by Christy Evers

13 Ways to Make the Magical Biltmore Estate Christmas Festivities Worth Your Time & Money

Enjoy the magical chimney powder below (table of contents) to get you to where you want to go faster:

Will Biltmore Estate be Open after Hurricane Helene in 2024?

Yes!

If you’re planning a visit to Biltmore for their Christmas magic this season, the estate is officially reopening on November 2nd, and they’re ready to welcome everyone back. Although Hurricane Helene left its mark, Biltmore’s iconic Christmas experience will sparkle as always, even as the estate makes a few necessary updates along the way. Here’s what to keep in mind:

First, while many Asheville roadways are back in full swing and the Asheville Airport is open, check your route before heading out.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation is your best friend for any last-minute updates on road closures or detours—plan ahead to keep your trip as smooth as possible.

As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the timeless Lodge Gate, Biltmore’s historic entrance, though it may look a little different this season as they make adjustments following Helene’s visit. Rest assured, these improvements won’t take away from the grandeur of Biltmore’s Christmas charm!

Also, make sure to check Biltmore’s website for the most up-to-date hours, as they may vary slightly during the reopening phase to maximize your experience.

Finally, while Biltmore is ready to make this season as festive as ever, remember that parts of Asheville are still recovering. Visit this page at Explore Asheville to discover places to visit that showcase the spirit and resilience of the community.

Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a holiday regular, Biltmore at Christmas has a way of bringing out the magic. I’m thrilled to see it reopening and look forward to sharing more about how the estate and Asheville’s mountain community come together to make this season unforgettable.

Is Christmas at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC Worth it?

Well, the answer to that million-dollar question is about as varied as a box of holiday chocolates. What’s an absolute treat for one person might be stale fruitcake for another.

Now, I don’t have Santa’s mystical know-it-all abilities, so I can’t peek into your soul and tell you if the cost of Christmas at Biltmore is going to jingle all the way for you. But for me, it’s a jolly “Yes!” I’m a Biltmore fanatic, holding onto my annual pass like it’s a ticket to the Polar Express. I visit Biltmore multiple times each year and I try to make it at least once each quarter. To put it simply, Biltmore, to me, is worth it any day, any time, any season.

But sadly, you’re not me, and I can’t make the Yuletide decision for you. What I can do, however, is dish out a sleighful of 13 tips to make your Biltmore Christmas adventure the merriest it can be, helping you squeeze every drop of holiday cheer from your time and wallet.

I’ll also sprinkle in some insights on who’d find Biltmore Estate a winter wonderland and who might prefer a different holiday destination. Plus, I’ll toss in a few extra helpful hints and answers to questions that might be dancing like sugar plums through your dreamy ‘lil head. By the end of this article, you’ll be ready to decide if Christmas at Biltmore is a gift-wrapped dream come true just for you or if it’s a stocking full of coal.

OK, let’s not keep the reindeer waiting. Grab your hot cocoa, because we’re dashing straight into my 13 tips for making your Biltmore Estate Christmas 2023 a magical holiday adventure.

1. Find Awe in the History, Preparations & Decorations

Fun FAQ About Biltmore:

Christmas traditions at Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC have been sparkling for over 128 years! If you’re like me, stepping back in time and soaking up the holiday spirit with fascinating historical tidbits and current facts enhances my enjoyment and appreciation:

• Opened at Christmas: In 1895, George Vanderbilt moved into the Biltmore house in October and in a couple short months threw open the grand doors of Biltmore House, inviting friends, family, and staff to celebrate Christmas. Can you imagine the wonder of the 40-foot tree that graced the Banquet Hall? Bedecked with 500 electric lights (which were uncommon in those days) and 500 dazzling ornaments, it sparked a cherished tradition. To this day, the staff continues to decorate the Banquet Hall tree with the same number of ornaments and lights.
• On Christmas morning that first year, employees received individualized gifts, along with a crisp $10 bill. Fun fact: That $10 in 1895 would be worth over $365 today. Imagine the presents you could buy with that!

