Christmas at Biltmore: 2025 Full Review & Tips
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Thinking about visiting The Biltmore during the Christmas season this year?
I’m a massive fan of the estate during the holidays. Everything feels so festive, and honestly, it feels like stepping into a Hallmark movie (literally).
If you have a trip to Asheville planned, definitely add Biltmore to your itinerary. All the twinkling trees and classic decorations will put you in the Christmas spirit right away. If you’re heading there this season, I’ve got tips on what to see, when to go, planning your day, and my honest review of what makes this place such a standout.
Grab your favorite Christmas sweater and let’s get started!
Quick Guide
When To Go: If possible, avoid the weekends! If you’re going on a weekend, aim for earlier rather than later to avoid the crowds.
What to See: Take a tour of the house, explore the grounds (especially the conservatory), grab a glass of wine at Antler Hill Village & Winery
Where to Stay: Brookstone Lodge (budget), DoubleTree by Hilton Biltmore/Asheville (mid-range), Blind Tiger Asheville (luxury)
What To Wear: Layers, comfortable shoes, and festive attire!
Rent a Car: Having a car is a must in this area as there really isn’t great public transport. The grounds are also massive so it’s essential to be able to get around.
What Is The Biltmore Estate?
Let’s start with the basics. The Biltmore Estate started as George Vanderbilt’s home in the late 1800s, built in a French château style with 250 rooms and so many little details to notice once you’re inside.
It is also the largest privately owned home in the United States. I still think it’s pretty amazing that this place is right here in Asheville and so easy to visit.
I find myself raving about Biltmore to anyone coming to the area. There is plenty to do between the house, the gardens, the winery, and the village shops. The holidays make it feel extra festive since the team at the estate does an incredible job decking it out.
You’ll see Christmas trees and decorations in every room, lights around the property, and just pure Christmas joy throughout. A lot of locals make it a yearly tradition, and I completely understand why.
I’ve done Christmas at Biltmore three times now, and it never gets old.
What To See
Before you even start exploring, I recommend downloading the estate map on your phone or grabbing one when you arrive. It makes it easier to plan your loop so you’re not rushing back and forth between areas.
There is a lot to enjoy during Christmas at Biltmore, so having a little game plan helps. Here are the highlights I always mention for a holiday visit:
The House
The house is the biggest attraction, especially during the holidays. You move from room to room, seeing beautiful trees, sparkling lights, and decorations that change every year.
The Banquet Hall tree is always a showstopper, and I love how every room’s tree matches its vibe (if the room’s pink, the tree/decorations follow suit).
My personal favorite room is the library, but as a book lover, that’s no surprise. The sheer magnitude of this house always astounds me. Make sure you take your time here; there is something fun to notice in every corner.
If you love learning a little history while you explore, the complimentary audio guide is worth picking up. It shares the estate’s history and guides you through each room. I’ve done the tour three times and always use it to learn something new.
The Gardens and Conservatory
I obviously love a good walk, so I suggest making time to explore the gardens.
If you need a little breather from the busier parts of the estate, head down to the Bass Pond. The walk is easy, peaceful, and gives you a nice chance to reset before diving back into the holiday fun. Even in winter, it’s a pretty spot for photos and a quick, quiet moment.
When you’re ready to warm up again, head to the Conservatory. It’s full of bright plants and Christmas displays, and it feels so nice stepping into that greenhouse warmth after being outside. I usually end up lingering in here longer than I mean to!
Antler Hill Village and Winery
Once you finish in the house area, the village is a great next stop. There are shops, places to grab a snack, and so many lights.
I also never skip a wine tasting at the winery. It is a nice way to slow down (and warm up!) after a busy day. If you do a house tour, this is also complimentary!
The Village sometimes hosts live music throughout the season, which adds to the festive atmosphere. It’s a lovely way to end your day if you’re not in a hurry to leave.
Tutankhamun Exhibition (Amherst at Deerpark)
If you want to add something different to your visit, there is a special Tutankhamun exhibition at the Amherst Venue at Deerpark, about three miles from the house. You can get a daytime ticket that includes the house, gardens, and the exhibition for around $165.
It is a fun extra if you have the time and want to see a little more during your day at Biltmore. It’s also indoors, so it’s a great backup plan if the weather is chilly or rainy.
Biltmore Christmas Tours
When you’re ready to book your visit to Biltmore for Christmas, you’ll need to head to the official Biltmore site where you’ll see a few ticket options. Every ticket includes free parking and complimentary wine tasting at the winery, a nice little bonus during the holidays.
