Designing the Dream Tour

75 Min. Guided Tour

For those fascinated by the trajectory of the Enchanted Hill, and W. R. Hearst’s unique collaboration with architect Julia Morgan, the Designing the Dream tour weaves through the nearly three decades of planning and construction that comprised the astounding estate’s history. The earliest years are viewed in Casa del Sol, a guest cottage from the very first stage of the project; the middle-years are represented by the iconic swimming pools so closely associated with the estate; and the final years are seen in the North Wing of Casa Grande, the very last phase to be realized. With an emphasis on both changing design and architectural styles of the time, and the tumultuous events in W.R. Hearst’s own life, this tour spans the entire history of Hearst Castle.

Physical Requirements

The Designing the Dream tour is 75 minutes long and includes approximately 341 steps, both up and down, and 1.2 mile walk. For those who have difficulty walking or standing for lengths of time, we recommend Accessibly Designed Tours.

$40 Adults | $23 Children (5-12)

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North Entrance

Though never finished, the north entrance was planned as a grand welcome for Mr. Hearst’s guests. Designed to feature marble sculptures and reliefs built into fountains, it invites us to imagine the first impression made on his many illustrious guests

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Neptune Pool

The Neptune Pool, which holds 345,000 gallons (1,300,000 liters) of water, remains a highlight for visitors. With marble colonnades, sculpture, and a temple facade, its grand design is the third iteration of the outdoor swimming pool.

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The Gardens

The gardens of Hearst Castle were thoughtfully designed by Julia Morgan and a team of landscape architects. The plantings were chosen to complement each cottage’s color scheme. In discussing plans for the gardens, Mr. Hearst wrote to Julia Morgan, “I think a profusion and confusion of blooms there would be attractive.”

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Casa del Sol

Casa del Sol, or C house, is named for its stunning views of the setting sun. With a distinctly Moorish architectural style, it stands out among the other cottages. The interior decor and the loggia off the main sitting room complete the design, consistent with the harmonious vision of Mr. Hearst and Miss Morgan.

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North Wing

The North Wing of Casa Grande remained unfinished when Mr. Hearst left his San Simeon estate for the last time in 1947. The approximately 17,400 square feet of interior space were officially completed the following year; however, the exterior was never completed. The North Wing’s interior style and decor appear more subdued than Casa Grande’s opulence.

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Roman Pool

The 205,000-gallon (780,000 liters) Roman Pool is the final stop on all tour experiences, exemplifying the luxury and craftsmanship throughout the estate. Intricate mosaics accented with 24-karat gold leaf surround the pool and its marble statues.

Explore Other Tours

Grand Rooms Tour

Tour Hearst Castle’s opulent social rooms to imagine being a guest of William Randolph Hearst.

Tour details

Upstairs Suites Tour

Explore the upper floors of the architectural wonder called  Casa Grande.

Tour details

Cottages & Kitchen Tour

Tour some of the most personal rooms of the property and some of its most practical ones.

Tour details

All Tours include

A bus Ride to and From the Castle. Board the Hearst Castle bus at the Visitor Center to start your 5-mile ascent to the top of the Enchanted Hill—a journey narrated by Alex Trebek of Jeopardy!

After you’ve finished touring, board the bus to head back to the Visitor Center, and experience a new route home, including the vestiges of the “bear pits” that were built for Hearst’s renowned private Zoo.

Hearst Castle Tour Rules

Reservation Change And Cancellation Policy

Reservations are strongly encouraged. Reservations can be made, changed, or canceled at ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-4445. Changes to tour date or time: no additional charge if made in advance. A non-refundable registration fee per ticket will be charged for cancellations.