Gillette Castle State Park

Address:	67 River Rd, East Haddam, CT 06423, USA
Phone:	+1 860-526-2336
Site:	ct.gov
Rating:	4.7
Working:	Closed Closed Closed 11AM–5PM 11AM–5PM 11AM–5PM 11AM–5PM

Location

Photos 100

Reviews 21

Jason Pinette

I remember coming here as a child, there really is a lot of historical things to do here in Connecticut, and this is one of them. To start, its was a nice day with a fairly busy parking lot. Great views and a few trails that lead to various locations, were something to do. The problem with this location was that the construction going on at the castle itself ruins the experience. This was why we did not pay for the tour, we walked around the castle, took a short hike, viewed the water, and left with our over priced popsicle ($3.00).

Tim Malone

Beautiful grounds and a very unique house. You could spend an hour just checking out all the custom made wooden locks and other fasteners. Its more interesting than it sounds. I personally think the outside of the castle is ugly, but there is enough history and craftsmanship to make it interesting. There are no guided tours, but guides are stationed throughout the castle to answer questions. The price for entry was reasonable too. The food at the small cafe was pretty good as well. Service could have been faster though.

Rachel Bostwick

Must be seen inside and out. Entry is a reasonable fee and is covered by the Connecticut Heritage Passport. The tour of the castle is informative and gorgeous. The outside grounds have a lot of potential for rambling and when we visited, there was a play about the life of the castles architect and owner, the colorful Gillette. Our four children enjoyed the clever touches Gillette put on the inside of the castle. There is also a reasonably priced cafe on the grounds which serves sandwiches, drinks, and ice cream.

David Karcz

I went to Gillette Castle during Memorial Day weekend last year. I loved everything about it. The tour guides were really friendly and knowledgeable. I think the most interesting thing about the castle was the way William Gillette had mirrors set up so he could see who was at the main entrance from his bedroom right above. Theres more than just the castle. There are some great hiking trails around on the property as well. I hope to Gillette Castle again this year.

Kurt Zitzelman

While on a New England road trip in October 2015, Gillette Castle State Park was one of my first stops. I knew the castle would be closed, but I was more interested in hiking around the park than the tour. There are some very nice trails here, nothing really difficult but some great views none the less... and having a castle overlooking the Connecticut River too look at doesnt hurt. If you visit the park, remember its more than just the castle.

David Moto Z

Lattore che ha costruito la propria dimora ha cercato di farla assomigliare ad un castello medievale...il risultato è particolare, però la vista che si gode è spettacolare e si è immersi nella natura. Merita una visita.

Mary B

I loved this place. It had some nice trails to the CT river. The castle itself was a nice little historic place to see. The prices werent terrible. I think $6 for adults and $3 for kids. You enter the castle and are advised to take your time on each level because once you go up you sent allowed back down. It took maybe an hour for the entire self led tour just because we stopped and read everything.

jamie lynn

Beautiful park, I need to come back here in the spring for the tour. Even in the winter though, a nice place to walk around and imagine what life used to be like here. Spectacular views from the back of the house. The way the house is built is fascinating. There is a small food stand and a museum that are open in the spring/summer as well. Cant wait to learn more.

J Christy Wareham

Its a longish drive from just about anywhere — and theres not really an awful lot to take in — but the grounds are lovely and the "castle" interesting. And if youre a Sherlock Holmes fan, as was my grandson, when I took his sister and him, its pretty satisfying. Overlooks the Connecticut River from high above, an impressive sight in any season.

Joey Adcock

Park down at the river next to the Ferry Launch. A large wooden structure marks the head of the trail leading up a steeply-inclined trail. At the end of the hike awaits Connecticuts own stone castle. There are picnic tables and a wonderful field perfect for playing games with kids or watching the boats pass by on the riverway.

Dave Arnett

The views are incredible to match the story of this castle. The hike up to the castle can be difficult for people with joint issues as some of the "steps" are uneven and awkwardly spaced in height and distance. But once there...it is a great site to see and overlook the river as well as enjoy the craftsmanship of the castle.

A Private User

We visited the castle this past weekend. The place is a short drive - about an hour - from Hartford, CT. The admission is fairly cheap, but even if you do not want to tour the castle you can spend a day out on the campgrounds. They have a small grill/drinks area. Very fun for a day trip or just few hours outdoors.

Chris P

A very cool stop. A stone mansion located on hilltop. It offers a great tour, hikes that go around the property and down to the CT River. The tour is only $6. Beautiful scenery. If you are coming from the west side of the CT River take the ferry across the river for $5 and $6 on weekends. Well worth the ride.

Justin D. Routhier

Beautiful sprawling grounds with walking trails, picnic areas and a large pond perfect for families, couples or solitary reflection. The castle itself has spectacular views of the Connecticut River at no cost and you can experience the inside tour of Gillette Castle for only six bucks during regular hours.

Jesse Nye

We lived near here and would come here to picnic and let the little ones run around all the time. The grounds are great with bridges, lakes, tunnels, river views and of course the castle. Even if you dont tour the castle (which is nice) the grounds are worth the visit!

A Private User

I am so pleased to have been here. Great fun day hiking here today. Lots of trails, climbing little hills, the castle and all the goodness of the connecticut river, its all here. Come here with your family or significant other and i assure you wont be dissapointed.

F Ellen WW

Great views, amazing preservation. Last time I was here years ago, Gilettes little train along the cliff was still running....sorry to say that is no longer there - only the "station"....you can bring a lunch and enjoy the view of the CT river!!!

Justin Smith

A must stop. Only $6 for the inside tour. Outside is free and you can peak into the living room. Great architecture and views. Lovely grounds if you have the time. Easy to do the house in less than an hour. Could take 3 hours with the grounds.

Jason Glenn

A fascinating estate, you can take the Essex steam train to a boat, the boat will drop you on the shoreline of Gillette and you can hike to the castle. Be sure to come in season when they allow you to tour the castle, its totally worth it!

Kim-Jean Webb

Been going there for over 40 years, love the place. When my dad retired he worked the during Christmas holidays. The tower room has the best views . I would tell everyone take the ferry over and watch for the eagles flying overhead.

N Hexum

I had never seen anything like this castle in the United States. If you like historical landmarks or interesting architecture, touring the castle is a must if you are in the area. It has great views of the river valley, too.