As America's largest privately owned home, and an iconic image in North Carolina culture, architecture, and a little wealth and lavish living...it's no surprise the Biltmore Estate is the most popular destination in North Carolina. Each year, over 1 million people visit the Biltmore to explore the lavish gardens, the 250 rooms (those that you can visit) and of course, the sheer experience of it all. While many know the basic facts about this North Carolina gem, some facts fly under the radar, like these 10.

1. It's all French to me.

George Vanderbilt was a seasoned traveler. In order to find inspiration for his magnificent home away from home, he ventured to Europe. The Biltmore Estate is modeled from a French Chateau and 16th.-century castles in the Loire Valley of France.

2. A guiding light.

During the time Biltmore was in its prime, many houses still relied on candles, gas or propane for a form of light. Staying true to the fancy theme, Biltmore had lights in its pool...when many didn't even have electricity in their home. Another interesting tidbit? The indoor swimming pool is said to be one of the most haunted places in the house today.

3. A whole lotta acreage.

After George's death, his wife Edith sold 86,700 acres in accord to her husband's wishes. Today, that land is part of the Pisgah National Forest.

4. I'm sorry, how many years?!

Over the course of six years, it took 1,000 men to build what is now known today as 'America's Castle.'

5. A Christmas tradition.

Biltmore Estate sees plenty of tourism, but it especially skyrockets during the Christmas season. Coincidentally enough, after those 1,000 men and six years, the estate opened to the family for Christmas in 1895.

6. A New York City connection.

Frederick Law Olmsted, who designed Central Park, also designed the lavish 8,000-acre gardens and grounds of Biltmore Estate.

7. Wine, anyone?

Aside from being the most popular destination in North Carolina, it's also home to the most visited winery in the U.S.

8. It's gonna take all day.

With 4 acres of floor space including 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms and 65 fireplaces it truly is the largest home in America. Frommer's, a travel guidebook with over 50 years of publication, suggests you give at least five hours for the whole experience.

9. What does it mean?

Many ponder over the origin of the name 'Biltmore.' It's actually a combination of 'Bilt' a region that belongs to the Vanderbilt family in Holland and 'More' which is old english for a countryside that is quite hilly.

10. Just how popular is it really?

With such beautiful grounds its no wonder 250 weddings are held here each year, around 1,000 children come for the annual Easter egg hunt, and peak tourist season occurs between April and May, especially for Biltmore Blooms. Let's not even get started on the Christmas crowd.

Wow, some of those surprised me while some were just really interesting to know! You learn something new every day, right? Which ones surprised you the most and are there any you want to add to the list?

If you didn't know already, the Biltmore Estate is also a famous haunted destination in North Carolina. Between George's library and Edith's pool parties, the Vanderbilts really couldn't let go. Read about it here, along with 14 other terrifying North Carolina paranormal encounters!