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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Ready to plan your visit to Biltmore? Let’s go!

Biltmore unlocked: Your Annual Pass is the key!

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Becoming an Annual Passholder is the key to unlocking the best of Biltmore—but don’t take our word for it. Here’s what real Passholders have to say about what it’s like being a member!

Annual Passholders admire the view from the South Terrace of Biltmore House.
Spectacular views like this from the South Terrace are just one way to enjoy Biltmore. With an Annual Pass, you can visit as often as you like in every season.

Give yourself access to our 8,000-acre oasis 🗝️

“I use mine for the pet-friendly many miles of hiking trails! I enjoy the food, wine and the farm animals. Music on the lawn is a huge plus not to mention the friendly staff of Biltmore!” – Tonya S., Passholder

As a member of our Annual Passholder family, you can visit as often as you like, bring friends and family along, and enjoy exclusive perks that make every trip even more special. Picture yourself in the midst of breathtaking gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmsted or exploring the opulent rooms of Biltmore House—the possibilities are endless.

With your Pass in hand, you’ll have FREE daytime access to the house and gardens of this iconic estate as you soak up the grandeur and grace of a bygone era as often as you’d like.

Woman holding a dog in front of sunflowers.
Passholders (and their pups!) enjoy our late-summer swathe of sunflowers along the road to Antler Hill Village.

Perks of being a Passholder 🙌

“I love my Annual Pass – it’s my Christmas present to myself. I use it mostly to drive the loop around the property; sometimes I park and walk the gardens, most times I park and go to the shops and winery. I also use it when friends are in town so we can get discounts on entry fees and special attraction tickets.” – Stacy S., Passholder

Time well spent—on your own or with those you love—is priceless. An Annual Pass is a smart investment that pays for itself in as few as two visits, giving you access to Biltmore House & Gardens, Antler Hill Village & Winery, our 8,000-acre Blue Ridge Mountain backyard, and more.

Access benefits

  • Bring your kids 16 and younger with you for FREE.
  • Bring friends with you to Antler Hill Village & Winery after 4 p.m. to enjoy the Wine Bar, live music, and other delights.
  • Purchase discounted tickets to share with others.
  • Save on new exhibitions and select events.

Wining and dining benefits

  • Preferred pricing at estate restaurants, premium wine tastings, and the Winery.
  • Join the Vanderbilt Wine Club®—your Pass amplifies your opportunities to enjoy the experience, including access to our members-only lounge.

See the full list of Passholder benefits.

Two bike riders behind Biltmore House.
Enjoy miles of biking and hiking trails, from flat easy stretches along the French Broad River to more challenging terrain options.

Visit, wander, relax, and repeat! 🗺️

“Love my annual pass. I use the mountain biking trails quite a bit!” – Kimberly S., Passholder

Live nearby? Biltmore is perfect for a day trip or weekend escape, especially in different seasons. Flying in? With direct flights to Asheville from Colorado, Florida, Texas, and more, it’s easy to visit Biltmore multiple times a year.

With more than 22 miles of private trails to explore, ever-changing gardens and grounds, and new memories to be made around every corner, you’ll WANT to return time and time again, even if you’re local to the greater Asheville area!

Biltmore conservator hand paints floral details in the Chimney Room.
Biltmore’s mission of preservation ranges from large-scale projects to tiny details, like restoring the hand-painted flowers on a ceramic stove in the Chimney Room of Biltmore House.

Meaningful membership: your connection to history 📖

“I use it to help fund preservation and restoration of the House and grounds. I live too far away to visit often. But I enjoy knowing I *can* visit as often as I like. If I don’t make it there every year, my money is supporting a beautiful and important bit of architecture and history.” – Angela P., Passholder

Beyond the perks, Passholders play a role in preserving this historic estate for future generations. Being a Passholder supports Biltmore’s mission of preservation and helps protect our designation as a National Historic Landmark.

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.

Celebrate the best of Biltmore 🥂

“We love ours for all the discounts it gives on the estate for just about everything plus the opportunity to buy tickets to current exhibits without needing the full 2-day pass. This thing just about pays for itself if you visit the estate two or more times a year.” – Kayce H., Passholder

This year is extra special as we invite you to join us for Luminere, our all-new light and sound evening experience. Under starlit skies, Biltmore House becomes a canvas that illuminates its remarkable story, and our renowned gardens dance before you with breathtaking artistry.

In addition, we’re celebrating our 130th anniversary of welcoming guests just like you to experience all that Biltmore offers with gracious hospitality.

We’re also raising a glass to more than four decades of Biltmore wines—our estate winery opened in 1985, and we’re delighted to share the fruits of our labor with you!

Two women at the entrance to Biltmore's Winery
Join us to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Biltmore Winery this year!

Ready to make Biltmore your own?

“The estate is more than just a destination—it’s a timeless place that remains fresh and inviting, no matter how often you return. The magic of Biltmore isn’t just in a single visit—it’s in the way it changes with the seasons and offers something new every time.” – Kim R., an Annual Passholder for more than 15 years.