• Deck the Halls: The estate spares no effort when it comes to decorating. With 58 Christmas trees inside Biltmore House for the 2024 celebration, it’s like stepping into a holiday wonderland. The star of the show? A fresh 35-foot-tall Fraser fir in the Banquet Hall, lovingly raised and secured by about 50 staff members. Not to mention the additional 45 decorated trees at various estate locations, including the Winery, Antler Hill Village, and The Inn on Biltmore Estate®.

• Light Up the Night: Biltmore’s twinkling lights are truly a sight to behold. Inside Biltmore House alone, you’ll find 45,000 lights and 282 candles, while the rest of the estate dazzles with an additional 850,000 lights. The Front Lawn tree alone boasts more than 55,000 lights, with 32,000 more adorning the surrounding trees and shrubs. And don’t miss the 400 luminaries lining the lawn for a magical Candlelight Christmas Evening.

• Ornamental Extravaganza: The Banquet Hall tree isn’t just tall; it’s loaded with 500 ornaments, 500 LED Edison bulb-style electric lights, and a treasure trove of gift boxes and décor. And there are over 13,870 ornaments adorning the other trees inside Biltmore House! If that’s not enough, how about 1,960 traditional poinsettias, 238 fresh wreaths, and more than 1,600 feet of fresh and faux garlands? Plus, 9,510 yards of ribbon in the Christmas decor – talk about holiday excess in the best way!
• Team Effort: It takes a village (well, more like 50 team members) to raise and secure the Banquet Hall’s Fraser fir Christmas tree. The Floral team, consisting of 10 full-time and 7 part-time floral designers, works their magic, but they’re not alone. Multiple departments across the estate, including Engineering, Housekeeping, Museum Services, Horticulture, Guest Services, Security, and Events teams, all chip in to make this festive dream come true.
• If you’d like to read more detail about what goes into preparing for a Biltmore Christmas, check out this article written by Heather Angel at Biltmore.com

• Edith’s Generosity: In 1898, newlywed, Edith Vanderbilt moved to Biltmore, embraced the holiday spirit and took an active role in Christmas preparations. She handpicked gifts for each employee and their children. To ensure no duplicates Edith kept meticulous notes of what gift was given to each child each year and even took note of their preferences and likes. This was just the start of Edith’s thoughtful gift-giving and kindness that she brought to not just the Estate, but to Asheville as a whole!
• Cost and Preservation: Your ticket to Biltmore Estate isn’t just admission; it’s a contribution to preserving history. The estate costs over $32 million to run annually, with expenses ranging from property taxes to utilities, wages, benefits, and maintenance. Your ticket purchase, along with merchandise sales and donations, helps ensure that this historic gem continues to shine for future generations.

As you roam the halls and gardens of Biltmore this Christmas, remember the rich history and effort that goes into making this place a holiday paradise. Your ticket price isn’t just a visit; it’s a journey back in time and a your contribution towards a gift to the future.

“Mr. Vanderbilt is to entertain in his chateau 300 guests from New York, who will arrive by special train. The scene of mirth and happiness which the yule-tide season will witness in this modern Aladdin’s palace will be the realization of even that lucky man’s wildest dreams…”
– Galveston Tribune quoted by The Asheville Citizen Times

2. Plan in Advance

If you don’t plan your Biltmore Christmas itinerary in advance, you may find yourself on the naughty list. This time of year is highly popular and can become quite hectic. Leaving activities, tours, hotel, and dining reservations to the last minute may leave you and your party stuck, scrambling to figure out what to do. Some places require advanced reservations, while others operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. To ensure your name is checked on the “Nice” list, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research and make plans well in advance.

To assist you in your research and planning, I’ve created a Biltmore Travel Planner designed to help you make the most of your time at Biltmore. Click here to access your FREE planner.

3. Watch the Movie

Everyone wants to visit that special place that “feels” like you’re in Hallmark Christmas movie. I’ve always thought Biltmore Estate fit the bill, but as of last year, 2023, Biltmore Estate is quite literally the location of a Hallmark Christmas movie!

“Fans of the holidays, mystery, time travel, and romantic comedy are in for a treat when A Biltmore Christmas premieres on Hallmark Channel on Sunday, November 26!”

