The Biltmore Estate offers an impressive and expansive property perfect for a weekend trip!
History
Inspired by the incredible residences of Europe, the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina was conceived and built by the Vanderbilt family. The family lived at the estate between 1895 to the 1950s, after which it was preserved and open to the public.
Where to Stay
There are three options right on the Biltmore property–the moderate Village Hotel, the luxury The Inn, and private cottages. Overnight stays can be bundled with admission tickets for additional savings.
Asheville is only a short drive away and offers a variety of hotels to choose from for all budgets.
How long do you need?
The estate is a huge property! To keep from rushing, you probably need at least a day and a half to explore (though you could certainly spend much more).
Do you need a vehicle?
Probably. The main house is set far back on the property and there are multiple areas to visit scattered across the grounds. For ease of exploration, it is best to have your own vehicle.
Ride share services such as Uber and Lyft drop off at the main house only. Biltmore does offer a shuttle service between the ticketing center, the main house, Antler Hill Village, and Amherst at Deerpark. An all day pass will cost $15.
Tickets
It is best to purchase tickets in advance as dates during the busy seasons do sell out. In addition, purchasing online in advance saves $5 per ticket.
There are a wide variety of ticket choices available depending on your interests and available time. One day grounds only or house and grounds (which include an audio guide tour of the estate) are available. Additionally, there are options which bundle additional exhibits and more focused tours along with a second day grounds only ticket.
Things to Do
Main House: One of the highlights of visiting the Biltmore Estate is a tour of the main house. Most people opt for a self-guided audio tour that lasts approximately 1.5 hours (with a special version for kids that is narrated by one of the family’s Saint Bernards!) which is included with most tickets. There are also more in depth guided tours at an additional cost.
Gardens and Grounds: A variety of amazing gardens, greenhouses, and walking trails are located throughout the 8,000 acre property. Those with an interest in birdwatching might be interested in a guided bird walks (at additional cost).
Exhibition: From Chihuly to King Tut, the Amherst venue at Deerpark features traveling exhibitions.
Restaurants: Numerous restaurants serving fresh farm to table fare are spread across the property. If you’re staying at one of the Biltmore property hotels, you might want to check out the exclusive Farm to Table Tour and Tasting.
Winery: Take a tour of the dairy barn turned winery and enjoy a complimentary wine tasting. Or add on a wine and chocolate tasting class.
And more!: Including horse back riding, carriage rides, barn tours, falconry, sport shooting, kid’s playground, a barnyard full of animals, bicycling, and spa services.
Other Things to Do in the Area
While the Biltmore estate offers plenty to keep you busy for an entire weekend, the Asheville area has lots of other options available as well! Downtown Asheville has tons of great shopping and restaurants. Enjoy some Shakespeare thanks to the Montford Park Players. Or check out the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.
