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Oheka Castle Tour Review: Gatsby’s Mansion

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Oheka Castle is a must visit for any die hard fan of the 20s or The Great Gatsby! I wrote an Oheka Castle tour review for anyone thinking of visiting the beautiful Long Island hotel, which is one of the inspirations for Gatsby’s mansion.

Entering and Leaving the 20’s.

On New Year’s Eve, I anticipated the imminent spectacle of the New York City ball drop in the time capsule of Soviet culture that is my in law’s Brooklyn apartment. In Russian, my father-in-law gave a speech about the exciting moments to come in the new year. I looked apprehensively at the shot of vodka in my hand.  I’d had enough olivier and caviar to choke a horse. And yet, my mother in law insisted on walloping heaps of mayonnaise-slathered (albeit delicious) helpings of cuisine onto my gold and white china plate.

I was in a stupor from over indulging in the Russian spread, combined with the inhumane lack of sleep from being a new mom. It left me nearly forgetting that New York, and the entire world, would be welcoming a brand new era at the stroke of midnight. It had seemed, at least according to my Instagram feed, that Americans were beguiled by the possibility of another “roaring 20’s.” My mind conjured up images from The Great Gatsby, a novel I’ve taught dozens of times as an English teacher. 

Champagne, jazz music, flappers, tuxedos, and Gilded Age mansions for housing the aforementioned three. There is a scene where the novel’s narrator, Nick Carraway, forgets about his own birthday. As the ball began to drop and those around me began to count, it dawned on me that as society was ready to welcome the “20’s,” I was days away from preparing to leave my own 20’s behind me. This would be my final year to secure a foundation in life before turning 30, when the “building” of an “adult” life allegedly begins. “Thirty – the promise of a decade of loneliness” is how Nick Carraway describes the impending development of the big 3-0. 

As I prepared to enter the last year of my 20’s, I meditated on Nick Carraway’s feelings towards turning 30.

In many ways, of course, I was not lonely. I noted that I had my husband, both parents, a son, and a small, core group of friends. However, I could not help but reflect on every other birthday celebration of my 20’s. A memory of my 24th birthday in particular stood out. Twenty or more of my friends and I stayed over at the luxurious Standard Hotel. The place boasts floor to ceiling windows – presumably for those with voyeuristic fetishes in mind – housed in Manhattan’s exclusive meatpacking district.

We danced and imbibed in New York City’s hottest night clubs, transported via a behemoth of a party bus. I remember the night as an endless barrage of flower bouquets, free drinks, and a $2,000 bill for dinner, which upon its arrival, I didn’t blink an eye at. What was I to care? It wasn’t me who was paying. I felt like a celebrity that evening. In my mind, I always assumed the throngs of friends I celebrated with would attend every birthday celebration of mine my whole life.

Much like F. Scott Fitzgerald, I found myself unable to cope (even if I only admitted this to myself) that my roaring decade of popularity and evenings out in New York City – the “golden shimmering mirage” – had ended.

As I turned 29, and with 30 looming on the horizon, I made the disheartening realization that I have nowhere near as many friends as I once had a few years ago. Even among the friends that remained close there was no time to celebrate something as trivial as my birthday. My core group of friends were pregnant, closing on houses, moving out of New York, working 16 hour days, and – feeling their own “hot whips of panic” upon nearing 30 – were desperately navigating the dating scene. 

Bleary eyed, in the early morning hours sitting at the school where I teach, I scrolled through Groupon looking for a way to celebrate my special day. Something that did not involve a Bacchanalian evening and the torture of wearing black stiletto heels. It was a half hearted endeavor, I scrolled absent-mindedly just knowing I’d settle for some minor off Broadway performance.

Suddenly my finger abandoned the mouse. My fingers found their way to the dry patches of skin on my lips, as they often do when I’m deep in thought. “Oheka Castle” I mused. An overnight stay at Long Island’s only castle-cum-luxury hotel, one of the inspirations for Gatsby’s mansion. The groupon was my own personal green light on the end of a dock. A signal to “go for it.” My finger hit “purchase.” In a minute or less, I had booked my trip to Oheka Castle.

Why would someone in my position have an interest in staying at Oheka Castle?

As stated in the aforementioned paragraphs, I am a book nerd and English instructor. As such, it is my duty to fawn ceaselessly over writers of the “lost generation.”  This is a labor of love, for I passionately and intensely love the writers of this era as if I know them personally. The first time I saw Baz Luhrman’s rendition of Gatsby at the movies, I sobbed.

The beauty and grandeur of the era belonged to those of the past, and I would never experience it for myself. Oheka Castle was in large part a source of inspiration for The Great Gatsby. F. Scott Fitzgerald visited the chateau with Zelda while living on that “riotous slender island.” In its heyday of the 1920s, Oheka Castle hosted lavish cocktail parties, the kind Fitzgerald sought inspiration in for his great American classic. The place was the muse for Jay Gatsby’s mansion.

Otto Herman Kahn was the original owner of the home. He was a banker and philanthropist, as well as a contemporary and competitor of JP Morgan. In addition, he was the inspiration for the Monopoly man (as if his resume was not impressive enough) at least according to the lovely tour guides at the estate. The castle stands on a 443 acre plot in Cold Spring Hills neighborhood of Huntington, NY; its construction cost over 100 million dollars in today’s currency.

Needless to say, Kahn possessed an unfathomable type of wealth.

It’s not possible to overstate the gargantuan size of the estate. In fact, the 109,000 square foot estate was twice the size of the White House. Unlike the White House, Kahn and his family did not live in the 127 room home full time. Oheka Castle, the second largest private residence in all of the United States, was merely Kahn’s summer residence. It happened to host a number of royal figures, politicians, and celebrities at its glamorous parties in the 1920’s. Chaplin, Gershwin, and the Folly girls all indulged in the opportunities for fun provided at the estate, such as ballroom dancing and swimming.

Just a few short years after the stock market crash, Kahn died of a heart attack in 1934. Not wanting to maintain the upkeep of the property, his widow sold the estate to none other than the New York City Mayor at the time, Fiorella La Guardia. Under his care, it became a retreat for sanitation workers and their families who were only expected to pay $1.00 per day of retreat. 

The building came into the hands of the Merchant Marines during World War Two for radio operating school afterwards. Then, it became a military training school. Due to the resistance of the Vietnam War, enrollment plummeted at the school, and so it was closed.

Oheka Castle remained entirely abandoned and fell to the whims and delights of local vandals and thieves.

Gary Melius, a developer and contractor, was undoubtedly inspired by those with an interest in preserving the castle’s history. He bought the property and the 23 acres surrounding it.

In The Great Gatsby , Gatsby sincerely believes that his love from five years ago (Daisy) will abandon her high society husband (Tom) for a man she hasn’t seen nor loved for five years (Gatsby) after reuniting at Nick Carraway’s house. The consensus is largely that he is delusional. When seeing photographs of Oheka Castle after years of vandalism, arson, and theft there were undoubtedly throngs of skeptics who wondered if Melius plans for restoration were not entirely as delusional as Gatsby’s own dream.

The post apocalyptic edifice would have been better suited as a shooting location for The Walking Dead. However, both Gatsby and Melius carried “infinite hope” and saw the boundless possibilities of a dream that seemed to many to be utterly unattainable. However, Melius was also equipped with something that Gatsby never had, yet desperately needed: a plan and professional help.

Melius and his team of historians and researchers used photographs, salvageable relics from the mansion, and original architectural drawings to bring Oheka Castle to its former splendor and to maintain its historical authenticity.

Today, Oheka functions as a wedding venue (notably, one of the Jonas brother’s choice of location.)

A plethora of movies (such as Citizen Kane) and television shows have been filmed at the estate, including HBO’s new thriller Succession . A dizzying list of celebrities have visited the castle and filmed music videos on its premises, including Taylor Swift for her Blank Space shoot. Beyond all of this Oheka Castle is a luxury destination for anyone looking to fulfill their dreams of living like the Buchanons.

The long driveway to the castle is lined with an impressive array of sizeable and perfectly trimmed trees which seem to brush against the sky. This is where most visitors start to gain awareness that this is not merely a “hotel.” However, the first view of Oheka Castle undoubtedly casts a feeling of awe and surprise on any first time guest’s spirit – this is where the transformation to another time period entirely really begins.

On first thought, it would not at all be outlandish for one to rub their eyes and wonder if they were actually on a trip to France’s Loire Valley and not, in fact, on a weekend getaway to Long Island, New York.

Guests should prepare to become an instant VIP upon their immediate arrival to Oheka Castle. Instantaneously, uniformed staff begin radioing of one’s arrival to each other quickly. I was surprised to have my car door opened for me and my luggage immediately being taken off my hands and transported to my quarters.

