Biltmore Mansion
 

First visit to The Biltmore next month. Any suggestions?

Although you do not specify, I guess you are asking about Biltmore in Asheville, NC. My husband and I went last year and really enjoyed the trip. Give yourself most of the day at the Mansion if you want to wander the gardens, winery and the Mansion. In addition to walking the mansion, we took the 'Behind the Scenes' tour - costs extra but you get to see parts of the house not normally on display. It is guided and very interesting. <BR>If possible, go on a weekday for shorter lines.

Biltmore is fabulous and the $32 entrance fee is worth every penney and more. The estate gets absolutely no government money and relies soley on entrance fees. The place is immaculate - but the crowds are large. Get there when it first opens and immediately get in line for the house tour. Buy the audio cassette tape. Tour the house and the gardens around the house, and then have lunch. Skip all the "food court" stuff in the stable area at the house. Don't eat at the Deer Park restaurant (all the tour buses go there). Instead, drive down to the winery and eat at the restaurant there. Great menu and no crowds. After lunch, go back to the house for one of the "behind the scenes" tours. Have a great time! For dinner, try the Trattoria ???? in Pack (sp?) Square. I can't remember the complete name of the restaurant, but if you do a search for Asheville, several people mention it.

We are planning on visiting Biltmore also. Visit their website beforehand, they have loads of information and can send a beautiful brochure with loads of information. It sounds fabulous and I can't wait to see it.

Join AAA and your ticket will only be $26 for the Biltmore. Try to eat lunch around 11:30 am at the Biltmore's restaurant (in the old livery stalls) or you will find yourself waiting in a long line to be seated. Take the original and still working elevator to the various floors. It's faster and pretty neat.