This summer, The Foundation at Hearst Castle collaborated with Hearst Castle tour guides and Airbnb to launch a virtual experience called “Hearst & Hollywood.” The 75-minute livestream tour of Hearst Castle is only available via Airbnb’s Online Experience platform and 100% of revenues benefit The Foundation at Hearst Castle.
With Hearst Castle closed until at least the end of the year to fix the drainage system beneath the roads to the hilltop (damaged from a major storm), this very special online experience is the only way to access the castle!
We are happy to report stellar reviews from virtual guests! Highlights:
“I don’t normally have magical experiences over Zoom, but this tour was something really spectacular. Awesome views of the grounds, as well as the gorgeous rooms inside the castle. For the price of entry, I was floored at the effort these guides put into giving me a truly special time.” – Brandon (New York), November 2021
“Excellent presentation and representation of Hearst Castle. Tour guides provided a passionate and deep grasp of the times, property, guests and Hearst himself. Highly recommend this tour – great value on all fronts!” – Mary Elizabeth, October 2021
“Great virtual tour of an incredible landmark! It was great to see a “cast” all dressed up to bring us back to the early 1900s. Can’t wait to visit in person!” – Davy, September 2021
“I am so glad I booked this for my mom’s 83rd birthday! An amazing experience, personalized and entertaining. The cast and guide were so friendly and they all sang happy birthday to my mom from Neptune’s Pool! What a great gift. A perfect way to experience the castle from anywhere and a great activity during Covid closures. I cannot thank the tour team enough for how special they made this experience. I’ll be booking this again and highly recommend you do the same!” – Jake, August 2021
“Best Hour and a half I’ve had in a long time. Highly recommended!” – Bob, September 2021
Because our cooperative association is a nonprofit, Airbnb contributes 100% of proceeds to our organization in support of our mission to preserve and educate. Many thanks to Hearst Castle guides for the time and care they’ve invested in this special virtual program.
The Foundation at Hearst Castle is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit association affiliated with Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument® and the San Luis Obispo Coast District of California State Parks. EIN 77-0068533. All funds raised will help to support the conservation of Hearst Castle and its 25,000 pieces of art, plus education programs designed for middle schoolers from underserved communities.
Visit the “Hearst & Hollywood” Airbnb Online Experience listing for details and tickets. Note: This program will be on hiatus for the holiday season. Look for more dates in early 2022.
To support our efforts, please consider making a contribution today. Learn more about how you can help preserve Hearst Castle and expand education programs for under-resourced schoolchildren.
