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Take a tour of the Biltmore House at Christmastime

Writer's picture: Jim FaganJim Fagan

Updated: Dec 7, 2023

If you have never been to the Biltmore House, you are missing out. Located just 2 ½ hours away in Asheville, the 178,926 square foot French Renaissance chateau is the largest privately owned home in the country with 250 rooms. Built for Cornelius Vanderbilt’s son, George II, it is still owned by his descendants, some of whom live in Charlotte.




The estate was originally built on approximately 125,000 acres. A good portion of the land was sold by George’s widow to the federal government leaving about 8,000 acres which is still owned by the family. Descendants lived in the home until 1956. Then the home permanently became open to the public. With the beautiful gardens, a winery, restaurants, Antler Hill Village, and a hotel on the premises, there are always things to see and do rthroughout the year. However, going during early November through the first week of January is truly special - especially if you go for the Christmas candlelight tour at night. With a huge Norway spruce serving as the main Christmas tree along with another 100+ decorated trees, 2,000 poinsettias, thousands of ornaments and twinkle lights throughout the home, it is truly a majestic experience to see the Biltmore House during this time of year.




You can even stay on the estate at the Village Hotel, the elegant four star Inn, or one of their thoughtfully restored historic cottages.



Here a few tips as you plan your trip:


  • Buy your tickets early and they sell out fast for the candlelight tours.

  • Plan to stay for at least a full day. The tour of the house last about 1.5 - 2 hours but with so much else to do now that you have purchased your tickets, do not shortchange your visit.

  • For guests with disabilities, the admission price is reduced, and they offer parking assistance. They also have some wheelchairs available for free.

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring layers since the weather in Asheville can change quickly.

  • Pay for the audio guide for your tour of the home. This guide offers a rich amount of information about the rooms as you walk through the house.

  • If you bring children, there is even a children’s version of the audio guide.

  • There is a rooftop guided tour for an additional cost that takes you into areas that are off-limits to the regular guests.

  • Arrive during daytime so that you can walk through the 2.5 miles of walking trails through the gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmsted - the designer of New York City’s Central Park.

  • If you like wine, be sure to visit the Biltmore Winery on the estate and enjoy their free tasting room.



  • Have dinner at the Estate before you leave. Choose from a variety of restaurants located in Antler Hill Village.





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