hill village tour

Home > Schedule a Tour

SCHEDULE A TOUR OF FOX HILL VILLAGE IN WESTWOOD, MA

We’d love to show you around.

While this website is designed to give you a good of idea of everything Fox Hill Village has to offer, the best way to get to know us is to visit in person. We invite you to take a tour, attend an event, and talk with current residents to get a first-hand perspective on what it’s like to live here.

To schedule a tour, give us a call or use the form below.

Please note: When using our online contact form, do not provide any personal medical information.

• Massachusetts
• New Hampshire
• North Carolina
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• United Kingdom
• Road Trip Itineraries
• Travel Tips
• Work With Me

9 Helpful Tips for Visiting the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC

66 comments

When I traveled to the Southeast USA, I was thrilled for a chance to tour the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC — a stunning 250-room French Renaissance château nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. The Biltmore Estate is a refreshing taste of European architecture in the middle of the American South. After my husband and I canceled our fall trip to Europe due to Covid, visiting the Biltmore felt like an exciting way to relive what would have been our European vacation!

We discovered many helpful tips for visiting the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, during our visit that I am excited to share with you! But first, here’s a little history lesson on the Biltmore!

Disclosure: Some of the links in this blog post are affiliate links, meaning that I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the content on my website free for you to enjoy!

History of the Biltmore Estate

George Vanderbilt opened Biltmore House on Christmas Eve in 1895 after six years of construction. George lived on the property with his wife, Edith, and daughter, Cornelia. The house was not opened to the public until the 1930s to generate income to preserve the estate. 

Today, the Biltmore Estate in Asheville is the largest private home in America and attracts over one million visitors per year. The Biltmore offers visitors an impressive history, remarkable architecture, vintage art, and breathtaking gardens. No matter what your interest is, you’ll find something to love about the Biltmore. 

Tips for Visiting the Biltmore Estate—Is it Worth the Cost?  

I’ll be honest—I was skeptical about visiting the Biltmore because of the cost. Depending on the time of year you visit, Biltmore Experience tickets can cost anywhere from $94 to $114 per person. 

Although the Biltmore is expensive to visit, I can assure you that it is definitely worth the cost. We spent the entire day at the Biltmore House & Gardens and Antler Hill Village and felt that we definitely got our money’s worth. We couldn’t imagine a better way to spend a day in Asheville! 

Tips for Visiting the Biltmore Estate— Where to Stay in Asheville, NC

Unfortunately, you can’t stay in the Biltmore when visiting, but you can stay at several excellent locations close by! There are excellent hotels near the Biltmore that offer a range of prices to accommodate those looking to relax in luxury or find a budget-friendly stay.  

Here are a few of my recommendations: 

• The Inn on Biltmore Estate ($$$$)  – Pamper yourself with a luxury stay on the Biltmore Estate to enjoy the on-site spa, heated pool, and fine-dining restaurants.
• Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate ($$$)  – One of the best tips for visiting the Biltmore Estate? Stay as close to the winery as you can! The Village Hotel is located in the heart of Antler Hill Village with close access to phenomenal restaurants, shopping, and the world-famous Biltmore Winery.
• Grand Bohemian Hotel Asheville ($$$$)  – Enjoy a unique, luxury stay in the Biltmore Village, just three miles from Downtown Asheville.
• Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites – Asheville – Biltmore Village Area ($$)  – Clean, budget-friendly stay just under a mile away from the Biltmore Estate.
• Courtyard Asheville Biltmore Village ($$)  – Modern, comfortable, and clean stay located about a mile from the Biltmore Estate.

Tips for Visiting the Biltmore Estate in Asheville  

Before visiting the Biltmore, I had a lot of questions about what the experience would be like. As it turns out, I learned a lot during my visit to the Biltmore that I want to share with you to help your visit go seamlessly! 

Here are nine tips for visiting the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, that will make your experience unforgettable! 

