From French-influenced châteaux to an old abandoned castle-fort sinking into the sea, Louisiana has some of the most interesting and mysterious castles in the country. One thing you can know for sure if you spot a castle in Louisiana: there’s going to be an interesting story behind it! Take a look at some of the coolest castles in Louisiana and learn a bit about Pelican State history while you visit and explore.

1. Old LA State Capitol Building in Baton Rouge, LA
Kend Lund/Flickr
Probably the most well-known building on this list, the "Castle on the River" was built in 1847. It served as state headquarters for 85 years, before it was abandoned for the new state capitol in 1932. Admission is free, and you can learn more about taking a tour on their website here.
2. Layton Castle in Monroe, LA
Layton Castle/Facebook
Originally built in 1814, Layton Castle is now home to apartments and serves as a venue for special events. The grounds are absolutely stunning! Visit their website, here, for more information.
3. Chateau de Bon Reve in Sulphur, LA
Jessica Jimenez/Flickr
The newest castle on the list, this sprawling Chateau was built by Dwaine Allen Ellender, who did a great deal of the construction himself. It's a stunning sight to drive by and see!

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4. Louisiana Castle in Franklinton, LA
Louisiana Castle
The brain-child of Dr. Marc Belcher, this castle was built as a replica of an English Norman Keep Castle and is now home to weddings year-round. Visit their website for more photos and information.
5. Le Petit Chateau de Luxe in Mermentau, LA
Jodie LeJeune/Flickr
Perhaps the most hidden castle on the list, this Southern Louisiana gem has three marble mantles dating back to the 16th century. It was recently named one of the must-see spots in Acadia Parish!
6. Fisherman's Castle on Irish Bayou
Infrogmation/Wikimedia
This tiny castle on the river is a favorite landmark for anyone heading across the lake on I-10. Simon Villemarette originally built it to attract visitors during the New Orleans World's Fair of 1984. It was recently sold to new owners who are working on repairing, restoring, and renovating this castle that's withstood the strongest of hurricanes, but it is currently closed to the public while work is completed.
7. Beauregard's Castle on Fort Proctor, LA
Shannon Dosemagen/Flickr
This fort was originally built to protect the Port of New Orleans from naval attack but never fulfilled its original purpose. You can catch a distant view of the castle and fort from Shell Beach, but to visit, you've got to get creative. Those seeking to see the fort up-close should approach by boat because it is currently surrounded by water from Lake Borgne.

As you can see, while castles are probably not the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Louisiana, the state has its fair share of towers, turrets, and stone walls. Consider making time to visit them next time you find yourself in one of these towns and check out the coolest castles in Louisiana! And if you want to read more about the iconic Louisiana castle, we’ve got the full story on this hidden gem.

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More to Explore

coolest castles in Louisiana

Kim Magaraci | February 07, 2021

What are the oldest landmarks in Louisiana?

One of the most iconic buildings in Louisiana is Jean Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop. It's the oldest building in the country that's being used as a bar, and it dates back to the early 1700s. St. Louis Cathedral, also in New Orleans, is noted for being the oldest Cathedral in North America. It dates back to 1718 and no trip to NOLA is complete without a tour of this stunning structure. There's a whole lot of history in New Orleans -- the Ursuline Convent, built in 1745, is actually the oldest surviving structure in the Mississippi River Valley. Here are 12 other must-visit historical landmarks in Louisiana.

Can I visit any abandoned places in Louisiana?

Our state is filled with so much history that it's easy to discover abandoned places hiding in plain sight. The Woodlands Conservancy is home to abandoned relics from World War II, and all it takes to see them is an easy hike through a stunning nature preserve.

Are there any haunted restaurants or bars in Louisiana?

The Diamond Grill Restaurant in Alexandria is one of the most haunted spots in the country! The building dates back to 1865, and a spirit named Stella moves through the dining room, re-arranging things as she pleases. Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop is also said to be haunted - it's one of the oldest buildings in the country!

 

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Featured Addresses
Louisiana's Old State Capitol, 100 North Blvd, Baton Rouge, LA 70801, USA
1133 S Grand St, Monroe, LA 71202, USA
1995 N Claiborne St, Sulphur, LA 70663, USA
Castle View Dr, 6, LA 70438, USA
Castle Cove, Morse, LA 70559, USA
3337 US-11, New Orleans, LA 70129, USA
Fort Proctor, Mouth of Bayou Yscloskey, Fort Proctor, St Bernard, LA 70085, USA