This should help you pick what feels right:
Grounds Only
From $85
A great choice if you mainly want to enjoy the gardens, walking trails, Antler Hill Village, and the winery. You will not be allowed inside the house with this ticket, but you will still have a great holiday experience. Many locals choose this option, but if you’ve never seen the house at this time of year, you’ll regret not splurging on the tour.
Daytime Tickets
From $130
These get you into the house, the gardens, Antler Hill Village, and the winery. The house is fully decorated all day, so if you’re an early riser or visiting with kids who fade out by evening, this one works really well.
Candlelight Christmas Evenings
From $150
This is a totally different visit compared to the daytime ticket, and it feels a lot more special. The house is quieter, everything looks even prettier after dark, and there is live music as you walk through.
It does cost more, but I think it is worth the extra money at least once in your life. If you’ve visited during the day before, this experience feels completely different.
The ticket also includes daytime access to the grounds and village, either the same day or the next day, depending on your ticket type.
House, Exhibition & Grounds Ticket (Tutankhamun Exhibition)
From $165
This ticket includes daytime access to the house and grounds, as well as to the special “Tutankhamun: His Tomb and His Treasures” exhibition at Amherst at Deerpark (about three miles from the house). If you have extra time and want to add something unexpected to your holiday visit, this is super interesting.
Guided Tours (“Guests of the Vanderbilts”)
From $400
This small-group tour takes you into areas of the house you would not usually see and offers more stories about what Christmas looked like for the Vanderbilt family. It is a splurge, but a really unique way to experience the estate.
Quick Tip:
Tickets do sell out, especially for evenings and December weekends. Booking ahead is the best way to get the date and time you want. If you can’t see the dates you wish to at first, check again in a few days. Cancellation spots often open up.
When To Visit
Christmas at Biltmore runs from November 1 through January 3, which gives you more than enough time to plan a visit. The estate feels festive all season long, so you can pick the timing that works best for you.
The property covers 8,000 acres of gardens, trails, and grounds, so you will never feel like you are just filling time between your house tour and dinner. If you decide to get a two-day ticket, there is plenty to explore.
Best Days to Visit
If you can plan a midweek trip, that is usually the most relaxed experience. Weekends in December are very popular, especially in the evenings, and things can get a little busy.
Don’t let that put you off visiting if weekends are the only time you have. Just expect more people and give yourself a little extra time to wander.
Best Time of Day
For daytime tickets, I like to arrive early and enjoy the grounds before heading into the house. It sets the mood and keeps the day feeling smooth instead of rushed.
If you’re planning a Candlelight Christmas Evening, arriving in the afternoon gives you time to explore the gardens and village while it is still light. Then you can go right into the house once the candles and lights start glowing.
Morning sunlight through the house windows feels bright and happy, while evening lights make everything feel magical. You really can’t go wrong.
Is Peak Season Worth It?
December has the most substantial holiday feel, but it also books up the fastest. If you’re hoping to visit right before Christmas, grabbing tickets early is the way to go.
November weekends can be a sweet spot, too. Everything is decorated, but the busiest crowds haven’t fully arrived yet.
With so much to see around Asheville, many people make a long weekend of it. I also have a guide to things to do in Waynesville if you want to explore a nearby mountain town.
Tips for Visiting The Biltmore Estate
After years of helping friends and readers plan Biltmore trips, here are my best tips for making your day easy and extra fun:
- Pre-book everything. House entry, any guided tour, dining, and even the exhibition, if you add that to your day, the sooner you book, the better.
- Book your House entry time first, then plan the rest of your visit around it.
- Arrive early, especially with a daytime ticket. You can explore the gardens and grab a coffee while you wait for your house time.
- Wear comfortable shoes. You will walk a lot. Your feet will thank you.
- Dress in layers. Between warm indoor rooms and chilly outdoor paths, you’ll be happy to have options.
- Take advantage of the complimentary wine tasting. It’s included with every ticket and is a fun stop in the afternoon.
- Make dining reservations if you want a sit-down meal. Holiday weeks can be hectic. Asheville gets exceptionally busy on the weekends during the holidays so even if you’re eating downtown, reservations are a good idea.
- Plan time for photos. There are so many great spots inside and outside the house. Bring a portable phone charger if you plan on taking lots of pictures. The house and grounds have so many beautiful places you will want to capture.
- If you have a Candlelight ticket, explore the gardens in daylight first, then head into the house once everything starts to glow.
- Expect slow traffic when leaving after an evening event. Everyone leaves at once, and it’s part of the experience.