1. Buy Your Tickets in Advance  

As I mentioned earlier, The Biltmore has over one million visitors per year—which, if you do the math, is over 2,500 visitors per day! Even though there are many spots available to tour the Biltmore house each day, you might be surprised to know that tickets sell out quickly—especially during the weekends, holidays, and Christmas season. 

One of the most important tips for visiting the Biltmore Estate is to buy your tickets ahead of time to ensure that you reserve a ticket for the day that you want to visit. 

2. Your Ticket Time is for the Biltmore House Tour  

One of the most critical tips for visiting the Biltmore Estate is that the time on your ticket is for your  self-guided house tour , NOT your entry to the estate.  

My husband and I made the mistake of assuming that our ticket time was when we were supposed to arrive at the estate. Because of this mistake, we were nearly an hour late for our tour. Thankfully, the attendant allowed us to tour the Biltmore home; however, I would advise you against making the same mistake we did!  

My suggestion would be to  book an early afternoon tour  and  arrive at the estate mid-morning  to ensure that you aren’t rushed or late for your tour time. When you arrive at the estate, you can enjoy the light crowds, take photos, walk around the gardens, and explore the shops before your afternoon tour time.   

I wish someone would have told me these tips for visiting the Biltmore Estate before we went. It would have been a lifesaver!

3. Eat a Big Breakfast  

The Biltmore is a full-day experience, and if you’re like me, you’ll be so busy exploring that you’ll forget to eat! 

One of my best tips for visiting the Biltmore Estate is to eat a big breakfast before arriving because most of the dining options near the Biltmore House and Gardens are expensive. 

Here are some of the most popular local breakfast spots in Asheville to stop at before you arrive at the Biltmore: 

• Vortex Doughnuts —Homemade, unique flavored doughnuts with gourmet coffee (they make their caramel sauce in-house, and it’s fantastic!) 
• Double D’s Coffee & Desserts —Double-decker bus serving coffee & sweet treats (cash only!) 
• Biscuit Head —Massive biscuits with a variety of toppings and pairings (this is a local favorite) 

4. Pay for the Audio Guide  

I wish I would have purchased the audio guide during our tour of the Biltmore—I had no clue that the tour would take us through three stories and nearly 30 rooms in the Biltmore home! 

Although the Biltmore home’s architecture and design are gorgeous on their own, the home’s history is remarkable, too. For just $12, your audio guide can become your tour guide, telling you all about George Vanderbilt’s family, the lifestyle of the people who lived there, interesting facts about the home, and so much more.  

I tend to skip audio guides to save money—but unfortunately, that was the wrong choice for the Biltmore. The tour is much more extensive than you would expect, and it is an excellent value for what you pay.

5. Plan to Spend the Whole Day Exploring  

As I mentioned earlier, the Biltmore is a full-day experience, so one of the most critical tips for visiting the Biltmore Estate is to plan to spend your entire day there!

Here’s how much time you can expect to spend at each location at the Biltmore Estate: 

• The Biltmore Estate —1-2 hours 
• The Gardens —2 hours 
• Shopping —1 hour 
• Winery —1 hour 
• Antler Hill Village —1-2 hours 

It’s very likely you’ll spend 6-8 hours exploring the Biltmore Estate. You won’t want to miss anything! 

6. Don’t Skip the Biltmore Gardens  

I had no idea how stunning and extensive the Biltmore Gardens were! The Biltmore House is impressive, but in my opinion, the gardens are the real showstopper.  