Become a Biltmore Annual Passholder now and enjoy more access, more perks—including special savings on special events, exhibitions, and tickets for Candlelight Christmas Evenings—and more unforgettable moments. Visit more, share more, and experience more with your Annual Pass.

Family of three enjoying the illumination of Antler Hill Village at Biltmore.
As an Annual Passholder, you can bring your own children 16 and younger with you–for FREE–to enjoy the estate, including our Christmas at Biltmore daytime celebration and the illumination of Antler Hill Village.

PS: If you’re a current Annual Passholder, be sure to use your special hashtag #BiltmorePassholder and tag our official accounts to share your Biltmore memories with others on social!

Preservation Matters: Birds of a Feather

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“Birds of a feather flock together” is a 16th-century English proverb suggesting that similar things or people tend to be found in groups. It’s especially true at Biltmore where our Conservation team has been busy restoring a collection of birds originally preserved through taxidermy.

“Every detail of preservation matters at Biltmore,” said Renee Jolly, Objects Conservator, “and sometimes those details are as small as a missing feather or a damaged leaf on a taxidermied bird mount.”

Assessing the birds in Biltmore’s collection

Pheasant, Cooper's Hawk, owl, and woodpecker preserved through taxidermy.
Some of the taxidermied birds in the Gun Room collection: (L-R) Ring-Necked Pheasant, Cooper’s Hawk, Barred Owl, Hairy Woodpecker

In conjunction with a larger project to return the Smoking Room and Gun Room of Biltmore House to their original appearance during the Vanderbilt era, Renee has been cleaning and restoring a number of birds that were previously displayed in the Gun Room or held in storage.

Label showing information for Thomas Rowland, Taxidermist.
Many of the birds in Biltmore’s collection still have the original Thomas Rowland, Taxidermist, label affixed to the base of their mount.

“We have correspondence in our archives between Dr. Carl Schenk, Estate Forester, and Thomas Rowland, a noted taxidermist in New York City,” Renee said. “From 1898 to 1909, bird specimens from the estate were sent by train to Rowland’s firm on Sixth Avenue where they were preserved and mounted for display, then returned to Biltmore.”

The restoration process begins

Conservator smooths the feathers of a taxidermied kestrel with a fan brush.
Renee uses a fan brush to smooth the tailfeathers of a female American Kestrel.

According to Renee, the custom of the era was to display the birds in lifelike poses, often perched on real branches, with natural twigs and other flora such as moss, lichens, and grasses around the base of the mount.

Using tweezers to put original silk botanical leaves back on the base of a taxidermied bird.
After cleaning, any damage to Rowland’s original canvas botanical leaves is repaired; here a conservator uses tweezers to help put the pieces back in place on the bird’s base.

“To give the mounts an even more realistic appearance, Rowland also used painted canvas and wires to create leaves and other plants that would otherwise have deteriorated rapidly,” Renee said, “so we’ve worked to preserve those details, as well.”

To begin the work of restoring the 125-year-old birds, Renee started by analyzing each specimen in detail and photographing them from multiple different angles to record their condition.

Taxidermied Northern male Cardinal before and after restoration.
Example of recoloration: before and after pictures of male Northern Cardinal in Biltmore’s collection.

“Many of the birds were quite dusty, and there were differing degrees of deterioration simply because of their age. We began by noting which birds needed cleaning and minimal conservation, and which ones had damage that would need more elaborate repairs,” said Renee.

Repairing damage

Bright pastels and other drawing tools on a table.
This worktable features a mix of tools for the bird project, including replacement feathers, bright pastels, and a palette for mixing colors.

In keeping with best practices for returning taxidermied birds to their original appearance, Renee used pastels to restore coloration that had changed over time. “Even careful cleaning can’t restore colors that have faded,” Renee said, “or fix white feathers that have darkened with age. These highly pigmented pastels allow us to bring the birds back to life.”

Cleaning the white markings of a juvenile female kingfisher in Biltmore's collection.
Renee tints the feathers on a female Belted Kingfisher with delicate layers of white pastel.

Some of the birds in Biltmore’s collection had an issue with their glass eyes, which are traditionally used in the taxidermy process.

“As it ages, glass can develop ‘glass disease’ that causes a cloudy film to form on the surface. We monitor items such as George Vanderbilt’s monogrammed crystal in the Butler’s Pantry regularly to catch early signs and treat it appropriately. When we assessed these birds as part of the larger preservation project for the Gun Room, we realized it was happening with some of the birds’ eyes,” said Renee.

Taxidermied Cooper's Hawk before and after cleaning.
This Cooper’s Hawk, preserved by Thomas Rowland, Taxidermist, more than 100 years ago, has now been restored to its original appearance. Look closely at the tiny details like the feathers around its beak and its tongue displayed in a life-like position.

Other issues included missing or damaged feathers, damaged limbs and claws, and problems with the branches and other materials on which the birds were mounted.

“We worked through a number of unusual challenges that you don’t encounter on a regular basis,” Renee said.