I teetered unsteadily in a smart pair of pumps across the gray cobble stones and took a moment to look at the many windows and chateau style peaks which top the castle. The style of Oheka Castle’s roof helps give the castle a fairy tale look. When undergoing renovation, Melius and his team used the exact company that Kahn’s crew had used when building the roof. After marveling at the exterior architecture, prepare to step back in time. 

The magnitude of the foyer’s grandeur is so lavish, that one nearly feels a small level of paralyzing chagrin. I was met with a grand horseshoe shaped marble staircase. It swept out from both sides of a large door adorned on either side by statues of women doing their best to hold large candelabra over their heads. From the door, both sides of the staircase sweep down toward a landing where a marble bench is placed. Past the landing, the sweeping of the staircase continues onto the main floor. The artistic railing which lines the stairs is entirely wrought iron.

The inspiration for this staircase came from the famed Fontainebleu of France.

The entrance door swung shut behind us. It sent a rippling echo of sound up to the church-like high ceilings. The ceilings hold some impressive pieces of artwork, two windows the size of mattresses on either side of the staircase, and an ornate and prodigious chandelier over the staircase, which looks like it would be able to crush an entire group of guests should it fall.  If there is any traveler who has ever wanted to step into Gatsby’s mansion or any F Scott Fitzgerald novel – this is the place.  

Our chateau category room at Oheka Castle came equipped with the most comfortable bed known to humankind. The ceilings were gold plated, and the fireplace gave an aesthetically rustic and historic feel to the room. Our son slept in bed with us all night (go ahead – judge me.) The next morning, I came to regret that decision.

Allow me to briefly jump ahead to the following morning. Henry lay playing on the floor with my husband early in the morning. As I lay in bed, I got the feeling that I was not alone – that something had gone terribly amiss. I felt terrified. I knew there was something in my bed and it took a ton of courage to finally look. And then – I had a real life Goodfella’s moment.

I lifted up the comforter and screamed bloody murder.

Not a horse’s head, something worse. Baby shit. Everywhere. No idea how it happened. I can still smell it as I write this. I had to scrub every single inch of it out of the sheets and the mattress topper. Honestly, my biggest fear was that the hotel would see the stains and assume it was my grown ass husband and I who committed the crime. That is something that I SIMPLY COULD NOT ALLOW TO HAPPEN. AND, I can’t believe I’m writing all of this for people to read. But, (butt HA) it’s the truth, and I must share it. I am forever traumatized. I used my bare hands guys. I’m like Lady Macbeth…but with baby crap. (Want more cringe-worthy embarrassing tales? Try looking here).

For dinner we were seated in the quirky “Chaplin room.”

An upscale room, where intimate conversations took place among couples and a family celebrating an anniversary. The room is painted entirely in red and has no less than DOZENS of photographs and posters of Charlie Chaplin from all around the world. Khan was a fan of the silent picture star, and he even visited the mansion. Thus, when the chateau was resurrected, it was decided that one of the dining rooms would be named after the 1920’s star.

I just had to talk about the restaurant’s amazing food in my Oheka Castle tour review. I ordered the Long Island specialty of duck breast in fig and port wine sauce, with a side of the creamiest wild mushroom risotto. It was well worth the price tag and then some. A side of a few glasses of rose’ didn’t hurt either. When dining at the castle, everyone is treated to bread with a side of gorgonzola cheese sauce for dipping. Move over fondue, you have met a far more decadent and elevated match!

After dinner, we moved onto cocktails in the library.

The library features one of the three remaining original fireplaces in the mansion, and all of the remaining details are authentic to original plans. Having had a prior residence destroyed by fire, Kahn sought to have his entire mansion made as fireproof as possible. The “wooden” walls are actually not wooden at all – but drawn to look like wood with a fire safe material underneath!

The morning after we indulged in a feast.

Oheka offers the best continental breakfast that I’ve ever seen included at a hotel stay. Pastries, fruit, Greek yogurt, and bagels were all up for the taking. The tea bar offered a dizzying array of variety and I found my new favorite brand – Stash tea! It is beyond my creative limits to try and imagine what it might be like to eat breakfast in such a regal setting. I’m sure, however, that I could get used to being waited on hand and foot every day.

The part of the trip which makes my soul burst with joy – I found the hidden indoor pool. The pool is hidden in the basement behind a heavy black door and would not have been easy to find.

Paranormal investigators did a stake out in the room a few weeks prior to our visit, and it’s no wonder why.

I still feel chills looking at these photographs. Despite being the only person in the room I truly could feel as though the spirits within Gatsby’s mansion, all of his roaring 20’s party guests, were all around me. I had the thought that one might accidentally push me in. It was the eeriest, most awe inspiring moment of my life. 

Guests visiting the Long Island mansion have the option for taking a tour without staying over.

However, staying overnight at the hotel gives guests a free guided tour the next morning. We were able to learn an extensive amount of history about both the original owner, the new owner, and all of the history in between. 

I am NOT one of those people who believes it’s adorable when kids misbehave. Henry was incredibly well behaved. However, at one point he giggled while our tour guide was speaking. She remarked, “if it gets to be too much for us, I’ll let you know.” I personally didn’t think his transgression was disturbing, but considering the comment, I took him out of the room while my husband took notes. 

Oheka Castle Tour Review

What is perhaps most surprising about Oheka is that given its vastness and sprawling design, it feels cozy and intimate. It is not too difficult to get the feel of one’s (albeit extraordinarily large) home, rather than a frigid, marble slabbed mausoleum. I think it is entirely possible that Gatsby felt totally fine living in his mansion alone before Daisy.

The staff are professional, but approachable. By Sunday morning, we already knew many of the workers. Many who would call my son, Henry, by name, play with him, and even offered to rock him to sleep. In his mission statement, Gary Melius hopes to impart a familial and welcoming feeling to each of his guests. He has undoubtedly succeeded. So often a luxury setting can be anything but relaxing. One constantly has to consider if they are behaving, speaking, and eating in a way that exudes class and conveys a sense of deserving to be staying at a five star establishment. Oheka combines old world luxury with the added benefit of genuinely allowing visitors to let their shoulders down.

The 2020’s will very certainly not be anything like the 1920’s – sorry to disappoint.

My 30’s will more than likely not be anything like my 20’s. Change is inevitable and we should welcome it as warmly as Gary and his staff welcome their travelers. After all, we do not want to be entirely like Gatsby, retreating ceaselessly into the past, clinging to dreams that have long since fleeted, and being unable to move forward. There is much to look forward to…

In the words, once more, of Nick Carraway “tomorrow we will run faster [and] stretch our arms out farther…”  Enjoyed reading my Oheka Castle tour review and ready to see the place for yourself? Book your own tour or overnight stay here.

• February 1, 2020
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Stephanie Amb

Stephanie is a writer of travel, fiction, and New York lifestyle. She currently lives in Brooklyn and teaches full time in Queens. She is a wife and mother to one son. Stephanie is a co-founder at Tawk of New Yawk and her work has been featured in Your Life is a Trip, Teaching Traveling, and Literary Traveler.

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Looks like a really good birthday stay, aside from the poop and rude tour guide! And it's good that you are trying to embrace the change of moving into your 30s. It certainly isn't the same as being in your 20s but that's a good thing. With age comes wisdom, and while friends may change, I have found that it's been a good thing!

I would definitely include this on my bucket list. Thanks for the learning.

Wow. Just wow. The grandeur, the sheer size of Oheka Castle, the fact that you can stay there... it's blowing my mind a little. My own experience with "the 30s" is that I still feel like I'm in my 20s, and I'm more than halfway through the next "decade". Being a grown up adult is overrated anyway ;) A very happy birthday to you!

Bucket list material! It looks like a memorable stay. Thank you for sharing!

That staircase!!!!

"The inhumane lack of sleep from being a new mom." Oh, girl! My first were twins. And even though they're now adults, that exhaustion STILL haunts me! So glad you got to enjoy such an amazing place!

First, don't worry about your 30s, they are going to be the best decade of your life. Second, I could not agree more with you, it does seem like you flew to France in a second to go visit Oheka. And loved the storytelling behind your visit and your link with so many films and videos. It does seem like one of these places that you have seen many times and have gotten to know but you never know where it is exactly. Thanks for sharing!

Don't put tooooo much pressure on yourself to achieve everything before you turn 30. I'm sure you'll be fine. :)

Great post! I have always wanted to stay in a castle and always thought that I would have to go to europe. I had no idea that there was one in New York.

Such an amazing way to spend your birthday, minus the surprise in the bed... which I would not have cleaned up! It's hard to believe this property was once abandoned

Wow! What an incredible experience. I had no idea this castle existed and in the US! Your photos are incredible. I'm a lit nerd as well, so I appreciate this post and your experience (and am quite jealous). PS- I've read Z and loved it! I hope you enjoyed it as well.

