Visit Itinerary: The Magic of Christmas at Biltmore
Written By Heather Angel
Posted 11/06/23
Updated 11/06/23
Events & Activities
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.
Tip: Be sure to customize your visit itinerary based on Biltmore’s activities and events that will make your Christmas visit even more memorable!
Option 1: Daytime Celebration Visit Itinerary
Morning 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.
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!
Lunch at an Estate Restaurant (1.5 hours):
Indulge in a delightful meal at one of Biltmore’s distinctive restaurants, including Stable Café, Cedric’s Tavern, Bistro, and Village Social.
Tip: Reservations are highly recommended during this popular season.
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.
Italian Renaissance Alive Exhibition (1 hour):
Step into one of the most influential periods of art history with digital art exhibition, Italian Renaissance Alive, created and presented by Grande Experiences, inside our Amherst at Deerpark® venue.
Tip: Access is included with select ticket types and guests may visit at any time during Amherst’s hours of operation.
Evening Antler Hill Village & Winery Visit (2 hours):
Linger into the evening 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 to remember your Christmas at Biltmore experience. 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.
Option 2: Candlelight Christmas Evenings
Italian Renaissance Alive Exhibition (1 hour):
Step into one of the most influential periods of art history with the digital art exhibition, Italian Renaissance Alive, created and presented by Grande Experiences, inside our Amherst at Deerpark® venue.
Tip: Access is included with select ticket types and guests may visit at any time during Amherst’s hours of operation.
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 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 into the evening 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 to remember your Christmas at Biltmore experience. 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.
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.
- 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.
- 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: The evenings can be chilly, so dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes, especially if you opt to participate in any outdoor activities.
- 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 or from the comfort of your home with biltmoreshop.com.
