Hearst Castle
San Simeon, CA 93452
Phone: (800) 444-4445
- Hours:
- Vary according to season, Call for specific times
Editorial Review for Hearst Castle – by Susan Blue
The Background
One of the country's wealthiest entrepreneurs in his time, William Randolph Hearst started building on his family's 250,000-acre estate when he was in his late 50s. He never quite finished, but along with famed California architect Julia Morgan, he created an awe-inspiring castle and filled it with art and antiquities collected on his worldwide travels. The estate features the main house, three guest houses (mansions themselves), stunning gardens and two magnificent swimming pools.
The Experience
Guests can take one of five tours through the grounds and buildings. Wandering around, it's easy to imagine the extravagant weekend parties that Hearst and his mistress Marion Davies threw for Hollywood's elite. Highlights of the property include the medieval French fireplaces, the Italian Renaissance choir stalls, the outdoor pool's Greek facade that frames the panoramic view, and the all-American indoor swimming pool covered with gold. The Experience Tour, designed for first-time visitors, includes the film "Hearst Castle, Building the Dream."
Editorial content is independent of paid advertisers. Any expenses are paid for by Citysearch.
Insider Tips
Know Before You GoIf you want to remember your Hearst Castle tour forever, stop by the gift shop and purchase a collection of books and tapes about the infamous mansion.
The ExtrasThose who have difficulty with stairs should consider taking the Accessibly Designed Tour.
User Reviews for Hearst Castle
01/03/2004 Posted by MaxZook
Maybe some are put off by the history of the Hearst empire, the negative implications of Citizen Kane. You may be in for a surprise. If you are put off by fear of tackiness, disregard the official advice and take Tour Two before Tour One. T1 emphasizes the more public areas and the occasional garishness; T2 shows private bedrooms, including Hearst and Davies' surprisingly modest bedrooms and the breathtaking Celestial Suite. T3 is somewhat of a disappointment. By all means take the Evening Tour, esp. when the Christmas decorations are up. Even if the threatened rate hikes are instituted, this is still a tremendous bargain.
Pros: Beautiful art & views, Well managed, Great bargain
Cons: Occasionally tacky, Not enough tours, Tour 3 not worth it
07/30/2003 Posted by tomtom37
Aside from Scottland, I feel that the hearst estate is the single most magestic & magnificant place I've ever seen. You have to see the inside of all the structures to truly appreciate this architectual masterpiece.
Pros: Design, Beauty, # of facilities
Cons: It was never finished
Users Like You Also Viewed
Mary's Bakery
8817 Compton Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90002
Martine Inn
255 Ocean View Blvd
Pacific Grove, CA 93950