“Filmed at Biltmore in January 2023, this Hallmark movie features locations across the historic estate, including the Gardens, Conservatory, and The Inn on Biltmore Estate. Biltmore’s long history as a film location dates back to the Golden Age of Hollywood, but for the first time, Biltmore House has a central role in the storyline of A Biltmore Christmas.” Expert from “By The Numbers: The Making of a Biltmore Christmas written by Leeann Donnelly

You can read more about A Biltmore Christmas at Biltmore.com

Fun fact! I was at Biltmore in January of 2023 when this film was being made. If you look closely at the right hand corner of the featured image posted at the top of this article, in the bottom left hand corner of the photo you’ll see trucks that belong to the Hallmark production crew!

4. Taste the Holiday Flavors (Biltmore Estate Dining Guide)

Choose from a variety of restaurants located on Biltmore Estate. You’ll find different dining options near the Biltmore House and at Antler Hill village.

Biltmore Estate Restaurant Guide:

The Restaurants that You’ll Find at the Biltmore House are:

• The Stable Cafe
• The Bake Shop
• The Courtyard Market
• Bilmore Daily Bar
• The Conservatory Cafe

The Restaurants that You’ll Find at Antler Hill Village are:

• Cedrics
• The Wine Bar at the Winery
• The Creamery
• The Bistro
• Village Social
• The Kitchen Cafe
• The SmokeHouse Food Truck
• The Dining Room
• The Library Lounge

*You can download a copy of the above pages by signing up to receive my

Free Biltmore Travel Planner

Biltmore Estate Winery:

Make your time at Biltmore extra special by reserving a wine tasting on your next visit.

Learn about Biltmore’s working winery by booking a complimentary wine tasting, a Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting experience, sip wines by the glass with a light snack at the wine bar or simply enjoy exploring the winery and gift shop in Antler Hill Village.

I highly recommend the Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting. I personally experienced this tour and found it to be absolutely delightful. I had never realized how uniquely different wines paired with a variety of chocolates could dance on the palate. This is an experience I am very likely to book again in the future.

Seasonal Foods & Cocktails:

Enjoy the delectable, seasonal drink and menu items that you can’t get any other time of the year. I enjoyed trying different holiday drinks. I highly suggest trying the Yule Mule.

Take Home Some Biltmore Deliciousness from their Shops

The seasonal goodies at Biltmore aren’t confined to the grounds! Visit their onsite or online shops and bring home some Biltmore wine, chocolate and other yummy fare to savor at home.

5. Stay Overnight on the Estate

Upon passing through the Biltmore entrance, you will immediately notice that you’ve entered a peaceful sanctuary in the midst of a bustling city. A solitary retreat awaits, offering a sublime taste of times past, with culture and ambiance nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, providing a stark contrast to the busy hustle and bustle of modern Asheville.

Whether staying at one of the two hotels on the Estate or opting for a cottage rental, you can truly immerse yourself in the complete Biltmore experience.

Moreover, there are additional benefits to staying on the property. Only guests staying on-site have the privilege of dining at the Dining Room at the Inn. Exclusive year-round reservations are available solely to guests of The Inn, Village Hotel, or Cottages on the Biltmore Estate.

Only guests staying at the Inn receive complimentary estate-wide shuttle service on the Bitmore Express.

Where to Stay On Biltmore Estate:

The Inn at Biltmore Estate

The Village Hotel on Biltmore

6. Explore the Gardens and Conservatory

Don’t dismiss the Gardens and Conservatory just because winter has rolled in; in fact, it’s when Biltmore truly works its green magic! They’ve mastered the art of cultivating stunning gardens, even in the heart of winter.

What I adore about the Biltmore Gardens is their chameleon-like ability to transform with each season.

And let’s talk about the Conservatory – it’s not just warm; it’s practically a tropical getaway! Stepping into that toasty oasis is like a warm hug amidst Biltmore’s festive indoor decor, providing a delightful escape from Jack Frost’s chilly little fingers.

7. Take a Tour

Embarking on a specialty tour at the Biltmore Estate is like adding a sprinkle of magic to your visit. These tours offer a backstage pass to a world of experiences that go beyond the standard admission fare.

