Utah is rich in history, culture, and grand architecture.
You can find many distinct homes, mansions, inns, government buildings, palaces, castles, and more sprinkled across the state.
With so much to choose from, deciding where to go and which structures to see can be a challenge, but this guide shares 10 of the most beautiful options to consider visiting.
10 Most Beautiful Castles in Utah
From private homes to wedding venues and public buildings, Utah has more than its fair share of marvelous structures to enjoy.
The following list is just 10 to help you get started planning your trip.
1. Utah Governor’s Mansion
The Governor’s Mansion was first commissioned as a home for Thomas Kearns and his family in the early 1900s.
At the time, it was known as the Thomas Kearns Mansion.
Kearns made a fortune in the silver mining industry and he and his wife chose to have the most beautiful home built for their family.
It was designed after a French castle, with turrets, limestone walls, window carvings, a carriage house, and more.
Kearns’ wife donated the home after Mr. Kearns died, and it is now the home of Utah’s governor.
You can see it in person during one of the monthly tours.
2. Radha Krishna Temple
Though the correct term for this magnificent structure is a temple, castle, and palace work, too.
If you are a Disney fan, the Radha Krishna Temple will likely feel reminiscent of Aladdin.
It is, in fact, a Hindu place of worship, but there are many opportunities to visit it – regardless of your faith.
You can take one of their daily tours, enjoy their buffet, experience their Sunday Love Feast, or take part in one of many events, such as the Holi-Festival of Colors.
Any of these visits will not only give you an incredible glimpse into the culture but also astounding architecture.
3. Salt Lake Latter-day Saints Temple
Salt Lake City is home to a 253,015 sq ft temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
It’s also referred to as the Salt Lake LDS Temple.
This multi-story stone structure took four decades to build, finally being dedicated in 1893.
It was fashioned after Romanesque and Gothic castle stylings, with a sandstone foundation, quartz monzonite walls, beautiful stained glass, intricate carvings, and other beautiful features.
Over the years, it has been damaged by local bombings, a tornado, and an earthquake, but the massive masterpiece is still standing.
The temple is not open for public tours, and it’s currently going through renovations.
However, you can marvel at the beauty from the outside.
4. Castle on Jupiter Drive
Try as we might, we can’t find a name for this beauty, but it’s located on Jupiter Drive in Salt Lake City.
This gorgeous stone and stucco structure is a mix of modern and fairy tale classic styles.
The arched doorways and windows, towers, stone fireplace, cave-style wine cellar, indoor and outdoor balconies, and many architectural features all give it an antique feel.
However, the indoor pool and spa, game room with wet bar, home theater room, and gourmet kitchen portray modern times.
It’s on the market, so you can see it up close if you reach out to the real estate agent.
5. Loeffler Mansion
The Loeffler Mansion is another modern-day castle built into a mountainside by entertainment mogul David Loeffler.
Inspired by European architecture, Loeffler got to work bringing his vision to life.
The home is 22,000 sq. ft., made of stone, marble, and some beautiful wood flooring, as well as nine bedrooms and bathrooms, a formal entrance, formal dining rooms, formal living rooms, and several kitchens.
And what type of lavish home would it be without a formal ballroom – complete with fireplace – as well as some extra fun zones, like a scrapbook room and a home theater?
Like the castle on Jupiter Drive, the Loeffler Mansion castle is currently on the market.
6. Castle Creek Inn
While you’re visiting castles in Utah, consider staying at the Castle Creek Inn.
What once sat as a partially-built castle was turned into a charming bed and breakfast.
You can stay in one of the many themed rooms, including the King’s Lodge, Romeo & Juliet Suite, Versailles Suite, and Rapunzel’s Tower.
Enjoy the patio and view, gardens, peaceful waterfall, and breakfast fit for a royal.
It’s also available for weddings and other events.
As a bonus, it’s located right outside of Salt Lake City, meaning you will be close to many incredible things to do and see – including the Salt Lake LDS Temple mentioned above.
7. Salt Lake City and County Building
Simply referred to as The City and County Building, this historic building has been standing in all its glory since 1894.
