Hearst Castle, one of the most popular destinations for tourists, sits atop a hill in the coastal mountains off of iconic Highway 1, overlooking the ocean…and only a 45-minute stunning drive from Paso Robles! It is a must-visit landmark, built by William Randolph Hearst, a publisher who grew his newspaper and empire into the nation’s leading chain in the early 20th Century.
The ornate castle was constructed upon his 250,000-acre ranch and included 165 rooms, a private zoo, and the 104-foot-long Neptune Pool surrounded by Ancient Roman Columns dating from the first to fourth centuries, and 127 acres of pristine gardens. Visitors can tour his sprawling hilltop estate, including its grand halls, upstairs suites, gardens, cottages, and kitchen which will give you insights into the fascinating lifestyle of Hearst where he, his friends, and family luxuriated.
Guests included Hollywood’s elite from the golden era such as Clark Gable, Charlie Chaplin, and Greta Garbo, and dignitaries such as Franklin D. Roosevelt and Winston Churchill. Hearst didn’t spare any expense and entertained all who visited in luxe style with lavish dinners and entertainment at what was known as "La Cuesta Encantada", Spanish for "The Enchanted Hill".
This California state landmark, La Cuesta Encantada, was designed by Julia Morgan whose talents are revealed in a tour centered around her elite education, life, and career.
We hope that you will enhance your visit to Paso Robles Wine Country with a visit to this architectural gem.
To purchase tickets, click here.
Insider tip: As you are driving north on Highway 1, past the hamlet of Cambria, you’ll reach expansive pastures. Be sure to look to your right (east of Highway 1), as you might spot the descendants of the original Hearst Castle Zoo: zebras, Barbary sheep, and Sambar deer grazing in the fields alongside Hearst Ranch cattle.
To purchase tickets, click here.
FAQ:
How much are the tickets to tour Hearst Castle?
Tickets start at $30 for adults and $15 for children, under 5 years of age is free (updated June 2022).
Can you stay overnight at Hearst Castle?
Hearst Castle does not offer overnight lodging.
How long does a tour of Hearst Castle take?
Tours typically take approximately 60 to 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Which tour is the best?
The 60-minute Grand Rooms Tour is the most popular tour and is highly recommended for first-time visitors. It includes the Dining Room (Refectory), Billiard Room, Private Theater, and the Assembly Room; all the grand social rooms are located in the Casa Grande (the main house at Hearst Castle).
What payment methods are accepted?
VISA, MasterCard, and Discover
Does Hearst Castle offer group and school tours?
Yes, large groups of 12 or more, and K-12 student school tours are educationally rich. Private tours are also available. Click here to learn more about Group and School Tours.