I love to stay at historic places which has some interesting stories behind their past. I never knew about Oheka castle and its association with many historic activities like a school after WWII, a military training school and when it was closed, it became destination of vandals and thieves. Also the fireproof walls though looking wooden makes the library very cozy and with full of warmth.

I live the story that you told while writing this piece. We try to stay in historical places anytime we can and you just have us another to add to our list!

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Oheka Castle: Everything You Need to Know About the Long Island Mansion

By Megan Johnson

If lush formal gardens and Gilded Age glamour are your idea of a good time, Oheka Castle Hotel and Estate might be the mansion getaway of your dreams. The second largest private home in America, the Long Island castle is tucked away on the famed Gold Coast between New York City and The Hamptons in the peaceful town of Huntington. One of the most famous Gold Coast mansions, Oheka Castle in Huntington, NY, is a beacon of both historic preservation and luxury style. The perfect spot for history buffs and high-end travelers, it is now a member of Historic Hotels of America and welcomes guests to enjoy the historic site, whether as a wedding venue or a mansion tour.

So what exactly makes Oheka Castle so special? Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the grandeur of the New York estate is informed by endless unique features. “There are several factors that lend to the castle’s popularity,” says Nancy Melius, director of marketing and interior design at Oheka Castle, who mentions the property’s rich history and thriving existence in the present day. “It underwent one of the most expensive restorations in the country and is the second largest private residence in the country. The estate is palatial and awe-inspiring and it’s unusual to find a historic castle of this size and beauty in America.”

The fascinating history of Oheka Castle is a story that has carried on throughout the ages. Financier and philanthropist Otto Hermann Kahn first purchased 443 acres in Cold Spring Harbor, which is part of the town of Huntington, New York, in 1914 for $1 million. After two years of construction atop a hill, making it the highest point on Long Island, the French-style château served as the private summer home for the Kahn family. It became known for its luxurious private events and celebrations, a prime example of 1920s Gilded Age glamour. The Kahns welcomed some of the biggest names of the era, from Hollywood legends to politicians, to the sprawling mansion for lively parties.

However, things began to fall apart after 1934, when Otto Kahn died of a heart attack. The property was bought and sold several times, serving as everything from a retreat for New York sanitation workers to a government training school for Merchant Marine radio operators. In 1948, the Eastern Military Academy purchased Oheka Castle. After removing the lush gardens, subdividing the rooms, and changing the interior, the school went bankrupt in the 1980s. It was at that point that the property fell into dilapidation, with numerous fires set inside in just five years. Abandoned for more than 10 years, the estate suffered from significant neglect. Developer Gary Melius purchased it for $1.5 million in 1984, investing $40 million into restoring the palatial estate to its former glory.

Architecture and design influences

One of the reflecting pools on the grounds of the property.

Measuring upwards of 115,000 square feet, Oheka Castle was the ultimate vacation home for the Kahn family. Otto Kahn, who spent $11 million on the construction, had the building created out of steel and concrete, largely out of his hopes to make a fireproof structure. From the faux bois walls in the library and the plaster moldings in the grand ballroom to the secret passageway from a bookcase and the 39 working fireplaces throughout the castle, there were endless fascinating tidbits of Oheka’s story ingrained in every square foot. When Melius restored the property in the traditional French château style, he made sure every aspect of the castle was cared for with precision. The roof was restored with slate tiles sourced from the same Vermont quarry that Kahn used for the originals, and more than 222 windows and doors were replaced. Since then, a variety of Italian windows and doors have been installed throughout the estate. It has been expanded since its original construction too: Currently measuring 115,000 square feet, Oheka features 117 diverse rooms and 50 bathrooms.

Notable moments in pop culture

From a starring role in 1941’s Citizen Kane to its appearance in an episode of Gossip Girl, Oheka Castle Hotel and Estate has played an important role in pop culture history. Thanks to its European style and location that’s a short drive from New York City, Oheka Castle is highly sought-after as a location for films, television, and other productions. One of the most famous scenes of HBO’s acclaimed drama Succession was filmed at Oheka. Titled “Hunting,” the episode, which followed the Waystar Royco senior staff while they headed to Hungary for a corporate retreat, ultimately became known for the famed “Boar on the Floor” scene. During the scene, media titan Logan Roy berates his staff during a game that takes a dark turn. While the episode was meant to take place in Hungary, it was actually filmed in New York State at Oheka.

But perhaps the most famous onscreen appearance of Oheka may be when it was used in Taylor Swift’s 2014 “Black Space” video . Several pivotal exterior scenes for the video were shot at Oheka, including scenes where Swift and her boyfriend trot around on white horses through the castle’s rear façade and enjoy a picnic on the rolling grounds. But it’s the scene where she smashes her lover’s luxury convertible with a golf club in front of Oheka that’s ingrained in the minds of Swifties everywhere.

Notable elements of the castle and its grounds

Guests attend an event at the castle.

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From the handcrafted wrought iron railing of Oheka’s grand staircase, which was inspired by the exterior staircase at the Château de Fontainebleau in France, to the eight reflecting pools that dot its grounds, there are endless unique features throughout the estate. The rolling grounds received the same extensive renovation as the building in recent decades using the original drawing created by the Olmstead Brothers, the sons of legendary landscape designer Frederick Law Olmsted. In addition to the reflecting pools, three elegant fountains were installed. Across the vast acreage, you’ll find 44 London plane trees in the formal gardens, and 2,505 boxwoods around the reflecting pools. Along the drive leading to the courtyard, 500 red cedars serve as the ultimate welcome. In the present day, 85% of the estate and gardens are restored, with the same precise attention to detail as its palatial interior.

The castle is also known for its role in delighting guests as the ultimate vacation destination. The 34 guest rooms and suites feature beautiful views of the estate, as well as coveted amenities like an in-room massage menu and Molton Brown bath products. Oheka’s culinary program also allows guests to soak up the property’s European ambiance all while enjoying a delectable meal at Ohk Bar & Restaurant , the estate’s fine-dining restaurant. Mansion tours, which are available by appointment only, are led by experienced docents who can speak at length about the stories of Oheka’s history.

Special notes and interesting facts

Though the Kahn family no longer owns Oheka, their role in its creation and influence on American history can’t be forgotten. The name Oheka was given as an acronym for Mr. Kahn’s name: Otto HErmann KAhn. As a titan of industry, legend has it that Otto Kahn was used as the inspiration for the character Mr. Monopoly. The family lived in the lap of luxury, employing 126 full-time servants at the estate, despite only living there during summers and weekends. Otto Kahn’s daughter, Maud, was the first bride to wed at the luxurious space in 1919.

Today, Oheka Castle Hotel and Estate is a highly coveted location for weddings and private events. The venue performs an average of 200 weddings per year, starting in 1987. That said, there is a strict rule the estate adheres to: There can be only one wedding held each day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Oheka is a highly coveted destination for weddings, with stars of music, film, and athletics celebrating their nuptials on location. Joey Fatone, Brian McKnight, Kevin Jonas, football star Curtis Martin, basketball player Tobias Harris, Megyn Kelly, and Anthony Weiner and Huma Abedin (whose wedding was officiated by then President Bill Clinton) have said “I do” at Oheka.

Oheka Castle is best known for its dramatic architectural grandeur, and its role in some of the most popular moments of musical, television, and commercial history.

In addition to famed moments like Swift’s “Blank Space” video and the “Boar on the Floor” scene of Succession, shows ranging from Madam Secretary to The Americans have been filmed on-site, as have commercial and editorial shoots for brands like Audi and Victoria’s Secret.

Oheka is one of the endless mansions that dotted the North Shore of Long Island during the 1920s. Author F. Scott Fitzgerald lived in the area, and went to many of the lavish parties at the mansions. Those palatial spreads were the collective inspiration for Fitzgerald’s most famous tome, The Great Gatsby. These days, if guests are eager to embrace a Gatsby vibe, they can spend the night in one of the Gatsby Suites, which are inspired by the decadent days the book detailed.

The Kahn family called Oheka Castle their vacation home until selling it to the Welfare Fund of the Sanitation Workers in 1939. Renamed Sanita, it then became a retirement home for the sanitation workers of New York City.

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Oheka Castle in Huntington, New York

Oheka Castle, situated in Huntington, New York, stands as a prominent symbol of opulence and architectural grandeur in the United States. Originally commissioned by Otto Hermann Kahn, a notable financier and philanthropist, this majestic estate epitomizes the magnificence of the Gilded Age (roughly the period from 1865 to 1904). With its breathtaking architecture, lush gardens, and rich history, Oheka Castle has earned its place as one of Long Island’s most iconic landmarks.

