinking kids toys and the beach are the only place to see a real castle in Florida.
Living in Florida it is east to forget that so much history is under your feet.
Take a look.
Laugh.
Enjoy.
1. Castle Otttis, St Augustine
An intriguing blend of history and fantasy, Castle Otttis in St. Augustine is a sight worth visiting.
The castle was built as a landscape sculpture in homage to the Irish Saint Brendan.
Castle Otttis truly captures a fairytale charm with its unique architecture inspired by 1,000-year-old Irish castles.
This coastal castle, erected on a serene, picturesque landscape, offers an enchanting view of the Atlantic Ocean.
Walking through its stone-clad walls and towering turrets, one can’t help but feel transported to another time and place.
2. Solomon’s Castle, Rural Ona
Solomon’s Castle shines like a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Florida’s backwoods.
The brainchild of artist Howard Solomon, this impressive structure is a testament to creativity and eccentricity.
The castle, constructed from discarded printing plates, radiates a silvery glow under the Florida sun.
No wonder it got the nickname , the ‘Aluminum Castle.’
Inside, guests can explore the many rooms filled with Solomon’s own sculptures, paintings, and stained glass works.
The grounds of Solomon’s Castle also house a sculpture garden and a full-scale 60-foot replica of a 16th-century Spanish galleon, which hosts the Boat in the Moat restaurant.
The surreal and whimsical world of Solomon’s Castle provides a unique, unexpected journey into the imagination of its creator.
3. Coral Castle, Homestead
Coral Castle in Homestead presents an otherworldly aura that draws in tourists from everywhere.
Its creation is shrouded in mystery.
Credited to the solitary effort of Edward Leedskalnin who, it is said, carved and assembled the entire castle alone.
Built from numerous massive blocks of coral rock, this architectural marvel is a testament to human ingenuity and the mysteries that surround it only adds to its allure.
A visit to Coral Castle is like stepping into a surreal world of stone, where every corner whispers tales of unrequited love and extraordinary effort.
4. Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine
Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine stands as a monument to the age-old history and diverse culture of Florida.
This is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States.
Constructed by the Spanish in the late 17th century, this star-shaped fortress is made of crushed coquina shells, a unique shell-stone found in the region.
The fort has witnessed multiple sieges and ownership changes throughout the centuries, each leaving an indelible mark on its character.
Its walls echo tales of Spanish explorers, English attacks, and Native American resistances.
A visit to Castillo de San Marcos is not just a sightseeing venture, but a journey back in time.
5. Castle Warden, St Augustine
A historic gem in the heart of St Augustine, Castle Warden is a must-visit for any castle enthusiast.
Originally constructed as a lavish private residence in the late 19th century, the castle has evolved over time.
It now is serving as the home of the famed Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum.
Its stone facades, ornate ironwork, and distinctive Spanish architecture contribute to a distinct sense of old-world charm.
Visitors are invited to explore the castle’s many eccentricities, which range from intriguing exhibits to rumors of ghostly inhabitants.
Castle Warden effortlessly combines history, mystery, and a touch of the fantastical, making it an unforgettable stop on your Floridian castle tour.
6. Villa Zorayda, St Augustine
Drawing inspiration from the architectural style of the Alhambra Palace in Spain.
Villa Zorayda is a stunning castle nestled in the heart of St Augustine.
Crafted meticulously with extraordinary attention to detail, the castle boasts an array of Moorish castle arches, delicate arabesques, and an intriguing array of artifacts.
The Villa, initially a private dwelling, now operates as a museum, housing a unique collection of antiques, fine art, and oriental rugs gathered from across the world.
A visit to Villa Zorayda offers an immersive journey into a world of historic opulence and architectural prowess, making it an essential highlight for all castle aficionados touring Florida.
7. Loews Don Cesar Hotel, St Pete Beach
Known as the “Pink Palace,” the iconic Loews Don Cesar Hotel graces St Pete Beach with its distinctive Mediterranean and Moorish architectural styles.
Constructed during the Jazz Age, this luxurious hotel captures the opulence and vibrancy of that era.
The hotel’s grandeur is accentuated by its flamingo-pink exterior.
This pink castle is set against the backdrop of azure Florida skies and sparkling Gulf waters.
While not a castle in the traditional sense, the Loews Don Cesar offers visitors a regal experience, from its sumptuously appointed guest rooms to its world-class amenities.
The hotel’s rich history and enduring charm make it a must-visit destination for those seeking a touch of royalty on Florida’s sun-kissed shores.
8. Fort Jefferson, Key West
Located in the paradisiacal region of Key West, stands as an impressive monument amidst pristine blue waters.
Although not a typical castle, this historic fort is worth a mention due to its colossal size and strategic location.
Constructed with millions of bricks, the fort is among the largest in the United States.
Its stunning panoramic views of the sea, along with the opportunity to explore its rich history, make Fort Jefferson a must-visit spot.
Visitors can also indulge in bird-watching, snorkeling, or simply basking in the sun on the sandy beach.
A trip to Fort Jefferson is not only a dive into the annals of history but also an unmatched tropical getaway.
9. Cinderella’s Castle, Orlando
The enchanting icon of Disney’s Magic Kingdom, is an architectural marvel located in Orlando, Florida.
Cinderella’s Castle!
This world-famous fairytale castle is inspired by various European castles and is renowned for its iconic blue ornate turrets, lofty spires and intricate stone-like facade.
At a staggering height of 189 feet, the castle isn’t just a spectacle to behold, but is home to ‘Cinderella’s Royal Table.
A high-end restaurant providing a premium dining experience.
With charming murals depicting the beloved story of Cinderella and atmospheric medieval music, a visit to this iconic symbol transports guests to a realm of fantasy and magic.
making it an unforgettable part of the Florida castle tour.
10. Hogwarts Castle, Orlando
Nestled in the Universal Orlando Resort is the magical Hogwarts Castle!
This stunning recreation of Hogwarts fuels the imagination of fans worldwide, propelling them straight into the mystical world of wizards and witches.
The castle houses the ‘Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey’ ride.
It takes riders on an exhilarating adventure through well-known areas of the castle.
A stroll through Hogwarts offers sights such as the castle’s dungeons, the Gryffindor common room, and the Room of Requirement.
With its striking exterior and captivating interior, Hogwarts Castle offers a truly enchanting experience, making it a must-see on any Florida castle tour.