Birds of a feather

Examples of birds preserved via taxidermy in Biltmore's collection.
Examples of birds preserved via taxidermy in Biltmore’s collection.

Taxidermy in the Gilded Age was not merely a method of preserving animals; it was an expression of wealth and sophistication. Wealthy individuals would often commission taxidermists to preserve specimens from their private hunting expeditions or to decorate their opulent homes with lifelike representations of birds and other animals. At the time, taxidermy was also viewed as a way to document the changing natural world, particularly as industrialization and urbanization were encroaching on many species’ habitats.

Carolina Wren and Eastern Meadowlark preserved through taxidermy.
The Carolina Wren (left) and Eastern Meadowlark (right) are two of the smaller birds in the collection.

There are other examples of taxidermy in Biltmore House, including the large heads in the Banquet Hall. “Those were all trophy-size mounts selected from catalogs to fill the expansive space of these rooms,” said Renee, “but this intimate collection of delicate birds, mounted by Thomas Rowland, is truly unique because each one was collected right here at Biltmore. And we can still see those same species on the estate today.”

See the birds for yourself

Collection of birds preserved by taxidermy in the Gun Room of Biltmore House.
Collection of birds preserved by taxidermy in the Gun Room of Biltmore House.

Our newest preservation project involving the Gun Room and the Smoking Room is nearly complete, although a few pieces of furniture will be added in the coming months. We hope you’ll join us soon to see the results–including the remarkable collection of beautifully restored birds displayed in the Gun Room.

First look for Biltmore Annual Passholders

This post was originally shared with Biltmore’s Annual Passholders via the Spring/Summer 2025 issue of Ambassador, our exclusive Passholder magazine. Join our Passholder family to get insider access and exclusive benefits—like unlimited daytime visits for a full year!

Your guide to “Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures”

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Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures ended March 1, 2026. Please enjoy this archived content.

For centuries, the mysterious allure of ancient Egyptian culture fascinated scholars and political elites around the globe. With Howard Carter’s groundbreaking discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922, a fascination with King Tut entered mainstream popular culture, sparking a renewed wave of “Egyptomania.”

Unwrap a brief history of this groundbreaking discovery, an unexpected connection to Biltmore’s history, and more with your insider visit guide to the Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures exhibition on display at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC.

Tip: This King Tut exhibition is perfect for sharing with the whole family!

A family enjoys the King Tut exhibition at Biltmore.
Tutankhamun, or King Tut, was a young pharaoh in Egypt more than 3,300 years ago.

Fast Facts About King Tut:

  • Name: Tutankhamun (pronounced two-ten-ka-men, also known as “King Tut”) served as pharaoh of Egypt from 1332 to 1323 B.C., more than 3,300 years ago!
  • Life & Death: Tut is sometimes called the “Boy King” because he ascended to the throne at only 9 years old. Tutankhamun died at age 18 or 19, likely due to illness.
  • Historical Significance: Tutankhamun was considered to be a relatively unimportant historical figure until the 1922 discovery of his intact tomb in the Valley of the Kings by British archaeologist Howard Carter. The tomb’s remarkable completeness and the treasures it contained are the reasons Tutankhamun became such a prominent figure in ancient Egyptian history.
  • Tut’s Treasures: The inside of his tomb was filled with magnificent treasures, including a golden mask, jewelry, furniture, statues, weapons, and, of course, the mummy of King Tut.
  • Real vs Replica: The original artifacts from King Tut’s tomb are now permanently housed in Egypt and are no longer available for international travel or display. This exhibition features meticulously crafted, true-to-life replicas.
Experience the groundbreaking discovery of King Tut’s tomb as if you were there in 1922 with archeologist, Howard Carter. (Archival image of Howard Carter ca 1919.)

Discover Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures at Biltmore

You don’t have to imagine yourself being in the Valley of the Kings at the time of this groundbreaking discovery… you’ll get to experience it!

“This exhibition will transport you back in time to learn about the culture of Egypt as you follow the story of Howard Carter’s challenges and triumphs in making one of history’s most significant archaeological finds: the 1922 discovery of King Tutankhamun’s tomb,” said Travis Tatham, Director of Events & Guest Experience Development at Biltmore.

Using media and objects, Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures culminates with the chance to experience the three-dimensional recreation of the excavation site, the legendary tomb, and precisely crafted replicas of its treasures exactly as they were at the moment of discovery.

Vibrant watercolors from Lady “May” Cecil depict scenes from her travels to Egypt around the turn of the century. © The Biltmore Company

Unwrapping Biltmore’s Unexpected Family Ties to King Tut

“We are thrilled to host this King Tut exhibition because it gives us an extraordinary opportunity to share a Biltmore story that may surprise you,” says Travis.

Not only did George and Edith Vanderbilt visit Egypt on several occasions—it was a very fashionable destination during their era, after all—but their daughter Cornelia Vanderbilt married the Honorable John Francis Amherst Cecil, whose family had a close friendship with Howard Carter.