Construction on Oheka Castle commenced in 1914 under the guidance of architects Delano and Aldrich. Otto Kahn’s vision for Oheka was to create a palatial retreat that rivaled the grandeur of European chateaus. Spanning over 109,000 square feet, the castle boasted opulent interiors, sprawling gardens, and commanding views of the surrounding landscape.

Architecture:

Oheka Castle’s architectural style reflects a harmonious blend of European elegance and American innovation. Its striking facade features intricate stonework, towering turrets, and expansive terraces that offer panoramic views of the estate. The interior of the castle is adorned with luxurious furnishings, ornate woodwork, and exquisite artwork, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship of the era.

Social Significance:

During the Gilded Age, Oheka Castle served as a social hub for the elite of society. Otto Kahn hosted lavish parties, extravagant galas, and intimate gatherings at the castle, attracting prominent figures from politics, business, and entertainment. Its sprawling grounds and elegant ballrooms provided the perfect backdrop for unforgettable celebrations and soirées.

Decline and Restoration:

Following Otto Kahn’s ownership, Oheka Castle underwent a period of decline and neglect. However, in the late 20th century, efforts to preserve and restore the castle began in earnest. Under the direction of Long Island developer Gary Melius, extensive restoration work was undertaken to revitalize the estate and return it to its former glory. Today, Oheka Castle stands as a testament to the dedication and perseverance of those who worked tirelessly to preserve its legacy.

Present-Day:

Oheka Castle continues to enchant visitors from around the world with its timeless charm and unparalleled beauty. In addition to serving as a luxury hotel and event venue, the castle welcomes guests to explore its historic grounds, tour its elegant interiors, and experience the splendor of a bygone era. From weddings and corporate events to guided tours and overnight stays, Oheka Castle offers a truly immersive glimpse into the grandeur of the past.

Oheka is widely regarded as one of the most popular wedding venues on Long Island attracting couples from across the country and around the world. The castle’s breathtaking architecture, picturesque gardens, and opulent interiors provide an enchanting backdrop for couples seeking a fairy-tale setting for their special day. Oheka offers a range of wedding packages and services to accommodate various preferences and budgets. The estate’s elegant ballrooms, manicured gardens, and stunning architecture provide a romantic ambiance that is ideal for both intimate ceremonies and grand celebrations.

As a symbol of luxury, romance, and architectural excellence, Oheka Castle holds a special place in the hearts of all who visit. Its enduring legacy serves as a reminder of the golden age of American craftsmanship and the timeless allure of grand estates. Whether as a destination for celebrations or a retreat for relaxation, Oheka Castle continues to inspire awe and admiration, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the beauty and history of this iconic landmark.

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Oheka Castle

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Oheka Castle - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Sun - Sat 11:00 am - 12:00 pm
• (0.00 km) Oheka Castle Hotel & Estate
• (5.50 km) Marriott Melville Long Island
• (3.47 km) The Inn At Fox Hollow Hotel
• (5.20 km) Hilton Garden Inn Melville
• (4.89 km) Four Points by Sheraton Melville Long Island
• (0.00 km) OHK Bar & Restaurant
• (0.01 km) OHEKA Bar & Restaurant
• (0.74 km) La Parma II Italian Restaurant
• (0.83 km) Piccola Bussola
• (0.88 km) Umberto's of Huntington

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Get Inspired

Get the travel guide, become an insider, the luxurious and historical gold coast.

Step inside Long Island’s Gold Coast along the North Shore for a look into the elegant and opulent lifestyles of the elite. Owned by past presidents, artists and aristocracy, many of these homes once hosted royalty, heads of state and stars such as Charlie Chaplin. Often the backdrop for Hollywood productions, the Gold Coast mansions also served as inspiration for The Great Gatsby. Open for tours and events, travel back to an era bygone when visiting these estates.

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• 127 Middle Neck Road
• (516) 571-7900

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Coe Hall at Planting Fields Arboretum

Visit Planting Fields Arboretum/Coe Hall, a Tudor Revival mansion where you can view the family’s original furnishings, including the completely restored Louis XVI reception room and the spectacular grounds and gardens (created by the Olmstead Brothers).

The Mansion at Glen Cove

• 200 Dosoris Lane
• (646) 518-8771

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• 71 Old Westbury Road
• (516) 333-0048

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Old Westbury Gardens hosts festivals and seasonal events in the garden throughout the year They also occasionally have garden yoga classes. Check their  website  for more information.

Oheka Castle

• 135 West Gate Drive
• (631) 659-1400

A breathtakingly beautiful historic mansion located on the famed Gold Coast of Long Island between New York City and The Hamptons. At OHEKA CASTLE guests will discover a World of charming luxury and European ambiance. OHEKA is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a member of…

The OHK Bar & Restaurant offers patrons a unique culinary experience paired with a European ambiance and al fresco dining.

Tour of Oheka Castle

Resting majestically on the highest point of Long Island, emanates the elegant refinement of a chateau in France and a rich history that is distinctly American. Financier and philanthropist, Otto Hermann Kahn built OHEKA CASTLE close to a century ago on the highest point on Long Island in Cold…

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Prime: An American Kitchen & Bar

• 117 North New York Avenue
• (631) 385-1515

Dedicated to the expression of modern American cuisine, Prime is more than just a culinary adventure, it is a true experience. Guests can choose from an array of raw bar favorites, like blue point oysters, little neck clams, and lobster cocktail, along with Mizu Sushi, and steaks and chops like…

Enjoy unique shops, dining, and nightlife in trendy downtown Huntington Village

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Private Dining

SUNDAY, MAY 12, 2024 | 11AM-4PM

Celebrate Mom is European ambiance with the delicious options on our special Three-Course Prix-Fixe Menu .

$150 per person + Bar (gratuity not included) | $40 per child 

MAY 30, 2024 | $150 PER PERSON

Indulge in an unforgettable culinary journey curated by Chef Raed Jallad, featuring an exquisite  four-course wine dinner  spotlighting the renowned Stags' Leap Winery.

OHK Bar Only

GATSBY HOUR: Monday-Thursday 4:00pm-7:00pm

Bar Bites $15

$6 Draught Beer

$10 Wines by the Glass

$12 Cocktails

OHK BAR & RESTAURANT

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Fine Dining on Long Island OHK Bar & Restaurant

Wine and dine in authentic European ambiance in America's grandest castle. OHK Bar & Restaurant is nestled inside historic OHEKA CASTLE on the Gold Coast of Long Island between New York City and the Hamptons. The casual elegance of the dining rooms, bar, and outdoor Piazza for al fresco wining and dining, are perfect for a corporate lunch, a romantic dinner for two, private dinner parties, or simply an evening cocktail. 

OHEKA CASTLE   OHK POLICIES   UPCOMING CASTLE EVENTS

Toasted Tuscan Loaf, Gorgonzola Cheese Fondue, Scallions

Hummus, Garlic Tzatziki, Olive Tapenade, Feta Cheese, Cucumber, Toasted Pita

Pan Fried Panko Breaded Buttermilk Chicken Tenders, Sweet Chili, Sweet Soy, and Ginger Sauce

Woodfired Flatbread, Crushed Tomatoes Sauce, Mozzarella, Fresh Basil

Wild Mushrooms and Goat Cheese Baked in Pastry Dough, Orange Cinnamon Cranberry Sauce

Rigatoni, Aged Gouda, Panko Breadcrumbs

Jumbo Lump Crab, Corn Pineapple Salsa, Chipotle Aioli, Lemon Vinaigrette, Mixed Greens

Marinara Sauce, Fresh Lemon

Burrata Mozzarella, Baby Arugula, Prosciutto di Parma, Picked Red Onion, Port Wine Dried Mission Figs, Crushed Pistachios, Balsamic Glaze

Grilled Chicken, Romaine, Hard Boiled Eggs, Blue Cheese, Bacon, Cherry Tomatoes, Avocado, Balsamic Vinaigrette

Baby Iceberg Wedge, Thick Applewood Bacon, Cherry Tomatoes, Crumbled Blue Cheese, Picked Red Onion, Ranch

Roasted Red and Yellow Beets, Artisan Greens, Goat Cheese, Candied Walnuts, Provence Vinaigrette

Poached Shrimp, Bay Scallops, PEI Mussels, Calamari, Octopus, Fresh Lemon, House Made Cocktail Sauce

Romaine Hearts, House Made Croutons, White Anchovies, Shaved Parmesan, Caesar Dressing

Grilled Chicken $9, Shrimp $12, Salmon $15, Lobster Salad $16

SANDWICHES & TACOS (Gluten Free Roll Available)

