Art & Architecture
George Vanderbilt brought together world-renowned experts to create Biltmore, then filled his French Renaissance chateau with amazing collections of art, books, sculpture, and other treasures.
The Beginning
From the moment you enter Biltmore you’ll notice architectural details in its structures and landscapes. Click here to view an interactive map of the estate »- Make your first stop our Antler Hill Village. Soak up the ambience of this charming 15-acre village that includes the Barn. One of Biltmore's most historic facilities, the Barn was designed in 1900 as the estate's agricultural center. Browse through vintage farm equipment and tools, plus displays of traditional trades such as blacksmithing and woodworking.
- Savor lunch at Cedric’s Tavern surrounded by archival photographs related to the Vanderbilt’s favorite family pet—a St. Bernard named Cedric. Look for his 33” collar on display, as well.
- Experience an intimate look at historic Biltmore and the family that created it with The Vanderbilts at Home and Abroad, our new exhibition at the Biltmore Legacy in Antler Hill Village. Included in your Biltmore admission, this exhibition sheds light on the time that the Vanderbilts spent together at Biltmore and beyond.
- Your next stop should be the Winery for a guided tour and complimentary wine tasting. The Winery was originally an estate dairy barn, so look for architectural interest and details such as the clock tower.
- Enjoy a rare piece of automobile “architecture” with the Vanderbilt’s 1913 Stevens-Duryea “Model C-Six” seven-passenger touring car going on display May 20 at the Winery. Experts believe this vintage automobile is one of only about 10 of its kind left in the world today.
Enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep in the heart of the estate: our four-star Inn on Biltmore Estate is the only hotel on the property, and sits atop Antler Hill, which lends its name to our new village located just below the inn. You might also consider one of our Biltmore packages available through our Asheville hotel partners.
Biltmore House: A National Treasure
- If you're an Inn on Biltmore Estate guest, treat yourself to the Inn on Biltmore Estate breakfast buffet in The Dining Room before heading to Biltmore House.
- Purchase our Audio Tour Guide, which covers all rooms open to the public in Biltmore House. Be sure to check out each in-depth information stop for more details on the Vanderbilt family, Biltmore's artwork, and life on the estate.
- Look for Sargent portraits of the estate’s architect and landscape architect, two Renoir paintings, Ming Dynasty porcelain bowls, and an exceedingly rare Flemish tapestry (believed to be the only one in existence)—and that’s just on the main floor!
- Allow plenty of time to enjoy the experience, and be sure to ask our Guest Relations Hosts any questions you may have.
- Consider taking our Architect's Tour—it provides stunning views and close-up architectural details of the home’s exterior in a small group setting.
- For lunch, try the Stable Café located next to Biltmore House. This was the original stable area for horses, and you can enjoy your meal from historic box stalls that have become booths.
An Afternoon To Remember
- Not all of Biltmore’s treasures are located indoors. Beginning with the Library Terrace, immerse yourself in the “outdoor rooms” designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. From the Library Terrace all the way to the Bass Pond, experience a series of formal and informal gardens—each with its own story to tell.
- The Conservatory is an architectural triumph created by Hunt and Olmsted working together. Stroll through the exotic blooms and buds that can only survive under protective glass.
- Throughout the gardens, look for champion trees and rare botanical specimens that are treasures in their own right. The Azalea Garden has a particularly interesting history.
- As your second day at Biltmore winds down, return to the inn and head to The Spa for our relaxing and rejuvenating Revitalization Package featuring just the right treatments for revitalization. Includes a 60-minute Swedish Massage, Invigorating Foot Scrub, and a 50-minute Relief & Renew body treatment. (Available as a couples’ package.)
- If you feel like “going out,” enjoy a sumptuous dinner in The Dining Room. Otherwise, indulge in room service and have an early night with plenty of time to rest and re-live your Biltmore visit.
Remember:
If your passion is art and architecture, we invite you to join our family of Biltmore Twelve–Month Passholders and return as often as you like during the year. Explore pass options at our Reservation and Sales Center, or upgrade to a pass from your daily admission ticket at any Guest Services Station.