Among my top picks for specialty tours are the charming carriage ride, the indulgent Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting, and the awe-inspiring Roof Top Tour. And let’s not forget the festive cheer during Christmas – you can’t go wrong with either the Daytime or Candlelight Evening Christmas House tours.

So, why settle for ordinary when you can turn your Biltmore adventure into an extraordinary event?

All You Need to Know About Biltmore Estate Christmas Tickets:

When Does Biltmore Estate Christmas Start and End?

Christmas at Biltmore runs from Nov. 2, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025

Biltmore Estate Hours of Operation in 2024

Due to the restoration of the grounds after Hurricane Helene, there are some time differences from normal hours of operation. The Grounds Gate opens at 12PM. Please check their web-site for other hours of operation and changes.

Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration

Biltmore Candlelight Christmas Evening Admission

Grounds Only

If you’d like to save some money and skip the house tour, there’s plenty to do for no extra cost with a Grounds Only Ticket. You’ll find things to do for no extra cost like, exploring Antler Hill Village, the Farmyard, the barn, a playground, picnic area and the shops. You can enjoy other exhibits included in your grounds admission like the Vanderbilts at Home and Abroad Museum and the Antler Hill Village Illumination and the Ciao From Italy Sculptural Postcard Display.

Gardens and Grounds Tickets will range between $90-$100 during the Christmas season 2024.

8. Explore the Trails and Estate Grounds Beyond the House

There’s plenty of space to roam on Biltmore Estate. There are plenty of walking trails, you can rent a bike, relax by the lagoon, roam around Antler Hill Village or take part in a variety of additional activities offered at an additional cost such as falconry, carriage rides, classes, specialty tours and more. Below are a list of activities to choose from. You can find a printable version in the Free Biltmore Planner.

Other Specialty Tours

9. Spend Time at Antler Hill Village

There’s so much to enjoy at Antler Hill Village, even more during Christmas with their night time Village Illumination creating this already quaint village into a sparkling Christmas wonderland of lights.

This year at Antler Hill Village you might be able to get a glimpse at Santa at the Bandstand. Check here for dates and times of his appearance schedule.

Restaurants at Antler Hill Village

Choose from a variety of restaurants at Antler Hill Village. All are known for their locally sourced ingredients, many come from Biltmores self-sustainable farming. Choose from . . .

• Cedrics: offering pub fare, with an Irish vibe
• The Bistro: located across from the winery and next to the Village Inn, casual dining serving estate raised and locally sourced ingredients.
• The Village Social: Located in the Village Hotel, serving Southern inspired dishes with a Biltmore twist.
• The Wine Bar: Serving light snacks, beer, wine, cheese, charcuterie & chocolates. Located in the alley behind the Wine Shop.

• The Dining Room: 4 star dining located in the Inn at Biltmore. Only hotel guests staying on the estate may eat in the Dining Room.
• The Kitchen Cafe: Grab-and-go options located in the lobby of the Village Hotel.

Shops at Antler Hill Village

Why not get some Christmas shopping done, or treat yourself to something from one of the four shops at Antler Hill Village.

• Grab some lifestyle goods, souvenirs and home decor at Antler Hill Outfitters.
• Pick up seasonal holiday décor, home accessories, and arts & crafts at The Barn Door.
• At Traditions, discover apparel, décor, and more that offer a modern take on the legacy of hospitality common to the Vanderbilt legacy.

• Take home or share the gourmet goodness of Biltmore flavors, food and wine from the Wine Shop. Don’t worry, if you can’t make it to Biltmore this year, you can have Biltmore wine delivered conveniently to your door.

Wine Tasting

Indulge in a Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting for an extra fee, or enjoy a complimentary wine tasting. Either way, don’t forget to make reservations in advance so you don’t miss out!

Free Historical Museum Admission

Many folks don’t realize that there is a Biltmore historical museum in Antler Hill Village available to visitors at no extra cost! This exhibit called, The Vanderbilts at Home and Abroad gives patrons a unique look at historical family artifacts and gives deeper insight into daily life on the estate. Don’t miss this unique exhibit located next to the winery.

