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What to Expect on Your Trip to Hearst Castle
700 Hearst Castle Rd
San Simeon, CA
Planning your trip to Hearst Castle and not quite sure what to expect? We've got you covered. Visit our website for the most up-to-date ticketing information. We recommend reserving your tickets ahead of time, so book your Hearst Castle tour today!
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Arrive at the Hearst Castle Visitor Center early to ensure you make it on time for your tour.
700 Hearst Castle Rd
San Simeon, CA
Park at the Hearst Castle Visitor Center, which is located just a short drive off of Highway 1. After checking in for your tour, you will have time to peruse the gift shop and get a bite to eat before embarking on your guided tour.
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Enjoy the free Hearst Museum at the far end of the Visitor Museum and watch the "Hearst Castle – Building the Dream" movie.
700 Hearst Castle Rd
San Simeon, CA
We recommend enjoying the movie, “Hearst Castle – Building the Dream" and exploring the free Hearst Museum before your tour to provide extra context while visiting the hilltop estate. Your tour of Hearst Castle includes a ticket to the movie. The Hearst Museum is free to all visitors. There is even a "please touch" portion of the museum to teach visitors about the importance of preserving the historic artifacts. When on your tour, you will not be able to touch any of the historic pieces.
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When it's time for your tour, a bus will transport you up the hill to the estate. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for zebras!
750 Hearst Castle Rd
San Simeon, CA
This 15 minute bus ride is filled with expansive scenery of the coastline and grand views of Hearst Castle as you make your ascent up the hill. Be on the look out because, if you're lucky, you might even see zebras! Yes - real zebras! They are remnants of William Randolph Hearst's private zoo, which was the largest private zoo at the time. If you don't see the zebras, you might find plenty of cattle from the Hearst Cattle Ranch and other wildlife roaming the fields.
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Be sure you packed appropriate walking shoes because you will be on your feet for most of the tour!
750 Hearst Castle Rd
San Simeon, CA
Since most of the Hearst Castle tours are guided walking tours, you're going to want to make sure you wear comfortable shoes. The tours include some stairs as well. There are also accessibly designed tours of the estate. These tours are wheelchair friendly and are designed for those who have difficulty climbing stairs or those who cannot stand or walk for prolonged periods of time.
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Experience what it might have been like to be a guest of William Randolph Hearst, while touring this historical masterpiece.
750 Hearst Castle Rd
San Simeon, CA
Whether you choose to explore the grand rooms or the cottages, you're bound to feel like you've been transported back in time, while viewing Hearst's personal artifacts and collections. We recommend starting with the Grand Rooms Tour for first time visitors. You can always add a second tour to your visit to combine different tours based on your interests. For returning visitors, try the new Julia Morgan tour, which celebrates the life and career of the esteemed architect.
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Soak up all the sights while touring the grounds, including the iconic Neptune Pool.
750 Hearst Castle Rd
San Simeon, CA
There is so much to see at Hearst Castle beyond the 155 grand house. In addition to your tour inside Casa Grande, your guided tour will lead you around the expansive grounds of the enchanting estate. You will be able to see the three guest houses, the outdoor Neptune Pool and the indoor Roman Pool.
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Bask in the breathtaking views of the rolling hills to the east and the Pacific Ocean to the west.
750 Hearst Castle Rd
San Simeon, CA
Few places along the coast of California can rival the panoramic views seen while visiting the hilltop castle. While SLO CAL boasts 300 days of sun a year, the weather can sometimes change rather quickly, so pack a jacket just in chase it gets windy.
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Swipe up to book your Hearst Castle tour!
750 Hearst Castle Rd
San Simeon, CA
Nothing compares to seeing the grandeur of Hearst Castle in person. Visit our website to book your Hearst Castle tour today! See you soon!