Visit Itinerary: The Magic of Christmas at Biltmore

With so many must-see and do activities during Christmas at Biltmore, you may be wondering how to make the most of your festive visit to the grand estate.

This flexible Biltmore visit itinerary is designed to be easily tailored based on your reservation times and preferences, allowing you to choose between a dazzling Daytime visit or an elegant evening aglow with candlelit wonder with a Candlelight visit. Be sure to customize your visit itinerary based on Biltmore’s activities and events that will make your Christmas visit even more memorable!

Thanks to the incredible work of so many generous people, recovery is happening all around us. Biltmore reopened on November 2 to celebrate the joy of the holiday season with you during Christmas at Biltmore. Find helpful visit planning info, like FAQs, travel access to Asheville, and more on our Know Before You Go page.

@madelynonthemove experiencing the magic of Christmas at Biltmore
@madelynonthemove experiencing the magic of Christmas at Biltmore

Option 1: Daytime Celebration Visit Itinerary

🌺 Early Afternoon Gardens and Conservatory Visit (1 to 2 hours):
Take a leisurely stroll through Biltmore’s historic gardens and Conservatory. Admire the meticulously maintained greenhouses filled with tropical plants and holiday displays.

Tip: Select ticket types include free next-day access to explore the estate’s gardens and grounds.

🎄 Afternoon Biltmore House Visit (1.5 to 2 hours):

Step into the grandeur of Biltmore House, beautifully adorned with twinkling lights and festive decor. Explore the opulent rooms and immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas during a daytime visit with a complimentary audio guide.

Tip: Advanced reservations are required for all Biltmore House visits. If your reservation is in the late afternoon or early evening, you may choose to explore the Gardens or Antler Hill Village first!

🥗 Grab a Snack at an Estate Restaurant (1.5 hours):
Indulge in a delightful meal or grab-and-go snack from one of Biltmore’s distinctive restaurants, including Stable Café, Cedric’s Tavern, Bistro, and Village Social.

Tip: Reservations for dining are highly recommended during this popular season. Be sure to check online for current hours of operation.

🎟️ Late Afternoon Chihuly at Biltmore Exhibition Visit(1.5 to 2 hours):
Don’t miss your chance to see Chihuly’s awe-inspiring works before the exhibition ends on February 2, 2025. Experience the artist’s iconic creations, presented in an intimate gallery setting at Amherst at Deerpark®. Chihuly at Biltmore includes pedestal works, Drawings, and large-scale installations of ChandeliersTowersMille Fiori, and Neon.

Tip: Access is included with select ticket types and guests may visit at their reserved entry time selected during the purchase process. If your reserved entry time is in the morning, you may choose to have your reserved Biltmore House visit in the afternoon.

🥂 Evening Antler Hill Village & Winery Visit (2 hours):
Linger under the twinkling lights in Antler Hill Village where holiday splendor and our award-winning winery await. Shop for unique holiday gifts, such as handcrafted ornaments or gourmet treats, and find the perfect souvenirs and stocking stuffers, at The Barn Door or at A Christmas Past in the Stable Shops. A selection of holiday gifts, decor, and treats can also be found on our online shop. Learn about the Vanderbilt family and their life at home and abroad at The Biltmore Legacy.

Tip: If you’re traveling with small children, be sure to visit Pisgah Playground, the Farmyard, and Antler Hill Barn for educational fun for all ages.

Guests enjoy the Candlelight Christmas Evenings audio tour as they marvel at awe-inspiring décor in the Banquet Hall.
Guests enjoy the Candlelight Christmas Evenings audio tour as they marvel at awe-inspiring décor in the Banquet Hall.

 Option 2: Candlelight Christmas Evenings

🎟️ Afternoon Chihuly at Biltmore Exhibition Visit (1.5 to 2 hours):
Don’t miss your chance to see Chihuly’s awe-inspiring works before the exhibition ends on February 2, 2025. Experience the artist’s iconic creations, presented in an intimate gallery setting at Amherst at Deerpark®. Chihuly at Biltmore includes pedestal works, Drawings, and large-scale installations of ChandeliersTowersMille Fiori, and Mille Fiori, and Neon.

Tip: Access is included with select ticket types and guests may visit at their reserved entry time selected during the purchase process. 

🌺 Late Afternoon Gardens and Conservatory Visit (1 to 2 hours):
Take a leisurely stroll through Biltmore’s historic gardens and Conservatory. Admire the meticulously maintained greenhouses filled with tropical plants and holiday displays.

