Definitely worth stopping by and worth the detour. Very cool and the fact that one man built this is magnificent. If you are scared of heights it might not be your jam, but there are railings to hold on to for most of the steep stairs. The entrance is free but there is a donation box out front and cute little shop with some unique things inside. Wish we could have found Mr. Bishop to say hello. read more

Bishop's Castle - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rye, Colorado

Cool place! I think if I were going to use a word to describe it all the word would probably be eclectic. It is definitely a place to walk slowly and be careful that you don't fall through a hole, as other reviews have said, but it's such a cool place that it's worth the very scenic drive to experience. Even if you're vertically challenged there are ways you can tour this place without feeling like you're going to fall to your death. Most of the castle has handrails, and because I am vertically challenged I only went up about halfway because I felt like I needed something to hold onto and even looking down through the grates was a little freaky, but it was so cool to see what Jim Bishop had done. I read some of the other reviews prior to going, and it is pretty easy to ignore the anti-government propaganda signs and just enjoy the rest of what you experience there, so I wouldn't let the negative reviews dissuade you. read more

Bishop's Castle - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rye, Colorado

Hidden gem! Very interesting Place to view. Wear walking shoes Great adventure! Only regret is I wish we took more pic read more

Bishops Castle is something you definitely have to see if you are planning a trip to Colorado. There is truly nothing like it. read more

Bishop's Castle - Giant Hand - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rye, Colorado

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This place is definitely something to visit and see for yourself. I've never been in a castle in this day and age. The castle is big and really tall. I was up 160 ft in the air. The artwork inside the castle is beautiful. It's hard to believe this was a one man job. I got to meet the created himself and it took over 50 years to make this castle. I was staying in Colorado Springs for vacation and my group went a little out of the way to see this place. It's also very fun to go around and take pictures too. It's not really safe so I wouldn't recommend little kids to go here. But overall this was a cool tourist spot to see. read more

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Amazing place! He has put a lot of work into this place for everyone to enjoy for free! He did this all by himself! It's insane!! You won't believe it until you see it a castle in the middle of the mountains read more

**Note: GPS freaks out trying to find this place and almost led me god knows where due to choppy service in the higher elevation. Just stay on the highway and you won't miss it. It is literally right off the side of the road.** I've always been intrigued with castles, and watching GoT recently fed me more fuel. I first heard about bishop castle on an MSN article talking about little know places in each state. I had a few days off recently so I drove out here to see it for myself. Upon arriving there are many signs basically saying to behave and be respectful along with many pleasant reminders that this place is to enter at your own risk. The place is completely free but they do have a gift shop and also take donations. The castle more resembles a work in progress but is still cool. I can't really elaborate much because this is more of a place you have to see for yourself. I hope the pictures do it justice. I will say that it is not an ideal place for folks with small children. I'm not easily shaken by heights but some areas in here really made me think back to that "at your own risk" notice posted everywhere. Some of the stairs especially at the top shake. The day I visited it was also windy so this made some of the staircases at the top shake as well. Overall I really loved this place. It could be a bit more sturdy and reassuring safety-wise, but it is definitely something everyone should see. read more

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I've been to the Castle a few times, and I still discover something new each time I go. I love everything about this castle, and what it stands for. I'm glad the Bishop men stood their ground, and earned the right for the castle to stay. There are signs every where, about the story of how the castle came to be, and all the shit they went through to build it. I still have not yet had the "balls" to go up to the top of the castle, in the big Giant ball, but I have gone out on the terrace on both sides of the building. That was high enough for me. This place is amazing for peace and quiet or a little adventure. It's definantly a road side attraction you do not want to miss! How ever, as it is simply a landmark and roadside attraction, you will be seeing and exploring the castle at your own risk. It has some pretty hairy places up near the top of the castle, and when it snows, it gets pretty slick. It's a long way down is all I'm saying. I could just move in.. I'd Iive in this place if it had insulation, heat and wi-fi. read more

Bishop's Castle - Bishops castle full view.. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rye, Colorado

