Biltmore Estate

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

• Biltmore Estate tickets are timed-entry, 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.

Ways to explore

Plan to spend at least one full day at the Biltmore. You could even spend two—the estate covers 8,000 acres (3,237 hectares) with gardens, a conservatory, and Antler Hill Village & Winery, never mind the Biltmore House itself—but one full day suits most visitors. Purchase your timed tickets in advance to ensure entry, and be prepared for a line when you arrive. You can buy tickets in multiple tiers and combinations, from grounds-only access to docent-guided tours, and general admission includes an audio guide and complimentary parking.

Accessibility

Wheelchair-accessible shuttles; first and second floors are accessible

Age limits

None; discounted or free tickets for ages 16 and under

What to pack

Camera, clear plastic water bottle, comfortable shoes, estate map

What to wear

Comfortable but nice clothing and walking shoes

Not allowed

Bags larger than 19 inches (48 centimeters), weapons/firearms, food, opaque water bottles

Amenities

Restaurants, shopping, winery, gardens, hiking trails

Address

The Biltmore Estate is about 5 miles (8 kilometers) from downtown Asheville. Driving is your best option as public transportation is limited, and rideshare drop-off requires a paid shuttle.

Driving

From Asheville, take I-40 to Exit 50 (US Highway 25) and follow signs to Biltmore Estate. Complimentary on-site parking is available with ticket purchase, and there’s a free shuttle service from designated lots to the house. From downtown Asheville, it’s a 10-minute drive.

Public transportation

There’s no great way to reach the Biltmore by public transit. A taxi or rideshare can drop you off at the designated rideshare area at the estate’s park-and-ride. From there, you’ll need to purchase shuttle service for US$15 per person per day or walk extensively.

Best times to visit

Book your tickets as early in the morning as possible, ideally when the estate opens, to maximize your time and money spent.

Best days to visit

Weekdays (Monday through Thursday) typically offer smaller crowds and lower ticket prices than weekends.

Best months to visit

Come in April–May for spring gardens, October for fall foliage, November and December for Christmas decor, and January and February for deals and fewer visitors.

Special events

The Biltmore runs special exhibits that rotate seasonally, so there’s always something new. Beyond that, Christmas at Biltmore (roughly November–January) is exquisite, with the estate dressed to the nines.