Asheville is home to so many fun things to do. You can tour through the eclectic brewery scene, hike the nearby trails, or take a scenic drive along the famous Blue Ridge Parkway. But no experience is quite as breathtaking as a trip to the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina.
I recently returned from a fun getaway to Asheville, and the Biltmore Estate was my absolute favorite stop. From its beautiful indoor architecture to its immaculate outdoor gardens, I definitely could have spent my entire weekend exploring.
However, it can be a pretty spendy stop, so it’s best to show up prepared in order to make the most out of your time. Which is why I am so excited to share my guide with everything you need to know about visiting the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC. I know you will love it just as much as I did!
Disclosure: This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.
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Biltmore Estate History
The Biltmore Estate was built in the late 19th century by George Washington Vanderbilt II. Just one year after Vanderbilt visited Asheville for the first time (yes, Asheville is THAT beautiful), he began getting a team together to build his vision.
Inspired by the châteaux of Europe, Vanderbilt aimed to create a grand escape that combined architectural splendor with the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
The result? A 250-room mansion that’s now recognized as the largest privately-owned house in the United States.
In 1930, Vanderbilt II’s only daughter opened up the mansion to the public and in 1963 it became a National Historic Landmark. Throughout the years, the Vanderbilt family has cherished what their grandfather built and continued to add additions such as a Vineyard and an Inn.
Today, the Biltmore Estate sees well over 1 million guests each year making it one of the most popular attractions in all of North Carolina.
How do I get to the Biltmore Estate?
Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Asheville, North Carolina, the Biltmore Estate occupies a sprawling 8,000 acres of lush landscapes, vineyards, and rolling hills.
To reach the mansion, you can fly directly into Asheville Regional Airport. I then recommend renting a car as it is about 14 miles from the airport. Having your own vehicle will also make it easier to explore all parts of the Biltmore as some driving is required.
If you choose not to rent a car, you can hop in an Uber or Lyft and they can drop you off at either the Biltmore House or the Antler Hill Village. Then, you will need to purchase the Biltmore Express Service to get around the estate. It should be noted that this shuttle service is NOT estate-wide, so you will miss some key spots without your own car.
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Getting Tickets to the Biltmore
To experience the grandeur of the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, you’ll need tickets, which can be conveniently purchased online in advance.
It’s recommended to reserve your tickets at least one week in advance to ensure you receive your preferred date, time slot, and the best price.
Different ticket options are available, including access to the mansion, gardens, and the Antler Hill Village & Winery. The estate often offers seasonal specials, so keep an eye out for discounts or exclusive packages.
It’s important to note that the time slot you reserve is your time for the self-guided house tour. So, be sure to arrive early enough to the grounds in order to have enough time to make it to the house.
Things to Do at the Biltmore in Asheville
Trust me, there is SO much more to do here than what first meets the eye. It’s much (much) more than just a mansion with pretty gardens. By doing your research before visiting and planning out your day, you can ensure you see the best sights at the Biltmore Estate in Asheville.
Here are some of the very best things to do while visiting the Biltmore!
1. Explore the Mansion
Let’s start with the most obvious…touring the magnificent mansion! Step into a world of elegance as you take a self-guided (or guided depending on the ticket you purchased) tour of America’s Largest Home. You’ll be able to pass through the meticulously preserved rooms, each boasting intricate details, original furnishings, and captivating stories of the Vanderbilt family.
2. Stroll Through the Gardens
My personal favorite activity at the estate was strolling through the gardens. The Biltmore’s gardens are truly a masterpiece. The grounds themselves span over 8,000 acres, while you’ll find 75+ acres full of formal and informal gardens. From the Italian Garden to the Rose Garden, each offers a unique and vibrant array of colors and fragrances.
3. Wine Tasting
Each ticket includes a (free) chance to wine-taste at the Antler Hill Village and Winery! You can indulge in the mansion’s delicious wines on a first-come-first served basis (no additional reservations are required).
There’s an indoor and outdoor space where you can sip on your wine and order a small snack or two.
Biltmore Fun Continued
If you find yourself visiting the Biltmore Estate in Asheville on the weekends, you can reserve a one-hour carriage ride of the grounds. You’ll get unique views of the estate and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.
