Visit itinerary: Biltmore’s Luminere evening experience

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As day turns to dusk, Biltmore’s Blue Ridge Mountain views and stunning landscapes set the stage for romantic strolls, playful family time in the Italian Garden, and deeper exploration of our remarkable history. 

Since any time of day is beautiful at Biltmore, we’ve curated a Luminere itinerary that you can customize for a perfect visit with your loved ones. 

Let’s go!

Select Luminere admission tickets and overnight stay bundles include a daytime Biltmore House visit!

🏰 Morning through afternoon: Explore Biltmore House and Gardens  

Long before the sun sets, historic Biltmore House reveals architectural delights, fine art and furnishings, and meaningful personal stories of the family who made this Gilded Age masterpiece their home. 

For daytime Biltmore House access (and the best value), either a Luminere, House & Grounds ticket or special overnight package will provide an enlightening audio-guided experience of an epic American landmark. Or, if you prefer, simply awaken your senses wandering Biltmore’s historic gardens and discovering exotic flora in the Conservatory. 

Tip: Select Luminere evening tickets offer access (same or next day) to explore the estate grounds, including our gardens, grounds, Antler Hill Village & Winery, shops, and restaurants.  For details on complimentary same or next-day access, visit our FAQs here.  

Throughout the estate, you’ll find Luminere-inspired field to table dining options.

🍨 Afternoon: Unwind in Antler Hill Village  

A perfect way to immerse yourself in the Biltmore experience is to spend an afternoon in our charming, European-inspired village—savoring estate-crafted wines at the Winery or Wine Bar, discovering Luminere-inspired menus and estate-grown delicacies at our restaurants, strolling curated boutique shops, or enjoying live music on select dates in the village center.  

Families will find plenty of things to do with the Outdoor Adventure Center, Pisgah Playground, Farmyard, and Antler Hill Barn. Make it even more memorable with tasty treats from The Creamery!  
 
When it is time to head to the Luminere event, allow ample time to travel to the Biltmore House & Gardens area. It can take 30–45 minutes to drive from Antler Hill Village, The Inn, or the main estate entrance to the event location—but it’s worth it to take in the enthralling historic and natural sites along our beautiful, expansive, and still thriving estate. 

Tip: Daytime guests can bypass event check-in at the Biltmore House area by stopping at the Guest Services station in Antler Hill Village to pick up required Luminere wristbands. Overnight guests will receive wristbands from your front desk concierge and enjoy complimentary transportation to and from the event. 

During Luminere, take advantage of our complimentary shuttles from Park & Ride lots, and from the Gardens to Biltmore House.

🎫 Early evening: A warm Luminere welcome and exclusive Artistic Legacies tour  

To ease into your evening, our “Park & Ride” lots offer complimentary shuttles to and from the event. After check-in, you’ll enjoy a scenic ride featuring exclusive melodies that welcome you to Luminere. If you prefer to walk, choose our “Park & Walk” lots and stroll toward Biltmore House, where you will check in for the evening’s event at the North Gate. Guests who stay with us at The Inn, Village Hotel, or one of our premium Cottages on the estate enjoy complimentary transportation to and from the event, melting into the estate’s expansive scenic views and Luminere’s signature sounds along the way! 

Special evening access to Biltmore House is available only with a Luminere, Exclusive Tour & Grounds ticket for our all-new Artistic Legacies guided tour.  At your reserved time, expert guides greet your party at the entrance of Biltmore House for an experience that uncovers untold family stories through Vanderbilt art collections, a never-before-seen display of Cornelia Vanderbilt’s original artwork, and a view into how the family’s lasting love of the arts continues today. 

Tip: After 5 p.m. on Luminere evenings, the House & Gardens area (including the Conservatory, shops, and restaurants) will only be accessible to guests with Luminere admission. Pick up your required Luminere wristband for smooth access to the full experience! Available at the Park & Ride building, Park & Walk North Gate entrance, hotel front desks, or Guest Services locations at Biltmore House and Antler Hill Village.

As the sun begins to set, settle into your evening with a pre-ordered Chef picnic, games, or a glass of Biltmore wine!

🍷Evening to sunset: Wine, dine, unwind (and even family playtime!) 

Arrive well before nightfall for an evening to remember. Biltmore’s gardens and grounds are open for you to enjoy with loved ones, as originally designed (but with contemporary delights)! 

For a romantic night out, you can pre-order a Chef-prepared artisanal picnic, enjoy estate-grown delicacies from the evening menu at Stable Café, and browse for mementos in boutique shops. As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely stroll in the softening light through the historic gardens or share a toast with handcrafted Biltmore wines and specialty cocktails while admiring panoramic Blue Ridge Mountain views from the South Terrace. 

Biltmore has always been a magical place for little ones, so we created a family-friendly zone with both Gilded Age-era lawn games and modern activities in the Italian Garden. Grab kid- and adult-friendly light bites in the Stable Courtyard, then spread a blanket and play into the evening.   

Look around and remember, these are the spectacular views that inspired George Vanderbilt to create this special place 130 years ago, and what his descendants continue to preserve today.

Tip: Some areas have stairs or uneven, unpaved paths due to the historic design. All guests can ride the complimentary Garden Shuttle for an easy trip from the Walled Garden to the Biltmore House level, as well as to the Parking Lot locations. Lodging guests have dedicated shuttles that return to the hotel locations. All shuttles are wheelchair-accessible and stroller-friendly. For more information, click here. 

You’ll experience Biltmore like never before with the lights, sounds, and stories of Luminere.

✨ After dark: Biltmore’s story comes alive

As night falls, Biltmore House & Gardens transform into an enchanting nightscape of light, sound, and story!  

Under starlit skies, the Biltmore House façade becomes a canvas for an animated reflection of the lives upstairs and downstairs inside this grand home. Today’s generation of family members welcomes you to discover its unique 130-year history and appreciation for the community that has sustained it.

Wandering throughout Biltmore’s gardens, you will discover dream-like scenes with colorful lightscapes and custom musical scores that illuminate the night. As you meander, seamless transitions between gardens allow you to pause, ponder, and play at your own pace. Each element of the Luminere light and sound experience has been thoughtfully designed by a compilation of artists.  

As evening draws to a close and you lean into your unforgettable memories, we hope that you feel the warm embrace of our family and the appreciation of the community that built this cherished place together. Inspired by the Vanderbilts’ love and patronage of the art, design, and architecture reflected throughout the estate, Luminere continues the family’s commitment to preserving the beauty of the past while creating new artistic experiences for future generations to explore. 

