Can you tour Hearst Castle on your own?
Although everyone is saying you can only explore the gift shop without a tour purchased, you are however allowed to explore outside the castle (including the two pools) unsupervised and without a tour guide. You do however need to purchase a tour to get a seat on the bus that takes you up the road to the castle.
Can you take photos at Hearst Castle?
Personal photography is permitted inside and outside the buildings for personal enjoyment. Tripods are not allowed but monopods may be used. Flash photography is permitted outside only. Commercial photography or filming at Hearst Castle requires a film permit and the prior approval of the Museum Director.
How many steps are there at Hearst Castle?
Approximately 159 stairs, both up and down; 2/3-mile route to walk; 15-minute bus ride to and from the Visitor Center; Considerable time standing.
What is the most popular Hearst Castle tour?
the Grand Rooms tour
Tip: If you are only going to do one tour, the Grand Rooms tour is the most popular tour. After the tours, guests are welcome to explore the gardens and pools at their own pace.
What is the best time to visit Hearst Castle?
Best Time to Go to Hearst Castle
Hearst Castle is busiest in summer when vacationers drive up hotel prices and pack the tours. Buy your tickets well in advance if you’re visiting then. The castle grounds look best in spring and fall, when the gardens flourish, skies are clearer, and you can take a night tour.
Do you have to pay to see Hearst Castle?
The Museum is free. You can purchase food, including beef from the Hearst Ranch, and gifts, including replicas of artifacts from the Castle, and tickets for the bus tours to take you to the top of the hill to see Hearst Castle.
Are masks required at Hearst Castle?
Are Face Coverings Required? No, face coverings are not currently required, but strongly recommended.
Can you sleep at Hearst Castle?
You can’t stay overnight at Hearst Castle, but you can bunk down at Hearst’s Hacienda near King City and the tiny town of Jolon. That’s a bit of a drive from the castle.
Is Hearst Castle free?
Why is the Hearst Castle closed?
The former estate of media magnate William Randolph Hearst had been closed to visitors for more than two years due to COVID-19 precautions and a $13.7 million project to repair about half of the storm-damaged access road that connects the Visitor Center to the hilltop.
What time does Hearst Castle open?
8AM to 6PM
The only way to experience the grandeur and wonder of Hearst Castle is to purchase tour tickets.
…
Order online, or Contact the Call Center During the Following Hours:
| Dates | Monday – Friday | Saturday – Sunday |
|---|---|---|
| January – December | 8AM to 6PM | 8AM to 6PM |
Why is Hearst Castle temporarily closed?
Hearst Castle remains closed at this time due to substantial road culvert failures identified on the road that connects the Hearst Castle Visitor Center to Hearst Castle. The road repair project is estimated to take six to nine months.
How much does it cost to swim in Hearst Castle?
It’ll only cost you $1,250.
How Long Will Hurst castle be closed?
Hearst Castle Will Reopen May 11 After Being Closed for Two Years.
Is Hearst Castle open year round?
Hearst Castle is open daily year-round; it is closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. So you can visit Hearst Castle at any time of year.
Will Hearst Castle ever reopen?
After over two years of being closed, Hearst Castle in San Simeon welcomed visitors and debuted a new tour, Wednesday. The California State Park and museum was forced to close in March 2020, right before it could spotlight its centennial year, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Can you still visit San Simeon?
COVID-19. San Simeon is open and excited to welcome visitors back to our coastal getaway. As of September 1, 2021, a San Luis Obispo county-wide mask mandate has been put in-place for all public indoor spaces. Businesses are open and no other COVID related travel restrictions are in-place at this time.
Can I swim in Hearst Castle pool?
Following the two-year closure of Hearst Castle, only members of The Foundation at Hearst Castle and their guests may swim in the Neptune Pool. A handful of vital fundraising experiences are scheduled for 2022, limited to 40 guests each, so make your reservation today.
Why is Hearst Castle currently closed?
The world-renowned house museum will reopen to the public on May 11, after being closed for two years following the COVID-19 pandemic and severe rainstorms that damaged the access road to the castle in early 2021.
How Long Will Hearst Castle be closed?