If you’re looking for the perfect blend of history, jaw-dropping architecture, and enough gardens to make your inner plant mom swoon, the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, is calling your name. As America’s largest privately-owned home, this place is basically a castle, and you’re the queen of your own adventure. But before you waltz into your royal tour, let’s make sure you’re fully prepped for the ultimate solo day at the Biltmore!

How to Prepare Like a Pro

Before you even step onto the estate, a little planning will ensure you have the best experience.

Book Your Tickets in Advance – Biltmore can sell out, so don’t roll up expecting to snag a last-minute ticket. Head to Biltmore’s website to lock in your spot.
Arrive Early – The estate is massive (8,000 acres, to be exact), and you’ll want a full day to explore. Aim to arrive by 9 AM to make the most of it.
Scout Out the Weather — Weather in Asheville can be unpredictable at times. Summers are hot, winters are chilly, and rain can roll in unexpectedly. I got VERY lucky that at the end of my tours (around 4pm) I arrived to my car just as a torrential thunderstorm hit the estate.
Wear Comfortable Shoes – Trust me, this is not the day for cute but painful shoes. With all the walking you’ll be doing—from the grand house to the gardens and back—you’ll thank yourself for wearing sneakers or comfy flats.
Fuel Up – There are restaurants on-site, but bring some snacks and water if you like to stay energized between stops.

Top Things to See in the Biltmore Estate

Once inside, get ready to be wowed. But fair warning—at the beginning of the tour, it can get very backed up. Everyone is completely mesmerized by what they see (understandably so), which means you might feel like you’re moving at a snail’s pace. Have patience! As you make your way through, the crowd spreads out, and you’ll have more breathing room to take it all in.

1. The Grand House Tour

This isn’t just a house—it’s a 250-room mansion! It’s impossible not to be in awe of the sheer size and grandeur. As you enter, you’re immediately transported back to the Gilded Age, surrounded by opulent décor and intricate details. Some highlights you absolutely cannot miss:

The Banquet Hall – The first “wow” moment! This room features a 70-foot ceiling, three massive fireplaces, and a grand dining table that looks fit for a royal feast. Imagine the extravagant dinners that took place here!
The Library – If you love books, prepare to swoon. This room holds 10,000 volumes and has a breathtakingly beautiful painted ceiling. You can almost picture George Vanderbilt cozied up with a book by the fire.
The Indoor Pool & Bowling Alley – Yes, you read that right! The Biltmore had a heated indoor swimming pool (fancy!) and an in-house bowling alley for guests. If this isn’t the height of luxury, I don’t know what is.

2. The Rooftop Tour (DO IT!)

Want a behind-the-scenes look at Biltmore’s stunning architecture? The Rooftop Tour is where it’s at. Climb up for panoramic mountain views, incredible photo ops, and a peek at hidden details like intricate carvings and gargoyles.

When I did this in the late afternoon, I got an unexpected treat—a thunderstorm rolling in over the Blue Ridge Mountains. Watching the dark clouds swirl and the mist settle over the estate was magical but also slightly terrifying. The team was great and we found out they have an intense weather station on site that can track storms up to 30 miles out.

Plus, seeing the estate from above gives you a whole new appreciation for the craftsmanship that went into this place.

3. The Conservatory & Gardens

Whether you're a plant enthusiast or just love a good floral photo, the Biltmore Gardens are next-level stunning. Designed by Frederick Law Olmsted (the mastermind behind Central Park), the gardens are a botanical paradise. Take your time here ( I wandered around for nearly 3.5 hours)—this is one of the most peaceful, breathtaking parts of the estate.

Best Spots in the Gardens & Grounds

Walled Garden – A beautifully designed formal garden that bursts with seasonal flowers. Every time you visit, it looks different!
Rose Garden – Home to over 250 varieties of roses. The scent alone is worth stopping for.
Conservatory – A glassy Victorian-style greenhouse packed with exotic plants and gorgeous orchids.
Bass Pond & Boathouse – One of the most serene, lesser-known spots to take a break and soak in the beauty.
Azalea Garden – If you visit in the spring, prepare for a riot of color. It’s absolutely breathtaking!

Final Tips for the Best Biltmore Experience

Give Yourself Time – This estate is HUGE, so don’t rush. Enjoy each area at your own pace.
Take the Rooftop Tour in the Afternoon – The lighting is best for photos, and you might get to see some cool weather rolling in.
Explore the Trails – If you have extra time, there are miles of scenic walking trails with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Soak in the History – Even if you’re not a history buff, it’s fascinating to learn about the Vanderbilt family and how they lived in such luxury.

A MUST-DO for Solo Travelers

If you love a mix of history, stunning landscapes, and a little bit of main-character energy, a solo day at the Biltmore is absolutely worth it. Whether you’re gazing up at the grandeur of the house, wandering through dreamy gardens, or standing on the rooftop watching a thunderstorm roll in, it’s an experience that will stick with you long after you leave.

So book your ticket, pack your comfy shoes, and get ready to live your best solo travel life at the Biltmore Estate!

A Solo Day at the Biltmore Estate: Your Ultimate Guide