The Biltmore Gardens and Trails are divided into nine sections:  

• Library and South Terraces —Spectacular views of the surrounding trees and mountains with a relaxing place to sit. This garden is one of the best spots to take photos! One of my personal favorite tips for visiting the Biltmore Estate is to grab a drink or snack and munch on while admiring the view in the South Terraces!
• Italian Garden —Watch koi and goldfish swim in the three formal Italian water gardens.  
• Shrub Garden —Walking path that features golden rain trees, river birch trees, and maple trees.  
• Spring Garden —Walking path that features white pines, hemlocks, and blooming shrubs.  
• Conservatory —The Conservatory is a HUGE glass-roofed building home to hundreds of unique warm-weather plants, including orchids, ferns, and palm trees.  
• Azalea Garden —Walkway that leads from the Conservatory to the Bass Pond and contains gorgeous azaleas and evergreen trees.  

• Walled Garden —Two lovely arbors that feature seasonal plants, like tulips in the spring and mums in the fall. There were also squash plants growing here when we visited!  
• Rose Garden —The name says it all! Gorgeous roses that bloom year-round.  
• Bass Pond & Boat House —The most peaceful retreat at the Biltmore, this bass pond is the perfect spot to rest your feet from walking and relax. One of the most secretive tips for visiting the Biltmore Estate is to carve out 30 minutes to an hour simply relaxing by the bass pond.

I loved the Biltmore Gardens! My favorite places to explore were the Conservatory, Azalea Gardens, and Bass Pond, but I would suggest visiting them all to determine your own favorites! 

7. Wear Comfortable Shoes  

I clocked in over 12,000 steps during our visit to the Biltmore. By the end of the day, my feet were killing me, even though I was wearing supportive shoes. That being said, one of my best tips for visiting the Biltmore Estate is to wear comfortable shoes, like these Clarks Women’s Ankle Boots , especially if you plan to tour the house and visit the gardens. Your feet will thank you later! 

8. Visit Antler Hill Village  

After spending a day at the Biltmore House and Gardens, one of the best tips for visiting the Biltmore Estate is to visit Antler Hill Village! Antler Hill Village is where the Biltmore Winery is located and is also home to restaurants like Bistro, Cedric’s Tavern, and Village Social. 

If you are planning to enjoy dinner at Antler Hill Village, I would suggest making a reservation ahead of time—the waitlist can get long, especially in the evenings.

9. Enjoy Your Free Wine Tasting  

Your Biltmore ticket includes a complimentary wine tasting at the Winery in Antler Village if you are over the age of 21. The Biltmore Winery was opened by George Vanderbilt’s grandson in 1985, and since then, has been serving wines made from the estate’s vineyards. 

During your wine tasting, you’ll have the opportunity to sample five wines. After your time in the Tasting Room, you can browse the Wine Shop to find a bottle to bring home or walk across to the Wine Bar to savor a glass of your favorite wine. 

Your complimentary wine tasting is by reservation only, so I suggest visiting the Biltmore Winery to secure your reservation when you arrive at The Antler Hill Village. 

Use These Tips for Visiting the Biltmore Estate in Asheville to Have an Unforgettable Visit

Overall, the Biltmore Estate is a can’t-miss attraction when visiting Asheville. The Biltmore is also an excellent location for a weekend trip, romantic getaway, bachelorette party, and so much more! These tips for visiting the Biltmore Estate will help your visit go smoothly and ensure that you have an incredible time.

Personally, my husband and I visited The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, during a 10-day road trip through Charleston, Savannah, and Asheville. We had a phenomenal time exploring these three Southeastern U.S. cities. I would highly recommend pairing these three cities together for an epic road trip!

Save These Tips for Visiting the Biltmore Estate

Did you enjoy these tips for visiting the Biltmore Estate? If so, you might enjoy these posts, too!

• Epic 9-Day Southeast Road Trip Itinerary
• 12 Unforgettable Day Trips from Charleston, SC
• 14 Best Places to Eat in Savannah, GA
• 12 Charming Things to Do During the Perfect Weekend in Savannah
• 6 Haunted Places You Can’t Miss in Savannah

About the Author

Brittany Sawyer

Hi, I'm Brit! I'm a writer from Phoenix, AZ who loves coffee, golden retriever puppies, and obviously, travel! I help ordinary women (like me!) dream, plan, and do extraordinary travel experiences.

