William Randolph Hearst told architect Julia Morgan in 1927 that he wanted to built "a little something" on the California coast. Eighteen years later, Casa Grande (commonly called Hearst Castle) crowned La Cuesta Encantada, Hearst's "Enchanted Hill" above tiny San Simeon. It's a 165-room Moorish castle with 127 acres of gardens, terraces, pools and walkways, furnished with Spanish and Italian antiques and art, flanked by three large guest houses. In its heyday, Hearst Castle had a zoo, tennis courts and two magnificent swimming pools.
After Hearst died, family fortunes declined, and they gave Hearst Castle to the state. Today the state Park Service preserves Hearst Castle as a State Historical Monument, and we can all enjoy a glimpse into the Hearst's opulent lifestyle.
Things You Need to Know about Hearst Castle
Hearst Castle offers five tours. Tour One is most popular with first-time visitors.Before or after your tour, visit the Hearst Castle Theater to see their 40- minute show that tells the story of Hearst Castle in a larger-than-normal format. The theater's screen is eight times the size of a conventional movie screen and it is equipped with 7-channel, digital surround sound. No reservations are required.
- All tours include a half-mile walk and 150 to 400 stairs.
- It's not unusual to find tours sold out, especially in summer. Avoid disappointment and delays, buy tickets in advance using the link or telephone number above. If you can't reserve ahead, go the the ticket office as soon as you arrive, even if you don't plan to take the tour until the next day. Learn how to make California state park reservations.
- Pets are not allowed on tours, and kennels are not available. Please make arrangements before you arrive and don't leave your pet in your vehicle.
- No strollers are allowed on the tour, and there are lots of things that little hand shouldn't touch. Be sure the kids are fed and rested so they are able to keep quiet.
- In summer, the temperature at the top of hill can be as much as 30 degrees higher than at the visitor center. Wear sunscreen and hat, and take a bottle of water.