4. Partake in Other Outdoor Activities
Again, I was genuinely surprised with just how much there was to do at the Biltmore Estate. The outdoor options are truly endless. You can Geocache, rent bicycles, kayak or raft down the French Broad River, play a round of croquet, horseback ride, or attend many different workshops and lessons.
You can find the times, costs, and reservation details of the activities on the BIltmore’s website. Most outdoor tours are offered multiple times each and every day, but pre-planning and reserving is definitely recommended.
5. Take a Rooftop Tour
In addition to touring the main house, you can also book an additional guided tour of unseen parts of the house and snap a few photos from the rooftop. The views here are unmatched! The tour requires advance reservations and takes place 5 times each day.
6. Have Afternoon Tea
Step back in time and pretend you are a guest of the Vanderbilt’s while sipping on the finest teas. The afternoon tea takes place in The Dining Room on Thursdays-Sundays from 12:45-3:00pm. In addition to tea, you’ll be served scones, canapes, and sandwiches. Elegant attire is recommended and a dress code is enforced.
7. Take a Carriage Ride
If you find yourself visiting the Biltmore Estate in Asheville on the weekends, you can reserve a one-hour carriage ride of the grounds. You’ll get unique views of the estate and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains.
8. Take Photos
This one is totally optional, but I love having memories and what better way to capture the moment than an impromptu photoshoot? If you love the camera or just want something to remember your trip by, do it!
Staying at the Biltmore
If hoping to stay right at the Biltmore, there are 3 different options. The Village Hotel is the most relaxed and affordable option (affordable should be taken lightly when staying right at the Biltmore), while The Inn offers luxurious suites. For those looking for more space and privacy, there are also four cottages to rent that are spread out throughout the grounds.
Each stay offers access to the gardens, grounds, and winery for your entire stay.
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Hotels Near the Biltmore Estate in Asheville
You do not have to stay right on the Biltmore grounds to fully appreciate its beauty. The on-site hotels are definitely a splurge, so thankfully there are many hotels near the Biltmore Estate in Asheville that come at a more affordable price.
Nearby hotels:
- The Restoration Asheville (3.7 miles away)
- Hampton Inn & Suites Asheville Biltmore Village (1.6 miles away)
- Courtyard by Marriott Asheville Biltmore Village (2.1 miles away)
Other Things to Know Before Visiting the Biltmore
- Check the estate’s website for seasonal events, such as Christmas at Biltmore, which transforms the mansion into a holiday wonderland.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be doing quite a bit of walking.
- Photography is allowed in most areas, but tripods and commercial photography require special permission.
- Only clear plastic water bottles and a small personal bag (19x14x9 inches) are allowed inside.
- Plan your visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- The Biltmore Estate is more than just a mansion; it’s an experience. Make sure to leave ample time in your Asheville itinerary to fully appreciate all the activities and attractions it offers. I recommend spending at least one full day, but two days would be ideal.
The Biltmore Estate in Asheville is an amazing journey into the past. With its rich history, diverse activities, and stunning surroundings, the estate promises an unforgettable escape during your time in Asheville.
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Final Thoughts
The Biltmore Estate is truly one of a kind and I hope you’re able to visit. I would highly suggest checking out Asheville, NC too. As always, thank you for reading. Did you learn anything new or have any feedback? Would you visit the Biltmore Estate or travel to Asheville, NC? Let me know. Please comment below and don’t forget to subscribe here.
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Have a sweet tooth and looking for tasty treat ideas? Check this out. Are you a wine drinker or you’d like to experience a wine tour? Read this. Want to know whether you should carry-on your bag or check it on the plane? Read more here. Having wanderlust, or traveling out of the country? Check out my detailed travel itineraries to Aruba, Belgium, London, Paris, and Amsterdam.
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Thank you to Sheena and Stephanie Klepacki (I discovered her work on Unsplash.com). Make sure you check them both out! Follow Sheenamahsheensphotography on Instagram to book your next photoshoot. She’s located in North Carolina and is an amazing photographer.
Disclosure
This blog post has affiliate links which means if you click and make a purchase I may earn a small commission. This commission comes at NO additional cost to you. These are my own personal suggestions based on products/experiences I love and use. Read the full disclosure here.
Covid-19 Disclaimer: The recommendations listed are based on my own suggestions and in no way endorses or condemns travel at this time. If you decide to take a trip, follow national and state guidelines, and of course the CDC when traveling.
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