Tip: Candlelight Christmas Evenings admission includes same-day or free next-day access to explore the gardens, grounds, and Winery. See our FAQs for more info.

🕯️ Candlelight Christmas Evenings Biltmore House Visit (1.5 to 2 hours):
Experience the epitome of yuletide magic with Candlelight Christmas Evenings in Biltmore House. Wander through historic rooms aglow with the soft light of lit fireplaces, marvel at the beautiful decor, and enjoy live holiday music echoing through the halls.

Tip: Advanced reservations are required for all Biltmore House visits. If your reservation is in the late evening, you may choose to explore the Gardens or Antler Hill Village first!

🥂 Evening Antler Hill Village & Winery Visit (2 hours):
Linger under the twinkling lights in Antler Hill Village where holiday splendor and our award-winning winery await. Shop for unique holiday gifts, such as handcrafted ornaments or gourmet treats, and find the perfect souvenirs and stocking stuffers, at The Barn Door or at A Christmas Past in the Stable Shops. A selection of holiday gifts, decor, and treats can also be found on our online shop. Learn about the Vanderbilt family and their life at home and abroad at The Biltmore Legacy.

Tip: If you’re traveling with small children, be sure to visit Pisgah Playground, the Farmyard, and Antler Hill Barn for educational fun for all ages.

Guests enjoy visits with Santa at the Bandstand in Antler Hill Village on select dates during Christmas at Biltmore!

Additional Visit-Planning Tips:

Below are a few additional tips for your Christmas at Biltmore visit itinerary. For even more helpful information, we recommend exploring our Visitor Information site section.

  • Plan Ahead: Don’t wait to purchase your Christmas at Biltmore tickets or special overnight packages to secure your preferred dates and times for this beloved season. Before arriving, be sure to review helpful visit information and check current hours for estate offerings.
  • Make the Most of Your Experience: All Biltmore admission types include access to explore Antler Hill Village & Winery and our historic gardens and grounds. Explore ticket types that include access to Biltmore House, an exclusive 90-minute guided tour, our immersive art exhibition, free next-day grounds access, and more! Additional add-on experiences, such as guided outdoor activities, are available as well.
  • Explore Today AND Tomorrow: Select Biltmore House admission tickets include FREE next-day grounds access, which means you have even more time to explore all that the estate has to offer!
  • Make it a Getaway: With so much to experience during the holiday season, treat yourself and your loved ones to a festive and memorable getaway with an overnight stay on Biltmore Estate.
  • Getting Around the Estate: Many guests underestimate the vast size of Biltmore Estate. We recommend allowing your party at least 30 minutes for travel and parking between estate locations. For helpful guidance on estate accessibility, please explore our Help Center.
  • Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers appropriate for the season and the types of activities you plan to do during your visit, especially if you opt to participate in any outdoor adventure activities.
  • Watch the Weather: The weather in our region can change quickly, which may result in unexpected temporary closures of our trails or outdoor activities during severe weather. We appreciate your understanding!
  • Capture Holiday Memories: Biltmore’s beautifully decorated spaces, elegant evergreens, and visits with Santa in Antler Hill Village provide the perfect backdrop for memorable holiday photos and magical moments with your family. Reminder: Be sure to follow estate photo and video policies designed to ensure all guests have an enjoyable experience.
  • Start Your Christmas Shopping: Find unique gifts and stocking stuffers, holiday decorations, and gourmet treats to bring the Biltmore Christmas spirit home during your visit to any of our estate shops.
  • Find More Tips: For even more guidance on what activities you might want to consider during your Biltmore visit for family fun, outdoor adventure, or food and wine, be sure to check our Itineraries page.

Ready to experience the magic of Christmas at Biltmore? Reserve your visit.

Visit Itinerary: Food & Wine Lover’s Guide to Biltmore

Beyond the grandeur of the Gilded Age chateau, you might be surprised to learn that Biltmore Estate is a culinary haven for food and wine lovers!

At Biltmore, gracious hospitality has always included an emphasis on fine dining. The Vanderbilts’ table featured the freshest offerings from their market garden, farm, and dairy. If you’re a self-proclaimed foodie, you are cordially invited to savor Vanderbilt-inspired field-to-table freshness with our estate-grown ingredients, gourmet dining, regional comfort foods, and award-winning wines.

