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Rubel Castle castle in Glendora, CA
Photo: Rubel Castle
View of Rubel Castle in Glendora, CA
Photo: Michelle Gerdes
View of Rubel Castle in Glendora, CA
Photo: Michael Wilday

Rubel Castle

4.7(223 reviews)$Museum
🕑 1-1.5 hours👶 Best for ages 4-12. Younger elementary kids are captivated by the castle's magical, storybook appearance and love exploring the unusual architecture, while older children appreciate the creativity and history behind this folk art masterpiece.

About

Rubel Castle is a whimsical, hand-built wonder that looks like it jumped straight out of a fairytale, constructed over 60 years from recycled materials, stones, and found objects. Kids are absolutely enchanted by this quirky castle's towers, secret passageways, and treasure-filled nooks that spark imagination and adventure. It's an affordable, off-the-beaten-path gem that offers a unique blend of art, history, and fantasy that you won't find anywhere else.

Highlights

  • Exploring the unique hand-built castle towers and archways made from found materials and recycled objects
  • Discovering hidden details like embedded bottles, antique tools, and quirky decorations throughout the structure
  • Learning the fascinating story of Michael Rubel and his decades-long labor of love
  • Seeing the collection of unusual artifacts and treasures displayed throughout the castle
  • Taking memorable photos in front of this one-of-a-kind folk art landmark

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Tours are typically offered on weekends only, so call ahead or check their schedule before visiting to confirm availability and tour times.
  2. 2.Wear closed-toe shoes as the castle grounds have uneven surfaces, stones, and stairs that aren't ideal for sandals or flip-flops.
  3. 3.Bring your camera! The castle's unique architecture and quirky details make for incredible photo opportunities that kids will love looking back on.
  4. 4.Let kids know ahead of time that they can't climb on everything to avoid disappointment, but there's still plenty to see and explore safely.
  5. 5.The tour guides are passionate about the castle's history, so encourage kids to ask questions about how and why it was built.

Best Time to Visit

Weekend mornings are ideal when tours are available and temperatures are cooler, especially important during summer months. Visiting in spring or fall offers the most comfortable weather for exploring the outdoor castle grounds.

What to Know

Tours are donation-based (very budget-friendly), and the castle is primarily outdoors, so dress for the weather. Parking is available on-site, but this is a guided tour experience, so plan to follow the group rather than exploring freely on your own.

Seasonal Notes

The castle is open year-round but tours are weather-dependent and typically offered on weekends. Summer can be hot since it's mostly outdoors, so spring and fall offer the most pleasant visiting conditions. Always confirm tour availability before making the trip.

Nearby Eats

Downtown Glendora is just minutes away with family-friendly options like The Hat for classic pastrami sandwiches and burgers, or The Donut Man (famous for their seasonal fresh strawberry donuts that kids go crazy for).

More Activities Near Glendora

Library

Glendora Public Library

4.5Free

Glendora Public Library is a welcoming community hub that offers far more than just books for families. With dedicated children's sections, regularly scheduled story times, and engaging educational programs, it's a perfect free destination for fostering a love of reading and learning in kids while providing comfortable, air-conditioned spaces for families to explore together.

Adventure

Glendora Mountain Road

Free

Glendora Mountain Road is a scenic mountain drive and hiking access point that treats adventurous families to stunning panoramic views of the San Gabriel Valley. This free outdoor destination offers multiple trailheads and pull-off points where families can enjoy easy to moderate hikes, picnic spots, and breathtaking vistas that make kids feel like they're on top of the world.

Park

North Live Oak Avenue

Free

North Live Oak Avenue in Glendora offers families a classic neighborhood park experience with plenty of natural shade from mature oak trees. This relaxed community space provides the perfect setting for active play, pickup games, and leisurely picnics without the crowds of larger regional parks.

Park

Finkbiner Park

4.6Free

Finkbiner Park offers families a perfect mountain escape right in Glendora, with gentle hiking trails winding through beautiful natural scenery that kids can actually complete. The well-maintained park combines picnic facilities with nature exploration opportunities, making it ideal for families who want outdoor adventure without the hassle of driving to more remote mountain locations.