Tip: The brief show on the Biltmore House façade replays throughout the evening, so that you can catch an optimal view any time. A designated Accessible Viewing Area near Biltmore House will ensure clear, comfortable sightlines for everyone. A map will be available to help you navigate this experience.

Not only does Biltmore House come alive at night during Luminere… so do the gardens!

How to make the most of your Luminere evening: 

To prepare for your Biltmore Estate visit, we recommend exploring our Visitor Information section. 

  • Plan ahead: Luminere is a new evening experience, so even the most experienced visitors may require extra guidance. Prepare for your visit by reviewing guides (like this one!) and Biltmore emails in your inbox after ticket purchase.  
  • Stay comfortable: This is an outdoor event, so prepare for changing evening temperatures and daily weather forecasts by dressing accordingly and wearing comfortable shoes to navigate garden paths and varied terrain. You may bring your own blanket or chair to sit on if you’d like, but remember that they cannot go inside Biltmore House if you’ve booked a daytime house visit.
  • Arrive before sunset: Make the most of your estate admission by arriving early on the day of your Luminere ticket to experience all the estate has to offer, including special activities, exclusive dining options, access to gardens and grounds, and Artistic Legacies guided tour. (Access will vary based on which Luminere ticket or overnight stay package you purchase.) 
  • Enjoy at your own pace: Luminere is a self-guided evening event, allowing you to easily venture to various points of interest throughout the evening based on your interests.
  • Navigating the estate: Biltmore Estate is expansive, with miles between the event location and other points of interest. We recommend allowing at least 30 minutes for travel and parking between locations. Park & Ride Shuttles and Garden Shuttles are available to all event attendees. A shuttle service between the event and estate lodging is provided to overnight guests.  
  • Make it a getaway: A special Luminere overnight stay package is available for the ultimate getaway. While staying on the estate, you can explore everything that Biltmore has to offer, including exclusive estate shops, dining, and outdoor activities. 
  • Watch the weather: The weather in our region can change quickly, which may result in unexpected temporary closures of outdoor activities. Should severe weather impact your Luminere evening, you will be notified as swiftly as possible by employees, along with loudspeaker announcements with instructions. We appreciate your understanding! 
  • Seasonal experiences: Luminere’s outdoor experience guarantees that no two visits will be the same, as spring tulips, summer fireflies, and the rich colors of fall promise to make each experience memorable. 
  • Share your Luminere memories! Snap photos and videos to capture your memories and share with friends and family. Tag @biltmoreestate #BiltmoreLuminere on social media to be a part of our community. 
You won’t want to miss taking advantage of golden hour views and special activities included with your Luminere admission!

Ready for an evening at Biltmore’s new Luminere experience? 

Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, we invite you to slow down, savor the moment, take in the scenery, and discover Biltmore in a whole new light! 

Explore our tickets and overnight stay packages to book your Luminere visit today. 

Visit itinerary: The magic of Christmas at Biltmore

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With so many must-see and do activities during the 130th Christmas at Biltmore celebration, you may be wondering how to make the most of your festive visit to the grand estate in Asheville, NC.

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!

Conservatory poinsettia display
Don’t miss exploring the Conservatory during Christmas at Biltmore!

Option 1: Daytime Christmas at Biltmore visit itinerary

🌺 Mid-day to early afternoon: Gardens and Conservatory visit (1 to 2 hours):
Did you know you can enter the gates before your reserved house entry time? Your admission gives you access to explore our gardens and grounds. Plan to arrive early for 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. Be sure to check online for current hours of operation.

🎄 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!

🥗 Early evening: Grab a snack or meal 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.

🥂 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.

Biltmore House Library during Candlelight Christmas Evenings
During Candlelight Christmas Evenings, Biltmore House is aglow with the warmth of candlelight, fireplaces, live musical performances, and cherished memories.

 Option 2: Candlelight Christmas Evenings visit itinerary

🌺 Afternoon Gardens and Conservatory visit (1 to 2 hours):
Take advantage of the daytime portion of your Candlelight Christmas admission ticket to arrive on the estate early to enjoy a leisurely stroll through Biltmore’s historic gardens and Conservatory before your evening house visit. 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.

🥗 Early evening: Enjoy a festive meal 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.

🥂 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.

🕯️ Night: 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! If you’re coming from Antler Hill Village, be sure to give yourself at least 30 minutes to drive, park, and arrive at the front of Biltmore House for your timed entry.

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 your 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.

Biltmore’s top 5 most naturally romantic spots

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Biltmore Estate’s year-round natural beauty and long tradition of hospitality have earned its recognition as a romantic destination for more than a century. But with 8,000 acres to explore, it can be hard to pick the perfect must-see romantic spot to share with your loved one. 

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a scenic date, or even proposing to your sweetheart at Biltmore, get inspired with this list of the top five most naturally romantic spots on the estate!

Tea House guest photo
📷 by @sasha_playz_musik

5. Tea House

Strategically set on the far west corner of the South Terrace, this romantic spot offers sweeping views of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountain vistas.

Tennis lawn guest photo
📷 by @jason.rosa

4. Tennis Lawn & Pergola

Tucked away between the Pergola and the Shrub Garden is the Tennis Lawn, an often overlooked “outdoor room” with a fairy-tale view of America’s Largest Home®.

Conservatory guest photo
📷 by @rongriswell

3. Conservatory

Indoor enchantment awaits in Biltmore’s Conservatory, a private tropical oasis that houses a wide variety of exotic plants beneath its grand glass roof. This romantic spot offers multiple greenhouses to explore with your sweetheart!

Bass Pond Bridge guest photo
📷 by @avidavlhiker

2. Bass Pond Waterfall & Trails

An easy stroll down our Azalea Garden path leads to rewarding views of our Bass Pond bridge, Boat House, and, of course, the Bass Pond Waterfall—a picturesque backdrop for many Biltmore proposals!

Lagoon guest photo
📷 by @georgebassen

1. Shores of the Lagoon

Perfect for a picnic or a pleasant stroll, the shores of Biltmore’s Lagoon offer a number of quiet, romantic spots with a marvelous view of Biltmore House in the distance.

Biltmore’s Rose Garden reaches peak bloom in the late spring to early summer months.

BONUS! Historic Rose Garden

As fragrant as it is awe-inspiring, our sprawling Rose Garden boasts an award-winning array of over 200 varieties of roses laid out in both French and English designs with multiple arches. This historic garden has been under the care of our Horticulture team since 1895, when Frederick Law Olmsted designed the grounds alongside George Vanderbilt. It’s the perfect location to stop and smell the roses… and perhaps get down on one knee!

