One of New Jersey’s most distinctive architectural landmarks has been hidden from public view for years. Now, it’s welcoming visitors again.
Lambert Castle, the 1892 European-inspired mansion perched atop Garrett Mountain in Paterson, officially reopened to the public in January following a comprehensive multi-year restoration project. Sporting sweeping views of New York City, the castle remains one of the most underrated historical destinations in the state—a Gilded Age showpiece that most New Jerseyans have never seen.
The reopening marks a significant moment for Passaic County historic preservation. The county is now inviting residents to experience a historical slice of New Jersey that’s been largely forgotten.
A Castle Built for Silk and Art
Lambert Castle originated as the vision of silk manufacturer Catholina Lambert, who commissioned the mansion in 1892 as both residence and showplace.
Four years later, Lambert expanded the estate with an art gallery and observation tower—AKA Lambert Tower. Today, it’s one of the only fully developed examples of castellated residential architecture in the United States.
The original 53-acre estate included the mansion, gatehouse, carriage and greenhouse complex, and formal Italianate gardens. From its perch overlooking Garrett Mountain, the castle enjoys sweeping views. By all accounts, it was a castle built for an elite—and Lambert’s prominence in the then-booming silk industry commanded it.
From Private Estate to Public Museum
The Passaic County Parks Commission acquired Lambert Castle in 1927, preserving it for public benefit.
The Passaic County Historical Society began operating a museum within the castle in 1934, transforming the then-private mansion into a cultural institution for all to see. For decades, the castle served as both office space and museum—showcasing Passaic County’s historic and recreational offerings.
The 5-Year Restoration
In 2021, restoration work began.
Concluding in January 2026, the five-year project reflects the complexity of returning structures to their original form while maintaining modern safety and accessibility standards. The efforts encompassed work across the entire property, including the castle itself, the carriage house complex, and Lambert Tower. It was led by Clarke Caton Hintz—a preservation architectural firm based in Trenton.
The restoration combined structural repairs, interior restoration, accessibility upgrades, and construction of a new visitor center. Funding came from county investment supplemented by grants from the New Jersey Historic Trust, Friends of Passaic County Parks, Inc., and the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Green Acres Program. Passaic County stresses that the collaboration between these groups was paramount to preserving the landmark.
Lambert Castle: Open to Visit
Lambert Castle is open for public tours now. Visitors explore the restored interiors, updated grounds, learn about the castle’s origins, and experience one of Passaic County’s most iconic structures—just as it was in 1892.
The castle is listed on the Paterson Register of Historic Places, the New Jersey State Register of Historic Places, and the National Register of Historic Places.
Additional information about hours and ongoing programming is available at See Passaic County.
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