Background

Bishop Castle: A Monumental Act of Imagination

Explore a towering, hand-built castle in the Colorado mountains – a testament to one man's extraordinary vision and determination.

4.7

Bishop Castle is a colossal, quirky roadside attraction in Rye, Colorado, crafted by one man, Jim Bishop. This towering structure of stone and iron, a testament to individual vision, invites exploration, though visitors should be aware of the inherent risks of an ongoing construction project.

A brief summary to Bishop Castle

  • Monday 9 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared for climbing, as the castle is an active construction site with uneven surfaces.
  • Exercise caution when exploring the upper levels, as there are no handrails in some areas.
  • Bring cash to make a donation to support the castle's maintenance and future development.
  • Be prepared for crowds, especially on weekends and during peak tourist season.
  • Check the weather forecast before visiting, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    Bishop Castle is located on State Highway 165, approximately 6 miles north of San Isabel, Colorado. From Pueblo, take CO-78 West to CO-165 South. The castle will be on your left-hand side. Parking is available along the shoulder of the highway. Be aware that parking can be limited, especially during peak season.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transportation to Bishop Castle, the closest major transportation hub is Pueblo, Colorado. From Pueblo, you would need to rent a car or use a ride-sharing service to reach the castle. The drive from Pueblo to Bishop Castle is approximately 54 miles and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. There are bus routes that run from Shrewsbury Bus Station to Bishop's Castle, ending opposite The Boar's Head.

Unlock the Best of Bishop Castle

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Bishop Castle

Bishop Castle is a unique and awe-inspiring roadside attraction located in the Wet Mountains of Southern Colorado. This towering structure, the lifelong project of Jim Bishop, stands as a testament to one man's vision and determination. Begun in 1969 as a family cottage, it evolved into an elaborate castle, constructed from stone and iron, reaching over 160 feet in height. Visitors can explore the castle's many levels, featuring grand cathedral windows, wrought-iron walkways, and a steel fire-breathing dragon. The castle is an active construction site, and exploring involves inherent risks, with narrow, winding staircases and open turrets. Caution is advised, and visitors enter at their own risk. Jim Bishop's creation has faced its share of controversy, including disputes with government authorities over land use and construction. Despite these challenges, Bishop Castle has become a beloved landmark, drawing visitors from all over the world. Though Jim Bishop passed away in 2018, his family and friends continue to welcome visitors to experience his extraordinary creation. While there are no formal admission fees, donations are appreciated to help with the castle's upkeep and future construction. The castle is open daily during daylight hours. Parking is available along the side of the road.

Popular Experiences near Bishop Castle

Popular Hotels near Bishop Castle

Select Currency