Get enchanted by these 9 castles in Michigan
There are many castles in Michigan, but these nine stand out as the most magnificent, unique, and enchanting.
When you think of castles, clifftop stone fortresses in Scotland, or opulent chateaux in the French countryside probably come to mind. But there are plenty of castles right here in Michigan too!
Some were built as regal residences for wealthy business people, while others were constructed as government buildings or gathering places for war veterans. Today, many function as museums, hotels, and even apartments.
Ready to embark on an enchanting adventure? Keep reading to discover the most magnificent castles in Michigan.
1. Curwood Castle
224 Curwood Castle Dr., Owosso
This quirky yellow castle is the centerpiece of Curwood Castle Park in Owosso. The park is home to several historic buildings and sculptures, but Curwood Castle is the main attraction. The spectacular site, which sits on the banks of the Shiawassee River, was built in the early 1920s by writer James Oliver Curwood and modeled after France’s famous Norman chateaux.
Curwood Castle served as Curwood’s writing studio until he died in 1927. The castle now functions as a museum run by the Owosso Historical Commission. The museum welcomes visitors Tuesday through Sunday from April 1 through December 31.
Learn more and plan your visit here.
2. Henderson Castle
100 Monroe St., Kalamazoo
Henderson Castle was constructed in 1895 as a home for Kalamazoo businessman Frank Henderson. The 11,000-square-foot Queen-Ann-style mansion is situated on a hill overlooking Kalamazoo. The original structure featured 25 rooms, including seven bathrooms and a third-floor ballroom. The beautiful building has been featured in three movies, on the Discovery Channel, and on “House Hunters.”
Henderson Castle is now a bed and breakfast, but you don’t need to spend the night to explore it. You can take a castle tour, treat yourself to high tea or an afternoon wine tasting, sharpen your kitchen skills during a cooking class, or book one of Henderson Castle’s other fun activities.
3. Helmer Castle
7300 Draper Rd., Jackson
Looking for a unique date night idea in Michigan? Treat your special someone to a romantic dinner fit for royalty at Helmer Castle in Jackson.
This six-story stone castle, built in 1929, is located on 20 scenic, secluded acres. Its design was inspired by a 5th-century Roman hall the owner saw while touring Europe as a concert violinist. The first five floors were designed as bedrooms, and eventually, a sixth-floor lookout was added.
When you book the Dinner Date package, you and your guest can enjoy a two-hour dinner on the property’s hilltop. Before sitting down for dinner, you can explore the enchanted grounds. You’ll also have the opportunity to take photos in the castle’s main hall and on top of its tower.
In addition to dinner dates, Helmer Castle also hosts weddings!
4. Castle Farms
5052 M-66, Charlevoix
CC BY-SA 4.0.
Castle Farms is a French Renaissance-style castle that was originally built in 1918 and later renovated and restored in 2005. The castle, located in Charlevoix, is now a beautiful blend of modern elegance and old-world charm. The property is just as lovely as the castle, with gorgeous gardens, a reflection pond, statues of dragons and knights, and an impressive model railroad.
Castle Farms has become a popular wedding venue, but you don’t have to be tying the knot to visit. Castle Farms also offers tours, either guided, self-guided, or group tours.
5. Castle Museum of Saginaw County History
500 Federal Ave., Saginaw
The Castle Museum of Saginaw County History’s French Renaissance Revival architecture is a nod to Saginaw’s French heritage. The landmark building first acted as Saginaw’s original post office, and after being saved from demolition twice, it was transformed into a museum. The grand stone structure now houses three floors of exhibits and displays and is open seven days a week.
6. Bavarian Inn Castle Shops
713 S Main St., Frankenmuth
Bavarian Inn Castle Shops, located on the lower level of Bavarian Inn Restaurant in Frankenmuth, are oozing with charm and character. A visit to the German-themed Bavarian Inn is like taking a trip back in time. Follow the winding cobblestone through the shops and immerse yourself in the fairytale-like atmosphere as you pick up treasures for loved ones (or yourself). From the bakery to the gift shop to the candy store, there’s something for everyone.
7. Grand Army of the Republic Building
1942 Grand River Ave., Detroit
Detroit’s Grand Army of the Republic Building is steeped in history. It was constructed in 1899 as a place for Civil War veterans to gather and is one of the city’s best examples of Richardsonian Romanesque architecture. With its battlements and turrets, the 30,000-square-foot stone structure resembles an ancient fort, and it’s easy to imagine it being used to defend Detroit from invaders.
After the last of the veterans passed away, the castle-esque building became a recreation center. Eventually, it was boarded up before later housing several restaurants, which closed during the COVID-19 pandemic and never reopened. In February 2024, an Italian steakhouse opened on the first and second floors. Above the steakhouse sits Castle Hall, a wedding venue and event space.
8. The Grand Castle
2655 Grand Castle Blvd., Grandville
If visiting a bunch of castles isn’t enough, why not live in one?
The Grand Castle, located in Grandville, is a sprawling 522-unit apartment complex showcasing genuine castle construction. The building’s design was inspired by Germany’s Neuschwanstein Castle and features a 15-story tower that boasts breathtaking views, plus many modern amenities such as a pool and fitness center. Live out your fairytale fantasy in one of these royal residences.
Bonus: Castle Park
“Wizard of Oz” fans might recognize this old brick castle. The book’s author, L. Frank Baum, had a summer cottage near the castle, which is said to have served as inspiration for the “Wizard of Oz.” Additionally, some of the story’s characters, including the Tinman, were reportedly based on residents of the castle.
Located near the shores of Lake Michigan in Holland, the iconic structure, now known as Castle Park, was originally the family home of a Chicago businessman. The businessman was a German immigrant, and the castle was designed to resemble those found in his home country. After the family sold the property, the new owners turned it into a popular summer camp for children.
Now, Castle Park is a private community with about 90 cottages, which means you’ll need to befriend someone who lives there in order to visit. While Castle Park isn’t super accessible to the general public, we couldn’t resist including it in this roundup.
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