The Inn guest room photo
📷 by @t_r_a_v_e_l_n_o_w

Make it a romantic getaway…

An overnight stay on the estate offers the opportunity to wake up on George Vanderbilt’s magnificent estate with your sweetheart. Our four-star Inn, cozy Village Hotel, and private Cottages on Biltmore Estate each offer a distinct and memorable experience for your next romantic getaway.

📷 by Camryn Glackin; Couple enjoys a spring picnic in a field at Biltmore
📷 by Camryn Glackin

Quick Tips: Romantic Spots on Biltmore Estate to Propose

If you’re planning to pop the question during a visit to Biltmore, consider this list of romantic and picturesque locations for your proposal:

  • In a Horse-Drawn Carriage: Couples wishing for some privacy (and a very discreet driver) may take one of our horse-drawn carriages for a gentle journey through forests and pastures, and stopping at the top of a hill that features a stunning view of the back of Biltmore House.
  • At the Statue of Diana, Goddess of the Hunt: After an easy hike to the top of the hill where The Statue of Diana stands, catch your breath and take in the majestic view of Biltmore House with sky and the Blue Ridge Mountains in the background. Then proceed!
  • In the South Terrace Tea House: With its gorgeous views of Mount Pisgah and the southern end of Biltmore House, the Tea House is a charming, open-air structure.
  • On top of Biltmore House: The guided Rooftop Tour takes you to the roof for up-close inspections of the home’s structure and intricate carvings. Don’t let the gargoyles and grotesques scare you. They’re harmless.
  • By the Bass Pond Waterfall: This is a more secluded location, below the formal gardens. This location is great in springtime or during October when the leaves are changing colors.
  • During a candlelight dinner: Our estate chefs create incredible meals using fresh ingredients grown right on the estate.
  • On The Inn’s Veranda: Relax with your sweetheart on a grand outdoor veranda where the estate’s sparkling wine can be delivered for your big moment.
  • Under the Pergola next to the South Terrace: This spot by Biltmore House is particularly romantic in springtime when Wisteria vines are blooming.
  • In the Italian Garden: Pop the question by one of the semi-secluded benches in the Italian Gardens. The reflecting pools full of lily pads and other exotic blooms set a soothing tone for an early summer evening proposal.
  • On a scenic picnic: If you like to bike or hike, you can pack a picnic, rent bikes or take one of our many hiking trails for an exciting adventure. Stop at the Lagoon to picnic and pop the question.
  • Under a rose archway in the gardens: Situated just above the Conservatory, our Rose Garden offers a stunning spot to sweep your sweetheart off their feet.

Biltmore’s farm-to-table history has deep roots

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Biltmore’s farm-to-table history has deep roots that were established long before the first guests arrived in 1895. By that time, the land was already being transformed—not just into manicured gardens and grounds, but into a working farm unlike any other.

For George Vanderbilt, the creation of Biltmore was about cultivating something lasting, something rooted. From stewarding thousands of acres of forest to raising livestock and harvesting vegetables, the estate’s early agricultural programs helped shape not only the daily life of the Vanderbilts but also the future of sustainable farming in America.

Today, our farm-to-table legacy continues to grow, nurtured by a commitment to quality, care, and the enduring belief that land, when well-loved, will give back for generations.

How our farm-to-table history began

Archival image of men cutting hay at Biltmore.
Archival photograph of estate workers harvesting hay at Biltmore.

In 1889, George Vanderbilt and famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted stood at the edge of a vast, overworked site that was slated for transformation into Vanderbilt’s private retreat. Rather than simply tame the land into perfect gardens and grounds, they imagined something bolder: an estate that would restore the soil, support local families, and serve as a model of agricultural innovation.

Olmsted offered a straightforward plan: “Farm your river bottom chiefly to keep and fatten livestock with view to manure and make the rest a forest.”

With barns, stables, orchards, greenhouses, and thousands of acres under cultivation, Biltmore quickly became a living example of responsible land use. Its mission was threefold: to feed the estate, to generate income through the sale of farm products, and to serve as a model for best practices in agriculture.

Farm-to-table foods

Farm-to-table Biltmore Dairy products including butter, milk, cottage cheese, and eggs.
Biltmore Dairy and farm products including butter, milk, and eggs.

By the mid-1890s, Biltmore was producing everything from dairy and poultry products to vegetables, grains, and honey. Estate-grown produce was served at the family table and sold to the surrounding community at wholesale prices.

An 1897 advertisement in the Asheville Daily Citizen offered estate-grown cabbage and three varieties of sweet potatoes. Another article praised Vanderbilt’s use of “brains and science,” predicting Biltmore’s gardens would soon compete with the finest farms of the Northeast.

The gardens weren’t just functional. They were thoughtfully designed and carefully managed. The Walled Garden, originally intended for vegetables, was instead transformed into the flower-filled paths that welcome you today, while the estate’s most fertile bottomland near the Swannanoa River became the site of Biltmore’s new market garden, anchored by a charming farm cottage.

Market Gardener’s Cottage

Archival photo of estate workers and residents with farm-to-table foods at the Market Gardener's Cottage at Biltmore.
Agricultural workers and estate residents at the Market Gardener’s Cottage, photographed in front of an elaborate display of estate-raised produce.

The Market Gardener’s Cottage, designed by Richard Howland Hunt, son of Biltmore House architect Richard Morris Hunt, overlooked rows of crops and served as the residence of George Stevenson Arthur, Biltmore’s first market gardener, and his family.

From this cottage, Arthur managed planting schedules, tested new techniques, and worked tirelessly to ensure that Biltmore remained at the forefront of agricultural innovation. Over time, the surrounding courtyard became a hub for sorting and packing produce and welcoming local merchants to purchase estate-grown goods.

The Market Gardener’s Cottage was more than a residence. It was the nerve center of Biltmore’s early farming success and an important piece of our farm history.

Restoring a landmark of farm history

Restoration of the Market Gardener's Cottage at Biltmore.
The Market Gardener’s Cottage required extensive cleanup and restoration after Tropical Storm Helene in September, 2024.

In September 2024, Tropical Storm Helene brought historic flooding to Western North Carolina. Among the hardest-hit areas of the estate was the Market Gardener’s Cottage. Positioned near the Swannanoa River, the cottage sustained extensive damage as floodwaters reached its second floor.

“Mud, debris, and trash were deposited in and on the cottage and throughout the courtyard,” said Vince Helton, Senior Director of Facility Operations.