This food and wine lover’s guide to Biltmore features a selection of our options and is designed to be easily tailored based on your restaurant preferences, dietary needs, and other estate activities you have planned during your visit to Biltmore.

Bon appétit!

stack of pancakes
Jump start your day with a hearty breakfast at Village Social.

🥞 Morning

Whether you’re waking up on the estate or arriving early, get fueled up for a day filled with exploration, learning, restoration, and adventure with a hearty breakfast at Village Social (inside Village Hotel) or Sunday Brunch at Bistro. Coffee drinkers, be sure to order a cup (or two!) of our exclusive Biltmore coffee blend that you can’t get anywhere else.

If a light breakfast is more your speed, stop by The Kitchen Café (inside Village Hotel) or The Bake Shop (by Biltmore House) for a delectable pastry and cup of Joe on the go.

Friends enjoy food and wine together at Cedric's Tavern
For a more casual food and wine experience, dine at Cedric’s Tavern in Antler Hill Village.

🥗 Mid-Day

By the time lunch comes around, you’ve no doubt worked up an appetite! If you’re in the Biltmore House and Gardens area, Stable Café features Appalachian comfort food in a truly unique setting (the historic horse stables) while Courtyard Market and The Conservatory Café are excellent options for more casual, quick bites. 

Meanwhile, in the Antler Hill Village area, you’ll find mouth-watering pub fare at Cedric’s Tavern, European-inspired menus at Bistro, and grab-and-go Carolina barbeque at The Smokehouse Food Truck… all within walking distance!

Wine tasting at Biltmore's estate Winery
Discover our award winning wines with a complimentary wine tasting at the Winery!

🥂 Afternoon

We know that 5 o’clock comes early when you’re on vacation, so be sure to visit our estate Winery (in Antler Hill Village) where you can enjoy a complimentary wine tasting and shop for your new favorite varietals at the Wine Shop, both housed inside our historic Biltmore Dairy Barn. Just across the “Scholar’s Walk,” you’ll find our Wine Bar, which is perfect for enjoying our award-winning wines by the glass or bottle paired with light fare, like charcuterie.

Craving a little afternoon treat? Discover a match made in heaven with our Red Wine & Chocolate Tasting at the Winery, featuring locally made French Broad Chocolate, or swing by The Creamery (also in Antler Hill Village) for an Instagrammable confection.

If you’re in the mood to channel your inner Vanderbilt, consider booking an elegant Afternoon Tea experience at our four-star Inn on Biltmore Estate.

Food and wine at The Dining Room, inside The Inn on Biltmore Estate.
Indulge in a four-star food and wine experience at The Dining Room.

🍽️ Evening

Cap off your day with an elegant, four-star meal at The Dining Room (inside The Inn on Biltmore Estate), where world-class service inspired by the Vanderbilt legacy and estate-raised ingredients shine.

For more award-winning dining, nearby Cedric’s Tavern offers a more casual atmosphere and classic English pub favorites while Bistro’s menu highlights the charms of Europe and seasonal ingredients.

No matter where you choose to dine on the estate, be sure to raise a glass and toast to a day well spent.

Food and wine at Bistro in Antler Hill Village
Bistro’s menu highlights the charms of Europe and seasonal food and wine pairings.

Additional Food and Wine Visit Planning Tips:

Below are a few additional tips for planning your visit to Biltmore Estate.

  • Plan Ahead: In addition to daily reservations required for entry to Biltmore House, reservations for sit-down meals are strongly recommended and can be made online. To dine on the estate, guests must have a daytime ticket, a Biltmore Annual Pass, or a stay at one of the estate’s splendid overnight properties.
  • Check Current Hours: Restaurant opening and closing times vary throughout the year, so be sure to check our current Hours of Operations to know what will be available during your visit.
  • Getting Around the Estate: Many guests underestimate the vast size of Biltmore Estate. With miles between points of interest, we recommend allowing your party at least 30 minutes for travel and parking between estate locations. For helpful guidance on estate accessibility, please explore our Help Center.
  • Make it a Getaway: With so many great food and wine experiences to savor, treat yourself and your loved ones to a memorable getaway with an overnight stay on Biltmore Estate or join our Passholder family.
  • Field-to-Table Fun: We have multiple ways to learn about our field-to-table philosophy at Biltmore! For in-depth discovery, be sure to visit our Winery and Farmyard in Antler Hill Village or consider booking a guided activity like our Farm to Table Tour & Taste experience (available exclusively to overnight guests and Passholders; availability is subject to change).
  • Don’t Forget Your Mementos: Visit our shops to find unique gourmet treats, like award-winning Biltmore Wines or honey from our estate beehives, to bring the Biltmore legacy home with you.

