Maine might be well-known for seafood and shorelines, but the Pine Tree State has tons of history, too—including some really magnificent castles and historic mansions you have to see to believe.

Sure, you might not immediately think of castles when you think of Maine, but you can find amazing examples of impressive architecture tucked away all over the state. Whether you’re looking for a venue for a wedding, searching for castles you can stay in, or planning an epic family road trip, there’s a castle in Maine for you.

Not sure where to start? No worries!

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Norumbega Inn

Address: 63 High St., Camden, Maine, 04843

Built in: 1886

What is the story of Norumbega Inn?

In the mid-to-late-1800s, Maine resident Joseph Stearns was a successful inventor and businessman. After selling his duplex telegraph to Western Union, Stearns traveled Europe helping support his invention. On his travels, he had the opportunity to visit many historic castles.

When Stearns returned home, he decided to replicate the amazing architecture he saw on his journeys. The result was the stunning “stone castle by the sea” known today as the Norumbega Inn.

The castle, which was completed in 1886, stands proudly on the Maine coastline above Penobscot Bay. It remained a private residence until 1984, when it was converted to a bed and breakfast.

How to visit Norumbega Inn

Always dreamed of staying in a castle? The

Norumbega

currently operates as a bed and breakfast and elegant venue, so if you really want the full experience, you can book accommodations! They have 11 unique rooms, including two suites, all with incredible views and charming style.

And be sure to come hungry—breakfast is prepared by Chef and Owner Phil Crispo, who’s well known in the culinary world for his artistic take on dishes.

To book a room, call 207-236-4646 or browse the

list of rooms

on Norumbega's website. If you’re interested in hosting an event at the Norumbega, send an email to events@norumbegainn.com.

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Oaklands Castle (Gardiner Castle)

Address: Oaklands Farm Rd, Gardiner, Maine, 04345

Built in: 1835-1837

What is the story of Oaklands Castle?

Oaklands Castle—also known as Gardiner Castle—is a Gothic revival mansion. It was originally envisioned by Dr. Sylvester Gardiner, the founder of the town of Gardiner. However, it wasn’t actually built until years later, when the property was obtained by Gardiner’s grandson, Robert Hallowell Gardiner.

The younger Gardiner was a savvy businessman—after graduating from Harvard, he founded a few businesses. After securing the rights to his grandfather’s property, he built an estate for his wife, Emma Jane Tudor. Unfortunately, their first home burned down in 1834.

Gardiner wasn’t one to let a setback stop him, though—he hired architect Richard Upjohn to design this stunning granite English-style manor, complete with intricate stonework, turrets, and a rectangular roof. And his legacy has continued, as Oaklands Castle still remains in the Gardiner family to this day.

How to visit Oaklands Castle

Because Oaklands Castle is a private home, it isn’t open to visitors. However, you can see the exterior of the castle from the west bank of the Kennebec River.

West Paris Public Library (Mann Castle)

Address: 226 Main St., West Paris, Maine, 04289

Built in: 1926

What is the story of the West Paris Public Library?

It’s designed to look like a miniature castle, but the West Paris Public Library—also known as the Arthur L. Mann Memorial Library—was always intended to be a public library. Lewis M. Mann and his son Arthur L. Mann donated the land and the cost of constructing the library when the original town library outgrew its home in a local shop.

The castle-like styling of the library was designed by the architectural firm Gibbs & Pulsifer from nearby Lewiston, Maine. They used broken fieldstone gathered from West Paris to create a truly regal exterior. The castle opened its doors in 1926, and it’s been in continuous operation ever since. An expansion was added in 2010, staying true to the castle styling.

How to visit West Paris Public Library

West Paris Public Library

is still open to the public, so all you have to do is stop by during operating hours! In addition to their regular library services (including books, movies, computer access, and Wi-Fi), the library also has a calendar full of special events, like author readings, storytimes, and even outdoor concerts.

If you stop by the library, make sure to pay close attention to the main entrance—it’s the original oak door, featuring hand-crafted iron hinges!

Library hours:

Monday: 1:30 PM–6:00 PM

Wednesday: 1:30 PM–7:00 PM

Friday: 1:30 PM–6:00 PM

Saturday: 10:00 AM–2:00 PM

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Beckett’s Castle

Address: 7 Singles Road, Cape Elizabeth, Maine, 04107

Built in: 1850

What is the story of Beckett’s Castle?

Beckett’s Castle looks like something out of a fairy tale, so it’s probably no surprise that it was built by a writer. Portland native Sylvester Beckett was both a literary figure and lawyer, and he built the fieldstone home almost entirely with his own two hands—or so the story goes.

Beckett’s Castle is modeled after Gothic architecture and the entrance features a stunning 30-foot tower. Beckett was well-known in society, and he drew on his connections to throw lavish, exclusive parties while he lived in the home, where he remained until his death in 1882. Although it fell into disrepair in the late 1970s, Beckett’s Castle has since been restored and updated.

How to visit Beckett’s Castle

Beckett’s Castle is currently used as a private summer home, and, unfortunately, is not open to visitors.

Pro Tip Beckett’s Castle has a reputation for being haunted, so you may at least want to drive by the entrance if you’re on a haunted road trip in Maine!

Castle Tucker

Address: 2 Lee St., Wiscasset, Maine, 04578

Built in: 1807

What is the story of Castle Tucker?

Castle Tucker is the oldest castle in Maine. Originally named Elm Lawn, it was built in 1807 by Judge and US Congressman Silas Lee. After Lee’s death in 1814, the property changed hands several times, until it was eventually purchased by Richard H. Tucker Jr. in 1858.

The Tucker family made a number of changes to Elm Lawn, including adding a new entryway, three-story piazza, and additional land. They remained in the home, which was now known as Castle Tucker, off and on until 1889.

How to visit Castle Tucker

Today, this elegant home still stands overlooking the Sheepscot River. It’s home to a museum showcasing the Tucker family and how Castle Tucker would have appeared in Victorian times. The museum is open Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from June through mid-October, and tours are given every 30 minutes between 11 AM and 3 PM.

Tickets for admission are $15 for adults, $13 for seniors, and $7 for students.

Pro Tip Park in the circle drive in front of the house if you don’t want to walk. Otherwise, you can park on Lee Street or on the east side of High Street.

How to get the best car insurance in Maine

If you’re planning a Maine road trip to see some of these amazing castles, make sure you’re covered with the right car insurance.

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