This Road Trip To Mississippi’s Most Majestic Castles Is Like Something From A Fairytale
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Daniella DiRienzo
Author
Surprisingly enough, Mississippi is home to several castles. That’s right; castles. The regal structures are scattered throughout the state, each with an interesting story to tell. So, we decided to create a road trip centered around some of the most impressive in the state including everything from event venues to private residences. They’re not all open to the public; however, are still just as impressive from the outside.
Ready to start your royal adventure? The entire trip will take just under 16 hours, making it perfect for a weekend getaway. You can easily customize the route by clicking on the link below the map.
We figured the best way to kick-off a castle-inspired road trip was with a breakfast fit for a king and queen, so it only made sense that the first stop be The Castle Restaurant and Pub in Natchez. Part of the Dunleith plantation, the building that houses the restaurant once served as the plantation’s carriage house and stables. When constructed in the 18th century, it was purposely built to resemble a castle. In 2015, the restaurant received some updates, but maintained its regal appearance. Stop by the restaurant for an authentic southern breakfast seven days a week, from 7:30 am – 10:00 am.
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Please note, Castle of Raymond has permanently closed.
Formerly known as McGee Castle, this Raymond landmark is the creation of William Dale McGee. The now sprawling castle started off as a modest A-frame house; however, as construction went on, McGee’s plans for the home continued to grow, resulting in a 20-year project. By the time all was said and done, the enormous castle included 18th century furnishings, an authentic replica of the Knights of the Round Table, and other unique architectural elements. At one time, the Castle of Raymond was a popular event venue; however, as of today, it is closed and up for sale.
Formerly known as McGee Castle, this Raymond landmark is the creation of William Dale McGee. The now sprawling castle started off as a modest A-frame house; however, as construction went on, McGee’s plans for the home continued to grow, resulting in a 20-year project. By the time all was said and done, the enormous castle included 18th century furnishings, an authentic replica of the Knights of the Round Table, and other unique architectural elements. At one time, the Castle of Raymond was a popular event venue; however, as of today, it is closed and up for sale.
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Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2010, Castle Crest is located in the Woodland Hills neighborhood of Jackson. The stately home was constructed in 1930 by J.Frazer Smith, a renowned architect from Memphis, for local business man I.W. Merrill. Considered the "finest example of a Tudor Revival residence in the state," the home features arched doors, beamed ceilings, oak flooring in varying patterns, decorative stenciling with medieval motifs, iron and glass light fixtures, metal railings with medieval motifs, and a replica of a stone fireplace from Warwick Castle in England.
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This extravagant estate was constructed in 1830 for railroad baron Harvey Washington Walter. During the Civil War, Walter's Place served as a temporary residence for General Grant. The home's downfall came with the Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1878, which took the lives of Walter and his three sons. Walter's Place was eventually purchased, restored, and put on the market….for $15 million. Once word of the hefty price tag got out, the infamous mansion was dubbed "the most expensive home in Mississippi."
This Corinth home was constructed in 1908 by Benjamin Franklin Liddon. The eccentric businessman merged together several different architectural styles when constructing Liddon Castle, leading to a home considered the "most imposing and visually interesting in Northeast Mississippi." The interior was equally as elaborate with mosaic tile floors, 20’ beamed ceilings, and leaded glass windows. After being vacant for quite some time, the home began to attract a great deal of stray cats, leading to the nickname the "Cat House." Although, according to local lore, the name comes from the fact that the owner of the home passed away and left it to her cats. In recent years, the home was purchased by new owners and is currently being restored.
Completed in 2008, this magnificent castle is hidden in the small town of Decatur. Complete with a knight-in-shining-armor, thrones, and even a waterfall, the marvelous castle is like something straight from a fairy tale. Even better, it’s a popular event venue, which means you can actually rent out a castle.
This coastal castle was constructed in 1921 by author, horticulturist, and agriculturist James M. Sherman, who was 67 years old at the time. Even more impressive is the fact that Sherman built the home with the help of only one other man. Following Sherman’s death, his daughter, Jessie Gundlach, and her husband took over the castle. The Gundlachs opened their doors to the many Korean men stationed at Keesler Air Force Base, earning Jessie the nickname "American Mom." The Gundlachs' kindness didn’t go unnoticed as they were awarded the Wings of the Air Force.
Did you know Mississippi was home to so many castles? Ever visited any of the castles listed above? Have one to add to the list? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Looking for more road trip ideas? Check out “9 Unforgettable Road Trips To Take In Mississippi Before You Die.“
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