Visit Itinerary: Outdoor Adventures Guide to Biltmore

Whether you’re here for the day as a Biltmore Annual Passholder, planning your FREE next-day visit, or staying overnight, Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, offers plenty of outdoor adventures guaranteed to excite everyone in your group. Thrill-seekers and leisure-lovers alike will feel at home amidst the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

With so much to see and do, it can be a lot to take in. Don’t worry—we’ve made a list of our favorite outdoor adventures to help inspire your next dream visit!

A group of people participating in Shooting Clay at Biltmore.
Test your clay shooting skills (or take a lesson) at Biltmore Sporting Clays Club.

Thrilling Adventures

🦅 Falconry

Discover the ancient art of falconry as you learn to handle trained hawks or falcons. There’s nothing like the thrill of a raptor flying to land on your gloved hand.

🎯 Sporting Clays & Archery

Choose from a variety of sporting clay lessons (basic, advanced, and trapper program), each designed to meet you at your skill level. Lessons include instruction on proper gun mounting, stance, target engagement, and skill enhancement techniques.

For something a little calmer or for the young members of your group (ages 8+), we also offer archery lessons!

🚙 Land Rover® Experience

Take to the roads (or should we say… off-roads) on the Land Rover Experience. Customized to fit your skill and comfort level, this thrilling experience covers the basics of expedition driving. You’ll conquer steep climbs and drops, side tilts, log crossing, rock crawls, and traverse rugged and varied terrains around the estate.

A family rafting down the French Broad at Biltmore.
Enjoy a peaceful float down the French Broad River while taking in the sights of the rarely seen West Side of the estate.

Wild Encounters

🛶 River Floats

Enjoy a serene 3-mile self-guided kayak trip on the gentle French Broad River through our historic landscapes. Prefer a guided experience? Relax as our expert guide paddles your raft down the river, allowing you to unwind and admire the breathtaking beauty of the estate.

🎣 Fishing

Let our Orvis®-Endorsed instructors guide you through the basics of fly and spin fishing at the Lagoon, casting your worries aside. Consider extending your adventure with a full-day guided wade trip in the stunning streams and rivers of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

🦊 Wildlife Discovery

Take a walk on the wild side on one of our guided nature walks across our 8,000-acre estate. Engage in enlightening nature talks at the historic Horse Barn, where you’ll learn about the lives of Biltmore’s small friends like turtles, foxes, deer, and turkeys. For adventure seekers, we offer geocache challenges and children’s scavenger hunts as fun ways to explore and learn about our rich ecosystem.

A man and women doing yoga at The Inn on Biltmore Estate.
Start your morning balanced and rejuvenated with Yoga at The Inn.

Relaxing Retreats

🧘 Morning Yoga & Meditation

More than 125 years ago, George Vanderbilt envisioned Biltmore as a serene escape from life’s demands. Elevate your well-being with Morning Yoga or a guided meditation session at The Inn on Biltmore Estate® to center your energy and thoughts for the day ahead.

🎨 Eco-Art

Awaken your inner artist at a Mandala Making class, where you’ll create intricate designs using materials gathered from our fields and forests. Or discover the art of crafting stunning framed floral pieces from seasonal blooms in our Flower Petal Art class.

A group of people horseback Riding on Biltmore Estate.
Ride through mountains, forests, and time itself.

Historical Exploration

🐴 Horseback & Carriage Rides

Explore more than 80 miles of equestrian trails with guided rides suitable for first timers and experienced riders. Our knowledgeable guides will lead you through trails once frequented by the Vanderbilts, matching horses to your skill level. For those with their own horses, rental stabling and limited primitive camping is available at the Equestrian Center.

Prefer a more leisurely pace? Experience the estate’s beauty on a 30- or 60-minute carriage ride, just as George Vanderbilt’s guests did more than a century ago.

🌷 Self-Guided Garden Tour

Wandering Biltmore’s 75 acres of gardens is an excellent way to experience the genius of landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted firsthand. It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit Biltmore, there is always something blooming. Even when Jack Frost is nipping at your nose, the Conservatory will wrap you in its tropical embrace as orchids, palms, and thousands more plants and flowers fill every corner.

