Living History Program
Guests invited to William
Randolph Hearst's estate at San Simeon in the 1930's would be
treated to a memorable weekend at "The Ranch." As
with many country estates during the time period, visitors would
often find all of their travel arrangements made for them, whether
arriving by train, by car or later by airplane at his private
landing strip. A relaxing weekend might include swimming in
one of the two elegant pools, horseback riding, picnicking,
tennis or a relaxing afternoon spent browsing through the library.
For Hearst's editors it might be a working weekend at the estate.
Many notable guests visited the estate during this time period
and enjoyed Mr. Hearst's hospitality.
Today, Hearst Castle comes to life at night with Living
History Docents in 1930's dress recreating that time period,
lounging by the Neptune Pool or strolling through the rose-scented
gardens and enjoying the spectacular sunset. For other sports-minded
guests, a game of tennis may be planned prior to dinner. Indoors,
guests may be playing poker in the Assembly Room or putting
a jigsaw puzzle together. A butler serves cocktails in the Assembly
Room, while a maid hurries by with an armload of towels for
the guest rooms. A movie star may try his hand at the grand
piano in the corner, impressing an up and coming starlet, playing
one of the popular tunes of the day. In the Billiard Room two
Hearst editors are engrossed in a game. Meanwhile, the chef
in the kitchen is busy preparing dinner for the large group.
Evening Tours (Tour 5)
at Hearst Castle are seasonally available and feature the Living
History Docents as they bring life to the Hilltop and demonstrate
what a visit to the Castle might have been like in the 1930's.
Because of the popularity of these special tours it is highly
recommended that you make reservations in advance.
"Hearst Castle", "Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument", "La Cuesta Encantada",
and "The Enchanted Hill" are registered trademarks of Hearst Castle®/California State Parks.
©2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 California State Parks, All rights reserved.
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