Grilled Chicken Breast, Roasted Tomato and Red Peppers, Brie, Pesto Mayonnaise, Slaw

Sliced Filet Mignon, Carmelized Onions and Garlic, Provolone Cheese, French Baguette, Demi-Glace, Hand Cut Truffle Fries with Parmesan

Chilled Lobster Salad, Lobster Aoili, Micro Greens, Butter Brushed Warm Brioche Roll, Hand Cut Truffle Fries with Parmesan

Country Ham and Gruyere on Brioche, Bechamel, Dijon, Topped with Arugula

10 oz Angus Beef Burger, Carmelized Onions and Mushrooms, Fontina Cheese, Brioche Bun, Hand Cut Truffle Fries with Parmesan

Two Fried Cod Tacos, Avocado, Pico de Gallo, Garlic-Lime Aioli, Slaw

• Gluten Free Roll Available

PASTA (Gluten Free Pasta Available)

Rigatoni, Sweet and Spicy Italian Pork Sausage, Tomato and Cream Ragù, Ricotta

Capellini with Shrimp, Spicy Oregano Marinara

Mushrooms, Peppers, and Sundried Tomato Fresh Ravioli, Creamy Mushroom Ragù

Gluten Free Pasta Available

Baked Eggs, Sautéed Spinach, Wild Mushrooms, Onions, Gruyère, Flakey Pie Crust

Grilled Asparagus, Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, Lemon Beurre Blanc

7 oz, Garlic Mashed, Grilled French Beans, Balsamic Reduction

Panko Breaded Chicken Breast, Country Ham, Fontina, Creamy Mushroom Sauce, Garlic Mashed Potatoes

• Grilled Asparagus | $15
• Pan Seared Brussel Sprouts | $14
• Grilled French Beans | $12
• Sauteed Broccoli Rabe | $15
• Burnt Broccoli with Spicy Mayo | $14
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes | $12
• Hand Cut Parmesan Truffle Fries | $12

DESSERTS - $12

Bavarian Cream Puff

Granny Smith, Puff Pastry

Lemon Sorbet, Mixed Berries

Flourless Chocolate

New York Style

Moose Tracks, Chocolate Fudge Brownie

Dinner Menu

Toasted Tuscan Loaf, Gorgonzola Cheese Fondue

Hummus, Garlic Tzatziki, Roasted Eggplant Caponata, Marinated Feta Cheese, Toasted Pita

Risotto Rice Balls with Mozzarella and Parmesan, Marinara, Pesto

Woodfired Pizza Flatbread, Fresh Prosciutto, Poached Pears, Goat Cheese, Baby Mixed Greens, Balsamic Glaze

Pan Fried Chicken and Mushroom Dumplings, Sweet Chili, Ginger Soy

Jumbo Lump Crab, Vegetable and Pork Succotash, Rémoulade

Little Neck Clams, Panko Breadcrumbs, Parmesan, Oregano, Parsley, EVOO

Sundried Tomato, EVOO, Parsley, Roasted Yukon Gold Potatoes

Panko Crusted Rigatoni, Aged Gouda, Parmesan

Seasonal Soup of the Day

Roasted Beet and Peppercorn Goat Cheese Salad

Burrata Mozzarella, Fire Roasted Yellow and Red Peppers, Cherry Tomatoes, Fresh Basil, Toasted Crouton, Balsamic Glaze, EVOO

Watercress, Arugula, Prosciutto di Parma, Melon, Shaved Fennel, Manchego, Toasted Almonds, Aged White Balsamic

Charred Baby Romaine Hearts, House Made Croutons, White Anchovy, Shaved Parmesan, Caesar Dressing

Pasta & Risotto

Tagliatelle Pasta, Sautéed Baby Kale, Roasted Red Pepper and Garlic Sauce

Braised Beef Short Rib, Pappardelle Pasta, Ricotta

Creamy Italian Risotto, Wild Mushrooms, Black Truffle Butter

Gluten Free Pasta Available.

Atlantic Salmon, Vegetable Orzo, Pearl Onion Confit, Romanesco Sauce

Vegetable Fricassee with Cippolini Onions, Baby Carrots, and Cremini Mushrooms, and Artichokes, White Wine and Lemon Herb Sauce

Panko Crusted Chilean Sea Bass, Sautéed Spinach, Scalloped Potatoes, Charred Lemon

Meat & Poultry

Free Range Roasted French Cut Chicken Breast, Apricot Olive Caponata, Vegetable Orzo, Cipollini Onions, Sundried Tomato Garlic Sauce

Berkshire Pork Chop, Golden Raisins, Crispy Shallots, Apple Cognac Braising Sauce

Sliced Long Island Duck Breast, Charred Broccolini, Celery Root Purée, Green Grape Sauce

Braised Veal Shank, Creamy Parmesan Risotto

Prime Black Angus Filet Mignon, Sautéed Spinach, Roasted Vine Tomatoes, Herb Fingerling Potatoes, Black Truffle Compound Butter

Sliced Prime Kansas City T-Bone, Herb Compound Butter

• Grilled Asparagus | $16
• Burnt Broccoli with Spicy Mayo | $15
• Sautéed Broccoli Rabé | $15
• Organic Glazed Baby Carrots | $15
• Hand Cut Parmesan Truffle Fries | $12

Granny Smith

• Weekday Prix-Fixe

4pm-8pm | Mon-Thurs

Brunch menu.

Pan Fried Summer Zucchini, Farm Fresh Eggs, GF Flour, Scallion, Parsley, Greek Yogurt, Fresh Mint

Chorizo, Prosciutto di Parma, Parmesan Reggiano, Mozzarella, Artichokes, Olives, Mixed Tree Nuts, Grapes, Fig Jam, Water Crackers

Jumbo Lump Crab, Chipotle Aioli, Sweet Chili and Sweet Soy, Mixed Greens

Sliced Smoked Salmon, Pumpernickel Bagel, Tomatoes, Raw Red Onion, Capers, Scallion Cream Cheese

Baked Granny Smith Apples and Crème Fraiche, Vermont Maple Syrup

Salads (Add Protein: Grilled Chicken $9, Shrimp $12, Salmon $15, Lobster Salad $16)

Romaine, Hard Boiled Eggs, Bleu Cheese, Bacon, Cherry Tomatoes, Avocado, Balsamic Vinaigrette

Chilled Soba Noodles, Carrots, Cabbage, Mixed Bell Peppers, Toasted Almonds, Sesame Garlic Soy Dressing

Baby Iceberg Wedge, Thick Applewood Bacon, Cherry Tomatoes, Crumbled Bleu Cheese, Pickled Red Onion, Ranch

Baked Eggs, Sautéed Spinach, Wild Mushrooms, Onions, and Gruyére in a Flaky Pie Crust, Arugula

Two Farm Fresh Poached Eggs on Seven Grain Toast, Cherry Tomatoes, Raw Red Onion, Arugula, EVOO, White Balsamic

Two Farm Fresh Poached Eggs, Sautéed Spinach, Hollandaise, Country Home Fried Potatoes

Two Farm Fresh Poached Eggs on an English Muffin, Canadian Bacon, Hollandaise, Country Home Fried Potatoes

Farm Fresh Eggs, Peppers, Onions, Cured Ham, Fontina, Country Home Fried Potatoes

Farm Fresh Eggs, Wild Mushrooms, Baby Spinach, Tomatoes, Feta, Country Home Fried Potatoes

Scrambled Eggs, Sautéed Red and Green Bell Peppers, Pepper Jack, Guacamole, Sour Cream, Pico de Gallo

Grilled Eggplant, Zucchini, and Roasted Red Peppers, Caramelized Onions, Sundried Tomato Hummus, Pesto, Baby Mixed Greens, Woodfired Pizza Flatbread

Country Ham, Gruyere, Farm Fresh Egg, Texas Toast, Arugula Salad, Champagne Vinaigrette

Mushrooms, Peppers, and Sundried Tomato Fresh Ravioli, Cherry Tomato Cream Sauce

Grilled Atlantic Salmon, Vegetable Orzo, Pearl Onion Confit, Romanesco Sauce

Panko Breaded Chicken Breast, Country Ham, Gruyere, Creamy Mushroom Dijon Sauce, Garlic Mashed Potatoes

10 oz Angus Beef Burger, Caramelized Onions, Mushrooms, Fontina Cheese, Brioche Bun, Hand Cut Parmesan-Truffle Fries

Panko Breaded Buttermilk Chicken Breast, Homestyle Waffle, Jalapeño Infused Vermont Maple Syrup

8 oz New York Shell Steak, Two Farm Fresh Eggs Cooked Any Style, Country Home Fried Potatoes

• Avocado | $12
• Applewood Smoked Bacon | $12
• Turkey Sausage | $12
• Parmesan Truffle Fries | $14
• Country Home Fried Potatoes | $12
• English Muffin | $5
• Seven Grain Toast | $5
• Pumpernickel Bagel | $5

GATSBY HOUR

Appetizers $15.

