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At some point, almost every little girl dreams of being a princess in a grand castle, twirling through stone halls in a glittering gown. And nearly every little boy imagines himself as a brave knight, sword in hand, galloping into battle on horseback. Historically, castles were built to house royalty and stand firm during times of siege. Arkansas isn’t hiding any ancient castles, but we do have a handful of enchanting homes, quirky landmarks, and dreamy getaways that capture the spirit of a castle. Whether you’re chasing childhood wonder or looking for a royal place to rest your head, these Arkansas spots will spark your imagination and transport you to a storybook world.
Museum/Tours
Quigley’s Castle – Eureka Springs
Built in 1943 by Elise Quigley, this quirky handmade home is filled with indoor gardens, rock mosaics and antiques. Open for seasonal tours, it’s a one-of-a-kind stop often called “The Ozarks’ Strangest Dwelling.”
Castle Rogue’s Manor – Beaver
Perched above the White River, this elaborate castle estate features turrets, towers and dragon sculptures. Open for private tours and events by reservation, it feels like stepping into a fantasy novel.
Event Venues
The Castle on Stagecoach – Little Rock
Built in the 1930s with Tudor-Gothic style, this elegant stone castle is now a venue for weddings and special events. Inside and out, it offers a romantic, storybook setting.
Lacey Michele’s Castle – Omaha
This heartfelt stone castle was built by a father in memory of his daughter and now serves as a venue for weddings and special occasions. With thick stone walls and tall turrets, it’s a hidden gem in the Ozarks.
Themed/Novelty Lodging
Stonehaven Castle – Eureka Springs
Tucked away on 50 private acres, this unique Airbnb offers the feel of a Medieval castle without giving up the comforts of home. It’s a great spot for weddings, group trips or just checking “sleep in a castle” off your bucket list.
Hillside Castle – Mena
This cozy one-bedroom castle rental is small but mighty, offering a whimsical stay complete with turrets and rustic stonework. It’s a fun and affordable escape for couples or solo adventurers.
© 2015 Stephen Ironside/Ironside Photography
Eureka Springs Treehouses
At Eureka Springs Treehouses, the elevated castle-themed cabin features turrets, Jacuzzi towers and forest views. They’re part of a fantasy lodging resort perfect for a romantic or imaginative getaway. Eureka Springs Treehouses is an adults-only resort.
Playgrounds
Castle at Wilson Park – Fayetteville
This public art installation doubles as a whimsical play structure with turrets, mosaics, and a stream running through it. It’s free to explore and is loved by kids and creatives alike.
Private Homes
Dromborg Castle – Fayetteville
A massive stone mansion inspired by Scottish castles, Dromborg is a private residence not open to the public. With its towers and observation deck, it’s one of the most impressive homes in the state.
By Valis55 – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0
Cherry-Luter Estate “The Castle” – North Little Rock
This 1920s French Renaissance-style mansion features a stone tower and formal gardens. Privately owned, it’s admired from afar for its old-world charm.
Restaurants and Shops
Leo’s Greek Castle – Little Rock
A local favorite since the 1920s, this diner serves burgers and gyros inside a tiny building with castle-like architecture. It’s quirky, affordable and full of charm.
The Castle Antiques – Ashdown
This antique store features a crenelated roofline and castle-inspired design. Inside, you’ll find everything from vintage linens to costume jewelry.
For Sale
Franklin County Jail “Castle” – Ozark
Built in 1914 with thick stone walls and battlements, this old jail looks more like a fortress. The building is on the National Historic Register and has been remodeled into a 2500 square foot, three-bedroom, two-bathroom home. It is currently for sale.
Abandoned/Closed
Ozark Medieval Fortress – Lead Hill
Once a working museum/construction site for a 13th-century-style castle, this project was halted in 2012. The unfinished stone walls still stand, a haunting and hopeful glimpse of what might have been. The castle remains are located on private property and are not visible from the road.
The Castle Events Center – Greenbrier
This 12000 square foot event center was built in under two months in 2017. The center hosted weddings, parties and more until it was sold in 2024. The building is still visible from the road but is under new ownership and no longer open to the public.
Arkansas may not have medieval royalty, but it’s full of castle-inspired places worth exploring. So, grab your crown (or your sword) and go explore!
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There’s a castle-like house in Searcy! 1002 Golf Course Dr. Everyone knows which house anyone is talking about when they mention a castle in River Oaks.