Now is your chance to visit a 1450’s Scottish style castle without needing a passport. Cherokee Ranch is tucked just off of 85 in Sedalia/Castle Pines.
Carl Johnson came to Denver in the 1890’s to develop land that is now Park Hill and after that success he decided to build a summer home south of town. So he built a castle, which turned from his Summer home to his full time home. Carl eventually died, and left the home to his son, who then sold it to Tweet Kimball, a rancher from a Tennessee ranching family in 1954. Tweet then bought the property next door, and turned the whole thing into a cattle ranch. Tweet died in 1999 and left the Castle to a foundation that keeps up the appearance an operation of the castle and grounds..
So, how can you visit the ranch? It is on private property, so you cannot just drive up and “pop in”. They do have events open to the public, but the best bet for visiting the ranch is to sign up for one of their many private events. They offer Wine and Whiskey tastings, afternoon teas, special musical events, and if you want to impress the little one in your life, Princess Parties. If you’re looking for a unique date, who wouldn’t be impressed by a castle visit? They do 90 Minute tours so you won’t be required to make small talk with your date. And if you can afford it, you can even get married there.
The Castle itself has everything you would expect from a Scottish castle. There’s a turret that goes up giving you views of the entire front range. There’s stone walls, and of course, a suit of armor. There’s also lots of artifacts from Tweet Kimball’s life. Plus it’s tucked back in a wildlife refuge, so there’s a good chance you will see an Elk, Moose or other wildlife.
To make reservations and check out what events they have going on, CherokeeRanch.org
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