Kobe Beef Franks en Croute, Dijon

Hummus, Garlic, Tzatziki, Olive Tapenade, Feta Cheese, Cucumber, Toasted Pita

Slow Roasted Pulled Short Rib, Brioche Buns, Slaw

Fried Tempura Shrimp, Sweet Chili Sweet Soy, Chipotle Aioli, Scallions, Sesame Seeds

Marinara, Fresh Lemon

Wines by the Glass $10

• Pinot Grigio - Maso Canali
• Sauvignon Blanc - Whitehaven
• Cabernet Sauvignon - Bonanza
• Pinot Noir - Stoller Family Estate

Draught Beers $6

• Anchor Steam - California Lager
• Rotating Seasonal

Cocktails $12

Milagro Tequila, Fresh Grapefruit, Lime Simple, Club

Tito's Vodka, Fresh Lime, Ginger Beer

Breckenridge Gin, Lemon, Sugar, Prosecco

Jim Beam Bourbon, Fresh Lemon, Simple Syrup

OHK Bar & Restaurant invites you to enjoy a unique culinary experience with signature dishes designed to entice the senses.  

RESTAURANT HOURS |  INDOOR + AL FRESCO DINING

Reservations Required

Monday-Friday: 12:00pm-3:00pm

Saturday & Sunday: 11:00am-3:00pm

Monday-Thursday: 4:00pm-9:00pm

Friday: 4:00pm-10:00pm

Saturday: 5:00pm-10:00pm

Sunday: 5:00pm-9:00pm

Kitchen is closed between Lunch/Brunch and Dinner

Enjoy wine, beer, spirits, and specialty cocktails crafted by resident Sommelier Samantha Bellando, at the stately bar or on the Piazza. 

Monday-Sunday 12:00pm-11:00pm 

GATSBY HOURS: OHK Bar Only

Monday-Thursday 4:00pm-7:00pm | Select; Bar Bites $15, $6 Draught Beer, $10 Wines by the Glass, $12 Cocktails

Gatsby Hour Menu

Host a private dinner with friends and family or a corporate cocktail party for colleagues and clients in European-style in OHK Bar & Restaurant for up to 75 guests.  

For Private Dining Reservations:  631-659-1350  |  [email protected]

Tour + Lunch or Dinner

Historic Mansion Tours + Lunch or Dinner

Book an 11:00am or 6pm Mansion Tour of the Estate and Gardens of OHEKA CASTLE and Reserve a Table for Lunch or Dinner (after the tour) in OHK Bar & Restaurant to experience the ultimate OHEKA Moment. 

Advanced Reservations Required.

Questions | Reservations | Private Dining

OHK Bar & Restaurant 

Oheka castle.

135 W Gate Dr Huntington, NY 11743

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You Can Tour This Stunning, 100-Year-Old French Chateau Just Over An Hour From NYC

Call it the Versailles of New York!

Perched on the highest point of Long Island sits the majestic Gilded Age masterpiece “Oheka Castle.” It’s still the second-largest private residence ever built in the U.S., spanning 109,000 square feet with 127 rooms.

The historic French-style chateau located in the town of Huntington , about an hour drive from NYC ( not during rush hour) or an hour-long train ride on the LIRR (plus a 10-minute Uber ride or half hour walk).

The estate was built in 1919 by financier and philanthropist Otto Hermann Kahn, who used it (if you can believe it) only as a summer home! Of course, he did host grand parties and welcomed many notable figures from celebrities to politicians to royalty, the Oheka Castle website shares.

After Kahn passed away in 1934, it held many different functions from a state retreat house to a military training academy, until it was bought by a developer in 1984 and was painstakingly restored .

It was a group effort involving architects, historians and researchers to make sure the castle was restored as accurately as possible to its original design. It ended up costing $40 million , the largest restoration in U.S. history.

Today, you can visit the mansion by booking a tour which includes a guided walk of designated public areas of the estate and formal gardens–or staying overnight, as it functions as a hotel as well.

There’s a restaurant on premises too, so you can really make a day of it.

They also hold plenty of private events and weddings there.

Fun fact: This is also where Taylor Swift’s “Blank Space” video was filmed! Oh, and it was in HBO’s “Succession,” though in the show it was said to be in Hungary (for the corporate retreat location).

Find out more info. on the Oheka Castle website here.

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Coleman Concierge

25 Stunning Castles in America You Can Visit This Weekend

Posted: April 30, 2024 | Last updated: April 30, 2024

Do you love all things “Royals”, but you’re on the left side of the pond? We have a solution for you. Here are the 25 best castles in America you can visit this weekend. Each of these American castles is unique with a backstory all their own, and you can see them all on a castle tour of the U.S.

The Castillo de San Marco is a true American castle built for military purposes and never defeated in battle. Built in 1695 to protect the port of St Augustine, it’s oldest masonry fortification in the continental United States. Castillo de San Marcos has been attacked several times and twice besieged, but was never taken by force. The fort changed possession five times among four different governments, but they were all peaceful. After 251 years of continuous military service, it was deactivated in 1933 and entered into the National Park Service system.

Perhaps the most visited American castle is the Belvedere Castle in the middle of Central Park. It was designed by Calvert Vaux and Jacob Wrey Mould to be purely ornamental, but today it’s one of the park’s most popular attractions. Visitors climb the castle stair for sweeping panoramic views of the Turtle Pond and Delacorte Theater.

Continuing the theme of New York castles, we head upstate to the Thousand Islands region to visit the extraordinary Boldt Castle This six-story dream home was bought for $1 in the 70s, but we’re jumping ahead of ourselves. Construction began in 1900 by millionaire George C Boldt, as a gift for his wife, but she died four years after construction began and he never finished the project. The Thousand Island Bridge Authority bought the island in 1977 for $1 and completed the building. Today visitors can tour the castle and grounds leaving from Alexandria Bay or Clayton.

On the subject of millionaire houses, the Biltmore Estate is the biggest private residence in the United States. Built by the Vanderbilts in the late 19th century as a country home for the family, it’s one of the highlights of a visit to Asheville. Visitors can tour the house and grounds including 16th-century tapestries and a banquet hall with 70’ tall ceilings.

John Hays Hammond Jr. was many things: inventor, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and a lover of all things medieval. He’s known. as “The Father of Radio Control” pioneering foundational developments in modern radio remote control devices, including modern missile guidance systems and UAVs. In 1922 he built a stone castle in Gloucester Massachusetts to serve as his home, laboratory, and gallery for European artifacts. Today, the Hammond Castle is open for tours including highlights from his private collection and the well manicured grounds.

Like their European counterparts, some American castles are in varying states of disrepair and ruin. The Bannerman Castle in New York still towers high above the Hudson River, but is deemed unsafe for visitors. The Bannerman Castle trust still leads walking tours of the island and many paddlers enjoy seeing the castle from the water. These tours let you learn how the castle was built in 1901 by Frank Bannerman to serve as a military surplus warehouse. A series of accidents occurred including an explosion in 1920 and a fire in 1969.

The Ha Ha Tonka Castle ruins have a much darker backstory than Bannerman Castle. Coleman Concierge states – “Kansas City businessman, Robert McClure Snyder, started construction on the castle in 1905, only to die in a car crash in 1906. His sons, Robert Jr., LeRoy, and Kenneth, completed the project in the early 1920s, just in time for the stock market crash. It struggled as a hotel during the Great Depression, only to burn to the ground in 1942. Initially designed as a 16th-century European fairy tale, these buildings more closely resemble a turn of the century American gothic.” Today, the castle is protected in Ha Ha Tonka State Park and offers some of the best sunset views in the Lake of the Ozarks area.

Loveland Castle, aka Château Laroche, is built in the style of a Medieval castle on the banks of the Little Miami River. It was built by Harry Delos Andrews, who served in the military during World War I and was prematurely declared dead from meningitis. He recovered, but not before his fiancée , presuming her beloved dead, had married another man. He took life in stride and took a grand castle tour throughout Europe. He returned to the United States and built a castle that resembled castles he visited in France. It’s open to visitors as a museum, wedding venue, and Boy Scout camping destination.

Heading to sunny California, we come to America’s most famous castle – Hearst Castle. Built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst and architect Julia Morgan, this 165-room mansion has 123 acres of gardens of exotic flowers, ornate pools, and an extensive art collection. Located halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles on the Big Sur Coast, it’s a popular stop for road trippers on one of the most scenic routes in the country.