As a contributing structure to Biltmore’s National Historic Landmark designation, the cottage represents a tangible link to the estate’s past. After the storm, Biltmore’s preservation experts quickly got to work—removing debris, cleaning and repairing drains, and stripping damaged interiors to prevent further decay.

Biltmore also partnered with a firm specializing in historic preservation to develop a long-term restoration plan that honors the building’s original design while introducing strategies to help mitigate future storm damage.

“Restoring the Market Gardener’s Cottage is about more than preservation,” Vince added. “It’s about protecting a vital chapter in Biltmore’s agricultural legacy.”

Biltmore® Grown: a farm-to-table legacy

Biltmore Grown products such as cornmeal, grits, and honey are available in estate shops and online, while fresh and frozen cuts of meat are available exclusively at Gate House Shop at the estate’s main entrance.

More than a century after the first harvest, Biltmore’s farm-to-table philosophy remains central to daily life on the estate.

Across 2,500 acres of pasture and farmland, Black Angus cattle, Berkshire hogs, Dorper sheep, goats, and chickens are raised with care. In nearby hydroponic greenhouses, lettuces, herbs, and edible flowers flourish, grown in deep water cultures for vibrant flavor and peak freshness. At the apiary, estate honey is harvested by our fifth-generation beekeeper.

These fresh, seasonal ingredients find their way to estate restaurants every day, while a selection of Biltmore® Grown products is available at estate shops and online.

Savor farm-to-table flavor with Biltmore wines

Part of our farm-to-table program, Biltmore has vineyards near Long Valley Lake on the west side of the property.
Biltmore’s estate vineyards overlook Long Valley Lake on the west side of the property.

In addition to the pastures and fields, Biltmore has a 50-acre vineyard on the west side of the estate. Varietals including Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot that can thrive in Western North Carolina are hand-harvested and transformed into our outstanding Biltmore® Reserve wines that represent the finest vintages created from our North Carolina estate-grown grapes.

“Whether we’re working in the vineyard or handcrafting Biltmore wines at the estate’s Winery, we’re always thinking about how to tell the estate’s farm-to-table story,” said Sharon Fenchak, Executive Winemaker. “It’s not just about what’s in the glass—it’s about where it came from, who cared for it, and how it connects to the land.”

Our farm-to-table story continues

Woman carrying a tray of farm-to-table plants in Biltmore's greenhouse.
Our farm-to-table story continues today with innovations like vegetables, herbs, and flowers grown in hydroponic greenhouses.

Biltmore’s agricultural journey began with a belief in the stewardship of land, people, and heritage. Today, that philosophy lives on in every field turned, every vine pruned, and every sip and bite savored in our estate restaurants or purchased online.

Whether you’re exploring the gardens, walking the grounds where crops once grew, enjoying farm-to-table foods at one of our restaurants, or staying overnight in one of our private and historic Cottages on Biltmore Estate™, you are part of the story.

Biltmore is more than a working farm or a historic house; it is a place where legacy is not only preserved but continually planted.

Farm to Table Tour and Taste

Farm to Table Tour and Taste: Black Angus cattle graze in a field with Biltmore House in the distance behind them.
Our Farm to Table Tour and Taste offers a look at our farm history and today’s agricultural operations.

Come experience the flavors, stories, and soil that make Biltmore a place unlike any other. Make the most of your visit with our Farm to Table Tour and Taste, which offers a fascinating glimpse into our farming history through a tour of the estate’s rarely seen west side agricultural operations, plus an opportunity to savor our farm-fresh, estate-grown artisanal fare and handcrafted wines.

John Singer Sargent: Premier portraitist of the Gilded Age

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John Singer Sargent was the premier portraitist of the Gilded Age elite, and you can see six of his notable works on permanent display inside Biltmore House. Five portraits were directly commissioned by George Vanderbilt; the sixth was a gift from one of Vanderbilt’s cousins.

Discover how Sargent’s skill as a portrait artist lay not only in capturing a likeness but also in conveying the essence of an era characterized by immense wealth and rapid social change.

Photograph of John Singer Sargent by James E. Purdy, 1903.
Photograph of John Singer Sargent by James E. Purdy, 1903.

This cosmopolitan figure of the late 19th and early 20th centuries appealed to the increasing elite of both Europe and America, blending traditional techniques with a modern perspective that distinguished his portraits from those of his contemporaries. This year marks the one hundredth anniversary of his death. His obituary referred to him as the “greatest contemporary portrait painter”, a title that still resonates today.

Formative years in Paris

Painting entitled El Jaleo by John Singer Sargent
“El Jaleo” by John Singer Sargent, 1882 (Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston, MA).

Born to American parents in Florence, Italy, John Singer Sargent spent much of his life living in various countries throughout Europe.

In 1874, at the formative age of 18, he moved to Paris, marking a pivotal point in his career. During the late 19th century, Paris was regarded as the world’s most beautiful and dynamic city, attracting painters, sculptors, and intellectuals from around the globe who sought artistic growth and a vibrant cultural environment.

The city offered a stimulating environment filled with galleries and salons where artists could exhibit their works and interact with fellow artists and critics. Noting the influx of artists to the city, in an essay by Henry James on Sargent in 1887, James noted, “when today we look for ‘American art’ we find it mainly in Paris” (Harper’s Magazine, October 1887).

Sargent embraced the city’s cultural life and frequented Paris’s museums, exploring the avant-garde paintings of the Impressionists. He studied under the renowned portrait artist Carolus-Duran and enrolled in the École des Beaux-Arts. During these formative years, he demonstrated an early talent for portraiture, capturing the personality and presence of his sitters through his brushstrokes and engaging compositions, which led to him becoming one of the most sought-after portrait artists of the 19th century.  

Upon his arrival in Paris, John Singer Sargent’s primary goal was to exhibit at the Paris Salon, an annual art exhibition in France that served as the primary event for artists to gain recognition and approval, and where critics played a crucial role in shaping public opinion. Exhibiting at the Salon could make or break an artist’s reputation, depending on the final verdict of critics. Their opinions set the standard for what was considered “good” or “high” art throughout Europe.

Archival photograph of John Singer Sargent in his studio with the portrait of Madame X.
John Singer Sargent in his Paris studio with the portrait of “Madame X”, ca. 1885 (photograph by Adolphe Giraudon).

Sargent’s success at the Paris Salon in 1882 with El Jaleo led him to become one of the most talked-about painters in Paris. After several years of success at the Salon, his exhibition of Madame X in 1884 received negative criticism for the painting’s suggestive pose, the paleness of her skin, and the provocative neckline of her dress. Its unconventional style challenged the more traditional views of the time. Ultimately, the controversy led Sargent to leave Paris and move to London, taking James McNeill Whistler’s old studio on Tite Street. 