Plan your tour of the gardens early by viewing our seasonal bloom report.

🚴‍♂️ Hiking & Biking

From historic gardens to woodland meadows, there are nearly 22 miles of hiking trails on the estate. Whether you prefer to take it easy or are looking for an intense workout, we’ve got just the trail for you. Get the lay of the land by checking our trail map before you embark on your adventure.

Bike rentals and guided tours are another excellent way to experience the scenery Biltmore has to offer, available at the Bike Barn for solo, tandem, and e-bikers (or bring your own!).

A women riding her bike on Biltmore Estate.
Whether you’re looking to cruise or take on a challenge, Biltmore has over 20 miles of bike trails to explore.

💭 Plan Your Dream Visit

Below are a few additional tips to help you plan your visit to Biltmore:

  • Plan ahead: Don’t wait—get your admission, activities, and special overnight packages now to lock in those preferred dates and times!
  • Getting around the estate: Many guests underestimate the vast size of Biltmore Estate. With miles between points of interest, we recommend allowing your party at least 30 minutes for travel and parking between estate locations. For helpful guidance on estate accessibility, please explore our Help Center.
  • Dress comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers appropriate for the season and types of activities you plan to do during your visit, especially if you’re exploring the outdoors.
  • Watch the weather: The weather in our region can be unpredictable, which may result in unexpected temporary closures of our trails or outdoor activities during severe weather. We appreciate your understanding!
  • Make it a getaway: With so much to experience, treat yourself and your loved ones to a memorable getaway with an overnight stay on Biltmore Estate. We’re excited to offer a new exclusive Biltmore House admission benefit for overnight guests: House Length of Stay access! Book an overnight package or stay that includes Biltmore House admission to enjoy a daytime visit to Biltmore House with an audio guide at your leisure. Enjoy America’s Largest Home® often as you like during the length of your stay, no reservation necessary!
  • Make the most of your experience: All Biltmore admission types include access to Antler Hill Village & Winery and our historic gardens and grounds. Explore ticket types that include access to Biltmore House, an exclusive 90-minute guided tour, Chihuly at Biltmore (now–February 2, 2025), free next-day grounds access, and more! Additional add-on experiences, such as above-listed outdoor activities, are available as well.
  • Find more tips: For even more guidance on other activities offered, be sure to check our Itineraries page.

For even more helpful information on preparing for your Biltmore Estate visit, we recommend exploring our Visitor Information site section.

Visit Itinerary: Your Guide to Biltmore

From exploring the grand halls of our historic chateau to savoring our handcrafted wines, there’s something for everyone to enjoy at Biltmore. With so many options to explore, we recommend making the most of your visit by planning to spend two (or more!) full days on Biltmore Estate.

This flexible Biltmore visit itinerary is designed to be easily tailored based on your preferences, reservation times, and our current activities and events, allowing you to focus on having fun on our 8,000-acre estate.

@madelynonthemove experiencing the magic of Christmas at Biltmore
@madelynonthemove experiencing the magic of Christmas at Biltmore

How to Spend Two Full Days at Biltmore

For a leisurely and immersive visit to Biltmore, we recommend spreading your experiences across at least two full days where you will have more time (and energy) to truly soak in all that Biltmore has to offer.

Tip: Select ticket types include free next-day access to explore the estate’s gardens and grounds, visit the Winery, or add on guided experiences. Be sure to check your admission type or overnight package for this perk and plan to come back the next day to take advantage of even more time to explore the estate.

DAY ONE

🏰 Morning: Biltmore House (1.5 to 2 hours)
Step into the grandeur of America’s Largest Home, Biltmore House, while learning about the history, the fine art and furnishings, and of course, the people, behind this Gilded Age masterpiece. With our Biltmore House tours, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the home and stories through our complimentary Audio Guide or take a deep dive into one of our fascinating expert-guided tours based on your interests.

Tip: Advanced reservations are required for all Biltmore House visits. If your reservation is in the afternoon or early evening, you may choose to explore the Gardens or Antler Hill Village first!

🥗 Mid-day: Lunch at an Estate Restaurant (1 to 1.5 hours)
Savor a delightful field-to-table meal at one of Biltmore’s distinctive restaurants, including Stable Café, Cedric’s Tavern, Bistro, or Village Social. If casual grab-and-go or picnic is more your style, be sure to stop by Courtyard Market, the Bake Shop, Biltmore Dairy Bar, or the Smokehouse food truck in Antler Hill Village. Fine dining is available at our four-star Dining Room at The Inn.