Farmyard

Playground & Picnic Area

Directly next to the Farmyard is a playground and picnic shelter if you’d like to give yourself and your little ones some time to rest and play. It’s a nice area to take a break from the festivities.

Antler Hill Barn

Just a stones throw away from the Farmyard and Playground is where you can explore Antler Hill Barn, a historic structure designed in 1900 by Biltmore House architect Richard Morris Hunt.

Antler Hill Barn is situated within the area that featured a dairy, market garden, sheep, poultry, and pigs.

Today you can walk around the barn, learn some history and if you plan well, you may even get to watch a free demonstration or take a workshop.

10. Save Money

Let’s face it, the cost for a trip to Biltmore at Christmas can leave your wallet feeling like Scrooge, so it’s a good idea to save money when you can. There are three ways to save money when visiting Biltmore Estate:

1. Next Day Ticket Discount: This Christmas season all house tours include a complimentary grounds admission. That’s a full day to explore the grounds which is a savings of $40-$80 depending on the day.
2. Get An Annual Pass: Passholders receive discounts on dining, shopping, tours and activities. Depending on your purchase you only need to use your pass once or twice for the pass to pay for itself. Plus, for a limited time from now until Dec. 31st you can purchase the annual pass for a $90 discount!

• 3. Package Deals: Bundle your stay with a hotel and other activities for a lower price.

• Check out House and Tour/Activity Packages
• Check out Hotel Stay, Tour/Activity Packages

11. Find the Perfect Sunset Spot

I’m not the biggest fan of short winter days, however, one good thing about the early sunset is that it increases your chances of catching a spectacular sunset at Biltmore to make your holiday festivities all the more magical. In the months with longer daylight, the sunset takes place long after The Biltmore House and Grounds have closed for the day.

Christmas time is a unique time to be able to view the sunset from terrace directly next to to the side of the Biltmore House. It’s the only time of the year when you can watch the sunset from the House. Otherwise, you’ll need to head over to antler Hill village to catch the colorful splendor of the evening, mountain sky.

You may even be able to time a carriage ride just right to catch the sunset along your unique trek across the estate.

12. Shop

What better place to do your Christmas shopping that at Biltmore Estate? Or heck, why not treat yourself?

There are a variety of shops located at the Biltmore House, Antler Hill Village and the Gate House Shop located near the gate entrance.

You’ll find the following shops at the Biltmore House and Gardens:

• A Christmas Past
• Bookbinder’s
• Carriage House
• Confectionery
• Toymaker’s
• A Gardener’s Place

Enjoy the following shops at Antler Hill Village:

• Antler Hill Outfitters
• The Barn Door
• Traditions
• Wine Shop
• Cottage Door at The Inn
• Marble Lion at The Inn

Don’t worry if you forgot to buy something or if you can’t make it to Biltmore this year. After all, there’s always online shopping!

Biltmore Estate Gift Idea’s

13. Know the Facts (Visitors Info)

As with any destination, I strongly suggest the “know before you go” philosophy to create an effortless travel experience. Here are some frequently asked questions to add to your knowledge base.

Click Here to Know Before You Go After Hurricane Helene

FAQ, Tips and Resoures:

When Does Biltmore Decorate for Christmas?

Officially, the Christmas Season 2024 starts Nov. 2rd and ends Jan. 5th 2025. However, unofficially, if you visit Biltmore into late January, I know from experience that there’s a good chance you’ll still be able to see some of the Estate Decorations continuing to shine merry and bright at Antler Hill Village.

What are Biltmore Estate Hours During the Christmas Season?

Due to the restoration of the grounds after Hurricane Helene this 2024 season, there are some time differences from normal hours of operation. The Grounds Gate opens at 12PM. Please check their web-site for other hours of operation and changes.

Times will depend on the day, so please always check Biltmore.com for your dates. However, when things get back to normal, the following are the hours to expect:

• The entrance gate opens at 8:00
• Daytime house tours run from 10:00AM-4:30PM
• Estate Entry for the Night Time Christmas Tour starts at 4:30PM
• Night time house tours run between 5:15PM -8:00PM
• The majority of shops at Biltmore House open around 9:00AM
• The majority of shops at Antler Hill Village open at either 10:00AM or 11:00AM

Is Biltmore Estate Pet Friendly?

