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Solomon's Castle: A Whimsical Masterpiece

Discover a shimmering castle built from recycled materials, where art, humor, and imagination come to life in the heart of Florida's countryside, offering a unique and unforgettable experience.

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Venture into the heart of rural Florida and discover Solomon's Castle, a hand-built, gleaming silver castle crafted from recycled materials by the late artist Howard Solomon. This unique attraction showcases Solomon's boundless creativity, featuring whimsical sculptures, intricate stained glass, and pun-filled humor throughout the castle and grounds. Explore the castle's interior on a guided tour, dine at the Boat in the Moat restaurant—a replica of a 16th-century Portuguese galleon—and wander through the surrounding art installations. Be prepared for a sensory overload of art, jokes, and repurposed treasures in this unforgettable roadside attraction that celebrates the human spirit and the power of imagination. Remember to bring cash, as it is the only form of payment accepted for tours and dining. Free parking is available on site.

A brief summary to Solomon's Castle

  • Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-4 pm
  • Friday 10 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Bring cash, as Solomon's Castle does not accept credit or debit cards for tours or dining.
  • Plan your visit between October and July, as the castle is closed on Mondays and during the months of August and September.
  • Allow at least two hours to fully explore the castle, grounds, and art installations.
  • Consider dining at the Boat in the Moat restaurant for a unique culinary experience in a replica of a 16th-century Portuguese galleon.
  • Check for special events or seasonal exhibits to enhance your visit.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Solomon's Castle is located in a rural area. From major nearby towns like Arcadia or Wauchula, follow the signs for Solomon's Castle. As you get closer, look for the distinctive handmade signs that will guide you along the final few miles of country roads. The castle is located off Solomon Road. Free parking is available on site.

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Discover more about Solomon's Castle

Tucked away in the Florida countryside near Ona, Solomon's Castle stands as a testament to one man's artistic vision and resourcefulness. Howard Solomon, often called the 'DaVinci of Debris,' began building his castle in the early 1970s, using discarded aluminum printing plates from a local newspaper as its primary construction material. What started as a home and workshop quickly evolved into a sprawling, three-story castle adorned with turrets, towers, and a moat, all reflecting Solomon's quirky sense of humor and boundless imagination. Visitors to Solomon's Castle are immediately struck by the castle's shimmering exterior, a result of the thousands of aluminum plates reflecting the Florida sunshine. The castle is more than just a building; it's a living, breathing work of art, constantly evolving as Solomon added new sculptures, stained glass windows, and whimsical touches throughout the years. Inside, each room tells a story, filled with Solomon's creations made from found objects, scrap metal, and recycled materials. From chandeliers made of coat hangers to life-sized animals crafted from steel drums, every corner of the castle is a testament to Solomon's ability to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. The guided tours of Solomon's Castle are a highlight of any visit, offering insights into Solomon's life, his artistic process, and the many puns and jokes that permeate his work. The tour guides, often family members, share anecdotes and stories that bring Solomon's creations to life, making the experience both educational and entertaining. Photography is not permitted inside the castle, encouraging visitors to fully immerse themselves in the experience. Beyond the castle itself, the grounds of Solomon's Castle offer even more to explore. The Boat in the Moat restaurant, housed in a 65-foot replica of a 16th-century Portuguese galleon, provides a unique dining experience, serving up delicious meals in a whimsical setting. A four-story lighthouse adds to the castle's fairytale ambiance, while outdoor patios and gardens offer space to relax and enjoy the surrounding scenery. Solomon's workshop, though not open to the public, can be glimpsed from the outside, offering a peek into the creative process behind the castle's many wonders. Solomon's Castle is more than just a tourist attraction; it's a celebration of the human spirit and the power of creativity. It reminds us that art can be found in the most unexpected places and that even the most ordinary objects can be transformed into something extraordinary. A visit to Solomon's Castle is a truly unique and unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into the mind of a visionary artist and a chance to rediscover the joy of imagination. Practicalities for visiting include operating hours from Tuesday through Sunday, 10 AM to 4 PM, with closures on Mondays and during August and September. Admission to the grounds is free, but there is a charge for the guided castle tour. The admission costs vary, with options for a traditional castle tour or a package tour that includes additional exhibits. It's essential to bring cash or a check, as credit cards are not accepted. Free parking is available on-site. The castle is located in a somewhat remote area, so plan your route accordingly and enjoy the scenic country drive. Expect to encounter the true Floridian landscape and nature, abundant with brush, huge live oak trees, moss, and bromeliads, as well as wildlife. Allocate at least 2 hours to see everything at leisure, with or without a guided tour included. If you plan on lunching at the Boat in the Moat restaurant, consider reserving your whole day.

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