The open road beckons once again and spring might just be the best season for your next road trip. Vivid blankets of blooms cover the lush landscapes of the West Coast. The weather isn’t unbearably hot and Hearst Castle is reopening soon! After two years of closure, the opulent estate will welcome back eager travelers on May 11. To add to that, admissions will also be lowered (slightly, at least).
This lavish California landmark has been closed off to the public since the pandemic struck. Then, major storms washed away the winding road that leads to the mansion and the 1920s clay pipe culverts, prompting a $13.7 million renovation. Another ten months later and we’ll finally be able to marvel at the vast blue-tiled indoor pool, adorned with eight figures of Roman deities and idols.
Besides the enthusiastic guests, businesses in the surrounding San Simeon area will also be delighted by the news. Many of which have largely been sustained by the 860,000 annual visitors. It’s also worth noting, that all 220 of Hearst castle’s employees were also kept on and paid during the closure.
It’s named after the pioneering architect who collaborated with William Randolph Hearst to create this mindboggling estate. Julia Morgan was the first certified female architect in the state and the first American woman to head her own architectural office. During the tour, you’ll get to know her iconic design style that graced prominent buildings across the US through photographic displays, architectural drawings, family photos, personal items, and, of course, the buildings themselves.
Hearst Castle comprises some 250,000 acres of terraces, pools, gardens with an embellished castle on the hilltop housing various artifacts. If you plan to visit it, make a round trip out of it and include these additional stops along the Pacific Coast Highway.
Ticket prices have also been reduced marginally, with the cheapest tours starting at $30 which previously started at $33 ($28 plus an $8 fee). You can make a reservation from March 31 online.
Featured Image: Vidar Nordli-Mathisen on Unsplash