This article has been retired and no longer being updated. For fresh travel inspiration, explore our homepage.
ExperiencesSights & Landmarks

Entering This Castle Near New Orleans Will Make You Feel Like You’re in a Fairy Tale

Discover the fairy tale-like Irish Bayou Castle near New Orleans, a unique landmark visible from I-10 East.

Published Sep 9, 2016

Written by 

Kezia Kamenetz

If you've ever driven down I-10 East towards Slidell from New Orleans, then you have probably spotted this unique landmark: the Irish Bayou Castle. If you haven't made a stop yet--go ahead and try it! We know you are going to feel like you are in a fairy tale.

Simon Villemarette built this castle in anticipation for the New Orleans World's Fair in 1981.

alt
Facebook.com / Irish Bayou Castle

This was truly a labor of love, and it has now been lovingly restored.

The castle is privately owned, but you are allowed to take pictures from the outside.

alt
Facebook.com / Irish Bayou Castle

When you take a look from the interstate, you can feel like you are in a fairy tale!

So if you're looking for a little taste of magic...

alt
Facebook.com / Irish Bayou Castle

Don't forget to drive by this iconic New Orleans castle!

Doesn't the Irish Bayou Castle look amazing? Have you been to this hidden castle near New Orleans? Let us know what your experiences were!

Subscribe to our newsletter

Get the latest updates and news

All Stories

Experiences

The Hidden Attraction in Texas That People Still Seek Out to This Day

Head underground to this hidden attraction in Texas to discover local legends about bootleggers and ghostly sightings. It's worth the trip!

by Melanie Johnson
on Jun 5
Views of the rock formations inside Cave Without a Name, a hidden attraction in Texas.
Trips & Routes

Endless Outdoor Adventures Await in These 5 Small Towns in Illinois

From zip-lining to trekking with goats, these are five of the most outdoorsy towns in Illinois you need to add to your bucket list.

by Cait Kontalis
on Jun 5
A canyon in Starved Rock State Park in Illinois
Stays

This Campground Near Cuyahoga Valley National Park Is Perfect for an Ohio Escape

This secluded campground near Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of Ohio’s best kept secrets. Here’s what to expect and how to visit.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jun 5
White tents on platforms arranged in a semi-circle with green trees in the background and a picnic table visible.
Nature
National & State Parks

Visit the Hidden Gem Small Town Right Next Door to Hungry Mother State Park

With a walkable main street, beautiful architecture, and plenty of Appalachian charm, Marion is the perfect home base for all your state park adventures.

by Beth Copenhaver
on Jun 5
Historic brick bank building in downtown Marion, Virginia, on a street corner with mountains in the distance.
Stays
Camping

This Secluded Campground Near Pictured Rocks Is One of Michigan’s Best Kept Secrets

This secluded campground near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is one of Michigan's best kept secrets. Here’s what to expect and how to visit.

by Trent Jonas
on Jun 5
Point-of-view shot from a red kayak gliding over smooth blue water toward a pine forest at Au Train Lake, Michigan.