Biltmore House in Asheville, North Carolina
Are you looking for a perfect place to tour? Biltmore House, the largest home in America, is a magnificent home and a true wonder of architecture. This architectural jewel is as elegant as it was when built more than a century ago.
The 250-room chateau rests at the heart of Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains. It encloses 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, and 65 fireplaces, among other beautifully decorated rooms best at what they were designed for. It is with no doubt that you will enjoy a self-guided tour as you explore Biltmore and its immersive history.
Besides the grandeur of Biltmore, the estate is home to diligently manicured gardens and great forested trails. People say that vinegar is the son of wine, but with Biltmore, it is the grandson of wine. You will find the most-visited winery here.
In this article, you will find the intriguing features that make Biltmore an astounding home worthy visit. Keep reading!!!
Biltmore Estate History
Biltmore Estate, created by George Washington Vanderbilt II, was opened to family and friends on 1895’s Christmas Eve. Frederick Law Olmsted, America’s foremost landscape architect, designed the iconic Biltmore, the gardens, and the trails. The estate is one of the most prominent mansions serving as a tourist attraction and historical museum. It is the largest privately-owned house in the US and is currently operated by the descendants of George Vanderbilt.
Top things to do in Biltmore
#1 Biltmore House
On a self-guided tour through the four floors, discover the wonders of the elegant and charming Biltmore house. You will find Vanderbilt’s priceless collection of original furnishings, arts, and artifacts in this architectural jewel, among other antiques.
Take time to marvel at magnificent 16th-century tapestries, the 70-foot high banquet hall, favorite library with 10,000 books, and an indoor pool. Guided tours are available; however, an in-depth audio guide is more recommended for an exclusive exploration. You can get trail maps from the primary ticketing center or the information kiosks.
#2 Gardens
Take leisurely strolls through the spectacular gardens and the meticulous woodlands. From the house, start walking through the beautiful Italian Gardens with lush and stunning reflecting ponds.
A short walk will take you to Walled Garden to see roses come into full bloom. There are over 250 varieties here. Witness summer come real in Azalea Garden with glorious bright blooms.
#3 Conservatory Greenhouses
Adjacent to the Walled Garden, you will find a variety of impressive exotic laurels. It is complete with a vast orchid collection.
#4 Bass pond and trails
Enjoy a long walk with your dog on the pet-friendly trails to find another romantic place, the Bass Pond. Sit at the secluded Boat House or have your bench along the shore to view the famous red brick bridge. The far end of Bass Pond is a perfectly man-made waterfall, which offers a scenic place to relax.
If you like biking, you can proceed to hike Biltmore grounds through the vast network of trails. Summer and spring make the best time to explore as the meadow trails feature grass and wildflowers, while the woodland trail blazes with azaleas in spring.
#5 Antler Hill Village
Antler Hill Village makes your next great stop after the house tour. Apart from being a luxurious place to dine and shop, you can enjoy the taste of what life was for those who raised livestock and tended crops in the estate. Children will enjoy playing on the playground and meeting the farm animals.
In the Biltmore Legacy museum located at the village’s heart, you will see the fascinating historical exhibits. It is also an excellent place for all outdoor activities. Don’t forget to grab an ice cream.
#6 Biltmore Winery
The Antler Hill Village is the home of this iconic and most visited winery. After your busy day of touring, enjoy a fantastic wine tasting (include in admission ticket) until as late as 8 PM.
Whether you are interested in sampling wines or winemaking, the Biltmore winery has you in the heart. You can enjoy delicious food paired with a glass of fine wine. It is a great place for all wine enthusiasts, and you can as well enjoy touring the breathtaking vineyards.
#7 Outdoor activities
There is much to explore outdoors in Biltmore estate. Day time guests can enjoy playing in the 8,000-acre backyard. There are equally incredible experiences for overnight guests and annual pass holders. However, most outdoor adventures might require you to make a reservation in advance. Some outdoor activities to spice up your tours include biking, horseback riding, river rafting/kayaking, sporting clays, falconry, fly fishing, Land Rover riding, and many more.
#8 Photo Spot
If you like picnics and hiking, you may want to check the small lake (Lagoon) on your left as you walk from Biltmore House to the winery. You will find a great spot for a picnic as well; you can have a stunning view of the iconic house.
#9 Dining in Biltmore restaurants
There are plenty of options for dining during your visit to Biltmore House. The estate’s footage stands several restaurants, and you will get elegant services regardless of your choice. The farms within the estate provide salad greens, fresh herbs, meat, and eggs. You will always find something for you. There are special considerations if need there be.
#10 Shopping
Discover and purchase the old-gold treasures and other unique gifts from the magnificent and charming Shoppe’s of the Biltmore estate. You will find an assortment of all you may want to keep the memories ranging from wines, books, home accents, fashions, to Christmas gifts and wears.
Where to stay
The estate offers great places where you spend during tours. For a unique and private experience, you can consider the Biltmore Estate’s Cottage. If you want a four-star elegance, you can book a reservation in the Inn on Biltmore Estate, and the Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate offers a more casual experience.
What about the ticket price
Ticket prices will vary throughout the year. Typically, the tickets will cost $50-75 for an adult, and the price is halved for youths between 10-16 years. Kids under nine years enter the estate for free with a paying adult.
Conclusion
Biltmore is a great place to tour throughout the year. You will get a chance to explore and learn more about its history. Most importantly, you will have fun.