Sargent’s arrival in America

Sargent portrait of Isabella Stewart Gardner, 1888.
Portrait of Isabella Stewart Gardner by John Singer Sargent, 1888 (Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, Boston, MA).

John Singer Sargent made several trips to the United States during his career, but his first successful visit as a portrait artist came in October 1887.  His work was less successful in London than in Paris, and he was seeking to expand his portraiture and build a reputation in the United States. He arrived in Boston and quickly received commissions from prominent members of American society. Pivotal to his success was an article written by author Henry James in Harper’s Weekly, which introduced the artist’s work to the American public and paved the way for his commissions. 

The late 1800s marked a period of unprecedented economic growth and a widening gap between social classes in the United States, characterized by a growing class of wealthy industrialists and financiers who rivaled the lifestyles of the European aristocracy. Into this ripe environment for a portrait artist, Sargent arrived in Boston, eager to immerse himself and gain the patronage of the city’s upper crust. He had established a network of Boston friends while in Paris, and his arrival in Boston was met with the fuss and fanfare of a superstar along with a long list of commissions. His initial portraits included those of Isabella Stewart Gardner (1888) and Mrs. Charles E. Inches (1887), both members of Boston’s elite.

George Vanderbilt’s patronage

Sargent portrait of George Vanderbilt's mother Maria Louisa Kissam Vanderbilt.
“Mrs. William H. Vanderbilt” by John Singer Sargent, 1888.

Within a few months of Sargent’s arrival, George Vanderbilt commissioned him to paint his mother, Maria Louisa Vanderbilt. Letters exchanged between Sargent and George Vanderbilt regarding the commission of Mrs. Vanderbilt began in November 1887. The following year, Maria Louisa sat for Sargent in her new home at 640 Fifth Avenue. The artist requested that she wear a black dress “that Mrs. Vanderbilt already owns” (Sargent to Vanderbilt, November 22, 1887, The Biltmore Company Archives).

She holds a pair of gloves while seated in an armchair, uniquely designed by the notable Herter Brothers–the same firm that designed and decorated the interiors of the 640 Fifth Avenue home. Although the portrait was not exhibited, critics recognized his ability to capture his sitter through masterful composition and bravura brushwork, deeming it “one of Mr. Sargent’s greatest successes in portraiture.” (The Critic, March 17, 1888)

Sargent’s association with the Vanderbilts and other wealthy families propelled him into the upper echelons of American society, solidifying his reputation as a sought-after portraitist among the elite. The commission from George Vanderbilt to paint his mother’s portrait demonstrated the Vanderbilt family’s recognition of John Singer Sargent’s artistic talent and launched a series of several more commissioned portraits.

Vanderbilt’s collection of John Singer Sargent portraits grows

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“George Washington Vanderbilt” by John Singer Sargent, 1890
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“Frederick Law Olmsted” by John Singer Sargent, 1895.
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“Richard Morris Hunt” by John Singer Sargent, 1895.
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“Mrs. Walter Bacon” by John Singer Sargent, 1886.
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“Mrs. Benjamin Kissam” by John Singer Sargent, 1888.

During the next nine years, George Vanderbilt commissioned four additional portraits by Sargent: himself, Biltmore’s architect and landscape architect, and his cousin. In addition, he was gifted a sixth portrait from another cousin.

  • George Washington Vanderbilt – Commissioned in 1890, the portrait was presumably created in Sargent’s New York studio. The artist’s influence from Velazquez is evident in the portrait through his color palette, thickness of brushwork, and overall simplicity. The choice of a red-edged book as a prop in Vanderbilt’s hand stands out in the portrait since Vanderbilt was noted in society for being “bookish” and a recognized bibliophile and collector of books. The portrait fittingly hangs over the door to the Library in the Tapestry Gallery.
  • Frederick Law Olmsted and Richard Morris Hunt – George Vanderbilt commissioned Sargent in 1895 to paint the portraits of Biltmore’s architect and landscape architect as a tribute to their contributions to the estate. Hunt, nearing the end of his life, posed outside the grand staircase but frequently came inside to warm himself by the fireplace. Olmsted stood in the natural environment of Western North Carolina, surrounded by laurels and rhododendron. As he became weary and anxious to return to work, his son, Frederick Jr., took his place in a room inside Biltmore House, wearing his father’s clothing. Today, both of the portraits hang in Second Floor Living Hall.
  • Mrs. Walter Bacon (née Virginia Purdy Barker) – Vanderbilt commissioned this portrait of his cousin in 1896. Virginia and George were close and enjoyed travelling together. Sargent recently left Biltmore, and Mrs. Bacon posed in Sargent’s London studio. She wears a black Spanish dress, reflecting the influence of Spanish art and culture in many of Sargent’s works, as well as the growing fascination with Spain and Hispanic culture in the United States. In an effort to find the perfect frame for the portrait, it was almost a year before the painting was shipped to Biltmore in a newly made frame. It now hangs in the Breakfast Room. 
  • The only Sargent not commissioned by Vanderbilt, which rivals the portrait of Maria Louisa in color and sumptuous texture, is Mrs. Benjamin Kissam (maternal aunt to George Vanderbilt). Sargent’s masterful treatment of fabrics, such as the soft folds of silk in Mrs. Kissam’s dress, exemplifies the luxurious quality that appealed to his patrons. Painted in 1888, the portrait was given to George by the sitter’s daughter, Ethel Kissam Train, after her mother’s death in 1894. This portrait also hangs in the Breakfast Room. 

Capturing the essence of an era

Sargent's portraits of George Vanderbilt's cousin and aunt are displayed in the Breakfast Room of Biltmore House.
Sargent’s portraits of Mrs. Walter Bacon (left) and Mrs. Benjamin Kissam (right) are displayed in the Breakfast Room of Biltmore House along with paintings by other notable artists, including Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Maxime Maufra.

By the time Sargent moved away from commissioned portraiture in 1907, he had established himself as the foremost portraitist of the period, renowned for his technical mastery and his ability to capture not only the likeness but also the personality of the era’s elite. His portraits remain a captivating visual record of this opulent period, reflecting the ambition and vibrancy of a society undergoing rapid transformation. 

His work continues to inspire exhibitions worldwide. The Musée d’Orsay and The Metropolitan Museum of Art organized Sargent and Paris at The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York in 2025, which focused on Sargent’s early years.