Tip: Reservations are highly recommended.

🎟️ Afternoon: Chihuly at Biltmore exhibition (1.5 to 2 hours)
Don’t miss your chance to see Chihuly’s awe-inspiring works on display in the galleries of Amherst at Deerpark® ending February 2, 2025. Experience the artist’s iconic creations, featuring 33 different artworks, including pedestal works, Drawings, and large-scale installations of ChandeliersTowersMille Fiori, and Neon by world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly.

In addition to the awe-inspiring installations in Amherst, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at two large-scale installations presented on estate grounds: A Winter White and Glacier Blue Tower on the East Terrace in front of Biltmore House and a freestanding Torchlight Chandelier at the Entry Green in Antler Hill Village.

Tip: Access is included with select admission types, including our “best value” House, Exhibit, and & 2-Day Grounds ticket bundle and special overnight packages. You may visit at your reserved entry time selected during the purchase process. If your reserved Chihuly at Biltmore entry time is in the morning, we recommend choosing to have your reserved Biltmore House visit in the afternoon.

DAY TWO

🧭 Morning: Guided Experience (1.5 to 2 hours)

Choose from a variety of expert-guided tours and experiences to help make your visit to Biltmore even more memorable! Consider upgrading your visit to include expert-led tours to rarely accessed areas of Biltmore House, guided (or self-guided) outdoor adventures through our historic landscapes, or even a guided wine tasting featuring locally made chocolate pairings.

Tip: Select ticket types and overnight packages include exclusive guided tours of Biltmore House!

🌷 Afternoon: Gardens and Conservatory (1 to 2 hours)
Spend time finding your new favorite flower and indulging your senses with a visit to Biltmore’s historic gardens and glass-ceilinged Conservatory. Admire the meticulously maintained historic greenhouses filled with tropical plants year-round.

Tip: Select ticket types include free next-day access to explore the estate’s gardens and grounds, visit the Winery, or add on guided experiences.

🥂 Late afternoon to evening: Antler Hill Village and Winery (2+ hours)
Stop by our award-winning winery to toast two fun-filled days at Biltmore with one of our handcrafted estate wines! Linger into the evening in Antler Hill Village where you can shop for unique gifts, such as gourmet treats, wines, and the perfect mementos, learn about the Vanderbilt family and their life at home and abroad at The Biltmore Legacy, and savor field-to-table dining.

Tip: If you’re traveling with small children, be sure to visit Pisgah Playground, the Farmyard, and Antler Hill Barn for educational fun for all ages.

Jump back to the top

A couple walks hand-in-hand as they approach the entrance to Biltmore's Winery.
Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or want to experience your first wine tasting, be sure to stop by our estate Winery.

How to Spend One Full Day at Biltmore

If you only have one day to explore our historic estate, here’s what we recommend prioritizing for an action-packed way to experience all that is included in your Biltmore admission.

Tip: Select ticket types include free next-day access to explore the estate’s gardens and grounds, visit the Winery, or add on guided experiences. Be sure to check your admission type or overnight package for this perk and plan to come back the next day to take advantage of even more time to explore the estate.

🏰 Morning: Biltmore House (1.5 to 2 hours)
Step into the grandeur of America’s Largest Home, Biltmore House, while learning about the history, the fine art and furnishings, and of course, the people, behind this Gilded Age masterpiece. With our Biltmore House tours, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the home and stories through our complimentary Audio Guide or take a deep dive into one of our fascinating expert-guided tours based on your interests.

Tip: Advanced reservations are required for all Biltmore House visits. If your reservation is in the afternoon or early evening, you may choose to explore the Gardens or Antler Hill Village first!

🌷 Mid to late morning: Gardens and Conservatory (1 to 2 hours)
Find your new favorite flower and indulge your senses with a visit to Biltmore’s historic gardens and glass-ceilinged Conservatory. Admire the meticulously maintained historic greenhouses filled with tropical plants year-round.

Tip: Select ticket types include free next-day access to explore the estate’s gardens and grounds, visit the Winery, or add on guided experiences.