Parking

Is There a Fee for Parking?

No. There is no additional fee for parking. Parking is included in your admission price.

Where do I Park?

Lots A and B are an 8- to 10-minute walk to the house and gardens. Lot C has a shuttle to take you to the Biltmore House. To see all estate parking lot locations, view the Estate Map.

There is also parking available at Antler Hill Village across from the Village Hotel, courtyard, Farmyard and also at the Inn.

Is there Accessible Parking?

Complimentary shuttle service from Biltmore House to the Conservatory in the Walled Garden is available April through October. There is also accessible parking located next to the Conservatory for the Walled Garden.

You can find more information by viewing Estate Accessibility, or by contacting the Reception & Ticketing Sales Center or Guest Services.

Are There Parking Spaces for RV’s?

Parking spaces for RV’s are limited. Please contact the first available parking host for assistance. View Estate Accessibility here.

How do I Get Around the Estate if I Don’t Have a Car?

Estate-wide transportation is not currently available for most guests. Transportation is only included for guests staying at the Inn.

Biltmore Express shuttle service is $15 per person per day. Children 9 and under are free.

The Biltmore Express Shuttle Provides transportation between Biltmore’s Reception and Ticketing Sales Center, Biltmore House, Antler Hill Village, and Amherst at Deerpark®

Shuttle tickets can be purchased in advance by calling 800-411-3812 or in-person on day of arrival at any Guest Services location.

What is the Weather Like?

Typical temperatures in Asheville during the Christmas at Biltmore months (Nov-January) range from 27-59 degrees F. That being said, it’s not uncommon for weather to go below or above the average. It’s best to plan for all types of weather and dress in layers that can be taken off or added through out the day as needed. Check out the Biltmore Suggested Packing List below.

How to Find Biltmore?

Biltmore Estate Address:

The address to plug into your GPS to get to Biltmore Estate is:

One Lodge Street
Asheville, NC 28803

Biltmore Phone: 1-800-411-3812

What’s Near Biltmore Estate?

*Driving time, of course, depends on traffic and time of day

• Historic Downtown: Approx 2.5 miles or an 8 minute drive. Enjoy a variety of quaint shops, award winning restaurants in Asheville’s historic downtown with a modern flair.
• River Arts District: Approx. 2.3 miles or a 7 minute drive. Support local artisans, take a workshop or watch artists live as they work on their craft. Grab a bite to eat or a coffee while you enjoy this trendy section of Asheville.
• NC Arboretum: Approx. 8.7 miles or an 18 minute drive Enjoy more of the natural atmosphere that Asheville is known for.
• Lake Lure Flowering Bridge: Approx. 25 miles or a 45 minute drive. Admire this bridge covered in plants and natural coverings all year long.
• Blue Ridge Parkway: Nearest entrance to the parkway is approx. 4 miles or a 10 minute drive. See the mountains of Asheville like nowhere else from a scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
• Omni Grove Park Inn: Approx. 4.4 miles or a 15 minute drive. Enjoy the spa, restaurants an the Gingerbread house competition or even stay at one of the most historic hotels in Asheville.

Where to Stay

On Biltmore Estate:

The Inn on Biltmore Estate

The Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate

Near Biltmore Estate/Biltmore Park:

My Personal Top Picks

*Some of the hotels may be temporarily closed as they are rebuilding and cleaning up from hurricane Helene. Please double check with each hotel before booking through a 3rd party site.

Grand Bohemian (Across the Street from the gate entrance)

Holiday Inn (.3 miles from the gate entrance)

Double Tree (.4 miles from the gate entrance)

Baymont (.4 miles from the gate entrance)

Hampton Inn (.5 miles from the gate entrance)

Clarion Inn (.6 miles from the gate entrance)

Hilton Biltmore Park

Downtown:

My Personal Top Picks

Embassy Suites

Hotel Indigo

Cambria

Hilton Garden Inn Downtown Asheville

Element Downtown Asheville

Surrounding Area:

Omni Grove Park Inn

Vacation Rentals:

Search Asheville Vacation Rentals with VRBO by clicking here

Plan the Perfect Trip to Biltmore

What to Bring/Pack

Packing list:

What should you pack for a trip to Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC for a magical visit? Here are some of my recommendations outside of your regular packing that are specific to a Biltmore at Christmas experience.

