Iris R.
Yelp
On my way back from Virginia, I made a spontaneous decision to visit the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina--a historic landmark I'd wanted to explore for years. I purchased my ticket online right from the McDonald's parking lot near the entrance, making my impromptu adventure even more exciting.
The drive to the estate itself is part of the experience, winding about three miles through the grounds before reaching the mansion. You can park and walk or hop on a trolley to the main house. With the holiday season bringing chilly, damp weather, I went with the trolley, though I'd love to walk the trails in springtime to really soak it all in.
I was truly impressed by my first view of this historic treasure. The trolley drops you at the front entrance where you can jump right into your tour or grab a quick bite at the outdoor café. I decided to start my tour right away, picking up the audio guide, which was incredibly helpful in navigating the overwhelming grandeur of the place.
From the moment you step inside, you're surrounded by pure luxury. The elegant parlors, grand ballrooms, and libraries filled with hundreds of books all showcase incredible artifacts from another era. While the main rooms and exhibits are beautifully maintained, some practical amenities need attention (more on that below). The Vanderbilts clearly spared no expense when creating this family home, which took years to build.
What really stayed with me were the views from the upper floor windows. Each one was thoughtfully positioned to frame the stunning mountains and natural landscape outside, like living paintings that change with the seasons. You can tell how much the Vanderbilts appreciated the beauty surrounding them.
I was amazed by the basement kitchen, the surprisingly modern bathrooms (for that time period), and the indoor swimming pool for entertaining guests. Walking through the upper floors, I kept thinking about the small army of staff it must have taken to keep this massive place running. Even in winter, the gardens were absolutely gorgeous.
I enjoyed my visit so much that I almost went back for a second day to get my full money's worth (which your ticket allows). If you love history and learning about influential people from the past, this place is a must-see. It's definitely worth visiting with family or friends so you can share your thoughts as you explore.
Pro Tips:
* Check the website ahead of time to plan your visit--it's relatively pricey, so manage your expectations
* Please wear comfortable shoes and clothing--walking the grounds is no joke!
* Book a place to stay ahead of time if you're not local
* Plan to spend a full day (or two) there's tons to see
* Explore Asheville's great food scene while you're there
* Browse the gift shop on the grounds, it's worth a look
* No picture taking once you are inside certain areas.
Areas for Improvement:
* The public restrooms were surprisingly nasty and need much more frequent cleaning throughout the day
* The staff/guides providing directions and additional information could be more engaging and helpful
* Parking attendants should be more proactive in helping people locate their vehicles, do so with a smile rather than a frown and not stand around with your arms folded.
The Vanderbilts left behind an incredible legacy, both in America and abroad, preserved in this unforgettable estate. Their descendants deserve real appreciation for maintaining this historical treasure for all of us to enjoy.