See Sargent on display at Biltmore

Biltmore’s collection of six portraits completes an era of John Singer Sargent’s work that complements the paintings featured in The Met’s show, allowing you to see a different set of works that paint Sargent in a new light. Plan your visit now to see our private collection of Sargent’s portraits on permanent display inside Biltmore House.

Beef Brisket with Texas-Style BBQ Sauce recipe

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Nothing says summer like the mouthwatering flavors and aromas of BBQ! Follow this recipe from our Biltmore Estate chefs for a tender smoked or oven-roasted beef brisket with a simple Texas-style BBQ sauce.

Wine Pairing Suggestion: Beef brisket pairs beautifully with rich red wines like The Hunt Sonoma County Red Blend, Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Tempranillo, or Biltmore Estate® Cabernet Sauvignon.

Fire up the smoker for this mouthwatering Biltmore Brisket recipe with Texas-style BBQ sauce.

Beef Brisket with Texas-Style BBQ Sauce

Total time: 11 hours 30 minutes

Serving Size: 4-6 people

Ingredients:

BBQ Dry Rub

  • 3 pounds beef brisket
  • ½ cup paprika
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup chili powder
  • ¼ cup kosher salt
  • ¼ cup black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
  • 2 tablespoons ground cumin

Texas-Style BBQ Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons blended oil (such as olive or canola oil)
  • 1 yellow onion, roughly chopped
  • 8 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
  • 16 ounces light brown sugar, packed
  • 16 ounces apple cider vinegar
  • 1 bottle (32 ounces) prepared ketchup
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons mustard powder
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
  • 2 teaspoons ground black pepper

Instructions:

  • Prepare the Texas-Style BBQ Sauce: Sauté onions and garlic in blended oil over medium heat until soft. Add sugar and vinegar; cook until slightly reduced. Stir in ketchup and spices and simmer for 15 minutes. Blend until smooth and use immediately or refrigerate for up to 7 days.
  • Smoke the brisket: Rub dry ingredients into brisket and smoke at 275°F for 2 hours. Roast uncovered at 300°F for 6 to 7 hours or until fork-tender. Rest for 30 minutes before slicing, then top with BBQ sauce.
    • If you don’t have a smoker, try oven roasting the brisket: Rub dry ingredients into brisket and place on a rimmed baking sheet lined with heavy-duty aluminum foil. Cover with aluminum foil and bake at 300°F for 6 hours. Uncover and continue baking for an additional 1-2 hours, or until fork-tender. Rest covered for 30 minutes before slicing, then top with BBQ sauce.
  • Serve your mouthwatering brisket sandwich or plate with our simple Texas-style BBQ Sauce and enjoy with your favorite sides and Biltmore wines.
Elevate your BBQ brisket by pairing with the rich, fruit-forward flavors of our suggested Biltmore red wines.

Summer fun: Just like in the Vanderbilts’ day

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Summer is the season for outdoor fun at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, and your choices are as plentiful today as they were for the Vanderbilt family and their guests more than a century ago!

Whether it’s your first time visiting Biltmore or you’re an Annual Passholder planning a return, here’s a look at a few of our favorite ways you can vacation like a Vanderbilt this summer by exploring the great outdoors at Biltmore.

Archival Biltmore photo of George Vanderbilt, his niece, and her husband with a St. Bernard dog
George Vanderbilt (left) enjoying a summer day at Biltmore with his niece Adele, her husband Jay Burden, and a St. Bernard, June 1896

A Grand Getaway for Summer Fun

When George Vanderbilt chose the mountains of western North Carolina as the setting for his country estate in the late 1800s, he sought an antidote to the social pressures and hectic pace of New York City. With Biltmore, he created a retreat where family and friends could relax and immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty during the summer.

The Vanderbilts offered tennis, croquet, archery, fishing, horseback riding, golf, swimming, “automobiling,” and lawn bowling in the formal gardens and landscaped grounds surrounding Biltmore House.

Guests in 1905 play croquet in the Italian Garden.

Get Ready for Games

The family welcomed hundreds of guests to Biltmore House through the years. And with all the amenities of a luxury resort, it’s no wonder they stayed for weeks at a time! The combination of the elegant French château, gently rolling hills, and mild weather captured the imagination. Spring and summer lured the hosts and their friends outdoors to play. A dazzling array of activities appealed to nearly every taste and whim, including croquet in the Italian Garden.

How You Can Experience This: During your summer visit, make sure to spend time in Antler Hill Village, where you’ll find seasonal demonstrations, games, and activities offered at our Outdoor Adventure Center, Bike Barn, and Antler Hill Barn.

Cornelia and Edith Vanderbilt in Biltmore's stables, c. 1917
Cornelia and Edith Vanderbilt in Biltmore’s stables, c. 1917

Head Out on Horseback

George Vanderbilt descended from a family famous for its love of racing and raising horses. Coaching and riding were always favorite recreational activities. Cornelia grew up riding horses, and for a time, she even had a donkey to ride. It’s tough to find a more exciting and beautiful way to see the estate than from the back of a horse.

How You Can Experience This: Explore the estate’s scenic views on horseback through guided trail rides or with a leisurely carriage ride around the grounds.

Edith and Cornelia fishing at the Lagoon.

Reel Summer Fun

Edith was known to be an avid fisherwoman. She often gave fishing parties at Biltmore, and daughter Cornelia fished right alongside her. Our archives note that the family enjoyed hikes into the forest and across estate ridges during the summertime. George Vanderbilt himself loved to get out in the woods and see the estate on foot.

How You Can Experience This: All estate admission types, including Annual Pass memberships and overnight stays, make our estate grounds easily accessible for you to soak up summer’s longer days with leisurely strolls, bike rides, or hikes to explore the very same scenery George Vanderbilt and his family saw back in their day.

Cornelia Vanderbilt swimming in the fountain at Biltmore on a summer day.
Cornelia Vanderbilt swimming in Front Lawn fountain.

Make a Splash

As a little girl, Cornelia Vanderbilt splashed around in the front lawn fountain! Later, as a young woman, she entertained guests poolside on the South Terrace. 

How You Can Experience This: The pool is no longer on the South Terrace, but both The Inn and Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate have swimming pools surrounded by beautiful scenery that are open during summer and are calling your name.

George Vanderbilt (seated) and friends crossing the French Broad River on a ferry, circa June 1896.

Rolling on the River

From the late 1800s through the 1970s, a ferry traveled back and forth across the French Broad River, bringing passengers from the farming operations on the west side of the estate to Biltmore’s main dairy facility, where the Winery is located today. The Vanderbilt family and their guests used the ferry when they ventured to the west side, and employees used it to haul lumber and farm products.

