North Carolinians Will Never Forget Their First Time Visiting the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina

Do you know that one of the most beautiful places in the U.S. is right here in North Carolina? Every year, over a million people visit the Biltmore Estate in Asheville. Not only is it a world-renowned attraction, but the on-site winery is now the most visited in the country. Most of us North Carolinians have been to the Biltmore at least once. And it's an experience that you will never forget.

Being at this grand estate feels like you're immersed in an American fairytale dream — everything is surreal. I was absolutely inspired by the stunning scenery, lush gardens, ornate architecture, and its historic relevance. If you haven't been to the Biltmore Estate yet, keep reading to find out why it's one of North Carolina’s must-see destinations, which is undoubtedly one of the best castles in the US.

Discover the History of the Biltmore Estate

Completed in 1895, the Biltmore is a 178,926 square foot mansion located on 8,000 acres of property just outside of Asheville, North Carolina. The Biltmore Estate is the largest privately owned home in America. If you’re wondering about the name, you’re not alone. It’s a combination of “Bildt,” the ancestral Dutch town of the family, and “mor,” an Old English word meaning rolling countryside. 

When George Vanderbilt began to build his majestic mountain estate, he envisioned the property to be self-sustaining. Over the decades, this proved to be difficult, and in 1930, the family decided to open the home to the public. Although it is still owned by the Vanderbilt family, the property is no longer a residence and is still open to the public for tours and other activities.

Experience the Magic of the Biltmore Estate

Tours of the home are one of the most popular activities on the estate. Guided tours can be quite pricey, so I recommend the self-guided and audio-guided tours, which are available at lower price points. Visitors are absolutely entranced by the intricacies of the home. The hidden passages, grand staircase, massive rooms, elaborate decor, and history can be truly mind-boggling. For many people, an annual tour of Biltmore is a family favorite tradition.

While the house is a major attraction for a lot of guests, the massive and meticulously kept gardens are the main draw for many more visitors. The summer rose garden, spring tulip display, and the sunflower fields attract flower lovers from all over the world! The well-curated gardens are truly breathtaking, as one recent visitor stated, "The Gardens were just so beautiful and well thought out! Stunning really. I can imagine that every season here must be so beautiful!

Beyond the gardens, there are over 20 miles of trails that visitors can explore. Hiking and biking are popular activities on the Biltmore Estate and are included with any admission. You can bring your own bikes or rent a bike for the day. Guests also enjoy horseback riding and interacting with the resident goats. Livestock and wildlife can be found all across the 8,000-acre countryside.

Meals at Biltmore can be a very unique experience. There are numerous restaurants here, ranging from fine dining establishments to family-friendly casual spots. Plus, ice cream shops where you can treat yourself to something sweet. Many memorable moments happen around the dinner table on the Biltmore Estate. Fine wine is easy to find at Biltmore, too. George Vanderbilt’s grandson, William Cecil, planted the first grape vines on the property in the early 1970s. Decades later, the winery produces about 150,000 cases of wine annually and ships to 40 different states. Be sure to grab a bottle or two while you're here.

Seeing the Biltmore surrounded by the fall foliage is a fond memory for many North Carolinians. The surrounding countryside is one of the best places in the nation to see the changing colors of the leaves. Christmastime is also extremely special at Biltmore. The decorations and festivities are so extraordinary that many families come year-after-year to see the displays. Some visitors will tell you it is the best time of year to visit the estate!

Why Visit the Biltmore Mansion?

As you can see, the Biltmore Estate is truly special year-round. Why not create an unforgettable memory and bring someone for their first visit sometime soon? The Biltmore feels like a journey to America’s Gilded Age, and I promise, a trip to this North Carolina estate will be an experience you won't forget.

The Biltmore is an icon in North Carolina, and we're so proud to call it ours. Visit the official Biltmore Estate website for admission, hours, tour schedules, seasonal activities, events, accommodations, dining, and more.

Have you visited the Biltmore Estate? Tell us what you remember about your first visit. What time of the year do you think is the best to visit the estate? Share your experience on our nomination page.

Looking to rediscover some of North Carolina's other popular tourist destinations? Why not visit North Carolina’s Magical Land of Oz festival this year with your family? It's sure to be an unforgettable experience! Even better? Use Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to personalize your next adventure. It only takes a few clicks of the mouse.