Calling all kings, queens and every kind of royal! Have you ever dreamed of being swept away by a shimmering castle? Well, you might not have to travel too far to check one out….
Nestled in the quiet woodlands of Hardee County — about a 3-and-a-half hour drive from Miami — you’ll find a whimsical, hand-built landmark known as Solomon’s Castle. It’s named after the late sculptor and artist Howard Solomon, who spent decades transforming discarded materials into the 12,000-square-foot gleaming fortress.
Offering a good dose of art and a little fairytale magic, this aluminum castle stands out as an anomaly amidst the rural landscape. Inside, you’ll find hundreds of Solomon’s sculptures made from “found objects” like oil drums, sheet metal and cans, many accompanied by pun-filled descriptions. And as for the building’s exterior, there’s over 80 hand-crafted stained glass windows depicting everything from dragons to the solar system.
If you’re wondering where the structure gets its glow, that’s because it’s covered in shiny aluminum printing plates salvaged from a local newspaper! It all began back in 1972 when Solomon, who referred to himself as the “DaVinci of debris,” began construction on his labor of love using items discarded by modern society.
‘Boat in the Moat’ restaurant
Of course, there’s a unique dining experience to be had right on castle grounds! The eatery itself is quite impressive, housed within a 60-foot replica of a 16th-century Portuguese galleon that sits in the castle’s actual moat. Diners can choose to eat inside the ship or on the outdoor deck, surrounded by whimsical decor much like the rest of the property.
Learn more about Solomon’s Castle and book your next trip by visiting their website here. Just remember not to leave your wallet behind as this shiny retreat is a cash-or-check-only establishment!
You can also stay up-to-date with the latest visiting hours and other information on their Facebook page.
📍 4533 Solomon Rd, Ona, FL 33865