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The Stunning Building In Arkansas That Looks Just Like Hogwarts

Dromborg Castle in Arkansas resembles Hogwarts and offers a magical experience for Harry Potter fans.

Updated Sep 22, 2023

Written by 

Melanie Johnson

Calling all Potter fans. Hop on board the Hogwarts Express from Platform 9 ¾ at the Kings Crossing Station. We are about to venture to a gorgeous castle in Arkansas that looks just like something from Hogwarts. Dromborg Castle is a secluded castle cradled on a hill in Fayetteville, that will make you romanticize the magic and wizardry of the Harry Potter fantasy. Come with me on this whimsical adventure to explore this Arkansas Hogwarts look-alike castle..

Whether you’re team Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, or Ravenclaw, you’ll absolutely love Castle Dromborg, which is a private residence nestled on top of a hill in Fayetteville.

Aerial view of a large house surrounded by dense green trees and winding paths in a natural landscape.
The Dromborg

Similar to Hogwarts that is surrounded by mountains, this luxurious castle is situated in a picturesque setting overlooking the gorgeous Ozark Mountains in the distance.

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Built in 2008 by owners Bruce and Joan Johnson, the Dromborg was constructed using over 4,000 tons of Arkansas rock.

Aerial view of a large stone mansion surrounded by greenery and hills under a partly cloudy sky.
Megan Wilcox/Google

And due to its gorgeous architecture, this incredible residence is considered a Landmark Heritage Property.

This beautiful 12,000-square-foot structure is an architectural wonder that was inspired by Scottish castles and cathedrals from around the world.

Aerial view of a stone tower surrounded by lush greenery and a winding driveway under a partly cloudy sky.
The Castle Dromborg/Facebook

At the top of a 4-story tower there’s a 70-foot observation deck overlooking the courtyard, with panoramic views of the mountains in the distance.

Can’t you imagine standing on the deck watching Harry Potter and his friends practicing their wizardry, while flying on their broomsticks around this castle?

A stone terrace with a fireplace overlooks a scenic view of rolling hills under a cloudy sky.
The Castle Dromborg/Facebook

Or perhaps cheering while they engage in an intense game of quidditch around the property.

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While the exterior of the castle is breathtaking, the interior will leave you speechless. The design is reminiscent of English Gothic architecture complemented with Corinthian and Tuscan orders.

A spacious, elegantly designed room with wooden beams, ornate carvings, and a large chandelier above a kitchen area.
The Dromborg

From the vaulted ceilings to the many chandeliers to the gargoyles sculptures, all the intricate details of this castle will remind you of something from a Harry Potter book.

Not to mention the study with dark wood finishes, exposed beams, and pillars with the intricate details.

Luxurious living room with wooden beams, elegant furniture, a fireplace, and a cozy reading nook.
The Dromborg

Though this bedroom is shabby chic, the simplicity of the design can be compared to that of the dorms in the Harry Potter novels. Down to the wooden floors and the windows on either side of the bed.

Cozy bedroom with wooden beams, a bed, armchair, and a decorative rug, featuring large windows and natural light.
The Dromborg

One thing’s for sure, this gorgeous castle has everything to make your Harry Potter fantasies of witchcraft and wizardry come to life.

Interested in the story behind Dromborg Castle? Check out this YouTube video by Northwest Arkansas Alive detailing the inspiration behind this gorgeous architectural wonder.

https://youtu.be/FqNLxFtZctY?si=UyCbYcLbcio6a6rc

So, what do you think about Castle Dromborg? Does this gorgeous castle in Arkansas remind you of something from Hogwarts? Or do you think there’s another structure in Arkansas that looks like it could be in a Harry Potter novel. Tell us in the comments below.

Also discover more about this Hogwarts castle by visiting Dromborg Castle website. Wanna spend the night inside an actual castle in Arkansas? Consider a stay at Stonehaven Castle and live some of your fairytale fantasies.

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Experiences|Sights & Landmarks

The Incredible Church In Arkansas That Has Been Left In Ruins

Published Mar 28, 2024

Written by 

Melanie Johnson

If you've driven through Helena at the corner of York and Columbia Street, chances are you've seen the Centennial Baptist Church. This gorgeous church was once a prominent place for community members to gather and worship. However, due to unforeseen circumstances, this church is now in ruins. However, the legacy of this abandoned church in Arkansas still lives on. Here at OIYS, we love to cover historical places and tell the stories of Arkansas' rich history.

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Built in 1905, the Centennial Baptist Church is a gorgeous Gothic-style Revival that reflects architectural excellence. The brainchild of Henry James Price, a church parishioner, it's the only building in Arkansas designed by an African American architect.

Historic brick church with arched windows and a tall steeple, set against a clear blue sky.
Brandonrush, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Starting in 1879, with the leadership of renowned Pastor Elias Camp Morris, this historical church became a prominent place for the community to worship. As pastor, Morris grew the congregation to more than 1,000 members and remained pastor until his death in 1922.