In fact, it was the Cecil family—particularly John Cecil’s mother, Mary “May” Rothes Tyssen-Amherst Cecil—who helped foster Carter’s interest in Egypt, which led to his legendary exploration of Egyptian antiquities. May’s childhood interest in and knowledge of Egypt inspired her to visit the country many times throughout her life, even leading excavations in the country. Biltmore’s archival collection contains travel journals and watercolor paintings from May’s travels to Egypt around the turn of the century.

Tip: You’ll have the unique opportunity to learn more about the fascinating details of this Vanderbilt-Cecil family story during your Tutankhamun experience!

Woman views the chariot of King Tut at Biltmore.
Around 1,000 exquisitely crafted replicas of King Tut’s treasures are on display throughout the exhibition!

Exploring Ethically: Replicas of Tut’s Treasures

With all exhibitions presented at Biltmore, thorough research is conducted behind the scenes to ensure our guests will have access to world-class cultural experiences while visiting George Vanderbilt’s historic estate. The same is true for Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures.

“There are ethical dimensions to the display of historic artifacts outside their country of origin, especially when the objects are associated with death and burial, and those that were removed as part of an imperial campaign, as is the case with the Tutankhamun collection,” shares Lori Garst, Curator of Collections at Biltmore.

While some of the treasures from King Tut’s tomb have traveled internationally in the past, the original artifacts are now housed permanently in the newly constructed Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, which aims to preserve significant pieces of history and ensure local citizens have access to their cultural heritage.

“By showcasing meticulously detailed replicas produced by expert Egyptian craftsmen, this exhibition provides an ethical, accessible, and utterly fascinating way for you to experience this remarkable history up close and without traveling to Egypt,” says Lori.

Guests enjoy the King Tut exhibition at Biltmore.
All ages will enjoy this immersive experience recounting the astonishing details of King Tutankhamun’s life and legacy.

Embark on Your Journey to the Valley of the Kings

You don’t have to be an Egyptomaniac to appreciate the mysteries of one of the world’s most iconic discoveries. As enriching as it is unforgettable, you won’t want to miss the chance to pair Biltmore’s exclusive estate experiences with your immersive journey to the Valley of the Kings as you discover King Tut’s tomb.

Be among the first to explore the mysteries of ancient Egypt while digging deeper into a surprising historical connection with Biltmore itself when you experience Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures, in Amherst at Deerpark®.

Tip: Be sure to tag @biltmoreestate #BiltmoreTut when sharing your memories on social media!

Preservation matters: Biltmore recovers from Helene

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As Biltmore recovers from the damage caused by Tropical Storm Helene in September 2024, our mission statement—to preserve the property as a privately owned, profitable, working estate—has never been more relevant than it is now.

“Biltmore’s mission statement was developed by my grandfather William A.V. Cecil, who was George Vanderbilt’s grandson,” said Chase Pickering, Vice President of Guest Experience. “He put into words what has always been our family’s legacy of preservation.”

We continue the legacy of preservation today as we work to restore areas of the estate that were damaged by the storm and in our ongoing efforts to assist our community with economic support and rebuilding expertise.

Thanks to the efforts of so many, Biltmore reopened in November of 2024.

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Sept. 27, 2024: Flood waters from the French Broad River cover low-lying fields near Antler Hill Village on the estate.
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Sept. 30, 2024: The entrance to Biltmore and other low-lying areas of the property experienced flooding which has receded.
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Oct. 3, 2024: Crews work to clear debris from roadways on the estate.
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Oct. 3, 2024: Horses graze in a pasture near Deerpark Carriage & Trail Ride Barn.
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Oct. 9, 2024: As a testament to the hard work of our gardeners earlier in the season, mums have reached peak bloom in the Walled Garden despite the estate being closed.
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Oct. 14, 2024: Biltmore’s vineyards emerged from the storm unscathed and harvest concluded this week.
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Oct. 16, 2024: Biltmore’s main entrance (in historic Biltmore Village) is undergoing extensive repairs. Part of the recovery effort includes removal of weakened poplar trees lining the entrance gate.
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Biltmore House facade. Photo Credit: The Biltmore Company

Reflecting on Helene: Impacts to the Estate

As with our entire region, conditions varied by location across our 8,000-acre property. Biltmore House and our Conservatory, Winery, Gardens, and overnight properties received minimal or no damage from the storm.

Lodge Gate decorated for Christmas during Biltmore's recovery from Helene.
Lodge Gate was decorated for Christmas–a sign of hope and resilience for guests, employees, and the community.

Restoring the Lodge Gate

The iconic Lodge Gate through which most guests enter Biltmore was already slated for preservation even before Helene. When floodwaters rose almost to the bottom edge of the archway—about 27 feet high—the project took on a new urgency.

“You can see the high-water mark on the pebbledash finish of the Lodge Gate—it rose higher than the level of the historic 1916 flood,” said Vince Helton, Senior Director of Facility Operations. “It’s a daily reminder of the impact this storm had.”

While sections of exterior brick and some wooden flooring were lost to the flood, the foundation of the structure was not undermined, keeping Lodge Gate structurally sound as the restoration process began. Preservation efforts include new electrical and all interior finishings.

