Northern Michigan is known for its pristine beaches, show-stopping sunsets, and unforgettable waterfront views. However, when thinking of Northern Michigan, do you think of exploring a whimsical castle full of history?
Castle Farms is located down the road from downtown Charlevoix, Michigan, a bustling and beautiful lakefront town. At Castle Farms, there are many unique features that make every visit fun and unforgettable. Not only is it a stunning location to host a wedding or special event, but it is a place for any history lover or castle-fanatic to enjoy. Originally built in 1918, Loeb Farms was modeled after French renaissance-style castles in Normandy, France. What once served as a model dairy farm, the grounds have functioned through the last century as an artist’s mecca, a concert venue, and now, a wedding venue and historical site that captivates guests of all ages. The over 100 years of history and stunning architecture are only a small piece of what makes this hidden gem so unique.
Guests can expect to be greeted by the 18’ knight, St. George, and take pictures with Norm, the dragon that guards the Castle. While walking along one of the many water features, children can wave to our very own friendly sea serpent. You may get lost in the Enchanted Forest as you discover fairies and garden gnomes, but you will have a map. Throughout the Castle grounds you will roam through lush gardens, pristine courtyards, and impeccably restored and modernized buildings.
As guests wander the halls of Castle Farms, they will see historical collections containing artifacts that date back as far as 1750. From hundreds of antique cake toppers to models of castles from all over the world, there is so much to see and discover. See the memorabilia from the rock concert era when artists like ACDC, The Beach Boys, and Bon Jovi rocked the Castle!
If you thought the fun ended there, Castle Farms is also home to Michigan’s largest outdoor model garden railroad. The model railroad has always been a crowd favorite, as guests walk through the hedge maze and see a train buzz by their head; or look down and see a replica of a small town that has tracks winding throughout.
In 2018, Castle Farms opened its very own wine tasting room, 1918 Cellars. Today, 1918 Cellars serves as a fully equipped tasting room. With original stone walls, herringbone floors, stunning reclaimed barnwood ceilings, and occasional live music featured on the patio, there’s no other place quite like it to enjoy 11 selections of wine and additional seasonal selections of hard cider. It’s the perfect spot to sit down for a flight of wine and a stunning view.
Castle Farms offers self-guided tours for guests to soak in the beauty and history of the Castle at their own pace, or historical guided tours that can be booked in advance with a tour guide, where guests will learn the in-depth, rich history of Castle Farms. Whether you’re looking to spend an afternoon enchanted by the Castle’s beauty, an evening celebrating love, or if you are looking for a spot to refresh along your road trip, look no further than Castle Farms.
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