Family Activities:

Scotty’s Castle

Attraction

Scotty’s Castle

123 Scottys Castle Road, Death Valley National Park, CA

Due to a flash flood in 2015, this 1930s “castle” may be closed during your visit, so call in advance. But if it is open, this period villa — in which rangers dress in authentic 1930s attire for house tours — may interest older kids. They might also get a kick out of the 1,121-pipe Welte theater organ that plays throughout tours. There is also a separate, underground “mystery” tour exploring the tunnels beneath the house and a swimming pool that was never finished. Younger kids are likely to be bored, but may want to cool off at the onsite bookstore, which sells sandwiches and drinks.

Tickets must be purchased at least one day in advance at recreation.gov. Open 9 a.m. to 3:45 p.m. House tours are $15 for adults, $7.50 for children 6 to 15, and free for children under 5. Underground tours are separate, and have the same ticket prices. Both tours are an hour each.