“Despite the challenges, there are some bright spots, like the discovery of an original fireplace that had been covered during a prior remodeling effort. We also believe we can use about 80-90% of the original tiles to repair the roof,” Vince said.

Gate House Gift Shop undergoing repairs at the estate's main entrance.
The Gate House Shop at the estate’s main entrance undergoes repairs for reopening in 2025.

Repairing the Gate House Shop

Nearby, the Gate House Shop also sustained considerable damage from flooding. Though not an original estate structure, this charming shop has been welcoming guests since 1968. Located just in front of the Lodge Gate, the shop has always been open to visitors, even without a Biltmore admission ticket.

Preservation efforts for this building include a complete interior rebuild with new sheetrock, HVAC, electrical, flooring, displays, and restrooms.

“We are working hard to have our Gate House Shop open again by summer 2025,” Vince said.

Employees clean up storm damage on the Front Lawn of Biltmore House.
Employees clean up storm damage on the Front Lawn of Biltmore House.

Recovering the Landscape

While Biltmore recovers and preserves its historic buildings, damage from Helene wasn’t limited to estate structures—it also affected the landscape across the property.

“From floodwaters to high winds, we’ve seen a variety of problems in the aftermath of the storm,” said Bill Quade, Director of Horticulture. “Months later, we’re still cleaning up some of the more heavily forested sections of the estate and restoring riverbanks that were stripped away by the height and speed of the water from the French Broad and Swannanoa Rivers that cross the property.”

According to Bill, some of the most obvious damage occurred at the main entrance of the estate.

Main entry way lined with decorative trees and Lodge Gate decorated for Christmas as Biltmore recovers from Helene.
Landscaping crews maintained tradition by lining the entry road with pots filled with trees and decorative greenery to welcome guests during our 2024 Christmas at Biltmore season.

“We had to remove the large tulip poplars that lined the entrance from Biltmore Village to Lodge Gate after the floodwaters receded,” Bill said. “Almost all of them were damaged, and we couldn’t leave the few that were still sound standing by themselves.”

Plans are being developed to install new trees at the entrance to the estate along with new lighting options, similar to the 2005 landscaping initiative in which we replaced the century-old double allée of tulip poplars framing the Front Lawn of Biltmore House.

“If there’s any silver lining to a situation like this, it’s that it gives us an opportunity to make positive improvements to the guest experience,” said Bill. “As Biltmore recovers, we will continue to lean heavily on what Olmsted’s landscape design intent was for specific areas on the estate. This not only centers on hardscapes such as paths, but the plant selection as well. Repairing the land isn’t something that will be done in a year, or even two. It’s a process that guests will enjoy 50, 60, and 70 years from now.”

Pews from The Cathedral of All Souls were cleaned and stored at the estate as the community recovers from Helene.
Biltmore staff members carefully cleaned the pews from The Cathedral of All Souls in Biltmore Village.

Preserving Community History

In addition to our own efforts to rebuild and restore damaged areas of the estate, we are honored to support preservation work in our community, including the needs of the Cathedral of All Souls Church in Biltmore Village.

This historic church, commissioned by George Washington Vanderbilt and designed by Biltmore House architect Richard Morris Hunt, was completed in 1896. It is now the only church Hunt designed that is still standing.

After four feet of Helene’s muddy flood water receded from the sanctuary, the Cathedral’s original 46 quarter-sawn oak pews were removed and stored on the estate, along with more than 100 boxes of archival materials.

Our Museum Services Furniture Conservators and members of our Housekeeping team cleaned the pews using soft bristle brushes and sponges dipped in hot water with a very small amount of standard dish detergent to help break up mud. After cleaning, furniture was left to dry in an area with good air circulation to minimize the risk of mold growth.

While the Cathedral Church, Parish Hall, and other buildings have now been cleaned and dried, Biltmore’s teams will continue to assist All Souls in preserving their historic collections. All materials will be returned when the church is able to store them safely.

The estate's main entrance sign features a #WNCStrong message after Helene.
During Christmas, the estate’s main entrance sign displayed our community’s #WNCStrong message of hope during our recovery from Tropical Storm Helene.

WNC Strong – Rebuilding Together

“In the months since Helene, our teams have worked around the clock to rebuild, restore, and repair the damage at Biltmore. We were able to reopen the estate on November 2, 2024, just in time to enjoy our annual Christmas at Biltmore traditions. We are grateful to our many guests and Passholders who returned to celebrate the 2024 holiday season with us, and we appreciate your continued visitation in support of the estate and our region’s economic recovery in 2025,” said Chase.

Lodge Gate entrance in April 2025
6 months after Helene, Biltmore’s main entrance, lined with spring blooms and recently planted tulip poplars, provides a warm and welcoming invitation to return to our mountain oasis.

A first look for Biltmore Annual Passholders

This post was originally shared with Biltmore’s Annual Passholders via email and will be included in the Spring/Summer 2025 issue of Ambassador, our exclusive Passholder magazine. Join our Passholder family to get insider access and exclusive benefits—like unlimited daytime visits for a full year!

