Endless Acres: 14 of the Biggest Properties in America

Despite its ever-changing monikers—over the years, the castle has been called Hearst Castle, La Cuesta Encantada ("The Enchanted Hill"), and The Ranch—the impressive acreage and architectural scale of this property has endured. The 90,000-square-foot estate, the dream and life's project of newspaper tycoon William Randolph Hearst, comprises the Mediterranean-style Casa Grande and three guest houses, which sit on a 127-acre landscape complete with gardens, pools, and even a private zoo.

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Despite its nickname of "Hidden Pond," this jaw-droppingly enormous estate in the exclusive Barrington Hills residential village isn't hiding from anyone. The 30,000-square-foot abode with 8 bedrooms and 14 baths gets a boost of aesthetic appeal from its 70-acre lot adorned with manicured hedges and elegant stone edging.

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A single parcel of land wasn't enough to contain this 6,500-square-foot abode, its 12,000-square-foot car showroom, and its 2,200-square-foot landing strip—which is why the property spans a whopping 47 parcels totaling 525 acres. The grounds of the five-bedroom, five-bathroom luxury home feature eight miles of bridle paths and hiking trails, scenic bridges, and tranquil waterfalls. With more than 3,000 trees and hundreds of species of flowers and shrubs, the estate is an ecosystem unto itself.

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Cabin fever is unlikely to set in at the 41,318-square-foot Elk Mountain Lodge. Spanning four land parcels on 82 verdant acres, the rustic retreat offers plenty of room for outdoor enthusiasts to hike, fish the two trout ponds, or take in views of scenic Castle Creek Valley. Those who prefer to stay within the cushy confines of four walls will love the 14,987-square-foot rustic main house and three adjacent single-family dwellings.

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Built in 1927 for the daughter of famed industrialist Andrew Carnegie, the renovated Migdale Castle still boasts luxuries befitting billionaire tastes. The 34,549-square-foot interior has 10 bedrooms and 17 baths, and the mansion stands on a generous 438 acres that encompass a tennis court and cabana, an organic garden, and placid ponds, all overlooking the scenic Catskill Mountains.

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If you're exploring the tranquil lagoon of Biscayne Bay, it's hard to miss this imposing structure, the former home of industrialist James Deering. Dubbed "Villa Vizcaya" after the northern Spanish province of Vizcaya, the deluxe estate integrates elements of Mediterranean Revival architectural throughout its 38,000-square-foot main house, from a spotless stucco facade to a radiant red-tiled roof. The main house and formal garden now sit on 50 acres, although the property extended to 180 acres before a portion was sold off.

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Residents of this mountaintop dwelling don't need a country club membership to hit the golf course; they can tee off every day at the miniature putting green built right on the grounds. Of course, with close to 90 acres at their disposal, the owners can take up plenty of other hobbies as well, including tennis at the lighted court, gardening in the fenced orchard, or shooting at the on-site range. For more creative pursuits , a photographer's studio and art gallery lie inside the 8,150-square-foot residence.

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Redwood, glass, and marble join forces to achieve this architectural masterpiece in Rancho Santa Fe. The 8,148-square-foot Del Dios Ranch has 61 private acres to its name, giving residents a sprawling hilltop observation area overlooking San Diego County.

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The Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens was built in the early 20th century for Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company founder F. A. Seiberling. The 64,500-square-foot Tudor Revival estate as well as the surrounding 70 acres and a collection of contrasting gardens reflects the titanic presence of the home's former resident. The property is now a house museum and National Historic Landmark, open to visitors eager to experience its opulence and learn about its past. 

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The 8,038 square feet that make up this decadent 7-bedroom, 10-bathroom dwelling strike an imposing figure in Greenwich. But even more than the staggering dimensions of the abode, the limitless lawn commands attention . Surrounded by 80 acres planted with dense foliage, the stately home affords residents a daily panorama of green as far as the eye can see.

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The 38,000-square-foot interior of this extravagant four-story estate is so monumental that it houses two elevators. The palatial property is ensconced within a 50-acre lot featuring an equestrian facility, lake, walking bridge, and picture-perfect gardens.

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Discover and admire beautiful and innovative home architecture, from grand Victorians to quaint cabins and all the styles in between. Take a look at the latest images and inspiration!