How to Spend a Day at Biltmore Estate
Constructed by George Vanderbilt in 1895, Biltmore House is America’s Largest Home®. The estate, nestled in the mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, offers a range of visitor experiences, including outdoor adventures and the award-winning wines of the Biltmore Estate Winery. For a relaxing vacation, book a stay at one of two properties, The Inn on Biltmore Estate® or Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate® -- but Biltmore is also an ideal spot for day-trippers.
With over 8,000 acres of sprawling gardens, nature and views, it’s the perfect spot to social distance, while enjoying the spectacular beauty of the estate. Create an itinerary in advance to ensure that you pack in as many activities as possible and make the most of your time at this historic site.
Morning
With an 8,000-acre estate to explore, you need to start your day on the right foot with a hearty breakfast. If you value a versatile menu and sit-down service, the Village Social is the perfect place, offering traditional omelets, blueberry pancakes, pecan waffles, and oatmeal. Alternatively, pick up gourmet coffee and freshly baked pastries to go at the Kitchen Café or the Bake Shop in the stable area next to Biltmore House.
After breakfast, it's time for a gentle stroll through the gardens and grounds. With acres of formal and informal gardens designed by the landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, there's plenty to see. The rose garden features more than 250 varieties, and America's first managed forest is a breathtaking spectacle. Hike the network of trails to get up close with nature, or take it easy on 2.5 miles of paths through manicured gardens.
Afternoon
In the afternoon, tour Biltmore House, learning about the architecture and artwork, and hear family stories about those who lived in and visited Biltmore at the turn of the century from a 90-minute audio guide. Don't worry about the kids getting antsy; the Vanderbilts' Saint Bernard, Cedric, narrates the entertaining kids' audio guide, and he has plenty of fascinating facts to share. The house features 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, and 65 fireplaces, and it boasts many masterpieces and a stunning 22,000-volume library.
Stop for lunch at Bistro, where you can enjoy estate-raised and regionally sourced ingredients prepared before you in the open kitchen and served with world-class Biltmore wines. The setting has a European style that's charming and casual, and the lunch menu includes a selection of delicious bistro dishes, including light salads and wood-fired pizza.
Once you're energized and refreshed, unwind in Antler Hill Village ® & Winery. Kids and adults both love discovering more about farm life with a complimentary introduction to the hens, lambs, calves, and draft horses at Antler Hill Farm. If retail therapy is in order, the village has a wide selection of stores to meet your needs. Alternatively, relax at the Village Green or spend some quality family time by booking an activity at the Outdoor Adventure Center. From hiking to horseback riding, there are a variety of ways to experience nature that will appeal to many different interests.
Evening
No trip to the estate is complete without a visit to the famous Biltmore Winery. Biltmore planted the first vines in 1971, employing sixth-generation wine-master Philippe Jourdain as Biltmore's first winemaker. A visit to the winery includes complimentary tastings of more than 20 handcrafted wines and opportunities for specialty tastings. Afterward, enjoy cheese and truffles with a glass of Biltmore Estate Sangiovese at the wine bar before buying some of your favorites for your own tasting sessions back home.
Finish the evening with a dining experience at The Dining Room, where white linen tablecloths and china create an elegant setting for your meal as you enjoy commanding views of the estate. The menu features local ingredients, including field-to-table produce from the estate's own farm. The 2015 Open Table Diner's Choice Award winner for Best Food, Service, Ambiance and Best Overall, The Dining Room is the perfect way to end the day.
A day at Biltmore is a day to remember. Whether you're looking for adventure on a family vacation or you want a romantic way to spend time with your partner, Biltmore offers a range of unforgettable experiences. Plan your visit today.
Biltmore has safely adapted estate experiences and enhanced their stringent disinfection procedures in accordance with CDC guidelines and industry best practices. Learn more about Biltmore's health and safety measures here.
