Planning a trip to the Biltmore Estate can feel overwhelming. As America’s largest home, this expansive property has a lot to offer, and knowing where to start makes all the difference. This guide provides all the key information you need to make the most of your visit, including details on admission, navigating the estate, and where to stay.
A Glimpse Into The BIltmore
The Biltmore Estate is Asheville’s most popular attraction, and for good reason. Originally built by George Vanderbilt, this magnificent French Renaissance-style chateau spans over 175,000 square feet and features 250 rooms, all set on 8,000 acres of meticulously manicured grounds.
There are two key areas of the estate that are most frequented by visitors:
The Biltmore House and Gardens
The centerpiece of the property, the Biltmore House, is surrounded by stunning gardens, including a rose garden and a walled garden. You’ll also find several restaurants and shops here.
Antler Hill Village
Located in a separate area from the house, Antler Hill Village serves as a lively hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment. It’s also home to the Biltmore Winery, the Farmyard, and the estate’s two hotels.
Getting Around The Estate
The Biltmore Estate is enormous, so having a plan for transportation is essential. The distance between the Biltmore House and Antler Hill Village is almost three miles, and the estate entrance is nearly a mile and a half from the house.
- Driving: The recommended way to get around the estate is by car. Parking is included with your admission. Follow the signs for the different areas you want to visit, but be mindful of one-way roads and changing traffic patterns.
- There are several parking lots for the Biltmore House. You can catch a free shuttle from Lot C to the front of the house, otherwise you can take paved trails in from the parking lots.
- For Antler Hill Village, there are large parking areas with plenty of spaces.
- Shuttle Service: The Biltmore offers a free shuttle service only from Lot C to the Biltmore House. You can also pay $15 per person (ages 9 and under are free) for a shuttle that connects you between Biltmore’s Reception & Ticketing Sales Center, Biltmore House, Antler Hill Village & Winery, and Amherst at Deerpark.
Admission and Ticketing
Ticket prices for the Biltmore Estate vary based on the time of year and how far in advance you purchase them. The cost is highest during peak seasons like fall and Christmas, while winter is typically the most affordable.
- House and Grounds Admission: A standard ticket grants you access to both the Biltmore House and the surrounding gardens and grounds. Prices can range from around $69 to over $150 per person, so it’s best to check the Biltmore’s official website for current pricing and to book in advance.
- Gardens and Grounds Admission: If you prefer to skip the house tour, you can purchase a ticket that provides access to just the gardens and grounds.
- Annual Membership: If you’re a frequent visitor or live in the area, an annual pass is a great value. It offers unlimited daytime visits, discounts on dining and shopping, and a lower renewal rate after the first year. Annual passes also include free admission for children 16 and under.
A note on cost: A visit to the Biltmore can be expensive, but if you love beautiful architecture, historic homes, and breathtaking views, it’s an experience worth having.
Free Access to the Biltmore Estate
The Biltmore gives its annual passholders two free tickets for the grounds & gardens during its member appreciation in January of each year. The tickets can typically be used any time between mid-January and March. These tickets do not typically include a tour of the house. Members do not need to accompany guests with these tickets.
Separately, members can bring guests to the grounds only (not the house) after 5pm daily and after 3pm during member appreciation.
Lodging on the Estate
Staying on the Biltmore Estate offers a unique and relaxing way to experience the property. Guests at the on-site hotels have access to the gardens and grounds for the duration of their stay.
Keep in mind that not all hotel packages include admission to the Biltmore House tour, so be sure to check the details when booking.
The three lodging options are:
Village Hotel On Biltmore Estate
Located in Antler Hill Village, this hotel offers a casual and convenient stay, putting you steps away from shops, restaurants, and the winery.
The Inn On Biltmore Estate
A four-star luxury hotel with stunning mountain views. This is where you’ll find the estate’s spa, a heated outdoor pool, and fine dining options.
Cottages On Biltmore Estate
For a private and secluded experience, consider one of the historic cottages. These offer a more intimate setting, though they have a two-night minimum stay and specific check-in days.
Quick Answers to Your Questions
Yes! There’s a playground, plenty of space to run, and a kid-friendly audio tour of the house narrated by the Vanderbilt’s dog, Cedric.
Yes, children 9 and under get in for free with a paying adult. Children ages 10-16 are half the price of an adult ticket.
No, you cannot use a ZOOM Pass at the Biltmore. See here for additional details on the ZOOM Pass program.
Leashed dogs are welcome in the gardens and on the grounds, but they are not allowed inside any buildings. The estate also offers free, first-come, first-served outdoor kennels for your dog while you tour the house.
A self-guided tour with the audio guide typically takes about 60-90 minutes. You should plan on spending at least a full day to explore the house, gardens, and Antler Hill Village.
You can spend days exploring the Biltmore Estate and not see it all! Plan to spend at least 6 hours if possible so that you can tour the house (~1.5 hours), wander in the gardens and shop around Antler Hill Village.