How You Can Experience This: You can explore the scenic views of this wide river that runs through the estate by walking or biking on easy trails that offer beautiful views. Download our Trail Map or visit the Bike Barn in Antler Hill Village for bike rentals and information on outdoor activities.

Group of Victorian-era men and women having a summer picnic in the woods.
Pauline Dresser, Edith Vanderbilt’s sister, attending a summer picnic in Langrolay-sur-Rance, France, 1895.

Pack a Summer Picnic

Whether they stayed on Biltmore Estate or traveled to a nearby scenic spot, picnicking for the Vanderbilts and their guests was a much more extravagant outdoor activity that included dining with real china and glassware and sitting atop cushions beneath a tent or shade.

How You Can Experience This: You are invited to head out and enjoy a more modest picnic on the estate grounds. Enjoy our great outdoors when you pack your own picnic (see policies) or set out with a chilled bottle of Biltmore Wine and some perfectly paired snacks from one of our estate shops or restaurants to enjoy. You can also find a good spot to relax, listen to live music, and hang out with friends and family in Antler Hill Village. 

Spring isn’t the only season you can spot breathtaking blooms in our gardens! Enjoy lush and fragrant summertime strolls in the gardens, just like Vanderbilts.

Savor Summer like a Vanderbilt

Summer fun is just a hop, skip, and jump away! From ancient wonders to modern marvels, every day is an invitation to savor summer’s longer days as you connect, unwind, explore, and make memories to last a lifetime.

Plan your visit to join us this summer on George Vanderbilt’s 8,000-acre Blue Ridge Mountain getaway, just as it was intended. For even more Vanderbilt-inspired fun, linger longer with summer days and overnight stays on our historic estate, or by joining our Passholder family.

Rooted in responsibility: Where community & conservation meet

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Biltmore’s values are rooted in responsibility, and have been since 1895 when George Vanderbilt invited the first guests to experience his new home in Asheville, NC.

If you’ve visited the estate in recent years, you have been immersed in our preservation mission first-hand as you’ve explored a newly restored room, admired an expertly-conserved work of art for the first time, or strolled across hand-laid brick pavers in Stable Courtyard.

What you may not have noticed, however, are the less visible corporate responsibility efforts that go on behind the scenes every day to create focus and accountability for our impact on society and conservation of our environment.

We invite you to take a look at how a family legacy guides the way we care for the people and world around us.

Every year, wildflowers and food plots are planted around the estate to support pollinators and wildlife.

Preservation with purpose

Though the term corporate social responsibility, or CSR, is relatively modern, the work behind the scenes at Biltmore is not.

“Corporate social responsibility has its beginnings in the way George Vanderbilt and his collaborators created this place, and that has continued through all the generations of family owners and leadership,” shares Tim Rosebrock, who serves as Biltmore’s Vice President of Legal & Compliance, and collaborates with leaders across the company and in the wider community to ensure that the values George Vanderbilt instilled are carried out with intention today.

At Biltmore, the purpose of corporate social responsibility is to contribute positively to the environment and society. These two focus areas are directly connected back to George and Edith Vanderbilt’s legacies and are supported through company-wide initiatives for sustained impact over time.

Biltmore is proud to support Southern Appalachian Highlands Conservancy (SAHC) in their efforts to protect undisturbed lands, view sheds, and biodiversity of our region.

Environmental impact: the root of it all

In the 1880s, George Vanderbilt envisioned Biltmore as a self-sustaining estate that nurtured the land and its resources. With the help of experts like Frederick Law Olmsted and Gifford Pinchot, what was once over-farmed and over-forested land became a model for sustainable and regenerative practices.

Today, we continue to honor this vision through our approach to environmental stewardship, sustainable agriculture and forestry, waterway management, and historic preservation of the estate. 

“But our commitment doesn’t stop at the gates,” says Tim. “We support local partners whose missions are to protect the greater region—preserving open spaces, view sheds, and biodiversity across Western North Carolina.”

Archival image of Cornelia and John Cecil at the 1930 opening of Biltmore House to the public.

Societal impact: it takes a village

While George and Edith Vanderbilt’s commitment to their community and staff more than a century ago inspires our values, it was the next generation that made a big decision that left a lasting impact on Biltmore’s broader impact on the local economy.

According to Tim, “One of the most important impacts for our community over time goes back to 1930 when Asheville city leaders came to John and Cornelia Cecil and said, ‘Would you open Biltmore House to help us stimulate tourism?’”

Fast forward nearly 100 years, and Biltmore’s leaders remain committed to creating a welcoming culture for employees and guests on the estate and to supporting the community around us through partnerships with local organizations.

Biltmore team members “Pack to Give Back” with MANNA Foodbank.

Fulfilling our mission

“I think the decisions that every single one of us makes every single day are what ladder up to fulfilling our mission of preservation, living out our core values of integrity and community. And those small decisions make big contributions over time,” shares Tim.

A few real-world examples of decisions we make include:

  • Composting more than 1 million pounds of waste onsite for horticultural use
  • Sustainably managing more than 4,000 acres of forests and 2,500 acres of farmland
  • Ongoing historic preservation projects around the estate
  • Making financial contributions to local community aid and land conservation organizations
  • Making our historic interpretation accessible with more language options
  • Facilitating employee-led “green” teams and volunteer groups
  • Creation of the Biltmore Relief Fund for WNC, contributing $2 million to local Helene recovery
Watch to learn more about Biltmore’s approach to corporate social responsibility.

Sustaining a legacy through corporate responsibility

As a company committed to continuous improvement, we recognize that there will always be more work to be done. We are honored to continue contributing to our society and natural environment for future generations. It’s the passion, purpose, and people of Biltmore who are carrying George Vanderbilt’s vision into the future, one thoughtful choice at a time.

Want to learn more about Biltmore’s ongoing preservation, community involvement, and environmental stewardship efforts? Be sure to follow us on social media, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and sign up for email newsletters for an ongoing look behind the scenes.

Visit itinerary: Your guide to Biltmore

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From exploring the grand halls of our historic chateau to savoring our handcrafted wines or exploring the rolling hills of our private mountain oasis, 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.

Biltmore Italian Garden Pools
Did you know: All estate ticket types allow you to explore the extensive gardens and grounds?

Two-day Biltmore visit itinerary

For a leisurely and immersive visit to Biltmore, we recommend spreading your estate experiences across 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 to mid-day: 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!

🥗 Early afternoon: 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 The Bake Shop or Biltmore Dairy Bar near Biltmore House, or the Smokehouse food truck or The Creamery in Antler Hill Village. Fine dining is available at our four-star Dining Room at The Inn.

