Biltmore Estate Tours

Built by American magnate George Washington Vanderbilt II, the Biltmore Estate was modeled after the mansions of Europe when it was constructed in the late 19th century. The Biltmore House is the largest home in the United States—a staggering 178,926 square feet (16,623 square meters) sitting on more than 8,000 acres (3,237 hectares)—and a prominent example of America’s Gilded Age.
The Basics
Lovers of history, architecture, and gardens will all enjoy touring the Biltmore Estate. With a copper-lined rooftop, limestone walls, and an ornately decorated interior full of antiques and artifacts, the Biltmore House is the highlight of the estate and provides for hours of exploration and enjoyment. Its 250 rooms include 36 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, 65 fireplaces, three kitchens, and a 10,000-volume library. The impressive house is surrounded by a manicured park landscape, including a timber forest, formal gardens, and quiet ponds.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The number of visitors allowed inside the Biltmore House is controlled, so it is best to buy tickets in advance to guarantee entry. Advance reservations are required on certain days.
- The self-guided tour along a marked route through the home takes at least two hours. Guided, 90-minute tours are available for an additional fee.
- You need a car to travel between locations on the Biltmore Estate. A shuttle is available between the Biltmore House parking lot and the front door.
- Only the first and second floors of the Biltmore House are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Located in the countryside near Asheville, North Carolina, the estate lies off exit 50 on Highway 25, four miles north of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Free parking is available with a shuttle from the lot to the estate entrance. If you’re staying in Charlotte, consider booking a full-day group tour to the estate.
When to Get There
The estate admissions gate is open daily from 8:30am to 5:30pm. The best time to visit the Biltmore Estate is first thing in the morning on a weekday, as it can get very crowded on the weekends. Crowds are sparse in winter, but you miss out on the blooming gardens and all the outdoor activities available. On the other hand, it’s a treat to see the mansion decked out in Christmas decorations in November and December.
Activities at the Biltmore Estate
A variety of outdoor activities are available at the Biltmore Estate, making it a great place to spend an entire day. Take a stand-up paddleboard trip down the French Broad River, or rent a bike and take a ride along the river or through the surrounding woodlands. Enjoy the scenery on a carriage ride through the estate, go fly-fishing, or tour the grounds on horseback. Wine aficionados may also want to visit the winery in Antler Hill Village and enjoy a complimentary wine tasting.
Address: 1 Lodge St, Asheville, North Carolina 28803, USA
Hours: Open daily from 9am - 5pm
Admission: Varies
1 Tours and Activities to Experience Biltmore Estate
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French Broad River Kayak Tour in Asheville
14
Semi-Private guided tour with certified naturalist kayaking through the city of Asheville on the serene French Broad River. Includes peak-a-boo views of the Biltmore Mansion and Estate.
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$55.00
From
$55.00
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
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