Vikingsholm Castle

Overview

Vikingsholm Castle is a historic Scandinavian-style castle located on the shores of Lake Tahoe. It was built in 1929 and is known for its unique architecture and beautiful garden.

It is the only Scots and Norse style castle in the United States and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Castle Historic Site

Location

Address

California-89, Tahoma, California

Neighborhood: Lake Tahoe Basin

Coordinates

39.050000, -120.150000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

tuesday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

wednesday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

thursday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

friday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

saturday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

sunday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$25

Children

$12

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

June-September

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and better photo opportunities

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to cool

• gardens in bloom
• spring wildlife

summer

warm to hot

• extended hours
• outdoor performances

autumn

cool to mild

• fall colors
• harvest festivals

winter

cold and snowy

• holiday decorations
• snowy landscapes

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Check weather conditions
Bring layers for changing weather

What to Bring

essential

tickets ID water

seasonal

jacket umbrella snow boots

not allowed

pets drones large bags

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• uneven surfaces
• stairs

Medical facilities: first aid available on site

Payment Information

Accepted

credit cards, debit cards, cash

Currency

USD

Typical Costs

entry $20

parking $10

food $15

souvenirs $25

Dress Code

casual, comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, comfortable walking shoes, inappropriate clothing, high heels

Booking Tips

• 1 month
• official website
• 48 hours in advance
• available online

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Vikingsholm Castle App

Size: 45 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Tickets

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Reno-Tahoe International Airport

Distance: 80 km

Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

taxi

$120 1 hour 15 min

public_transport

$20 2 hours

From City Center

Distance: 5 km

bus

$2 15 min

taxi

$15 10 min

bike

Free 25 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Unique history and beautiful setting

Historical Significance: One of the few remaining Scandinavian-style castles in the US

Insider Tips

Free entry early morning for photography
Best food at the nearby cafes
Local guides offer unique insights

Local Recommendations

• Try local restaurants in Tahoe City
• Ask for local guides
• Visit nearby Emerald Bay

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hello

thank_you Thank you

where_is Where is

how_much How much

beautiful Beautiful

ticket Ticket

Guide Languages: English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Low angle for dramatic effect

Result: Great shot of the castle facade

#Vikingsholm #LakeTahoe #Castle

Garden

Best Time: Late afternoon

Tips: Wide-angle for the entire garden view

Result: Beautiful garden shots

#Gardens #Nature #LakeTahoe

Lake view

Best Time: Sunset

Tips: Panoramic view

Result: Stunning lake and castle views

#Sunset #LakeTahoe #Views

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Gardens

prohibited areas Interior of the castle during private events, Restricted areas

flash photography not allowed in the interior

commercial photography permit required

drone policy prohibited without special permission

tripod policy allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Emerald Bay State Park

Distance: 5km

Walking: 1 hour

Type: State Park

D.L. Bliss State Park

Distance: 3km

Walking: 40 min