Daytime Christmas at Biltmore Itinerary (With Tutankhamun Exhibition)
📌 Screenshot this for your trip
✔ Arrive early
Walk the gardens and pop into the Conservatory
✔ House Tour (1.5 to 2 hours)
Pick up the audio guide when you enter
✔ Lunch or snack break
Stable Café or Cedric’s Tavern are great spots
Reservations are helpful during the Christmas season
✔ Tutankhamun Exhibition (1.5 to 2 hours)
Amherst at Deerpark, about 3 miles from the house
✔ Antler Hill Village & Winery (1 to 2 hours)
Complimentary wine tasting plus holiday shopping and lights🎄
✔ Grab dinner in Downtown Asheville (if timing allows) (1 to 2 hours)
Where To Stay
There are great places to stay for your Christmas at Biltmore trip, no matter your budget. I’ve included a few of my favorite options below, with how close they are to the estate and why they work well for holiday visits.
These options also make a nice base if you are planning to explore nearby Asheville hikes or even make a day trip to Hendersonville.
And if you want even more choices — including entirely pet-friendly hotels — you can check out my complete guide to the best hotels near Biltmore Estate.
Budget
Distance from Biltmore Estate: 2 miles
Brookstone Lodge is such a handy little base for a holiday trip. It’s affordable, parking is simple, breakfast is included, and you can be at Biltmore in just a few minutes. I’d recommend this for families who want to stretch their budget a little further.
Quality Inn Asheville Downtown Tunnel Rd
Distance from Biltmore Estate: 3 miles
Quality Inn Asheville is a great budget pick if you don’t mind a short drive. Rooms are comfortable and straightforward, the location is easy to reach, and the complimentary breakfast is always a bonus. Spend less on your stay and more on Biltmore tickets, treats, and Christmas shopping instead!
Mid-Range
DoubleTree by Hilton Biltmore/Asheville
Distance from Biltmore Estate: 1 mile
You can’t go wrong with a DoubleTree by Hilton, and this one is so close to the Biltmore entrance that you can be at the gates in just a few minutes. It has comfortable rooms, an indoor pool, and you get that warm cookie at check-in, which always feels like a treat after a busy travel day.
Baymont Inn & Suites Asheville Biltmore Village
Distance from Biltmore Estate: 1 mile
Close to shops and restaurants in Biltmore Village, the Baymont Inn is super easy to get to and from the estate all day long—a friendly and practical base during the holiday season.
Luxury
Distance from Biltmore Estate: 3.5 miles
I had to include Blind Tiger Asheville… when you see the rooms, you’ll understand! Each suite is beautifully designed with that “wow, I want my house to look like this” kind of style. It’s cozy, classy, and the perfect place to relax after a full day out.
Distance from Biltmore Estate: 2 miles
Zelda Dearest has a lot of personality in the best way. The rooms feel warm and welcoming, and you’re close to Asheville’s restaurants if you want to grab dinner or a drink after your Biltmore day.
Where To Eat at/Near Biltmore
On the Estate
Stable Café
A very popular lunch stop and easy to fit into your day. The building used to be the Vanderbilt family’s horse stables, which is a fun little detail once you’re inside. Reservations are helpful during the holiday season.
Cedric’s Tavern
Relaxed and good for families or anyone who just wants to sit down and enjoy something warm and comforting. A nice break before wandering through the village lights.
Village Social
A slightly nicer option on the estate. Good for a Christmas dinner if you want to make the day feel a little more special. I’d try to book ahead for this one.
Nearby (Biltmore Village & Asheville)
Corner Kitchen – Biltmore Village
Always a treat. It feels festive inside, and the food is delicious. Nice for a slower sit-down meal to wrap up your day.
Hillman Beer – Biltmore Village
An amazing brewery with great food that’s just outside of the Biltmore grounds.
Burial Beer Forestry Camp – Biltmore Village
The second location of a well loved Asheville Brewery. This place has such a fantastic vibe and is great for large groups.
FAQs: Christmas at Biltmore
How much does it cost to go to the Biltmore for Christmas?
Christmas pricing usually ranges from about $85 for grounds-only to $150+ for house admission and Candlelight tickets, with private tours starting at $ 400+.
What date is the Biltmore decorated for Christmas?
The holiday season runs from November 1 through January 3, and the decorations are up the entire time.
What Christmas movie was filmed at Biltmore Estate?
A Biltmore Christmas (Hallmark!) was filmed on the estate, so if it feels like a movie set, it literally is.
Can I wear jeans to the Biltmore?
Yes. Most people dress casually and comfortably since there’s a lot of walking. Think hiking layers, and you’ll be fine moving from warm rooms to cooler outdoor paths.
Is Christmas at Biltmore good for kids?
Yes, especially during the day. There’s also a farmyard and a playground in Antler Hill Village, which are perfect for letting little ones burn off some energy.
Wrap-Up: Christmas at Biltmore
I hope this helps convince you why Christmas at Biltmore is always a good idea. Enjoy the holiday magic — you’re going to have the best time!
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