Discover 5 Fairytale Castles Found in Florida

As Disney’s home base resides in Florida, it should be no surprise the state boasts fairytale castles fit for any princess. But you may not know that the Sunshine State also features several real historic castles and other architectural masterpieces. While these castles feature palm trees instead of snow-covered evergreens, they are still a must-see on your next vacation. Check out these picks for the best castles found in Florida and learn about their histories and how you can visit them.

1. Villa Zorayda – 1883

Inspired by Spain’s Alhambra Palace, Villa Zorayda is a fantastical castle built in 1883. It is located in St. Augustine, just south of Jacksonville in North Florida, and is open to the public for tours. The Villa Zorayda is a “Gilded Age home museum” which showcases antiques and beautiful architecture. But it’s also a piece of history. 

A man by the name of Franklin W. Smith built the Moorish castle as his winter home using poured concrete and coquina shells. And his preferred Spanish Revival style set the architectural standard throughout the city. Whenever you see a Spanish Revival home with crushed coquina shell construction, think of Franklin Webster Smith’s contribution.

Check out the guided audio tour and see the impressive art collection that dates back 110 years.

2. Westcott Building – 1910

While not actually a castle, the Westcott Building is definitely “castle-esque.” The historic building is an iconic symbol of Florida State University in Tallahassee. And though it was badly damaged in a 1969 fire, the building endured and has undergone repairs. Currently, it houses the chief administrative offices of the university and the Ruby Diamond Concert Hall, a large music performance space.

The historic Westcott Fountain also sits in front of the building, which was originally gifted to the Florida State College for Women in 1917. However, it is not the original fountain. But the new fountain sits on a site called “Gallows Hills,” an old execution site from the 1830s. Many believe the area is haunted. If you want to find out or just visit the historic building, you can take the Legacy Walk Tour.  

3. Coral Castle – 1923 – 1951

The Coral Castle is an outdoor sculpture garden hand-carved from over one thousand tons of coral. And if that’s not impressive enough, all of the structures were built by one man using handmade tools. The Latvian-American, Edward Leedskalnin built his eccentric castle in South Florida near Miami-Dade, which he worked on from 1923 to 1951. People began touring his garden during the 1940s, but he never told anyone how he managed to build the whole thing by himself.

Many people believed he had supernatural powers, but it’s most likely he was just a man of ambition that set out on a 28-year mission to bring a little more beautiful and quirkiness into the world. And also he claimed to know the secrets of the pyramids. Maybe we’ll never know how he did it, but you can visit the Coral Castle yourself and gain your own appreciation. You can tour in person or visit the website for a video tour!

4. Cinderella Castle – 1971

We can’t very well have a list of Florida castles without mentioning Cinderella’s. It’s a true fairytale castle at the heart of the Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World. It stands 189 feet and features glass mosaics, a real moat, colorful spires, and small towers. The grey, blue, and gold castle opened to visitors in 1971 and has delighted people for over 50 years. However, there is much mystique surrounding the structure. 

Due to its popularity, most people can’t even get close to it. There are daily performances outside, and it also functions as the backdrop for the nightly firework display. You can also reserve a spot to dine at the Royal Table or get a makeover at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, but you must book months in advance. There are no tours of the castle, and there is no way to book a stay at the suite; it’s by invitation only.

5. Hogwarts Castle – 2010

If wizards and butter beer are more your speed, check out the recreated Harry Potter castle at Universal Studios. Visitors can tour the elaborate Hogwarts Castle, Hogsmeade Village, and Diagon Alley. And you can go on the Forbidden Journey Ride that soars above the castle grounds. While the castle is meant for entertainment, it is an ultra-realistic replica of what was portrayed in the movie. If you’re in the Orlando area, Hogwarts Castle at Universal is a must-see attraction.

Fairytale Castles Found in Florida: A Recap of the Top 5