🥗 Mid-day: Lunch at an Estate Restaurant (1 to 1.5 hours)
Savor a delightful field-to-table meal at one of Biltmore’s distinctive restaurants, including Stable Café, Cedric’s Tavern, Bistro, or Village Social. If casual grab-and-go or picnic is more your style, be sure to stop by Courtyard Market, the Bake Shop, Biltmore Dairy Bar, or the Smokehouse food truck in Antler Hill Village. Fine dining is available at our four-star Dining Room at The Inn.

Tip: Reservations are highly recommended.

🎟️ Early afternoon: Chihuly at Biltmore exhibition (1.5 to 2 hours)
Don’t miss your chance to see Chihuly’s awe-inspiring works on display in the galleries of Amherst at Deerpark® ending February 2, 2025. Experience the artist’s iconic creations, featuring 33 different artworks, including pedestal works, Drawings, and large-scale installations of ChandeliersTowersMille Fiori, and Neon by world-renowned artist Dale Chihuly.

In addition to the awe-inspiring installations in Amherst, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at two large-scale installations presented on estate grounds: A Winter White and Glacier Blue Tower on the East Terrace in front of Biltmore House and a freestanding Torchlight Chandelier at the Entry Green in Antler Hill Village.

Tip: Access is included with select admission types, including our “best value” House, Exhibit, and & 2-Day Grounds ticket bundle and special overnight packages. You may visit at your reserved entry time selected during the purchase process. If your reserved Chihuly at Biltmore entry time is in the morning, we recommend choosing to have your reserved Biltmore House visit in the afternoon.

🥂 Late afternoon to evening: Antler Hill Village and Winery (2+ hours)
Stop by our award-winning winery to toast a fun-filled day with one of Biltmore’s handcrafted estate wines! Linger into the evening in Antler Hill Village where you can shop for unique gifts, such as gourmet treats, wines, and the perfect mementos, or learn about the Vanderbilt family and their life at home and abroad at The Biltmore Legacy, and savor field-to-table dining.

Tip: If you’re traveling with small children, be sure to visit Pisgah Playground, the Farmyard, and Antler Hill Barn for educational fun for all ages.

Jump back to the top

Guests enjoy the Candlelight Christmas Evenings audio tour as they marvel at awe-inspiring décor in the Banquet Hall.
Guests enjoy the Candlelight Christmas Evenings audio tour as they marvel at awe-inspiring décor in the Banquet Hall.

Additional Biltmore Visit-Planning Tips:

Below are a few additional tips for your Biltmore visit itinerary. For even more helpful information to help you prepare for your Biltmore Estate visit, we recommend exploring our Visitor Information site section.

  • Plan Ahead: Don’t wait to purchase your Biltmore admission or special overnight packages to secure your preferred dates and times!
  • Getting Around the Estate: Many guests underestimate the vast size of Biltmore Estate. With miles between points of interest, we recommend allowing your party at least 30 minutes for travel and parking between estate locations. For helpful guidance on estate accessibility, please explore our Help Center.
  • Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers appropriate for the season and the types of activities you plan to do during your visit, especially if you opt to participate in any outdoor adventure activities.
  • Watch the Weather: The weather in our region can change quickly, which may result in unexpected temporary closures of our trails or outdoor activities during severe weather. We appreciate your understanding!
  • Make it a Getaway: With so much to experience, treat yourself and your loved ones to a memorable getaway with an overnight stay on Biltmore Estate. Beginning February 2024, we’re excited to offer a new exclusive Biltmore House admission benefit for overnight guests: House Length of Stay access! Book an overnight package or stay that includes Biltmore House admission to enjoy a daytime visit to Biltmore House with an audio guide at your leisure and as often as you would like during the length of your stay, no reservation necessary!
  • Make the Most of Your Experience: All Biltmore admission types include access to explore Antler Hill Village & Winery and our historic gardens and grounds. Explore ticket types that include access to Biltmore House, an exclusive 90-minute guided tour, Chihuly at Biltmore (March 25, 2024–February 2, 2025), free next-day grounds access, and more! Additional add-on experiences, such as guided outdoor activities, are available as well.
  • Don’t Forget Your Mementos: Visit our exclusive estate shops to find unique gifts and gourmet treats, like award-winning Biltmore Wines or honey from our estate beehives, to bring the Biltmore legacy home with you.
  • Find More Tips: For even more guidance on what activities you might want to consider during your Biltmore visit for family fun, outdoor adventure, or food and wine, be sure to check our Itineraries page.

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