Hearst Castle Visitor Center

"Hearst Castle...La Cuesta Encantada... is nothing short of spectacular. The views are stunning. The Neptune pool, one of the very first things you will see, is the finest example of a Roman style pool anywhere in the world. Built by William Randolf Hearst, who had grown too old for camping in tents, asked architect Julia Morgan to help him design "a little something...". What it became was a getaway retreat for Hearst, who loved to entertain. A place to invite the who's who of American gentry for lavish parties at his hilltop residence. The architecture is a mix of Italian Baroque and a Moorish influence. The interiors are gorgeous. Each room is a little different than the last. The ceilings in particular are my favorite. The Julia Morgan tour is worth the extra $$. You can see everything in about two hours. The tour ends with the famous indoor Roman pool. It is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful pools you will every lay your eyes on. The grounds are amazing. All manner of flora and fauna so well kept. Several large herds of Zebra. Roosevelt Elk, and Barbary Sheep can be seen roaming free on the acres of open land surrounding the castle on the hill. If you are in the Morro Bay region or heading up or down Pacific Coast Highway 1, it's absolutely worthwhile to stop and see my local wonder here in this part of the World. Be warned that there are MANY stairs involved. The tours are not good for anyone who has trouble getting around. It was built long before ADA and there are no ramps and none will ever be built due to its preserved historic landmark status. You won't be disappointed. Side note: the pier and beach compound at the base of the entrance to Hearst Castle were once used as a filming location for age Arnold Schwarzenegger film "Commando""

"I arrived too late to take the the tour of the castle itself,, but I did enjoy the visitor center I was surprised at the amount of food service the visitor center offers. The gift shop has a wide selection of everything from T-shirts, sweatshirts, coffee, mugs, and lots of other memorabilia. There is a person manning the customer service desk that is a wealth of information. At the visitor center you purchase a tickets for the tour and you are bused up the hill to the castle itself. I understand that the $30 tour as well worth it."

"I've been multiple times. I enjoyed this tour of cottage, pools and top floor of castle. There are lots of steps for me, no problem, but the guide goes quickly."

"I suggest visiting mid-week, the tours are much smaller and it is easier to move around the more confined areas of the tour. It is required to be on a $30 tour in order to visit the castle, but I highly recommend it. Some of the highlights are, Zebras, authentic and replica roman architecture, and meticulously maintained gardens."

"Always interesting and educational. So much to see and the stories/info the host provides is always fascinating. Best time to get there is in the morning and be sure to purchase your tickets in advance. Gift shop is very nice, too."