Sign for Centennial Baptist Church, detailing its history and significance in the African American community.
Dave Wilson/Google

Eventually, it became the headquarters for the National Baptist Convention, USA, which was an organization established by Morris.

The church was eventually abandoned in 2003, and in 2020, tornados passed through the area and as you can see, a big chunk of the church suffered significant damages. Of course, this didn't help with chances of restoration.

A damaged church with a collapsed roof, surrounded by greenery and a street, with a police car nearby.
Courtvonderhaas, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

While efforts were being made to preserve the structure, the storm was a major setback. No repairs have been done since, so the church still sits with the gaping hole and left in ruins.

A historic church in disrepair, with a nearby informational sign, set against a cloudy sky and empty street.
Dave Wilson/Google

It's sad to see this legendary church in the state that it's in. Thankfully, due to its significance, it was placed on the National Historical Places in 1987 and designated a National Historic Landmark in 2003.

A dilapidated church with a collapsed roof, surrounded by a fence, on a rainy street.
Dave Wilson/Google

Over the years, nature has reclaimed the space. But I find something quite beautiful seeing this Gothic building adorned with the growing vines.

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Abandoned brick building with ivy-covered towers and a partially collapsed roof under a blue sky with clouds.
Joe Spake/Google

The next time you find yourself driving through Helena, be sure to stop by this abandoned church and think about its rich history and the incredible legacy it has left behind.

Abandoned building covered in ivy, with a damaged roof, surrounded by overgrown grass and a chain-link fence.
Google Maps

Did you know about this abandoned church in Arkansas? If so, share with us what you know. Learn more about Centennial Baptist Church by visiting the Preserve Arkansas website.

Love to explore abandoned places? Here's a road trip featuring some more abandoned places in Arkansas.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/arkansas/abandoned-ar-road-trip/

Or check out this website with some historical places in Arkansas that are worth visiting.

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Experiences|Sights & Landmarks

Crossing This 150-Year-Old Bridge In Arkansas Is Like Walking Through History

Published Feb 1, 2024

Written by 

Melanie Johnson

As the oldest remaining iron bowstring truss bridge in Arkansas, you can only imagine the amount of history tied to the Springfield-Des Arc Bridge. Built in 1874 to link Springfield to the steamboat hub of Des Arc, this 150-year-old relic has stood the test of time. And after flooding, fires, vandalism, and more, this bridge has lived on to tell its story. Let’s head to Beaverfork Park Lake in Conway to stroll across this historic bridge in Arkansas.

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From a distance, this well constructed arch bridge sitting over Lake Beaverfork looks pretty normal. But what you may not know is that this bridge is the oldest of its kind in Arkansas.

Aerial view of a serene lake with a bridge, surrounded by lush greenery and lily pads.
Johnny Hooper, GRI/Google

Originally built in 1874 over Cadron Creek in Faulkner-Conway County, the Springfield-Des Arc Bridge has experienced a lot throughout its 150+year history.

A black and white photo of a bridge over a calm river, surrounded by lush trees and greenery.
Taft, Louise T.Related names:King, ZenasKing Bridge Manufactory and Iron WorksPreston, George B, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The bridge was constructed to connect Springfield to the steamboat port on the White River. So, of course, it became a popular route for folks traveling in the area.

However, from the time it was constructed until 1982, the bridge was damaged by extreme flooding. Attempts were made to save the bridge, and it was even added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988.

An old, abandoned arch bridge surrounded by lush green trees and overgrown vegetation.
Valis55, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Shortly after restoration efforts were made in 1991, the bridge began to decay and was eventually vandalized with graffiti and fires. Luckily, in 2011, Faulkner County Historical Society and Workin' Bridges of Grinnell Iowa coordinated efforts for a final rescue of this significant bridge.

An old, rusty bridge spans a calm river, with sunlight filtering through trees, creating a serene atmosphere.
Josh C/Google

It was restored and relocated to Beaverfork Lake Park in Conway, where it is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Aerial view of a serene lake with a boat ramp, grassy areas, and wooded surroundings on a sunny day.
Conway, Arkansas, City of Colleges/Facebook

Today, fully renovated and used only for pedestrian traffic, this historic bridge has a lot of life left in it. And if you ask us, it's worth a visit.

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A rusted metal bridge arches over a calm lake, surrounded by green trees and a clear blue sky.
Teresa Gorecke/Google

So, plan a day trip to Beaverfork Lake Park, where you can enjoy kayaking, fishing, swimming, and more. And while you're there, stroll across this timeless relic and read about its tumultuous but fascinating history.

Two people in a kayak on a calm lake, with a sandy beach and greenery in the background.
Tammie Hunn/Google

The Springfield-Des Arc Bridge is truly one of Arkansas’ treasured gems.

So, what do you think about this historic bridge in Arkansas? Have you had a chance to stroll across this 150-year-old relic? If so, tell us about it in the comments below.

And if you plan a trip to see the bridge, we found a great hotel in Conway that's less than 10 minutes away from the park.

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