You won't believe these 4 European-style castles are REALLY in Missouri!
Here’s your Friday getaway:
missouri castles
Drive time from Nashville: varies
This trip is perfect for travelers:
who LIVE FOR historical tours of old buildings.
Where should YOU go this weekend?
Who would have imagined that there were so many castles in Missouri for you to visit, right? The following four castles vary in distance from Nashville. If you love traveling to discover historical sites, you’ll want to add all of these to your weekend bucketlist.
Ha Ha Tonka Castle
Pythian Castle
Bothwell Lodge
Chateau Charmant
1. Ha Ha Tonka Castle ruins
Located in Camdenton, Missouri, the ruins of this elegant European castle stand proud for visitors. Erected in the early 1900’s at the request of wealthy businessman, Robert Synder, Ha Ha Tonka, which means “laughing waters’, was built by stone masons from Europe. Castle ownership has changed many times. After the Synder family, it became a hotel and lodge until the 1940’s when it was destroyed by a fire. Then, in the 1970’s, the state took ownership and has been maintaining the grounds ever since.
Photo Credit: Atlas Obscura
How far is Ha Ha Tonka from Nashville?
Nashville, TN, is a little over 7 hours away from Ha Ha Tonka State Park. Think about adding a stop in St. Louis to make it a full getaway!
Can I tour the castle ruins?
Yes. Ha Ha Tonka State Park hours are listed here. When visiting the castle ruins, be sure to check out the park’s series of trails, natural bridge, caves and lake.
Is Ha Ha Tonka pet-friendly?
Yes. Leased pets are allowed.
2. Pythian Castle
Another castle to visit in Missouri is Pythian Castle. Known for its haunting ghost tours, this castle is open to the public for various events. Murder-mystery dinner theatre, escape rooms, and seasonal historic tours lure visitors annually.
Listed on the US Register of Historic Places, Pythian Castle has a torrid history which explains why many paranormal investigations have been conducted on-site. Once a military hospital in World War II and also said to house POW’s for a time, this historical site is one to explore.
Photo credit: Pythian Castle
How far is Pythian Castle from Nashville?
The castle is about 7 hours away from Nashville. A mere 45 minutes more, and you can add a stop in Branson, MO. (wink, wink)
Do I need to book in advance to visit Pythian Castle?
Yes. You can only visit the castle if you have signed up for an event or tour ahead of time.
What attractions are near Pythian Castle?
Attractions near Pythian Castle:
(3.13 mi) Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium
(0.93 mi) Springfield Cardinals
(3.31 mi) NRA National Sporting Arms Museum
(1.40 mi) Discovery Center of Springfield
(1.93 mi) Mother's Brewing Company
Pin this to check out later:
#RoadTripUSA, #BestWeekendRoadTrips: Tour these 4 Missouri Castles near Nashville, TN
3. Bothwell Lodge
An old 12,000 square foot castle built into the side of the a bluff, above vast caves? Yup. That pretty much sums up Bothwell Lodge in Sedalia, Missouri. Now owned by the state, this castle, built in the early 1900’s, has miles of hiking and biking trails on-site which can be toured by visitors.
Photo credit: Gary Wright
How far is Bothwell Lodge from Nashville, TN?
About 7 hours away, you can even make a pitstop in St. Louis on your way!
4. Chateau Charmant
Modeled after a 14th century French castle, this is a private home built by a California couple in 2003. Just because it’s newer, doesn’t mean it lacks in old-world style. Chateau Charmant offers tours by appointment and events throughout the year, like Princess Tea and a Great Gatsby soiree.
Photo credit: Charming Castle
How far is Chateau Charmant from Nashville, TN?
Chateau Charmant is about 6.5 hours away from Nashville.
What type of events does Chateau Charmant host?
Take a look at this amazing list!
Want to spend the night in a castle? Here are 4 MORE castles where you can book a romantic, OVERNIGHT getaway?
Take me to my romantic fairytale here!
Pin this trip for later!
#RoadTripUSA, #BestWeekendRoadTrips: Ha Ha Tonka State Park in Missouri is just one castle from which to choose!
Read more: Want other trips from Nashville?
Those with a SERIOUS case of weekend wanderlust should check us out on Facebook.
Share insider tips and recommendations with other travelers DAILY in our Weekenders Group! You’ll always know where to go and what to do on the weekends!