Farther up the California coast is Castello di Amorosa, a Tuscan-style castle in the heart of Napa Valley. It’s an award winning winery with a tasting room and food pairings with architectural features like a drawbridge and moat. You’ll need a reservation to enter the grounds, but you’ll have options for unique experiences including a complimentary tasting of 5 wines from our extensive wine menu or upgraded paid tastings at The Castle of Love.

Oheka Castle is the second largest private residence in the United States, with a backstory that resonates with us. When Jenn was growing up, her family wasn’t allowed in the Cherry Hills Country Club because they were Jewish. Otto Hermann Kahn built his namesake (Ot. He. Ka.) castle in response to Jews being forbidden entry to clubs in New Jersey. Because his previous country home, Cedar Court, was destroyed by fire, he built Oheka from steel and concrete, making it one of the first totally fireproof residential buildings, with very castle-esque styling. Today, it’s a 32 room boutique hotel and a popular wedding venue for socialites, celebrities, and dignitaries.

The Fonthill Castle was built between 1908 and 1912 by archaeologist and tile maker Henry Chapman Mercer. It’s an early example of poured-in-place concrete construction and features 44 rooms and 18 fireplaces. Since Mercer was a tilemaker, the home is filled with tile designs, mosaics, and an extensive collection of ceramics embedded in the concrete of the house. Today it’s a museum where visitors can see other artifacts from Mercer’s travels, including Mesopotamian cuneiform tablets dating back to over 2300 BCE.

Lyndhurst is a prime example of the gothic revival style of architecture in America. Gothic style features narrow hallways, sharply arched windows, and highly vaulted and ornamental ceilings. It’s simultaneously gloomy and romantic in a beautiful interplay between light and space. Its grounds are aesthetically pleasing as well with one of the largest private gardens in the country. It’s so beautiful that it shows up frequently in movies and TV shows and was the home to the Westminster Dog Show during the pandemic.

Iolani Palace is the only American castle to actually house a royal family and serve as a royal residence. Built in 1882 by King Kalakaua, it was the home of Hawaii’s last reigning monarchs until the overthrow of the monarchy in 1893. Iolani Palace is the hallmark of Hawaiian renaissance architecture, a rebirth of traditional Roman architectural principles of aesthetics with concepts derived from Hawaiiana. Its crenelated parapets and towers resemble a medieval castle, but it symbolizes the Hawaiian spirit.

Gresham’s Castle is one of those places that just looks haunted with its Victorian-stylings and stone construction. There have never been any tragedies associated with the property. In fact, it withstood the Great Hurricane of 1900 and sheltered refugees whose homes were destroyed. It also was the residence for Bishop Christopher E. Byrne of the Catholic Diocese of Galveston. Still people claim to see apparitions of Walter and Josephine Gresham, who commissioned the estate and lived in the house from 1892 to 1920.

Gillette Castle is a 24-room, 14,000 sq ft home has 24 rooms and stands three stories high (not including the tower). It’s designed as an American fairy tale mixed with European flair, but what else would you expect from a castle was designed and built by William Gillette, an actor famous for his portrayal of Sherlock Holmes on stage. Gillette died in 1943 with no heirs and a will that precluded the possession of his home by any “blithering sap-head who has no conception of where he is or with what surrounded” so the State of Connecticut took over the property and opened it as Gillette Castle State Park.

The Breakers is a Newport castle built by Cornelius Vanderbilt and designed by Richard Morris Hunt, the designer of the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina. It’s a Renaissance Revival style mansion with 70-rooms and a gross area of 125,339 square feet. It was completed in 1895 with marble imported from Italy and Africa, rare woods and mosaics from around the world, and architectural elements purchased in France. It is now the most-visited attraction in Rhode Island, but the family continues to live on the third floor, which is not open to the public.

Thornewood Castle might actually be the oldest castle in the country since it was imported brick by brick from England in 1907 and completed construction in Washington State in 1911. It’s a 500-year old Elizabethan manor filled with art and stained glass windows from around Europe. It’s known as one of the most romantic places in Washington, but Steven King fans might recognize it as a filming location for Red Rose.

Coral Castle has walls, carvings, furniture, and a castle tower formed from 1,100 tons of stones. It was built by the eccentric Edward Leedskalnin, who claimed to have used reverse magnetism or supernatural abilities to move and carve the stones. He even published pamphlets about reverse magnetism. His motivations to build the castle were equally mysterious, with allusions to his “Sweet Sixteen”, which might have been an unrequited love or an idealistic notion. Regardless of his means of motivation, Coral Castle is the work of a master craftsman where stones are fastened together without mortar and using their weight to keep them together. The joints are constructed well enough that no light passes through them.

This 16-room mansion was built in 1913 by a shoe manufacturer named Thomas Gustave Plant for his second wife, Olive Dewey. It was originally named “Lucknow”, perhaps based on a poem by Olive which read – “In the twilit hall, by the open fire / Each one agrees, ‘I’m in Luck Now at last.” Their luck didn’t hold, and the house was foreclosed upon in the 1930s, but the creditors allowed Plant to stay in the mansion until his death. Today, the property is known as the Castle in the Clouds owned and operated by the Castle Preservation Society, a private 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation.

Montezuma Castle is a mysterious pre-Columbian cliff dwelling located in the Verde Valley of Arizona. It was constructed between 1100 and 1425 CE with a main structure comprising five stories and about 20 rooms. The name represents to mistaken attributions the European explorers who discovered the abandoned site in the 1860s. First, they believed it to be an ancient Aztec site, hence the name Montezuma. Secondly, it was never a castle but a large dwelling like a prehistoric high rise apartment complex.

The Smithsonian Institution Building, AKA the Smithsonian Castle or simply The Castle, is a building on the National Mall that houses the Smithsonian Institution’s administrative offices and information center. It was built in the Gothic and Romanesque revival styles and completed in 1855. This style was chosen to evoke the English Collegiate Gothic ideas of knowledge and wisdom. More than 25 million people visit the National Mall each year, making the Smithsonian Castle the most visited castle in America.

Albert Loeb of Sears, Roebuck and Company fame built Castle Farms as a model farm to showcase livestock in addition and farm equipment sold by his company. Over the years, it has been a rock concert venue for the likes of Iron Maiden, Metallica, Bon Jovi, Aerosmith, AC/DC, and The Beach Boys. However, today it’s primarily used for wedding receptions and to host the Charlevoix Renaissance Festival.

Scotty’s Castle (aka Death Valley Ranch) is a two-story Mission Revival and Spanish Colonial Revival style villa located in Death Valley National Park. Despite its name, it’s not a castle and it was never owned or occupied by Death Valley Scotty, aka Walter E. Scott. Walter was a con man, who sold a fraudulent mine claim to Chicago millionaire Albert Mussey Johnson. Even after learning of the fraud, Albert was so enamored with Death Valley that he purchased a large tract of land in Grapevine Canyon and began construction on his villa. The Johnsons lost a lot of money during the Great Depression, so Scotty convinced them to rent rooms out in their villa to stay solvent. The plan worked and they retained possession of the property until their deaths in the 1950s.

Feargus B. Squire, an executive with the Standard Oil Company, purchased 525 acres of land with the intention of building a traditional English estate. The Romanesque Revival style gatehouse was completed in 1895, but the main house was never built. His wife disliked the house so much that they sold the estate and gatekeeper’s house to developers in 1922, which in turn ceded the property to the city in 1925 through bankruptcy. Today, it’s an iconic structure within the Cleveland Metroparks system.

These American castles offer a great combination of history and romance, but they’re just the tip of the iceberg. We’d love to hear from you about some of your favorite castles in America and keep expanding this list until we’ve covered every corner of the United States. Until then, thanks for reading and we hope to see you down the road on your next adventure.

What is the oldest castle in America? The oldest castle in America is Bacon’s Castle in Surry, Virginia. It was built in 1665.

What is the biggest castle in North America? Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina is a 250-room castle. 

How many castles are in the USA? It is estimated there are approximately several thousand castles or castle-like buildings in the US.

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Could Ha Ha Tonka State Park be the most beautiful place in Missouri? Conde Nast Travel thinks so! Read on for all of the exciting things to do in Ha Ha Tonka State Park, from historic castle ruins on the bluff tops to the crystal blue springs at lake level to the woodlands and karst features in between.

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A Moscow Free Walking Tour of the Iconic Red Square

Updated March 10th, 2020

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No visit to Moscow, Russia is complete unless you take a walk around the famous Red Square and see the iconic sights of the city. One of the best ways to see all the famous landmarks in Moscow and learn a little something about them too is on a free Moscow walking tour through the Red Square.