Tip: Dining reservations are highly recommended. If you’re planning to explore the gardens next, we recommend taking advantage of dining options in the Stable Courtyrd area next to Biltmore House.

🌷 Late 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.

DAY TWO

🥗 Mid-day to early afternoon: 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 The Bake Shop or Biltmore Dairy Bar near Biltmore House, or the Smokehouse food truck or The Creamery in Antler Hill Village. Fine dining is available at our four-star Dining Room at The Inn.

Tip: Dining reservations are highly recommended.

🧭 Afternoon: 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 stay packages include exclusive guided tours of Biltmore House! Be sure to check currently available activities to make the most of your visit.

🥂 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 family fun for all ages.

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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.

One full day Biltmore visit itinerary

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: Embark on an adventure (1 to 2 hours)
Your estate admission grants you access to come early to explore the gardens, grounds, shops, and more. Take advantage of this quiet time of day to stretch your legs with a morning stroll or bike ride along estate trails, participate in a guided experience through our Outdoor Adventure Center, or arrive early to explore the gardens before your Biltmore House visit.

Tip: Look for special overnight stay packages that feature exclusive early morning visits to Biltmore House.

🥗 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 The Bake Shop or Biltmore Dairy Bar near Biltmore House, or the Smokehouse food truck or The Creamery in Antler Hill Village. Fine dining is available at our four-star Dining Room at The Inn.

Tip: Reservations are highly recommended.

🏰 Afternoon: 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!

🌷 Late afternoon: 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.

🥂 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.

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Family walks along trail in Antler Hill Village
Plan ahead! Allow yourself plenty of time to relax, play, and enjoy all that your estate visit has to offer.

Helpful Biltmore visit 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. 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!
  • 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, Luminere™ (hosted on select evenings), 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 other itineraries and guides.

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Spring at Biltmore: A delight for the senses

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As springtime returns and Biltmore begins to bloom, a wonderland for the senses unfolds across our Western North Carolina mountain oasis, bringing a welcome sense of renewal, fresh perspectives, and fun!

Start planning your spring getaway now and discover some of our favorite ways to delight all five of your senses with a spring visit to Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC.

Facade of Biltmore House at night with Luminere show.
During Luminere evenings, Biltmore House becomes a canvas that illuminates its remarkable story, and our renowned gardens dance before you with breathtaking artistry.

💡 Experience Biltmore in a whole new light

Spring offers up an ever-changing visual kaleidoscope of color as our historic landscapes bloom weekly with the vibrant hues of tulips, daffodils, azaleas, and rhododendrons! Plus, every spring, Biltmore’s Floral team displays special arrangements throughout Biltmore House inspired by the gardens in bloom.

Beginning March 26, join us on select evenings to experience Luminere, our breathtaking new experience that encompasses Biltmore House & Gardens. As day turns to dusk, sunset mountain views and stunning landscapes set the stage for unforgettable evenings of light, sound, and wonder. You await the magic of nightfall, immersed in the beauty of our grounds, savoring artisan picnics and beverages crafted just for this moment.

Inspiring and completely unforgettable, you’ve never seen Biltmore like this!

Tip: Luminere is an awe-inspiring experience for families and guests of all ages. Special evening admission is required.

Woman touches mountain laurel blooms at Biltmore.
Mountain laurel, which is native to Western North Carolina, begins to flower in late spring.

🌷 Sweet scents, sweeter memories

This time of year, it feels like the air is transforming right beneath your nose! Be sure to stop and smell the flowers during your springtime stroll through Biltmore’s historic gardens and grounds.

Tip: Be sure to check our Bloom Report to stay tuned in on what’s blooming across our gardens and grounds!

The scents of our gardens and grounds in bloom seamlessly intertwine with Biltmore’s award-winning wines and estate-grown farm-to-table fare. As you swirl, sniff, sip, and savor our favorite spring wines at the Winery, make note of the distinctive tasting notes and fragrances, expertly crafted by our winemaker.

George Vanderbilt’s vision of a self-sustaining estate extends past our wines. Biltmore remains a working farm, producing field crops, pastured beef, lamb, pork, and eggs from chickens, to be served in restaurants across the estate. Recreate the dishes you loved during your visit with seasonal recipes and Biltmore’s gourmet foods delivered right to your door when you shop online.

Group of men and women listening to an audio tour in the Tapestry Gallery of Biltmore House.
Hear the stories of this grand estate with your complimentary Biltmore House audio guide.

🏰 Must-hear stories

Discover the stories of this National Historic Landmark and the people who lived and worked here over a century ago as you listen to an exciting audio guide for Biltmore House. If it’s been a while since you last explored this 250-room French Renaissance-style mansion, spring is the perfect time to come back to discover new and favorite stories.

Dig even deeper into the stories of this opulent home by upgrading your visit to include an expert-guided tour.

For spring break getaways and holidays, be sure to check our activities listing for special events around the estate.

Mother and daughter pet a lamb held by a staff member in the Farmyard at Biltmore Estate.
Meet baby animals at our Farmyard each spring.

🐑 Hands-on learning and adventure

Our expert guides are ready to help you discover educational, fun, and adventurous activities that fit your interests and abilities. Embark on a hike across Biltmore’s expansive grounds or coast along the winding gravel paths while the beauty of the landscape unfolds on one of our Guided Bike Rides.  

Or take it slow and grab the reins to connect with Biltmore’s history with a 60-Minute Carriage Ride that offers breathtaking Blue Ridge mountain views and a rarely-seen view of the west façade.

Just like clockwork, the animals that call Biltmore home welcome cuddly youngsters every spring. Visit Antler Hill Village for a deeper look at Biltmore’s legacy as a working farm. The Farmyard offers a kid-friendly introduction to farm life and the animals that are an integral part of our self-sustaining estate.

Woman enjoying a picnic on the grounds of The Inn on Biltmore Estate.
Plan your spring getaway at The Inn on Biltmore Estate today!

☀️ Surround yourself with spring

With a sensory treat around every corner, we invite you to fully immerse yourself in the unique experiences that await you this spring. Imagine waking to awe-inspiring Blue Ridge Mountain views and the scent of crisp spring air just outside your door.

Whether you’re planning a day trip to Asheville, a weekend getaway, or celebrating spring break with the whole crew, book your springtime visit to Biltmore now with special admission and overnight stay packages featuring Luminere, guided activities, free next-day grounds access, and more as Biltmore blooms.

And, with so much to see, taste, smell, and do this year, spring is a perfect time of year to become a Biltmore Annual Passholder!