• Clear bag for going through the house or a purse/bag no larger than than 19″ x 14″ x 9″ inside Biltmore House.
• Comfortable walking shoes: Even if you’re dressing up, make sure those shoes are good for long walks and standing on your feet for a long time.

• Dress in Layers (Winter in Asheville can be tricky for packing. Some days can be hat, gloves and winter coat-kind-of-cold but it’s also not uncommon to have unseasonably warm days that only require long sleeves or a light jacket. Some days you’ll go through all four seasons of weather patterns in one day. I, myself, have been there in mid January where I needed nothing more than long sleeves on a glorious blue-sky day. I find that it’s best to pack thinner layers than can work together and be taken off or added through out the day as needed rather than packing bulky items.
• Charging banks for your electronics or camera. Outlets are harder to find at Biltmore Estate than spotting Santa’s sleigh, so make sure you have extra juice for your electronics if you plan on taking photos and videos.

• Blister bandages. Just in case your shoes don’t do the trick, you don’t want blisters to ruin an otherwise beautiful time. Pack those blister bandages just in case. Your feet will thank you!

Suggested Reading

The following books on Biltmore Estate make perfect gifts, or a treat for yourself. Delve deeper into the history of Biltmore Estate.

Young ones and old alike will love going on a fictional adventure with Serafina, a delightful children’s series that takes place on Biltmore Estate and the story is seen through the eyes of Serafina, a child of a Biltmore servant.

Find copies to purchase at the Bookbinders shop on the estate, or shop online. You may even be able to find them at your local bookstore.

• A Biltmore Christmas (Romancing America) by Diane T. Ashley
• Christmas At Biltmore Celebrating At America’s Largest Home, by Jr. Bill Cecil
• Christmas at Biltmore Magazine, Celebrating 125 Years
• Biltmore Estate: The Most Distinguished Private Place, By John Bryan
• Serafina and the Black Cloak-The Serafina Childrens Book by Roberty Beatty

Suggested Videos

Enjoy these videos to help you prepare for your trip to Biltmore Estate.

• Full Biltmore Estate Christmas House Tour Plus Fun FAQ
• 10 Tips for Visiting Biltmore Estate
• Plan The Perfect Trip to Biltmore Estate/How Much Can You Do in Two Days?

Wrap Up

As we wrap up this ultimate guide to Biltmore Estate at Christmas with a sparkly bow, ask yourself, is Biltmore Estate at Christmas worth it?

You should now have a pretty good sense of whether this festive destination is gift-wrapped dream come true just for you or if it’s a stocking full of coal.

A Biltmore Estate Christmas in Asheville, NC is for you if you can can appreciate the awe-inspiring history, the meticulous preparations, and the jaw-dropping decorations that turn this experience into pure magic.

Planning ahead is your ticket to a stress-free visit, and don’t miss out on savoring the holiday flavors with our Biltmore Estate Dining Guide—because, let’s face it, who doesn’t love a feast?

If you’re feeling the holiday spirit, booking a night on the estate gives you the VIP treatment and a chance to soak up all that enchantment that can only come from immersing yourself in the Biltmore Holiday charm.

Roam through the Gardens and Conservatory, join a guided tour to get the juicy details of the estate’s fascinating history, and explore the scenic trails and grounds that go beyond the grand house.

Antler Hill Village is a must-visit spot where history practically does a little dance.

Want to save a few bucks? Use our wallet-friendly tips, and make sure to find the perfect spot to catch a stunning sunset.

We’ve gone over where you can indulge in a bit of retail therapy and armed you with all the need-to-know info from our Visitors Info section. From choosing the coziest stay to crafting the perfect trip, packing pointers, and some recommended reads or videos, our ultimate guide guarantees that your Biltmore Estate Christmas will be nothing short of extraordinary. Wishing your holiday season is filled with wonder, history, and the timeless beauty of Biltmore!

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