Continue reading for a sneak peek at what you will see on your free tour in Moscow and for tips on both the tour and visiting the sights. Make sure to save some time during your trip to go inside of the magnificent buildings because you will not be going in the buildings during the tour.

The State Historical Museum

The Moscow free walking tour begins at the Marshal Zhukov monument in front of the State Historical Museum . You can’t miss this massive red building. The museum’s interior is almost as spectacular as the artifacts you can see within. Read my post dedicated to the museum here to find out more on what you can see and tips for visiting. Admission is free with the Moscow City Pass .

The Kremlin

Behind the walls of the Kremlin lie the working offices of Russian’s government and president. When visiting the Kremlin you can see the Armory Chamber, Cathedral Square, the Patriach’s Palace and many more cathedrals. You definitely want to buy tickets ahead of time so you avoid the long-lines. You can get free admission with the Moscow City Pass . It’s also worth it to take a guided tour if you don’t speak Russian so you have more of an understanding of what you are seeing.

St. Basil’s Cathedral

If asked to conquer up an image of Moscow, St. Basil’s Cathedral might just be the most likely image you picture. The cathedral has a museum that you can visit at a later time. You can buy tickets at the ticket kiosk outside the cathedral or receive free admission with the Moscow City Pass .

Moskva River

Next up on the tour is the Moskva River which runs through the center of Moscow. A cruise on the Moskva River is a great way to see the city from a different perspective.

GUM Shopping Mall

Who would think a mall would be one of Moscow’s most well-known attractions? GUM shopping mall across from the Kremlin makes up one of the four sides of the Red Square. The stores might be a bit too pricey for shopping, but the gorgeous interior is worth a visit. If that doesn’t convince you, the mall has some of the best ice cream! GUM is the only building you go inside during the free walking tour. There are pay bathrooms you can use while you have a few minutes of free time.

Kazan Cathedral

Located on the northeast corner of the Red Square, the Kazan Cathedral is another impressive dome-shaped building in Moscow that is also an active place of worship. Entering the cathedral is allowed, but remember to be respectful if people are worshipping.

Bolshoi Theater

Contrary to the previous buildings, the Bolshoi Theater isn’t along one of the four sides of the Red Square. Located a few minutes away, the theater is one of the best theaters in the world. Make sure to come back for a guided tour of the inside or make reservations far ahead of time to attend a ballet or opera.

Alexander Gardens

The tour ends near the Alexander Gardens , a free public park located along the western Kremlin walls. The garden’s green lawns, sculptures and water fountains offer a nice place to take a stroll or relax a bit after some busy sightseeing.

You can visit all these sites on your own, but the best part of doing the Moscow free tour is that you learn more information and have the potential to meet new people!

During my tour I started to talk to a woman from Malaysia and she invited me to join her and her friends for a Russian meal afterwards. It’s these little impromptu meetings and opportunities that I love most about traveling and add more to the sightseeing experience. While I was a little hesitant about going to the tour myself I told myself it would be a great opportunity to possibly meet new people. I love when things work out like that!

If you have already seen the iconic sights of the Red Square and are looking for other things to do in Moscow check out my What to Do in Moscow post that gives more off-the beaten track things to do in Moscow!

Moscow Free Walking Tour Visiting Information

Moscow Free Walking Tours

How to Get There

The Moscow Free Walking Tour begins at the Marshal Zhukov monument in front of the State Historical Museum (a large red building). The website shows a map with the exact meeting point.

To get to the red square area you can take the blue 3 metro line to the Ploshchad Revolyutsii stop, or the green 2 line to the Teatralnaya station or the red 1 line to the Okhotny Ryad station. For more on how to use the metro read my Moscow Metro Guide .

Tours every day at 10:30am – 1pm in English

If you need a toilet before the start of the tour the Okhotny Ryad and GUM shopping malls are both close to the start of the tour. You will need to pay to use the toilets. There is a quick break mid-way through the tour at the GUM shopping mall where you can use the toilet if needed.

During the mid-way break in the tour you can buy some ice cream at the GUM shopping mall. There aren’t many other options or time for anything else. After the tour there are a lot of restaurants in the area. There are a couple of Varenichnaya №1 locations nearby if you would like some authentic Russian food. Their speciality is Russian dumplings. Another classic choice nearby is Grand Cafe Dr. Jhivago. While you can try traditional Russian foods like borscht and Olivier Salad, you may need a reservation. GUM has several restaurants, including a couple of buffets upstairs.

Recommendations

While I would start off your visit to Moscow with a tour of the Red Square, make sure to come back to each place to tour the inside. If you are visiting several sights consider buying the Moscow City Pass  to save money on admissions.

Other Tour Options

Another company  Moscow Free Tour  does a similar free walking tour in the Red Square. Check the site for the details on the starting point and times. If you prefer a private paid tour with a hotel pick-up and a visit to St. Basil’s Cathedral included check out this tour . For a private paid tour with a hotel pick-up and a visit to the Kremlin included you may want to take this tour or this one . Even if you don’t typically take tours, I would recommend taking tours as much as possible in Moscow. Many people do not speak English and most information is not in English either.

Where to Stay in Moscow

Find somewhere to stay in Moscow near the Red Square so you are convenient to all the sights!

More About Russia

• Moscow Things to Do:  Unique Things to Do ,   Spartak Stadium
• Moscow Markets:  Izmailovsky Market ,   Danilovsky Market
• Moscow Museums:  Moscow City Museum ,  Victory Museum ,  Museum of the Patriotic War in 1812 ,  State Historical Museum ,
• Moscow Life:  Malls ,  Christmas in Moscow ,  Metro ,  Learning Spanish ,  My Russian Apartment ,   What is Life Really Like in Russia ,  FiFa World Cup ,  Russian Winters , and more posts about  life abroad in Russia .
• St Petersburg:  City Guide ,  The Hermitage Museum ,  Kayaking the Rivers & Canals ,   Peterhof Palace

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22 comments.

The Kremlin looks rather imposing. It would be great to explore the history in Moscow.

There is a lot of history in Moscow to explore!

What a handy guide to get the most of Moscow’s red square! I’ve always wanted to try a walking tour and this looks like the perfect place to start!

I really enjoy walking tours, I think they are a great way to get to know a new place!

You have highlighted all the main sights around and in the Red Square indeed! I have visited Moscow in winter and the atmosphere was magical…even though it was cold 🙂 I’m looking forward to visiting in summer too!

Yes, there is a magical feel during the winter. I have to say I prefer the warmer, brighter summers though 🙂

Follow My Anchor

I am planning to go to Moscow and St. Petersburg this year so reading this was very helpful. I would love to do the walking tour! What time of year did you do it? I am planning to go in August as I really can’t stand the cold 😀 Do you think August might be a good time to visit Moscow? Thank you so much for your information!

I did the walking tour in September. July and August are the best times to visit Moscow in my opinion, so you are going at a great time! I lived in Moscow for a year so I have a lot of posts about Moscow and a couple for St. Petersburg too. Please check out my other posts as you are planning your trip and feel free to send any questions my way!

I’m a huge fan of taking free walking tours whenever my husband and I travel. We learn more about the history from the local’s perspective. Your walking tour in Moscow looks fun. The St. Basil’s Cathedral is beautiful and would love to see it. Thanks for sharing the must-see places in Moscow!

I’m a big fan of free walking tours too! I completely agree that you get a good perspective and introduction to the history of the city.

I would love to take the walking tour to get a good coverage of the area! The tip about paying for the bathrooms is great. That’s something I didn’t realize when I went to Europe for the first time from the US.

I always find it annoying paying for bathrooms in Europe!

I visited Moscow in June this year for the World Cup and I loved it. St. Basil’s Cathedral was the highlight for me, it’s such an impressive piece of architecture. I would’ve liked to visit more of Russia but maybe next time!

I really enjoyed Moscow during the World Cup too. The city was much livelier than usual!

I have been to St. Petersburg but never to Moscow. I think that these kind of tours are very useful to gather many information but I second your suggestion to visit the palaces inside as they have stunning interior decor and art treasures.

Yes, I think both going on tours and getting an overview and touring the inside of places are good to do.

Shreya Saha

St. Basil’s cathedral is definitely a beautiful place to visit. I would also love to stroll by the Alexander gardens and maybe spend some time in the shopping mall call mom maybe visit the theater, also I would love to visit Kremlin and the State Historical Museum. That’s a great list you have managed to provide here.

Never been to Russia, but the country’s history and culture has always fascinated me. Great list of things to do in Moscow’s Red Square. Kremlin is definitely on top of my list!

Russia does have a fascinating history and culture!

The architecture here always looks so beautiful. I would love to go to Russia. Some helpful tips here that would really help me navigate a future trip. I love the Russian ballet so a trip to the theater would be a must for me.

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