About Bettendorf Castle

 

Front of Old Castle

Our Mission

To provide unique and memorable experiences for all of our guests. 

 

History…

In 1931, Theodore “Teddy” Bettendorf immigrated to America from Luxembourg. Overlooking the town of Fox River Grove, he began building a castle that took over 36 years of dedication and hard work. As a boy, Teddy learned his masonry skills from watching a historic castle being rebuilt in his hometown of Vianden, Luxembourg. In his building of the castle, he collected stones from such places as local farmers’ fields, stone quarries, and the excavation of Lake Julian. In addition to the castle itself, there is a water-filled moat, a wishing well, a working drawbridge, an outside bathroom and sink, an outdoor fireplace, an observation tower,  and a courtyard. Since its completion, the Bettendorf Castle has been used as a honeymoon suite, for the filming of commercials, various civic events, and as a private residence.

Featured Articles In Local Pubications

 
 

Castles of McHenry County

 

McHenry County Magazine
January 19, 2016
 in ARTS & ATTRACTIONSGOING PLACESHISTORYLANDMARKSRECREATION by ERICA BURKE

McHenry County tops Illinois’ “hidden castle” list. View this article regarding Bettendorf Castle here

 
 
 

Bettendorf Castle

 

McHenry County Living
December 5, 2011
 in ARTS & ATTRACTIONSGOING PLACESHISTORYINDIVIDUALS by PATRICK KING

Ted Bettendorf built his castle home in fox river grove from the ground up, one piece at a time till the day he died. Click here to view this article featuring the Bettendorf Castle

 
 
 
 

The Mystery of Bettendorf Castle

 

Quintessential Barrington
March-April Issue, 2012
 by JEFFERY WESTOFF

Growing up in a castle can be a bit like living in a Hardy Boys book. That’s how Bill Strohl felt
during the boyhood afternoons he and his younger brother, Danny, spent exploring the chambers of  the Bettendorf Castle

Tour Reviews & Testimonials

  • This is a great place to tour with your family! The owner is very informative when telling the history and stories of the castle! You and your little ones will be astounded at the whimsical beauty of the castle when you visit for a tour! It looks like you just walked into a real-life fairytale! The owners are very nice and kind! They will surely make your experience unforgettable! I highly recommend taking your family to visit this hidden gem!
     
     
    Tina Marie
  • Yes. It was fun. Very interesting that it was built by one man and took over 30 years to build it.

    Pat W.
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Creating Unique & Memorable Experiences

418 Concord Ave. Fox River Grove IL, 60021