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I was in the state visiting my parents and wanted to see something in Colorado that I haven't before. My mom suggested coming here and I was excited to see something new. The drive out there was beautiful and getting there was easy. There is no formal parking, in fact, nothing about this place is formal. One man has built the entire place with his own equipment. There are signs all over stating that exploring is at your own risk. It was a very cool sight to see. We enjoyed seeing the different areas of the castle. Definitely be cautious though. There were plenty of steps that made me nervous and lots of ledges without railing. This is not young kid friendly at all. If you are in town and want to see something interesting, this is definitely worth it read more

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Today was packed with visitors. But, we still managed to find a place to park. The castle itself is pretty amazing. It's an amazing look inside someone's mind and obsession. Is it safe? That's for you to decide. I had my son with and didn't want to risk going to the top with him as others have stated, there are places with no railing at all. One careless move and you could fall. But, it's free. And we did give a donation. It's a magnificent folk art piece. My best friend went up to the top. He loved it! So, for thrill seekers this place definitely is worth the drive. read more

Bishop's Castle - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rye, Colorado

Death. Heights . Passion for building and backyard architecture.... yes . All those things are available at Bishop . This place is so worth it . We met Mr. Bishop . Cool cat. You can climb up the towers - Narrow AF - but so cool. The 60 years of work done is amazing to experience . Can't believe one guy did this . Go there . read more

Bishop's Castle - Bishop Castle - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rye, Colorado

Given how unique this place is, and how Colorado it is, I'd give this a 5 stars hands down. This property is so special and it's mind boggling how one family just built this and came up with the design and unique architecture. We came on an EXTREMELY windy day, after realizing that the property is not exactly up to safety and maintenance standards, we did not climb to the higher elevations. We just walked around the grounds and 1st/2nd story, strolled very carefully on the unstable terrace and preferred to leave with all limbs attached. Jokes aside, this is a wonderful place worthy of a visit. So glad we finally made it down here. Oh, and if you are wondering if COVID impacted this site the answer is no. The Bishops seem to play at the beat of their own drums. LOL. Not a mask in site nor any of the visitors practicing social distancing here... read more

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Came here on a weekday afternoon and was a beautiful drive up. The castle is a really cool treasure tucked in the treetopped mountains. Super impressively large and artistically built entirely by hand by Jim Bishop. Make sure to read the story on their website. He has made this his life dream to build the castle for all to enjoy for free. You can walk around the entire building up and down if you are a thrill seeker and not afraid of heights. The workmanship is impressive with the spiral staircase iron and rock structures and stained glass walls. There is even a drawstring bridge and closing gate. Explore at your own risk and do not shake the structure! There is plenty of handwritten signs posted to waive liability and some with the legal history surrounding Jim Bishop and the state, though I am not sure of the particulars. We even got to see Jim Bishop himself. He lives at a small cabin onsite and frequently hangs out and visits with spectators. The only bummer is that I was shocked to find that visitors do not respect the site and clean up after themselves!! You visit for free and leave garbage behind, tag up the structures, and break windows ?!? Why would people do that!!?? Please clean after yourself and respect the work this man has done for others to enjoy! Was definitely a cool sight to explore for young and old. Though be sure to keep young children nearby. read more

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Never seen anything like it. If you are anywhere near this area, make a trip to see it. It was an amazing thing to see and climb around on. Warning it will not be your normal "safe" attraction with all the normal rails and safety procedures in place. read more

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Wow. Okay, not the safest place to visit, but boy it's cool. They should up the game at the souvenir shop, they'd make a lot more money. read more

Love this place so much! I love that he builds what he wants and keeps it open to the public. Awesome guy and awesome creations! read more

Bishop's Castle - Bishops Castle - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rye, Colorado

Awesome place! Been going for over 25 years and highly recommend you go. Leave a donation.

