See One Of The Castles In New York That Looks Like Hogwarts

If you’re a fan of the Harry Potter series of books by J.K. Rowling, we think you’ll love checking out Boldt Castle in New York’s Thousand Islands Region near Alexandria Bay. Like many castles in New York, this one was built long ago, However, this unique destination was built for love, even though the woman it was built for died before it was completed.

Today, this castle in New York is a big draw for tourists who come from near and far. In recent years, it’s been especially attractive for people who are looking for something that looks like you’re in a Harry Potter experience in New York. This castle-on-an-island has many similarities to the castle and school in the Harry Potter books – all coincidental. Although Boldt Castle was built long before J.K. Rowling was born, we suggest reading on to learn about this castle in New York if you’re a Harry Potter fan.

Boldt Castle and its related structures take up all of Heart Island, a five-acre island in the middle of the St. Lawrence River.

Back at the beginning of the 1900s, it took 300 workers to build this six-story, 120-room mansion. The property included the main house, tunnels, Italian gardens, a powerhouse, a drawbridge, a tower that was to be a children's playhouse, a structure to house a collection of birds, and more.

The interior of the main building was designed to include a glass dome, marble floors, a grand staircase, servants' quarters, a grand ballroom, and dozens upon dozens of other rooms and amenities. We think its intricate architecture and design make it one of the most impressive castles in New York.

Unfortunately, work on this castle stopped abruptly in 1904. The woman for whom it was being built died suddenly in her early 40s. Her husband never returned to the property. It then sat vacant for 70 years until the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority bought it in 1977 for $1. Renovations began soon after that.

The doomed couple was George and Louise Boldt. George Boldt was the general manager of the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York City and of the Bellvue-Stratford Hotel in Philadelphia. Boldt Castle was a passion project for his wife who helped support him in the hotel industry. They were a team; when she died suddenly, he was lost. He died 12 years later.

Fortunately, it was possible to restore Boldt Castle for public enjoyment. The Thousand Islands Bridge Authority has spent $15 million on it over the past few decades. It's open to the public for a fee. Not only was it possible to restore this castle in New York to the point where construction had left off in 1904, but renovations have now surpassed that point. As the years go by, it gets closer and closer to the beautiful site George and Louise Boldt imagined it would someday be before Louise's untimely passing.

It certainly looks a bit like Hogwarts. There would be more than enough room for all the students, teachers, classes, and events inside. It even has a tower and can easily be from a scene of Harry Potter in New York.

There is also a fancy gate entryway that visitors must pass through. And, Boldt Castle is on the water, like Hogwarts is (even though Hogwarts isn't on an island - it's on a lake).

The rooms in Boldt Castle that have been renovated so far are set up to look like they might have in the early 1900s. But you could also see rooms in one of the most special castles in New York being used as dorm rooms at Hogwarts.

This is the main foyer; this photo was taken from the grand staircase. If this was Hogwarts, you can imagine watching the Hufflepuffs, Slytherins, Ravenclaws, and Gryffindor students passing through on their way to classes.

Boldt Castle is a beautiful place deserving of being called one of the best castles in New York. If they ever remake the films, this New York backdrop would be an ideal set for filming Harry Potter and Hogwarts!

Boldt Castle is a memorable place to visit. Since this castle in New York is only open during the summer months, we recommend checking its schedule before planning your outing. When you go, be prepared to be impressed!

We also recommend spending some time in The Thousand Island region when you go to spend time at this stunning New York Castle. To get started, feel free to check out Vrbo to find the perfect vacation rental for you and your family.

If you’re Harry Potter-obsessed, you can also travel to the southern part of the state for a Harry Potter New York experience. Learn more in our coverage highlighting Harry Potter in New York.

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Marla S. | September 25, 2023

What are some of the most popular castles in New York?

In addition to Boldt Castle, here are some of the most popular castles in New York:

Singer Castle: This castle was built in 1905 and is situated on Dark Island, along the St. Lawrence River.
Greystone Castle: You'll find this charming castle that's been placed on the National Register of Historic Places in Canastota.
Belhurst Castle: In addition to being on the National Register of Historic Places, this impressive castle was originally a private residence that's presently open to the public for viewing.

What are some famous castles near or in NYC?

Following is an overview of some famous castles in NYC and nearby that I think you'll enjoy visiting:

Belvedere Castle: This historic castle was built in 1869 and serves as one of the visitor centers in New York City's Central Park.
Bannerman Castle: Although in Dutchess County, it'll only take an hour if you're coming from New York City to see this majestic castle that sits along the Hudson River.
Lyndhurst Castle: For a day trip from New York City, head to this gothic-style castle that's open to guided tours.

If you're looking for more majestic places to visit, take a look at these castles in New York as well.

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Boldt Castle & Boldt Yacht House, 1 Heart Island, Alexandria Bay, NY 13607, USA

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