Yes, Hearst Castle is open for tours. Located in San Simeon, California, the castle was built by William Randolph Hearst and his architect Julia Morgan between 1919 and 1947. It’s a National Historic Landmark that features 165 rooms spread across five acres of gardens and terraces.
There are multiple tour options available to visitors including an Evening Tour which provides guests with a rare opportunity to explore the castle after dark as well as Grand Rooms Tours which offers an intimate look at some of the grandest spaces on the estate. Additionally, there are special themed tours such as Behind-the-Scenes Experiences and Art & Architecture Tours all designed to give visitors a unique experience when visiting Hearst Castle.
Yes, Hearst Castle is open for tours! Located in San Simeon, California, the estate was built by newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearst and is now a State Historic Monument and National Historical Landmark. Visitors can explore the main building as well as its gardens and terraces filled with sculptures from around the world.
Tour options include daytime tours, evening tours, behind-the-scenes tour packages, special events like wine tasting or movie nights at the castle’s outdoor theater – all of which provide insight into the life and legacy of one of America’s greatest entrepreneurs.
Hearst Castle Tour
When Will Hearst Castle Reopen for Tours
The Hearst Castle in San Simeon, California is currently closed to the public due to COVID-19 related health and safety concerns. However, there are plans for a phased reopening of the property beginning on April 1, 2021. The initial phase will include self-guided tours only with limited availability and advanced reservations required.
As always, visitors should check their website for frequent updates about opening dates and other information before planning their visit.
When Will Hearst Castle Reopen 2022
Hearst Castle, the iconic California landmark located on Central Coast, is scheduled to reopen to visitors in 2022. The Castle has been closed since March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic and will remain so until further notice from the State of California. Once reopened, guests can experience a guided tour of this historic estate that was built by newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst between 1919 and 1947.
Visitors will have access to breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean as well as explore grandiose interiors filled with European antiques and artwork collected by Hearst over his lifetime.
Hearst Castle Tickets Price
Hearst Castle tickets are available for purchase starting at $25 per adult. Prices vary depending on the tour you choose, with some tours costing as much as $36. Children aged 5 and under can enter Hearst Castle free of charge while children aged 6-17 get a discounted ticket rate of $12.
Group discounts are also available when purchasing 15 or more tickets together in advance.
Hearst Castle Hours
Hearst Castle, located in San Simeon, California, is open for tours almost every day of the year. Tours are available from 9 am to 5 pm daily with the last tour starting at 4:15 pm. Additionally, extended summer hours are offered during peak season when visitors can take a tour until 6 PM on Fridays and Saturdays from April through October.
Hearst Castle Best Tour
Hearst Castle Best Tour is a one-of-a-kind experience that allows visitors to explore the historic Hearst Castle, located on California’s Central Coast. Visitors can take guided tours that provide insight into the grandeur of this National Historic Landmark, as well as its remarkable history and architecture. Additionally, there are special events offered throughout the year, such as evening tours and private group tours for those seeking an even more immersive experience.
How Long Does It Take to Tour Hearst Castle
It typically takes visitors around three to four hours to tour Hearst Castle, located in San Simeon, California. This includes the time it takes to travel between each of the castle’s locations and view its grand architecture and collections. During the tour, visitors are guided through several lavish suites with antique furniture and artwork, as well as a pool complex surrounded by Roman-style sculptures.
Additionally, guests can explore the grounds on their own or take advantage of special programs like behind-the-scenes tours or movie nights!
Hearst Castle History
Hearst Castle, also known as La Cuesta Encantada (The Enchanted Hill), is a National Historic Landmark located in San Simeon, California. It was built by newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearst between 1919 and 1947 and served as his primary residence until his death in 1951. The castle is now operated by the state of California as a tourist destination and museum, showcasing its magnificent architecture which combines Spanish Colonial Revival style with influences from other cultures such as Mediterranean Revival, Gothic Revival, Moorish Revival, and Byzantine styles.