It was originally built out of defiance against the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and is a bit of a replica of their Utah Temple.
Regardless of its purpose, it is quite a sight to see – from the stone construction and 256-foot clock tower to the deep-set windows and intricate statues.
Its beauty isn’t the only thing of note, though.
It is the location of nearly every government decision in the area, as well as a gathering place for the community and a wedding venue.
You can have a guided tour of The City and County Building or enjoy a self-guided tour during regular business hours.
8. Wadley Farms
An English horticulturist named Joseph Wadley moved to the United States and Utah in the 1860s.
In 1869, he was granted 32 acres of land, which was covered with rock and sagebrush.
For over a decade, Wadley worked to clear the land, build a beautiful home, develop an irrigation system, and plant trees to complete his vision.
After his death, the property was sold several times to Wadley’s children and grandchildren, one of whom restored the home and added on rooms.
Later, it was redesigned to take on a Tuscan theme, which can be seen today during weddings and other events.
9. Castle Park
Grandparents can be the absolute greatest – especially when they build castles for their granddaughters.
That’s how Castle Park got its start.
One couple decided to build an estate that was intended for their large family to gather.
And since most of the kids were little girls, they chose a Disney-inspired castle as the design, complete with two ballrooms.
Eventually, it was open to the public for events, including a Princess Festival.
The family sold the building in the early 2000s, which opened the door for brides to become princesses for their wedding day.
10. Art Castle
This charming Victorian Gothic-style castle was once a church for the Latter-day Saints but was sold in the 1960s.
Since then, the building has been the location of many awesome things, including being used by a Warner Brothers business called LA East Studios.
During that time, music for movies like Toy Story, Lion King, Wonder Woman, and Jurassic Park have been recorded there.
Even Dolly Parton, B.B. King, and Elton John laid down some tunes there when it was a recording facility.
In 2021, the Utah Arts Alliance chose to purchase the building and renamed it Art Castle.
The goal is to provide artists of all categories a place to flex their artistic muscles through performances, concerts, and much more.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any other architectural wonders to see in Utah?
In short, yes, because Utah is full of beauty – both natural and man-made.
Some specific locations to check out include, The Chateaux Deer Valley, Draper Castle, Provo City Center Temple, Union Station, St. George Temple, Salt Lake Assembly Hall, Cathedral of the Madeleine, Utah State Capitol, Joseph Smith Memorial Building, and Salt Lake City’s Main Library.
Are there any kid-friendly activities in the vicinity?
There are plenty of things for your kids to enjoy while on your castle discovery journey.
While you have options all over Utah, Salt Lake City is packed with options, like the Discovery Gateway Children’s Museum, Loveland Living Planet Aquarium, Natural History Museum of Utah, Airborne Trampoline Arena, Lagoon Amusement Park, Kangaroo Zoo, Treehouse Children’s Museum, and more.
And since Castle Creek Inn is close by, you can just book your stay there for convenience.
Is it better to tour these places during the day or at nighttime?
It depends on where you want to visit, truthfully.
Some are only open during regular business hours and others by appointment only.
It’s typically safest to head out during the day, as you have a much better chance of getting in the door.
However, there are some locations, like the Salt Lake LDS Temple and the Radha Krishna Temple, that are absolutely astounding when lit up at night time.
Keep in mind, though, that not all locations have had the same hours or capacity since the pandemic hit.
Therefore, before you plan your trip, check the hours and availability for each to make sure you have the most up-to-date information.
When’s the best time to take a trip to Utah?
This can be really difficult to answer. As far as the weather is concerned, April through June and August through October are the best.
However, seeing Salt Lake City around the Christmas season is something everyone should experience at least once.
And since there are some great places to ski, including The Chateaux Deer Valley, wintertime can be a great time to go.
Utah is truly a hidden gem when it comes to beautiful castles. From the grand Governor’s Mansion to the enchanting Art Castle, each structure offers a unique glimpse into history and architecture. With this helpful guide, you’ll have no trouble planning a trip to see the top 10 most beautiful castles in Utah.