Vanilla Pear Mimosa Recipe

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As elegant as it is approachable, you’ll want to mix up this Vanilla Pear Mimosa recipe from our estate chefs for your next celebration!

This sparking cocktail pairs beautifully with the notes of pear and honeysuckle of our Biltmore Estate® Brut, but you can choose any of your favorite sparkling Biltmore wines for this recipe.

This recipe for our sparking mimosa cocktail pairs beautifully with the notes of pear and honeysuckle of our Biltmore Estate® Brut.

Vanilla Pear Mimosa Recipe

Total time: 10 minutes

Serving Size: 1 cocktail

Ingredients:

1 ½ tablespoons (3/4 ounce) vanilla vodka

3 tablespoons (1 1/2 ounces) pear nectar or pear juice

½ cup (4 ounces) Biltmore Estate® Brut

Optional garnishes: Fresh berries, fresh thyme, lemon peel

Instructions:

  • Chill a Champagne flute for at least 5 minutes.
  • Pour the vodka into a chilled Champagne flute. 
  • Top with the pear nectar and then the Champagne.
  • Garnish mimosa with fresh berries and a sprig of thyme

Recipes that sparkle ✨

Want even more sparkling wine cocktail recipes from our experts? Get inspired here.

Discovery of Edith Vanderbilt’s Christmas Gifts Ledger

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“New Discoveries” is a standing agenda item during our Museum Services team’s monthly meeting. Rarely does a month go by without someone bringing something new to the meeting. And when it’s something that provides the answer to a long lingering assumption, “it’s like Christmas morning,” says Lauren Henry, Biltmore’s Curator of Interpretation.

Christmas morning came in the spring of 2024 when Jill Hawkins and Caragh Koon, archivists on the team, presented a new finding at the April meeting.

The find? Edith Vanderbilt’s century-old Christmas Gifts Ledger.

Edith Vanderbilt’s legendary generosity during the holidays was exemplified by her thoughtful gift-giving to employees and their families.

A Legacy of Generosity: Edith’s Holiday Spirit

The stories about Edith’s generosity are legendary, especially during the holidays. She gave back to the community and showed her appreciation for her employees by selecting gifts for them and each of their children and giving out the gifts at the annual grand employee Christmas party, which is a tradition we continue to this day.

We’ve known that Edith kept notes on the gifts she gave to each person from year to year to avoid duplications, but it wasn’t until this discovery of this gifts ledger that we have tangible proof that she indeed kept meticulous track.

This historical treasure also reveals in charming detail more information about the gifts and their recipients.

“It’s exciting to see the specificity of the gifts, and that every member of the household (for those living on-property) received a gift, not just the employees and their children, but also what appears to be employees’ parents and maybe even in some cases their servants,” Lauren says.

More than 600 names are listed in Edith’s gifts ledger, which covers roughly the years 1909 to 1930.

Many of the names are familiar to Lauren and the team since their work puts them in consistent contact with the estate’s vast collection of archival material.

Despite its unassuming appearance, the well-worn Christmas gifts ledger, discovered among other accounting books, serves as a vital historical record showcasing Edith’s meticulous administrative skills.

Exploring Edith’s Historical Record

The Christmas ledger is typical-looking for its time and rather unassuming, yet between its covers exists an important historical record. The 12”x18” volume is covered in oxblood-colored leather binding, is slightly tattered, and missing a spine. Given its well-worn condition, it was surely a go-to source for Edith and her staff. Jill and Caragh happened to find it during an inventory project, blending in with other ledgers that served as cash books, accounts receivable records, and other accounting notes.

Edith’s administrative skills are demonstrated throughout. Interior pages look like precursors to Excel spreadsheets, each distinguished by bookkeeping columns filled with beautiful, swirly cursive handwriting. Lauren has confirmed that there are two sets of handwriting in the ledger – neither of which are Edith’s, but that of her secretaries. At the top of the first page, in the right-hand corner, “ESV” is written in pencil, Edith’s initials – in Edith’s handwriting.

The gifts ledger reveals a detailed account of recipients, tracking their ages and presents over the years, illustrating Edith’s deep understanding of the families she supported.

Growing Up in the Gifts Ledger

Down the left-hand column of each page is a list of names. To the right a column notates the person’s age, the year, and what gift they were given. As you move across the page to the right, you can track what that person received for several years in a row. Often, names are organized by family, with the parents’ names and ages first, then all the children and their ages listed below them.

“It’s great to see in the ledger who those items went to… How those things changed as they grew up,” Lauren says.

“You see a baby getting something like soap or diapers, or a toy or ball, and as they get older, they might get a hand mirror, perfume, makeup, a money safe. Here’s one for a boy named Neil. He was 7 months old, and he got socks, and then sandals, then a toy car, and then a ball at 3 years old.”

Edith often gave clothing or practical household items, like an umbrella or a bookcase, to the adults on her list. One year a family received a set of books by Charles Dickens.