Hearst Castle – Which Tour to Choose
Hearst Castle offers a variety of tours that provide visitors with different perspectives and experiences. The Grand Rooms Tour is the most popular, allowing guests to explore the lavish interiors of Hearst’s former residence. For those looking for an in-depth history lesson, the Upstairs Suites Tour provides an exclusive look at some of Mr. Hearst’s private rooms and personal artifacts.
For more adventurous tourists, there are special nighttime tours featuring dramatic lighting effects throughout the estate’s gardens and pools. No matter which tour you choose, a visit to Hearst Castle will leave you with lasting memories.

Credit: www.reservecalifornia.com
Why is Hearst Castle Temporarily Closed?
Hearst Castle, the former estate of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, is a landmark in California’s Central Coast region. However, due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and its associated safety measures, it is currently closed. With more than 90 years of history behind it and hundreds of artifacts spread throughout multiple buildings on a sprawling grounds, Hearst Castle has been an attraction for sightseers from around the world.
It was one of California’s most popular tourist destinations pre-pandemic but now visitors wishing to visit must wait until conditions improve enough for reopening. The closure isn’t just about protecting public health – it also allows needed time for staff members to put into place procedures that will ensure their guests remain safe during their visit when Hearst Castle does eventually reopen. Tourists can look forward to the same grandeur they’ve come to expect from this iconic castle once again soon; in the meantime though they must content themselves with picturesque views from outside its walls while waiting patiently for better times ahead.
Will Hearst Castle Reopen Soon?
The fate of Hearst Castle, the iconic California landmark owned by media mogul William Randolph Hearst, remains shrouded in mystery. Due to Covid-19 safety protocols and restrictions, the historic castle has been closed for over a year. However, there is hope that it will reopen soon!
Recently, San Simeon State Park officials have expressed optimism that they’ll be able to resume tours of the castle sometime this summer. They are currently developing plans to ensure that visitors can explore the sprawling estate safely while still having an unforgettable experience. In addition to strict social distancing requirements and enhanced sanitization measures at each tour site, new audio guides may also be available as part of their health and safety initiatives.
As such exciting developments unfold in anticipation of reopening day, we eagerly await news from state parks on when we can once again take in all of Hearst Castle’s beauty firsthand!
Is Hearst Castle Permanently Closed?
No, Hearst Castle is not permanently closed. The castle grounds and gardens are open to the public for self-guided tours and tickets must be purchased in advance. During this time of increased health concerns due to COVID-19, there have been some changes made to ensure that visitors can enjoy the grounds safely.
Tours are limited in size and guests must wear face masks at all times while on the premises. Guests should also practice social distancing at all times as well as keeping a distance of 6 feet from other groups or individuals who are not part of their own group. Additionally, certain areas within the estate such as indoor spaces will remain closed until further notice.
Despite these temporary measures, it is still possible for visitors to experience a unique glimpse into California’s past by taking one of these guided or self-guided tours around Hearst Castle’s spectacular grounds and gardens.
How Long Does a Tour of Hearst Castle Take?
A tour of Hearst Castle typically takes between 2.5 and 3 hours, depending on the size of your group and the type of tour you book. This includes time for lunch or a snack break in the Visitors Center before starting your amazing journey through this magnificent estate. During your tour, you will be taken to various points around the castle grounds, including Neptune Pool, Casa del Mar Guest House, Roman Pool, Refectory Room with its 16th-century tapestries and more.
You will also get an opportunity to learn about William Randolph Hearst’s life story as well as his art collection which is displayed throughout the property. After spending some time exploring each area inside and outside of the main house itself, you’ll have plenty of photo opportunities while taking in panoramic views from different points along this stunning California Coastline estate!
Conclusion
Hearst Castle is a fascinating and historical place to visit, with its many beautiful rooms, gardens and pools. With guided tours available daily, visitors can experience the grandeur of Hearst Castle firsthand. The variety of options ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy at this incredible destination.
Whether you come for the history or just to relax in its magnificence, Hearst Castle offers an unforgettable experience that will stay with you forever!