Did you know that there are a surprising number of castles in New Jersey? One of them, Kip’s Castle Park, can easily pass for Hogwarts in New Jersey. It’s enchanting and magical, and the best part is that it’s open for the public to explore.  But, don’t just take it from me. Read on to learn more while checking out the following Kip’s Castle Park photos.

Kip's Castle Park is a 10-acre historic homestead and estate located partially in Montclair Township and partially in Verona, New Jersey. The park sits on First Mountain, a prominent ridge in the highlands of Essex County.
Tripadvisor / Duck8to
The park's namesake castle is a 9,000-square-foot home that was built in the 1900s by textile inventor and author Frederic Ellsworth Kip, along with his wife Charlotte Bishop Williams Kip.
Tripadvisor / Duck8to
As if a giant castle wasn't enough space for the Kips to make their home, there's also a two-story carriage house that's 6,000 square feet on the premises of this Hogwarts in New Jersey.
The Kips lived here for the remainder of their lives. When Charlotte Kip passed away in 1926, the estate was all but abandoned, and it began to fall into disrepair.
Tripadvisor / schmutaki
Kypsburg, as it was known at the time, was purchased by a law firm in the 1980s. The firm spent nearly 20 years restoring the exterior and interior of the property, before deciding to sell the estate to Essex County in 2007. Hence, it's been able to remain one of the most charming castles in New Jersey.
Tripadvisor / whatJDsaid

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The castle itself is reminiscent of medieval castles in the "Norman" style. Locals have compared it to the sprawling castles and enchanting buildings of Hogwarts, the school of Witchcraft and Wizardry from the Harry Potter book series.
Tripadvisor / whatJDsaid
The castle and park grounds are open to the public at no charge from dawn to dusk, seven days a week.
Tripadvisor / Claudia F.
Along with being a scenic green space in the idyllic Montclair area that looks like Hogwarts in New Jersey, the park is also a top spot for birdwatching thanks to its ridgeline location.
On a clear day, you can see the New York City skyline from this mountain ridge. The view serves to make Kip's Castle Park even more enchanting. It's also a great vantage for taking photos.
Tripadvisor / Claudia F.
Not many people realize just how many castles in New Jersey exist. We think Kip's Castle Park is an enchanting treasure in Essex County, New Jersey that you should add to your list of places to explore when you're in the Garden State.
Tripadvisor / schmutaki

Kip’s Castle Park is maintained by Essex County Parks. If you’ve already visited this gem in New Jersey, do you have any Kip’s Castle Park photos to share in the following comments section? I’m sure our readers would enjoy looking at them.

If you would love to see more castles in New Jersey, I recommend our road trip to New Jersey castles when you’re looking for a lovely trip with family or friends. To help you prepare for this adventure, I suggest taking a look at our ultimate road trip packing list as well.

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More to Explore

Kip's Castle Park

Marla S. | September 23, 2023

What are some popular castles in New Jersey?

In addition to Kip's Castle Park, here are some popular castles in New Jersey:

  • Pax Amicus Castle Theatre in Budd Lake: This family theatre is the perfect backdrop for performances from Shakespeare and other timeless classics.
  • Lambert Castle in Paterson: This impressive castle is a museum within the Garret Mountain Reservation. Along with getting a history lesson, we recommend bringing your camera to take photos of the stunning views too.
  • Ye Olde Coffee Castle in Glen Rock: Although it is currently a Starbucks, you'll feel like you're dining in style when you visit this unique castle.

 

What are some unique places to visit in New Jersey?

Along with visiting your very own Hogwarts, take a look at these other unique places to visit in New Jersey.

  • Luna Parc in Montague: If you like things that are weird, keep an eye out for when this private home and studio give tours.
  • Lucy in Margate: The next time you want to see an elephant, head to the shore to check out this six-story statue that attracts visitors from near and far.
  • Bunker on the Beach in Cape May: We think history buffs will have a blast getting a close view of this former WWII bunker.

 

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Featured Addresses
Kip's Castle Park, 22 Crestmont Rd, Verona, NJ 07044, USA