Gillette Castle State Park

Gillette Castle State Park is a state park with a stone castle in Lyme, Connecticut, covering 14,000 square feet and sitting on a bluff above the Connecticut River. The grounds include forested hiking paths and several overlooks with views of the river valley.

William Gillette acquired the land in the early 20th century and personally oversaw construction of his residence, which took five years to complete. After his death in 1943, the estate passed into state ownership and opened to the public.

The actor left personal design choices throughout the building, including wooden furniture built directly into the walls. Many of these installations feature moving parts and mechanisms that visitors can still try today.

The grounds remain open daily from 8 in the morning until sunset, while tours of the castle run from May through October. Visitors should bring sturdy footwear for the trails and the uneven stone floors inside.

The owner laid out a miniature railway system that wound for several miles through the estate woodlands. Guests could ride in small carriages through the forested grounds and reach different viewing points.

Location: Lyme

Inception: 1943

Website: https://ct.gov/deep/cwp/view.asp?A=2716&Q=325204

GPS coordinates: 41.42361,-72.43139

Latest update: December 12, 2025 18:19