Revel in Unparalleled Luxury: Asheville's Biltmore Estate Awaits You
Exploring the Grand Scale of America's Biggest Privately-Owned Residence: The Biltmore Estate
Asheville, North Carolina; a city celebrated for its craft beer, quirky vibe, and lush greenery. But there's more to this Southern gem than meets the eye. The Biltmore Estate, home to America's largest privately owned mansion, deserves top billing on your Asheville itinerary.
Get ready to immerse yourself in a world of grandeur, history, and scenic beauty. Here's your guide to exploring the prestigious Biltmore Estate with gusto!
Welcome to George Vanderbilt's epic Biltmore Estate!
Biltmore Estate is a testament to the opulence of the Gilded Age and the vision of its creator, George Vanderbilt. This sprawling 8,000-acre complex, nestled among the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a treasure trove of architecture, gardens, wineries, and luxurious accommodation.
What awaits you at the Biltmore Estate
- 250-room Biltmore House
- 75-acres of meticulously manicured gardens
- The nations most-visited winery
- Hiking trails
- Restaurants
- Five-star accommodations
TOP TIPS FOR VISITING THE BILTMORE ESTATE
- Buying Your Biltmore Tickets
Tickets are essential to enter the estate. Purchase them online, starting from $86 USD for adults, with weekends costing slightly more. For a comprehensive two-hour guided tour, you'll pay $319 USD. Kids under 9 enter free, while 10-16-year-olds receive discounted admission.
- What's Included With Your Ticket
Access to the Biltmore House, the Biltmore Gardens Railway, the latest Art Exhibition, and Biltmore Winery tastings are all included with your ticket.
- Visit the Biltmore Estate
The Biltmore is a self-guided experience, but an audio guide is available. If you'd prefer a guided tour, consider the custom two-hour option for an additional fee.
- Time Your Visit
While a tour of the main house usually takes 1-2 hours, plan for 6-8 hours to thoroughly enjoy the estate's gardens, grounds, Antler Hill Village, and more.
- Exploring the Biltmore House
Richard Morris Hunt designed the house in the Chateauesque style, adorned with elaborate towers, gargoyles, and steep roofs. The four-floor home houses the Vanderbilt family's original collection of art and furniture.
- Gardens and Grounds
Take a stroll through the expansive gardens, featuring thousands of ancient trees, vibrant blooms, and koi-filled lily ponds. Don't miss the Shrub Garden and the rose garden!
- Hiking Trails
Embark on one of the 22-mile hiking trails, winding through woodlands and open meadows along the French Broad River.
- Antler Hill Village
Better known as Antler Hill, this charming village offers live music, shopping, dining, and educational opportunities. It's the perfect spot for a post-tour meal!
- The Winery at Antler Hill
Discover the history behind the estate's winery, founded by George Vanderbilt's grandson, William Cecil. Indulge in complimentary tastings and premium wine pairings at the indoor/outdoor wine bar.
- The Vanderbilt Family
Learn about the extraordinary life of Cornelius Vanderbilt, the railroad tycoon who skyrocketed to riches during the Gilded Age. Discover how his grandson, George Washington Vanderbilt II, built the Biltmore Estate as a summer retreat.
- Fun Facts About Biltmore Estate
Did you know the Biltmore Estate is the largest privately owned home in the United States, with a staggering 135,280 square feet of living space? The estate's basement is also the largest in the country, complete with a heated swimming pool, bowling alley, and gymnasium.
- Extra Tips for Visiting the Biltmore Estate
- The estate's tulips, annuals, and mums paint a kaleidoscope of colors across the spring, summer, and fall landscapes. Visit in late May for a display of roses.
- Stay overnight at The Inn at Biltmore Estate or the Village Hotel and enjoy exclusive access to tours, activities, and an immersive Biltmore experience.
- The library is an often-overlooked gem. Take a moment to appreciate George Vanderbilt's extensive collection of over 22,000 books.
- Arrive early to avoid the crowds. Biltmore Estate is Asheville's top tourist attraction, and lines can build up quickly.
- Biltmore is kid-friendly, with a playground, guided bird walks, and even falconry classes available.
- The estate is also pet-friendly. Pets are allowed on the grounds and trails, but they are not allowed inside any buildings.
Enjoy your extraordinary journey through the Biltmore Estate! For more tips on traveling the United States, check out our recommendations for Asheville, the Miami to Key West road trip, hitchhiking across America, and essential travel backpack choices. Stay connected on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to share your Biltmore adventures with our community!
- Immerse in the opulence of the Biltmore Estate by exploring its home-and-garden, travel to the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, and experience a unique lifestyle like George Vanderbilt in the early 20th century.
- Post-tour, unwind in the cozy atmosphere of Antler Hill Village and enjoy the local cuisine, then unwind at one of the five-star accommodations within the luxurious Biltmore Estate.
