Hearst Castle, San Simeon, CA

”…Miss Morgan, we are tired of camping out in tents at the ranch in San Simeon, I would like to build a little something…”

This statement from William Randolph Hearst to renowned architect, Julia Morgan, is what started it all in 1919. By 1947, Mr. Hearst had created an estate boasting 165 rooms and 127 acres of gardens, terraces, pools, and walkways.

This legendary California manor sits at 1,600 feet above sea level; often just resting on the coastal fog. Hearst Castle® presents guests with a choice of five different guided tours, including daytime and evening opportunities.

HOLIDAYS AT HEARST CASTLE

Hearst Castle is open year round with the exception of three dates: Thanksgiving Day (November 27, 2008), Christmas Day (December 25, 2008) and New Year's Day (January 1, 2009.) Although there are no specific holiday tours scheduled, the historic estate is decorated for the Christmas Holidays as it was during the time of William Randolph Hearst. The estate will be decorated during the entire month of December. Come experience Christmas at the Castle as Mr. Hearst's guests enjoyed it. Reservations can be made online or by calling 1-800-444-4445.

The museum shop and gift shop offer a collection of books as well as home furnishings reflective of the time period. With reproductions of classic Castle art pieces, the museum shop encourages guests to take home a piece of the Hearst Castle® experience. In addition, the National Geographic Theater at the Visitor’s Center offers a five-story screen theater with regular showings of the film, Hearst Castle: Building the Dream. Experience all this and more at “The Gateway to Hearst Castle®”.

Hearst Castle Brochure
Almost all the information you need for your visit to Hearst Castle can be found in our brochure. You can download the brochure and even print it out as a reference for your visit.

		SLO State Parks Halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles along the central California coastline is a meeting of land and sea that is an integral part of the California State Parks system.				Friends of Hearst Castle Support Hearst Castle by becoming a member and receive invitations to special events. Lodging, Dining, and Wine Tasting referrals from our memberships.
		Hearst Castle Press A collaboration between California State Parks and Friends of Hearst Castle, publishes books that educate and inspire interest in the art and history of Hearst Castle.				Hearst the Collector Don't miss your chance to explore even more of Hearst's fascinating art colection at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art's Exhibition on view November 9,2008 - February 1, 2009.