Students Discover the Joy of Learning
Biltmore has a legacy of hosting thousands of students over the past 100 years. At the turn of the last century, George Vanderbilt established Biltmore Parish Day School for the children of Biltmore workers and the surrounding community. His farm served as an outdoor school to promote the most up-to-date agricultural practices. Today, in keeping with Mr. Vanderbilt's love of learning, we offer unique experiences designed to provide students and their teachers with programs that are as enjoyable as they are educational.
Biltmore House Tours: history comes alive with these escorted tours
River Bend Barn Programs: interactive learning for all grades
Homeschool Festival: annual fall festival for homeschool students
Experience a different aspect of Mr. Vanderbilt's estate with our escorted River Bend Farm tour. Our one-hour program provides an overview of our working farm that includes the River Bend Barn, Kitchen Garden, and Farmyard. Fourth, fifth, and sixth grade classes interested in more details about the River Bend Farm can participate in grade specific learning opportunities.
- These programs are linked to the NC Standard Course of Study.
- Programs are offered Monday through Friday.
- The on-site visit to the River Bend Barn complex includes age and grade-appropriate interactive learning experiences. These vary with the programs and may include activities in the Farmyard and Kitchen Garden as well as the barn.
- Students are broken into groups of 15-20 to maximize their participation in hands-on activities. Each sub-group will have a Biltmore educator lead them through the activities.
- Programs at the River Bend Barn do not include a visit to Biltmore House.
- Reservations are limited during peak seasons. Please make arrangements as early as possible.
- You will receive one complimentary chaperone ticket with 10 paid students. Thereafter, you will receive one more complimentary chaperone for every additional 10 paid students.
- Due to the interactive nature of River Bend Barn programs, no additional adult tickets will be available for groups purchasing only a River Bend Barn program.
- Students may learn more about the Vanderbilt family and Biltmore by downloading our Student Resource Guide.