Biltmore Estate
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The Biltmore Estate is a historic home and museum located just south of the city of Asheville, in North Carolina. Sometimes referred to as the Biltmore House or the Biltmore Mansion, the home was built over a period of several years from 1889 to 1895. At 178,926 square feet of space, it is the largest privately owned home in the United States. It's a classic example of Gilded Age architecture, a style of overly lavish homes built in the late 19th and early 20th century by the wealthiest families in the country.
The property was commissioned by George Vanderbilt, a businessman who secured his fortune and his place in history through the development of railroads, steamboats, and various other enterprises. Architect Richard Morris Hunt modeled the design on the homes of the Loire Valley in France, taking particular inspiration from the Chateau de Blois.
Originally covering 125,000 acres, today, the 8,000-acre property is managed by The Biltmore Company, a trust that was created by the descendants of George Vanderbilt. During your visit, you can taste the wines made at the Winery and shop for home furnishings and gourmet foods.
How to Get There
The nearest city to the Biltmore Estate is Asheville, North Carolina, which has a small airport. Other nearby cities include Charlotte, North Carolina, and Knoxville, Tennessee. From the airport in Asheville, you can take the SR3 bus to the estate, and if you're coming from the city of Asheville, the SR6 also stops nearby. Get off the bus at the Biltmore Park stop.
Rent an RV For Your Visit to Biltmore Estate
Visit Biltmore Estate
There's plenty to see and do during your visit to the Biltmore Estate. Opening hours vary by season and by demand, though the Estate is generally available to tour seven days a week. Attractions in addition to the main mansion include several quaint shops, a Conservatory, the Winery, the Barn and farmyard, and several cafes.
You may also enjoy visiting during the holiday to see the spectacular holiday decorations and Christmas lights. Other special events are held throughout the year, including outdoor movie nights and live music.
Ticket Information
You can get tickets for the Biltmore Estate through the official website. Note that ticket prices and access to the various parts of the Estate vary by season. In the winter, ticket prices to view the main house and grounds start at $69 while during the holiday season from November to early January, tickets cost $109. Guided tours are an additional cost. If you'd like to stroll within the outdoor gardens only, tickets for grounds access only start at $55. Some attractions, such as the Italian Renaissance Alive exhibit in the Deerpark area, have an additional cost. It's a good idea to check the website for the latest seasonal pricing information.
When planning your visit, remember that advance reservations are strongly suggested. Tickets purchased on-site cost $5 extra.
Family-Friendly Options
The Biltmore Estate is a historic home, so make sure your children understand that they must respect the property. The estate offers an array of family-oriented activities, including an audio tour designed especially for kids. There's also a playground with climbing logs on-site, the Pisgah Playground, and kids will love visiting the Antler Hill Barn and farmyard. Along with hands-on activities and lots of friendly farm animals, kids can watch live demonstrations by craftspeople, blacksmiths, and woodworkers, take a peek through the lookout, or play in the sand area. Kids will also love taking a ride on the farmyard tractor wagon, though you should note that this has an additional fee. To make the most of your visit, consider visiting during the week to avoid larger crowds on the weekends.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Because the property is so large, it's best to plan out your visit in advance. First, decide whether you'd like a self-guided or a led tour. Specialty tours include a rooftop tour, a barn tour, and even a red wine and chocolate tasting tour featuring locally produced artisan chocolates.
While viewing the main mansion, be sure to check out the Italian Renaissance wellhead on the East Terrace. The ivory game table and chess set from 1820 is another historic highlight of the collections. After visiting the home, head outside to view the rose garden or enjoy a walk through the peaceful meadows or the forested woodlands. Finally, finish your day by tasting the wines made on-site with a visit to the winery.
Biltmore Estate Accommodations
On Site Accommodations
There are three options to stay on-site at the Biltmore Estate. The Village Hotel is the most modest option and includes an indoor pool. The Inn on Biltmore Estate offers a four-star stay with four-star dining and a fitness center. For the most luxurious experience, book a stay at the individual historic cottages at the Cottages on Biltmore Estate.
Campgrounds Nearby
Wilson’s Riverfront RV Park is right outside of downtown Asheville. It offers access to the French Broad River, and it is right off Interstate 240. Also, free Wi-Fi is available at Wilson’s Riverfront RV Park.
If you’re looking for convenience and amenities, Asheville’s Bear Creek RV Park is a great place to stay. It’s in Asheville, on of North Carolina’s most beloved cities, and it sits at the intersection of I-240 and I-40, making it easy to get to and surrounded by dining, shopping, and supply options. It’s minutes south of central Asheville near the Biltmore Estates.
Right off of I-26, this campground is just minutes from dining, gas stations, and supplies. It’s also minutes from the French Broad River, offering ample outdoor recreation. The best part about this Campfire Lodgings location, though, is its proximity to downtown Asheville. It sits on the northern outskirts of the city, offering access to its fantastic dining and culture within minutes.
Activities Near Biltmore Estate
Things to Do
Geocaching
You can search for geocaches right on the property grounds. If you don't have your own GPS unit, you can borrow one for a cost of $35. Note that reservations are required in advance.
Biking
You can cycle the grounds of the Estate on an e-bike, a comfort bike, or a mountain bike. Just head to the Bike Barn or the Outdoor Adventure Center to rent a bike. For a longer ride, head to the Hominy Creek Natural Trail or cycle along the urban Greenway in Asheville.
Hiking
Asheville is world-famous for being an excellent hiking destination, and there's no shortage of excellent nearby trails to choose from. Head to the Blue Ridge Parkway to find several lengthy options, or challenge yourself with a climb to the top of Little Pisgah Mountain.
National Parks
National Sites
Weather, Safety & Accessibility
Weather & Packing
During the winter, it's usually well below freezing at the Biltmore Estate, so you'll need to plan and pack accordingly, especially if you'd like to visit the outdoor grounds. Fall, spring, and summer are usually milder, with temperatures ranging from the upper 50s to the mid-80s.
Safety & Accessibility
The Biltmore Estate has made every effort to be accessible to all people. There is ample accessible parking; however, note that the accessible shuttle leaves from parking lot C. From lots A and B, you'll have to walk five to 10 minutes to reach the estate. Note that some of the gardens are not fully accessible.
Resources for those with limited vision and hearing are also available. You can request a Sign Language Interpreter at least seven days in advance of your visit to accompany you on a tour, and you can visit the Front Desk of Biltmore House to request a Neckloop Telecoil Coupler and a printed transcript of the audio guide and the films if you need hearing assistance.
Conclusion
FAQ
The Biltmore Estate itself doesn't offer on-site camping options, but you'll find plenty to choose from nearby. Two of the closest are Asheville Bear Creek RV Park, which has a heated pool, and Wilson's Riverfront RV Park.
Yes, RV parking is available on-site. Ask a parking host for assistance upon your arrival.
A visit to the Biltmore Estate can include a visit to the vineyard, petting farm animals, or hiking along more than 20 miles of natural trails, in addition to a tour of the main mansion. Shops, restaurants, and overnight stays are all available to enhance your trip. Some attractions have an additional cost, so be sure to plan your visit in advance.
Yes. Children are welcome at the Biltmore Estate, and there are several on-site activities for them to enjoy. Note that strollers and baby backpacks are prohibited on some guided tours.
As a historical home, pets are not welcome at the Biltmore Estate or anywhere on the outside grounds.