Quote from my 7 year old, "totally not safe and unsturdy but fun." My 9 year old says, "kid torture." My husband says "super sketchiest, awesomeness thing ever. Sketchiness to the point of hilarity." My heart was beating really fast and couldn't wait to get off the crazy structure. Will we be back? Probably, and will bring friends and fam! read more

Bishop's Castle - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rye, Colorado

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It's interesting for sure, and I recommend a stop and walk around this offbeat roadside attraction if you're nearby. What I don't recommend is going up very far on the stairs! Expanded metal grate stair risers and treads and their basic repairs felt and looked sketchy, and some were not repaired. Corkscrew stairs had very limited foot space. Stairs were generally very steep, and didn't come close to meeting any kind of COMMERCIAL building code. I can't speak much to residential, but this attraction functions more like commercial, being open to the public, so that's a more applicable standard in my mind, anyway. And the upper parts of towers/stairs swayed precariously, even though there was no wind when I visited. I understand that there have been no visitor deaths there, but I'm thinking, as a professional in the building industry, that that is a matter of luck more than true safety. I definitely made a nice donation for a fun stop and I enjoyed the quirks. I just don't know that it's safe enough to recommend. read more

Pictures do not do justice! We were camping nearby at La Vista campground and made this a great activity. Added Bonus-we met Mr. Bishop aka "Castle Builder". He was kind enough to let us take a picture with him! Had an interesting story! Still hard to believe it's a one man job!!! read more

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"If you have built castles in the air, your work need not be lost." Could Henry David Thoreau have been talking about Jim Bishop? (From roadsideamerica.com) I was reminded of Bishop's Castle while talking on the phone today with my hospitalized 94.3 year old grandma today. She keeps track of her age like a kid who's 4 1/2. Pain aside we always have great conversations. And today she told me she had recently been up to Bishops castle with some girlfriends (she still drives!) and saw her old square dance partner from the late 80's Jim Bishop. She tells me that he is crazier than ever. "Whatever do you mean grandma?" "Anybody that decides to build a castle single handedly is surely a fruitcake." I baited her. "Oh no honey he used to be right as rain 'till the government started prodding him and he lost his son in that accident up there". Jim Bishop started building his dream in the late 60's and has continued ever since. In a beautiful wooded mountain area just outside of the San Isabel National Forest near Wetmore & Beulah Colorado off Highway 165 you'll find the "Bishops Castle" It is a truly one of a kind place where you can see one man's passion, pain and pride. From its great room with it's dragon snout fireplace exhaust. To the spiraling staircases that lead almost to the clouds. Or the sign garden you'll pass walking to the castle where Jim posts his antigovernment slogans showing his hardened constitutional decrees toward the government that tried to halt his toil. And a funky shop he keeps to help fund his vision is full of junk to satisfy the tourist's needs. They even have food (BBQ & Sammys) there at times to fill your belly. This is now a true Colorado landmark not to be missed. And it's free for all to come and see. Jim survives off his wrought iron welding business and the donations from the public to keep up the construction. Although now in his 70's the work has slowed. As a teen I went up to the castle and watched a couple of bands play and had a great time but those times were short lived as the local government halted all such activities for lack of insurance. Today you need to sign a waiver before entering Bishop's castle. Granted it is a bit unsafe (for young kids) in many areas as this is a full time construction zone. This castle is home to tragedy and perseverance. It is a marvel of one man's sweat and toil. I don't believe there is anything that rivals its uniqueness nor it's rarity. Jim may have lost much more than you or I would ever be willing to give up for dreams yet he continues to build. Follow your dreams and your castle will come to you. If you are ever in the Southern Colorado area you must visit Jim Bishop's castle. read more

The castle is super cool and it's free to tour. However, there are crazy anti-government signs everywhere. Lots of civil disobedience propaganda. Signs saying not to leave your valuables in the car. It sets the tone to be wary. Now, the "guests". Also very outlaw. I guess it encourages certain types of non law abiding citizens. We were scared at certain times. Don't go alone. There were shirtless men that were very drunk and unsafe. They approached unescorted women. They shouted obscenities. I dubbed them foothillbillies. So, very cool castle with fun architecture but very uncool attendees. read more

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By far the coolest thing Colorado has to offer, and possibly the best "local flavor" offered ANYwhere. You can argue 14'ers, skiing, but this castle-is the work of a man's entire lifetime and is open to the public, for free Sure, it's a little far out of the way, but it is definitely worth the trip. Where else can you risk life and limb to venture on shaky architecture. If you've never been, go as soon as the weather is nice. You will not regret it read more

