The sheer size of Biltmore House is almost overwhelming, yet it feels surprisingly welcoming and comfortable. After all, these amazing four acres of floor space were designed not as a museum but as a family home and country retreat. To this day, it is still the largest privately owned home in America, and it remains one of the most engaging portraits of 19th-century life ever created.

Tour the gardens of Biltmore Estate, and you can easily see why, a century after he designed the grounds, Frederick Law Olmsted is still considered to be America's foremost landscape architect. From our managed forests (the first in America) to the impeccably manicured pleasure gardens, the estate is a living tribute to Olmsted's genius and accomplishments. Some plants and original tree plantings remain today. Our experts continually work to preserve the original vision for the gardens and grounds, including our All America Rose Garden featuring more than 250 varieties of roses.

At the Biltmore Estate Winery, rich tradition meets state-of-the-art technology under the masterful direction of our French winemaker Bernard Delille. Vineyards on the estate's west side grow several varieties of vinifera grapes while the estate's former dairy complex now houses the winery. It produces 75,000 cases of wine each year in about 15 varieties. Biltmore wines have been awarded gold and double-gold medals in prestigious national and international competitions.

Biltmore’s agricultural community lives on today. The Historic Horse Barn provides a fascinating glimpse of what everyday life was like on the estate. Exhibits and antique farm equipment tell the story of families who lived on the estate raising livestock, tending crops, and working at the Biltmore Dairy. Blacksmiths and woodworkers demonstrate their skills and discuss the roles their historic counterparts had on the estate. The Mercantile shop has a unique collection of American-made crafts and old-fashioned favorites, while the Creamery tempts with an array of ice creams and treats.

This year, our Kitchen Garden is filled with vibrant growth. Located at the Winery and Farm Village, this four-acre garden displays an incredible array of culinary and medicinal plants, vegetables, and fruits. Wander down the paths to imagine the life of a 19th-century farmer tending to acres of crops each year.

A visit to the estate’s agricultural complex isn't complete without dropping by the Farmyard for some quality time with your favorite animals. Open daily 12:00 noon–6:00 p.m. and located in the Winery and Farm Village, the Farmyard is home to a variety of family-friendly animals. Our animals include 50 laying hens and cuddly chicks—including seven varieties of heirloom breeds that George Vanderbilt raised on his poultry farm. This spring, drop by to meet woolly lambs, sweet calves, fuzzy angora goats, and gentle Belgian draft horses.

Everyone who visits Biltmore Estate imagines what it must have been like to be a guest at the Vanderbilts' country estate. Yet the experience is still possible today when you stay at the Inn on Biltmore Estate. As a guest of the Vanderbilt's, you too will escape to exquisite settings and enjoy every creature comfort. Luxurious rooms. Fine dining. Flawless service. Take a dip in the pool. Meet for drinks on the veranda. Sip afternoon tea in the library. Indulge in the lavish creations of The Dining Room chefs. Check with our concierge for recommendations and reservations for nearby activities. Hop on the shuttle to travel back and forth to Biltmore House.