Tucked into the foothills of Manitou Springs, where pine-scented breezes meet Victorian charm, you’ll find a hidden gem with more personality than a Downton Abbey reunion—Miramont Castle Museum. Don’t let the word “museum” fool you. This isn’t a place for hushed whispers and velvet ropes. It’s a winding, whimsical deep dive into Colorado’s past, served up inside a 14,000-square-foot castle straight out of a Gothic novel.
Built in 1895, Miramont Castle blends architectural styles like a sampler platter of French Gothic, Byzantine, and Tudor—all crammed into one delightfully eccentric estate. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of all things vintage, or just someone who’s ever dreamed of wandering through a legit castle with a turret, this place will absolutely scratch that curiosity itch.
What We Love
A Real Castle—with a Quirky Twist
No two rooms are alike at Miramont. You’ll weave through 40+ spaces filled with period furniture, stained glass, and antique oddities. One moment you’re in a French parlor with lace curtains and oil paintings—the next, you’re in a tiny solarium glowing with natural light.
Victorian Firefighting? Yes, Please
The Manitou Springs Fire Department has its own room here, and it’s a sleeper hit. Kids and adults alike get a kick out of the vintage hoses, uniforms, and gleaming red fire helmets from a time when fire trucks were horse-drawn.
Afternoon Tea with Serious Flair
The Queen’s Parlour Tea Room isn’t just a meal—it’s a time machine. Think scones with clotted cream, floral china, and staff who seem plucked right out of a BBC period drama. It’s reservation-only, and it’s worth planning your day around.
Ghost Stories Galore
Rumors of paranormal happenings float through the castle’s halls like a Victorian lace curtain in the breeze. Whether you believe or not, there’s a spooky thrill in the creaky floorboards and shadowy corners that makes every step feel a little adventurous.
Miramont Castle Museum Facebook
Views That Steal the Show
Head up to the fourth-floor chapel or one of the turret balconies, and you’re treated to panoramic views of the surrounding hills, red rock formations, and the quirky rooftops of Manitou Springs. It’s the kind of view that stops conversation—and makes for incredible photos.
Miramont Castle Museum Facebook
Atmosphere & Setting
Walking into Miramont Castle is like opening a Victorian-era pop-up book—unexpected, detailed, and full of delightful surprises. The building is an eclectic architectural mashup, with gables, arches, and spires sticking out in all directions like a whimsical jigsaw puzzle. Inside, you’re wrapped in the gentle hush of history: the creak of hardwood floors, the warm scent of aged wood and old books, the glint of afternoon sun through colored glass.
The layout is intentionally meandering—narrow staircases, cozy nooks, secret doors—all inviting you to get just a little lost. And you’ll love it.
Value (Is It Worth It?)
Absolutely. General admission runs around $10–$14 depending on age, and kids under 6 get in free. Plan to spend at least 1.5 to 2 hours here—longer if you sit for tea. The bang for your buck is solid, especially considering you get a history lesson, architecture tour, and mini adventure all rolled into one. It’s perfect for couples, day-tripping retirees, homeschool families, and anyone who loves old houses with stories to tell.
Bonus tip: They offer guided tours and seasonal events like Victorian Christmas, which bring the place to life in new and magical ways.
Other Considerations
Parking is free but limited—grab a spot early or be prepared for a bit of a walk uphill. The terrain inside includes some narrow stairs and uneven floors, so while the ground level is accessible, the full experience is more limited for those with mobility concerns.
Hours shift by season (usually 10 a.m.–4 p.m.), and they’re closed on major holidays—double-check before you go. The tea room requires a reservation and fills up fast, especially on weekends.
And yes—it can feel a little chilly inside during colder months, so bring a sweater just in case. You won’t find a snack bar or café beyond the tea room, so grab lunch in downtown Manitou before or after your visit.
Whether you’re a history hound, a tea lover, or someone who just appreciates a good view from a castle turret, Miramont Castle offers a unique and memorable peek into Colorado’s past. It’s a place where every creaky stair and stained-glass window feels like an invitation to slow down, look closer, and let your imagination wander.
Miramont Castle Museum
📍 9 Capitol Hill Ave, Manitou Springs, CO 80829