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Bishop's Castle has to get the max amount of stars, based alone on the fact that one man has worked on it for the majority of his life. The fella building the castle sounds like a genuine character. One could probably spend the better part of a day exploring the castle if one was so inclined. However, an hour or two is plenty to take it all in. The dragon head mounted on the front is super cool. The narrow iron staircases were a little scary for me. I'm generally not afraid of heights but while walking up the steps, and focusing on the rather small pieces of metal cemented into the mortar in the stone holding the stair case in place, made me nervous. I'm not gonna lie. A gift shop is located on the premises. The shop contains tons of junk which can be found everywhere else. The drive here is beautiful with twisting, turning mountain roads. There is plenty of hiking and camping close around to make a short and pleasant little vacation. I stopped to visit the castle on the way to a day hike of St Charles. The trailhead for the peak is a short trip down the road from the castle. In fact, there were more than a few trailheads directly off the road. read more

Just a few short hours from Denver, our February trek was greeted by strong, westerly winds and 70 degree temperatures. Once there, we climbed to the overlooking turret and globe, which swayed and wobbled in the windy gusts. Definitely an awe-inspiring day that will be sure to leave long lasting memories for us all! So get out and explore, and prepare yourself for one man's mission of building the only castle in Colorado that has been built by hand. read more

Bishop's Castle - Stairway to Bishop's Castle - rickety and steep! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rye, Colorado

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This place was so cool to explore. We drove from castle rock, but well worth the trip. My only complaint was that we wanted a model of the structure but the gift shop was sold out. Well be going back with visiting family for sure. read more

Bishop's Castle - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rye, Colorado

It's a good place to take the kids on adventures or just a good place to visit if you haven't ever been. Only thing I would recommend is you make sure you're wearing shoes that are meant for walking/climbing. Flip flops or heels aren't a good idea for this place. I saw both several times when I went (I was wearing cowboy boots). The only other thing is some of the stairwells are very tight and dark so just be careful when going up and down. But over all it's a very fun place to visit. Definitely would go again. read more

Just a really cool place to go see. We don't see people who still put this kind of work into a project by hand. We rely so much of machines and technology today that to stand at the bottom of this castle and look up is an amazing experience. read more

Awesome place! Very intricate! My wife and I ventured around for a couple of hours. It was definitely not something you see everyday. The scenery around is also outstanding. If you are afraid of heights I would caution you that most of the stairs in it lead to very high altitudes and sometimes it feels like it's wobbling. But besides that it was awesome. I would definitely visit again. read more

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Came over here because who could say no to a castle in north America???? So I went and this road is all uphill so expect driving upwards for 15-20 miles or so! The parking is on the side of the road so be really careful while walking across the street as this is a really steep hill and cares can't really see you around the corner. This castle was built by one man and through hard work and dedication he built such a magnificent place free for all to see. Now this place is enter at your OWN risk meaning whatever happens, it is your responsibility and no one else's. Originally I thought this visit would have been one or two hours at most but his castle is HUGE. Do not bring small children as there is many ways they can get hurt if you are not careful. Now as brilliant as the creator of this castle is, please excuse him as he might shout and yell about random things. Don't worry he doesn't argue or say anything to people but just thinks out loud, that's how I like to think of it! When you enter, to the left is the gift shop filled with cool jewelry and other things people like to buy! Ahead of you is the castle. Now there are many entrances and exits to the castle. There is multiple levels. First floor- really dark and nothing much to see and it leads to the second floor second floor- this room has a lot of stain glasses and this room isn't too busy Third floor-- This floor is more busy than most of them as it features a large room with a large glass window. The balcony also goes alongside the floor and you can watch the gorgeous views! Towers- Okay now there are three towers which lead to separate areas even higher than you are now. The staircase is extremely small and you will need to heed way for people going in the opposite direction as there is only one staircase for exiting and entering each tower. These towers are not for the light hearted and will lead you at the top of the castle! now when you get to the top, these metal walkways are really shaky and they do shake quite a lot especially with people around. This area will give you serious vertigo if you have a fear of heights! This is a gorgeous and magnificent place and probably the closest you can get to a genuine castle that you can actually explore! Make sure you have about 2 or 3 hours as you will be here very long! read more

