what to wear Archives

You’ve booked your visit to Biltmore and are ready to explore, relax, and have fun in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains. Now it’s time to think about what to pack.

Here are a few Biltmore insider tips to help you plan what to wear to maximize your enjoyment as you visit our magnificent 8,000-acre estate any time of year.

Pack for your visit with these insider tips on what to wear at Biltmore!

What to wear for the occasion

Chances are, George Vanderbilt’s guests asked themselves the same questions as they planned their visits to Biltmore over a century ago. Luckily, today’s clothing differs quite a bit from the opulent glamour and elegance of the Edwardian-style silk and velvet gowns and dapper suits expected of Biltmore’s guests during the Gilded Age!

While there is no dress code for visiting Biltmore Estate (aside from dining at our four-star Inn), we recommend dressing for the occasion with photo ops, your comfort, your personal style, and of course, the weather in mind!

Biltmore admission includes access to explore our 8,000-acre estate!

What to wear for getting around

From exploring Biltmore’s 75 acres of formal gardens to touring the 175,000-square-foot home, you’ll want to be comfortable as you experience all the estate has to offer.

Comfortable shoes are a must! Loafers and stylish sneakers are great year-round options, walking sandals are perfect for touring the estate in spring and summer, and flat boots are comfortable for fall and winter.

Guests can expect to walk anywhere from half a mile to several miles depending on what they wish to experience while on the estate, all while navigating different types of terrain across the historic grounds, including uneven gravel and paved walkways and stairs.

Tip: Check our Accessibility page for helpful information about navigating the estate with a wheelchair or stroller. Want to bring a purse or backpack? Review our bag policy.

Dress for comfort, no matter the forecast.

What to wear for the Asheville weather

Blue Ridge Mountain weather is predictably unpredictable! It is not unusual to have blue skies give way to an afternoon shower, especially during spring and summer. No matter the weather, you’ll want to dress to enjoy your time on Biltmore Estate.

When there’s a chance of rain, plan to bring an umbrella or raincoat. During the fall and winter seasons, be sure to wear layers to be bundled up outdoors and comfortable indoors. Light, breathable layers are excellent year-round.

Tip: Check the local Asheville area weather forecast the day before your visit and arrive prepared. Watch for changing weather conditions.

Falconry is one of the more adventurous activities offered on Biltmore Estate.

What to wear for activities

“I thought it was just a house!” is often heard from first-time visitors, but a trip to Biltmore offers far more options beyond the historic home. Just as George Vanderbilt offered outdoor activities for his guests, we offer countless activities for our guests today!

Ranging from laid-back to adventurous, we recommend taking time to research which Biltmore activities you’d like to do while visiting, and be sure to keep that in mind while packing.

Tip: Enhance your visit with activities including horseback riding, biking, kayaking, hiking, falconry, and fishing as well as indoor pursuits such as shopping, dining, and tasting our handcrafted wines. Availability changes throughout the year and some activities require advanced reservations.

Stop and snap a selfie… and then tag @biltmoreestate. 😉

What to wear for the perfect picture

Trust us, you’re going to want to snap a few selfies and group photos while you’re here. You know that outfit people are always complimenting when you wear it? The one that makes you feel good as soon as you put it on? Bring it along! Biltmore is the perfect location for capturing moments that will last a lifetime.

Tip: Private photoshoots for engagements, graduation, maternity, and holiday cards for personal use are permitted on the estate. Please review the Biltmore Photo Policy before arrival.

Plan outfits that can be easily dressed up or down during your Biltmore getaway.

What to wear for your getaway

As a top destination, Biltmore’s award-winning winery, numerous restaurants, and luxury accommodations also make the estate perfect for romantic getaways, weddings, bridal showers, girlfriends’ weekends, family vacations, anniversaries, birthdays, and any excuse for a fun get-together!

Consider outfits that can be dressed up or down for a variety of activities during your getaway on the estate. For example, flowy dresses or skirts can be paired with walking sandals during the day and heels for dinner. Breathable, stretchy chino pants can be paired with stylish sneakers and a polo shirt during the day or loafers and a blazer at night.

Overnight stays at one of our private historic Cottages, our four-star Inn, or the more casual Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate will allow you to experience life as a guest of the Vanderbilts and it offers a chance to bring more outfits with you.