Hearst Castle Visitor Center

Large free outdoor parking. Once inside we discover that the Visitor Center is located a considerable distance from the castle, reachable only by an internal shuttle available upon booking a guided tour lasting at least 2 hours. Not having all this time to spend here, we just treated ourselves to a visit to the large tourist shop, but almost all the souvenirs (beautiful, of course) are marked "Hearst Castle" (very few with "California" or without the logo) and above all sold at a high price!

Ample parking, easy to find
After going to the ticket office, take a bus to go up to the castle.
They are very strict about the departure times, it is good to arrive a little earlier to avoid being scolded.
On the way back, you still pass through the visitor center and you can access the shop, but the souvenirs and all the other items present are really expensive.

Lots of food and coffee also large shop
Worth watching the film on how it all began in the theatre this is included in your ticket if you bust the castle

What a fascinating experience, well worth the $30 per head, excellent guides, very, very informative. We enjoyed ourselves, highly recommend.

Born and raised in southern California always have wanted to visit Hearst Castle.
This was truly a wonderful experience and I am so happy that I took the time to visit.
I highly recommend the tour and the history is absolutely fascinating.
Not for young children.
You are requested to not touch and stay on the designated floor runners throughout the castle tour.

The 40-45 minute documentary in the Theater at the Visitor Center was very well done. The fire engine in the lobby is a nice touch. Gift shops are about supplied. Food is a bit pricey.

The exhibits are okay overall, but what completely ruined it was that it heaped uncritical praise on Hearst and left out anything even remotely controversial. At times, it was really just a fawning hagiography. They completely left out his early support of the Nazis in Germany or any of the problems caused by his "Yellow Press".

Made me wary of trusting the info provided and I didn't want to buy any books because I couldn't trust them to be reasonably neutral.

Very well organized but expensive with everything you may purchase. A total visit takes a long time if you want to take in everything inside and out.

Always a treat to visit the castle. Get to see something new every time! Absolutely gorgeous views surrounding the castle. Tour guides are very knowledgeable. Enjoyable, relaxing, and entertaining.

Spanish, English, Egyptian. How his architect fit it all together and rebuild it multiple times due to lack of size…

Great place to visit and different tours offered at Hearst Castle. Visitor Center offers a gift shop and food options. Please note that in August 2023, the restrooms were not working inside the building.

Highly suggested by many and my father & I were completed pleased; not let down whatsoever! Beautiful weather to show off everything inside & out, wonderful photos taken, and I have already sent out Hearst postcards to several friends outta state!

Absolutely incredible! Everyone should go to at least one tour. Dress for Paso Robles weather, it is a little warm.

If you are looking to spend quality time with family, friends, or even alone, Hearst Castle is top choice.
The setup is similar to those popular theme parks, tickets, food, gifts, and, of course, coffee! Starbucks! They may not be stocked to serve every drink found at "Starbucks", there is White
Chocolate, chocolate, caramel, vanilla, and hazelnut syrup are available.
They also offer raspberry and preach flavor shots for their unsweetened black ice tea.
Just a reminder, only bottled water is allowed on the bus/tour, so arrive with plenty of time to hydrate beforehand.
Last but not least, Saturdays are now reserved for BBQ! EVERY SATURDAY.
They do sell out, so if you want it, be prompt! Care opens at 11am but coffee is served at 830. Souvenirs are plentiful!