“This helped her get to know the families better, by knowing how old they were and the kinds of things they liked,” Lauren says. It’s also a priceless record of Edith’s fondness for her employees and her attention to detail.

Edith’s gifts ledger documentation extends beyond presents to include employee addresses and occupations, offering a comprehensive view of life on the estate and humanizing the Vanderbilts and their staff.

Employee Details in Edith’s Documentation

Edith’s documentation also includes employee addresses, their occupations, and in some cases, the data is indexed based on the department in which employees worked, like Landscaping.

“This is one of the most complete documents we have for employees in this time period,” Lauren says. “It also further humanizes the Vanderbilts and the people who worked and lived on the estate.”

Details from Edith’s ledger provide the team with fresh and new insights into the era and support their ongoing research to understand what life was like during the time when the Vanderbilts lived in Biltmore House.

“We have the pleasure to make discoveries like this because we have such a huge archive – over 100 years’ worth. It’s fun for us to realize what we have here right under our noses,” Lauren says.

A towering Banquet Hall Christmas tree is one of the many traditions spanning generations that you can experience for yourself with a Christmas visit.

Experience Biltmore’s Christmas Traditions for Yourself

This recent discovery of Edith’s Christmas gifts ledger not only sheds light on her generosity and excellent bookkeeping but also helps connect us all to Biltmore’s thoughtful holiday traditions that span generations.

From the grand Banquet Hall tree to estate-wide decor and celebrations, we invite you to experience our beloved traditions when you visit this Christmas at Biltmore.

Apple Tarte Tatin Recipe

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Simple and versatile—just the way we like it! Add a touch of elegance to your next gathering with this Tarte Tatin recipe from the minds of our creative chefs at The Dining Room at The Inn on Biltmore Estate®.

Wine Pairing Suggestion: Pair with a glass of Biltmore Estate® Riesling, or for festive occasions, a Biltmore Estate® Brut Sparkling.

Apple Tarte Tatin
Celebrate fall harvest season and holiday gatherings with this classic French-style apple tarte.

Biltmore’s Apple Tarte Tatin Recipe

Total time: roughly 2 hours

Serving Size: 6-8 people

Ingredients:

  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 12-14 green apples, peeled
  • 2 tablespoons additional butter, softened
  • 1 sheet Puff Pastry (store-bought)
  • 1 egg, beaten with a touch of water

Optional Toppings:

  • Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving
  • Thinly sliced ripe figs arranged in the center when serving
  • Cranberry sauce or relish
  • Jam

Instructions:

  • Preheat oven to 450 degrees.
  • Blend the 4 tablespoons of butter and ½ cup of sugar in a 9-inch oven-safe skillet and
    cook over medium heat until thick, syrupy, and golden brown.
  • Slice the peeled apples in thin wedges and arrange them on top of the butter-sugar
    mixture in layers. Dot each layer with softened butter and sprinkle with a little bit
    of sugar. Build the apple slices up in the center to come above the rim of the pan.
  • Roll out the puff pastry to 1/8 inch thick, and cover the pan with the pastry. Brush the
    pastry with the egg.
  • Bake for 10 minutes, then reduce the heat to 375 degrees and continue baking
    until the apples are soft and the pastry is golden brown.
  • Let tarte cool slightly about 10 minutes and then carefully invert it onto a serving
    plate. The apples should have caramelized with the sugar-butter mixture, making
    a delicate brown top for the tarte. Serve warm with optional toppings.

A first-look for Biltmore Annual Passholders

This recipe was originally shared with Biltmore’s Annual Passholders in the Fall/Holiday 2024 issue of Ambassador, our exclusive Passholder magazine. Join our Passholder family to get insider access and exclusive benefits—like unlimited daytime visits for a full year!


Celebrate the Season with Biltmore Christmas Wines

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For the 2024 holiday season, Christmas at Biltmore Red and White Wines are available at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, in our online store, and in many local retail and grocery stores in the Southeast.

Christmas at Biltmore Red and White Wines

Labels for Red and White Christmas wines
For 2024, our Christmas at Biltmore wine labels feature an exterior view of Biltmore House and the facade of the Conservatory in the Walled Garden.

“The release of our annual Christmas at Biltmore Red and White Wines marks the start of the holiday season, and we welcome you to taste them at the Winery during our Christmas at Biltmore celebration,” said Sharon Fenchak, Executive Winemaker.

Local artist creates our Christmas labels

Asheville artist Olga Dorenko creates labels for our holiday wines
Asheville artist Olga Dorenko created original artwork for our Christmas at Biltmore wines.

In one of our favorite time-honored traditions, we selected a local artist to create original designs for the label of each Christmas at Biltmore wine.

Olga Dorenko of Asheville, NC, was asked to capture two different aspects of Biltmore’s beauty during the Christmas season. For the Christmas at Biltmore Red Wine, she showcased the iconic exterior of Biltmore House with decorated Christmas trees on the Front Lawn and a swirl of bright leaves framing the scene.

