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Biltmore Estate: a must see; Christmas season makes it even more special
Tootsie’s Bottom Line:
- Cost: Candlelight tickets: $70-$90/per adult; $67-$75 daytime tickets
- Such a unique home and grounds; it’s worth seeing anytime but Christmas is even better!
Tickets: Biltmore Estate
Hotel: Omni Grove Park Inn prices and specials vary significantly; check website for rates
Teeth chattering and hands nestled deeply in our coat pockets, my jaw dropped. I was overcome with awe as we arrived at the front of the Biltmore Estate. We decided to sneak away on a cold, January day to Asheville, North Carolina. While short, our stay would include an evening at the Biltmore Estate and an overnight at the Omni Grove Park Inn.
I had never been to the Biltmore Estate before; although my mom visited previously, she’d never had the opportunity to visit during the Christmas season. The experience didn’t disappoint! We entered the massive doors to a foyer illuminated by candlelight and filled with Christmas carols and poinsettias. We elected to do the audio tour which included interesting details of life as a Vanderbilt. My mom said it she always enjoyed visiting the estate but this was a completely different experience. The “house” is truly one-of-a-kind and must be seen to be believed. My mom said it’s our very own “Downton Abbey”
The Biltmore is an enormous house and we were able to see some of the primary living quarters for the family. The famous basement rooms are a must if you are visiting so you can see the kitchen, indoor pool, a “pre-health club” gym and bowling alley. Christmas takes on a truly special meaning in a house dressed to perfection with burning candles and live music to accompany your visit. The only downside with the night visit is that you cannot see the grounds. This is a must see!
Chilling wind waited for us as we stepped out of the Biltmore House. After a short drive to our hotel, we stepped back in time again. A valet helped us out of our car and a doorman opened the giant doors to welcome us into the lobby at the Omni Grove Park Inn. Sipping hot chocolate and rocking in front of the roaring fireplace, we reminisced about our day and what it would be like to live in a house like the Biltmore or be a regular guest at the Grove Park Inn. The hot chocolate (kids and adult version) were the relaxing end to a perfect day.
Walking around the Omni Grove Park Inn, we enjoyed the native ambiance. “The Marketplace” in the Grove Park Inn provided a tasty, quick bite in the morning. The “National Gingerbread Competition” that started here over 25 years ago was in its final days and seeing how food was transformed into art was so cool. The entries are truly remarkable! What a wonderful way to get into the spirit of Christmas (or stay in it) with a visit to the Omni Grove Park Inn and the Biltmore Estate!