I've always wondered what all the hype was about with this castle out in the middle of nowhere. I finally planned a trip to go see it and boy, it did not disappoint. This has to be one of the coolest, albeit terrifying adventures that I've been on recently. As other reviewers have said, it's an "enter at your own risk" type of attraction. The stairs are sketchy, narrow, and steep. There's not really much for handrails, especially towards the top of the towers. Climbing to the top of the taller tower had my knees shaking and getting back down involved scooting down on my bottom in certain places due to the fear of tumbling back down the stairs. The bridge and big metal ball at the top of the other tower were equally sketchy and shook so much with our footsteps that we got off it as quick as we got on to it. This is definitely not an adventure I'd recommend to anyone with a fear of heights, but I would recommend it to those looking for a thrill. This is really one of those places that you have to see to believe it's real. Glad I made the drive out here and would certainly recommend it to anyone traveling in the nearby area. read more

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Such an amazing view! Listen to the Outstanding story bishop has to tell. Friendly place, be very careful during your climb up! Enjoy the scenery you'll be glad you did ! Parking is kind of on the road -FYI read more

Totally interesting place but the gift shop burnt down the day after we were there! They had some really cool things for sale and it's a family run place so my heart goes out to them. The woman in the gift shop was rude/cranky at closing time but I definitely wouldn't wish any harm on the place, especially to that extreme! The castle is a piece of American heritage for sure and people will get a free civics lesson and fair warning if they take the time to read the signs posted. It's wise to do so in my opinion. read more

Serious question: Has anyone died here yet? I ask because it's only a matter of time. Be very careful with kids and do not leave them unaccompanied. There are open elevator shafts, missing boards in the floor, broken metal in the stair flooring, no secure side barriers 150ft off the ground, shaking bridges, etc. The building itself was very cool considering it was built by one guy. He built it as an attraction though I guess as it's not actually habitable. Jim Bishop was here and went on a tirade 7/23/17, took off his shirt and nearly got in a fight with someone across the street. The Sherif soon showed up. If you're over 18, I'd say come check it out while you can. The government will likely take it over after he dies or prevent people from going in because it doesn't meet basic safety regulations. read more

Absolutely amazing accomplishment of Jim Bishop! He was working while we were there visiting. He has been building this castle by hand since 1968. I can only imagine his thought process as he built this structure from the ground up one piece at a time day after day. For one person to do this it has to rank up there with the ancient pyramids. It is truly amazing. Thank you for your dedication and hard for Mr. Bishop you have truly built a one of a kind place in all of the world! read more

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Love the historic feel and how unique the castle is! Every level has so much to explore!

This is truly an amazing castle. It is a unique, one-of-kind, experience. Mr. Bishop was actively working on the castle during our visit. His dedication and hard work to such a beautiful place is truly amazing. The stained glass windows were absolutely amazing. This is definitely worth a trip to see. read more

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Made the drive from Colorado Springs. The castle and construction is interesting. Remember it is not finished and very much a working site. If you are height phobic if you walk on the right side of the castle there is a path and some steps that will take you to the back where you will find wooden stairs to access the 2nd floor. I couldn't walk on the outside walk way but watched many people who said it creaked but seemed safe. The metal globe on top of one of the towers was wobbly according to others who made the climb. I would go again. read more

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What an amazingly unique place to visit. It's busy, lots of traffic and limited parking so go early. I don't recommend this for small children as it is a little sketchy in some areas, but my 13 year old found it truly amazing. Bring cash to make a donation between 10-20 bucks for a small donation. read more

Bishop's Castle - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Rye, Colorado

Took my kids (6/10) and they had a great time. I thought the castle was awesome!! And climbing to the top was truly horrifying and exhilarating. My 6 year old was too scared but my 10 year old and I made it close to the top. This place is cool and different. Climb at your own risk though this place isn't a safe tourist attraction it's more or an adventure. Keep kids close. Still super fun!!! read more