Artist working on a watercolor painting of Biltmore's Conservatory.
Olga’s vivid artwork work showcases her emphasis on color and nature.

The Conservatory graces the label of this year’s Christmas at Biltmore White Wine. Olga caught it just at sunset when the last of the light casts a rosy glow over the grand, glass-topped structure in the Walled Garden.

“My paintings, inspired by local, national, and international landscapes, highlight color and light,” said Olga. “I have always had a deep appreciation for color.”

Artist working on a watercolor for the wine labels
Olga at work in her studio.

During her time as a classical art student, Olga noted that she spent a considerable amount of time mixing and blending colors. This longstanding and intense relationship with color in her artistic training is displayed in her current work, including the two Christmas at Biltmore wine labels

“Through my use of color, I can lend a contemporary interpretation to my otherwise realistic landscapes,” said Olga.

Pour on the cheer with Biltmore wines!

Bottles and glasses of Biltmore Christmas wines.
Savor this year’s Christmas at Biltmore Red and White wines with your favorite holiday flavors!

Whether you’re in the mood for a fragrant, semi-sweet blended white wine or a soft, fruit-forward red blend, our Christmas at Biltmore Wines offer a classic complement to your favorite flavors at the holiday buffet or dessert table.

As an added bonus, the lovely labels make both wines a charming gift of the season for anyone on your gift list.

Savor our Christmas at Biltmore wines with a complimentary tasting at the Winery and purchase them in estate shops. You’ll also find our Christmas wines—and all your other handcrafted favorites—online at shop.biltmore.com or in select local retailers.

Halloween How-to: Pairing Biltmore Wine with Candy

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There’s nothing scary about enjoying Biltmore wines with your favorite sweets! Take spooky-season fun to the next level with our special Halloween how-to on pairing Biltmore wine with classic candy at home.

The same principles that apply to successful food-and-wine pairings also work with candy. For desserts, you’d normally choose a wine that’s sweeter than the dish you’re serving, but this Halloween how-to focuses on pairings that add a little sophistication and a lot of fun to the mix.

Halloween How-to: Pairing Biltmore wine with candy corn
Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Dry Riesling pairs perfectly with tri-colored candy corn

Complement candy corn

For those who love the seasonal stripes and sugary sweetness of old-fashioned candy corn, it’s twice as nice with a glass of Biltmore Estate® Riesling.

Our Riesling features sweet apricot aromas, light honey flavors, and a crisp finish that provides a pleasant balance for the pure sweetness and soft, waxy texture of candy corn.

Halloween How-to: Pairing Biltmore wine with peanut butter cups
For a special Halloween treat, savor smooth, creamy peanut butter cups with our approachable Biltmore Estate® Chardonnay

Peanut butter perfection

If your Halloween traditions include snagging all the chocolate-covered peanut butter cups out of the treat bags to savor later, we suggest you consider complementing the dynamic duo with our approachable Biltmore Estate® Chardonnay.

This is a pairing that surprises people, because you don’t normally pair peanut butter with wine. But if you think about it, what’s more perfect with peanut butter than grape jelly, which gives you a point of reference.

Our Chardonnay also works well because it’s a delightfully smooth wine with fruit flavors and hints of oak that enhance most food flavors. It’s also crisp and offers good acidity to balance the higher fat content and rich mouthfeel of peanut butter.

Biltmore Estate Limited Release Mourvedre with peppermint patty candies
Savor the dark side by pairing Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Mourvédre with peppermint patties

Savor the dark side

While chocolate is frequently served with red wine, the combination of dark chocolate and a strong mint filling makes pairing classic peppermint patties a bit of a challenge, but we say it’s okay to savor the dark side with our Biltmore Estate® Limited Release Mourvèdre.

This wine offers wonderful aromas of black cherry, vanilla, and soft oak that carry through to the palate with flavors of chocolate, blueberry, vanilla, subtle hints of cedar, and soft tannins. It has a kind of rustic elegance that complements the sophisticated notes of dark chocolate and peppermint.

Biltmore Estate Sauvignon Blanc with Halloween candy
Create a sweet-and-sour surprise by pairing Biltmore Estate® Sauvignon Blanc with sour gummy candy!

Sweet-and-sour surprise

This is another surprising pairing, mostly because nobody thinks about trying sweet-and-sour Halloween candy with wine—especially an elegant white varietal like Sauvignon Blanc!

The pairing works on two levels, beginning with the bright citrus aromas of Biltmore Estate® Sauvignon Blanc that complement the playful scent of the candy.

Smell them separately and you’ll start to understand how they can work together. The Sauvignon Blanc is crisp, with refreshing flavors of peach and a touch of minerality that keeps the candy from being overly sweet, making them perfect partners for each other.

Couple toasting with red wine near a fire pit
Cheer to pairing Halloween candy with your favorite Biltmore wines!

Halloween how-to with Biltmore wine

Ready to try our Halloween how-to and savor Biltmore wines at home with your favorite trick-or-treat candy? Find our award-winning wines at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, online, or close to home with our Wine Finder.