Step into a verdant wonderland with Gardens Galore at Castle Farms!
Join us for an enchanting journey through meticulously crafted landscapes, guided by the very hands that shaped them.
Embark on a sensory adventure as we delve into the rich history and botanical marvels of Castle Farms. Led by the visionary Castle Farm owner, Linda Mueller, who conceived and nurtured these gardens into existence, and accompanied by a seasoned master gardener, immerse yourself in a tapestry of blooms, scents, and stories.
Your experience begins with a captivating 12-minute video unveiling the fascinating history that laid the foundation for these stunning grounds. Weather permitting, hop aboard our tram for a leisurely ride through the sprawling gardens, where every turn reveals a new botanical treasure.
As you wander, our expert guides will regale you with tales of the past intertwined with fascinating insights into the diverse plant life that calls Castle Farms home. Discover the secrets behind the design choices, cultivation techniques, and the enduring legacy that continues to flourish within these hallowed grounds.
With a limit of 25 guests, this intimate journey ensures every attendee receives personalized attention and ample opportunities to ask questions as well as connect with the beauty that surrounds them. Whether you're a seasoned horticultural enthusiast or simply seeking solace in nature's embrace, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for all.
Cancellations are non-refundable within 48 hours of this event.
The History of Castle Farms:
Castle Farms was built in 1918 by the acting President of Sears & Roebuck. He built it as a working dairy farm so he could advertise and test all of the great new farming equipment that the company developed and sold. He loved castles, so he asked his architect to design the farm to resemble a French, Normandy style Castle.
Over the years, the Castle became an artist Mecca and concert venue before the current owner, Linda, purchased it in 2001. She immediately began restoring the facility to its former glory. The descendants of the Loeb family were so impressed with the efforts that Linda made on the property that they offered her a copy of the original blueprints. Using those for the remainder of her restoration, Linda and her team were able to rebuild Castle Farms to be historically accurate.
The Castle is now host to an average of 200 weddings per year, special events & fund raisers, and daily historical tours. There are now 10 gardens on property, each boasting many different flowers blooming all season long. The Blacksmith Shop has been turned into a 1918/WWI Museum featuring items from the Sears & Roebuck catalog, complete with advertising page, along with local WWI memorabilia.
60 trains run on over 3/4 mile of track throughout Michigan's largest garden railroad. A model of the Pier Marquette, the train the Loeb family took from Chicago to their summer home in Charlevoix, can be seen pulling into the old Charlevoix Depot in the realistic display. Many fantasy trains, built on property, run around on tracks weaving up on top of, around, and through a nearby hedge maze.
There are also collections from castles all over the world, metal work forged on site by the 2nd owner, concert memorabilia, reflection pond, life sized chess sets, and, of course, a dragon!