Session expired

Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.

Antler Hill Village & Farm, Biltmore

Biltmore's annual pass sale is live. save $50.

Be sure to stop at Antler Hill Village and Farm during your Biltmore exploration. The most popular stop here is the Biltmore Winery for a tour and tasting. In addition, see a fascinating Vanderbilt exhibit, shop, arrange outdoor adventures, and enjoy lunch or dinner at Cedric's or Bistro. And don't forget the Creamery for ice cream! The village is about two miles from the house, along the main road through the estate. Adjacent to the village is the Inn at Biltmore hotel. The estate's second hotel, Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate , opened in 2015. WHAT'S NEW: Ciao! From Italy, a display showcasing eight large-scale sculptural postcards inspired by George and Edith Vanderbilt’s Italian travels. See authentic greetings from the Vanderbilts, including notes from George Vanderbilt’s travel journal. On display at Antler Hill Village April 1, 2023-February 19, 2024.

All attractions at Antler Hill Village are included in your daily admission to the estate. Plus, there are many excursions and special tours for an extra fee. Its name comes from Antler Hill, the “fine high ridge,” as noted by Vanderbilt. From the Civil War into the 1930s, the ridge was the site of Antler Hall, a residence and social center for many estate families.

During the Christmas at Biltmore celebration, Antler Hill Village is decked out with many lights.

Winery: Enter the Winery and walk underground through the old dairy’s original tunnel, learning about the winemaking process. Stop in the Tasting Room to sample many vintages (included in your admission ticket) or pay a little extra for a premium tasting. See our Biltmore Winery Guide .

The Biltmore Legacy: See temporary exhibits that dives deeper into the Vanderbilt family history. No additional admission.

Farm at Antler Hill Village: The farm offers a glimpse back at Biltmore’s agricultural past with animals to delight children of all ages. Traditional farming demonstrations take place in the historic Barn , including authentic blacksmithing. Also see farm equipment and browse through the Barn Door shop. For family-friendly things to do, see our Biltmore for Kids guide. 

Outdoor Adventure Center: Sign up for all sorts of fun! Exploring the outdoors with river trips, Land Rover excursions , bike trips, horseback rides, carriage rides and more. Read more about things to do outdoors at Biltmore .

Hike and Bike: From the Village, find a network of paved and unpaved trails. Bring your bike or rent one at the Barn. The mile of sunflowers bloom in waves, usually in July and August. Stop by the Outdoor Adventure Center for a trail map. You can hike all the way to Biltmore House with wonderful views along the way (about 3 miles). Read more about Outdoors Fun at Biltmore .

Village Green and Bandstand: The centerpiece is the Village Green with a gently sloping area perfect for people-watching, listening to live music many evenings, or relaxing with a snack or picnic.

Shopping and Dining

• Traditions: Find decorative home accents and local artisans’ work, including pottery and jewelry.
• Wine Shop: Browse a complete selection of Biltmore wines, plus gourmet foods and cooking accessories - a must stop for gourmet cooks and those who love to entertain.
• The Mercantile: Find Appalachian crafts, dry goods and old-fashioned candy.
• Cedric’s Tavern: Named after George Vanderbilt’s beloved St. Bernard, Cedric, this warm, relaxing pub reflects the less formal side of Biltmore dining. Specialties include shepherd’s pie and fish and chips.
• Bistro: Located adjacent to the Winery, they place a strong emphasis on Biltmore's century-old field-to-table philosophy. Dishes include locally farmed mountain trout, locally sourced meats, local farmstead cheeses, and local honey. Using fresh ingredients from local producers, the menu changes to highlight what is currently in season.
• Creamery: A tribute to the original Biltmore Dairy Bar, indulge in Winky Bar sundaes, signature shakes and root beer floats, as well as gourmet coffee and pastries.
• The Smokehouse: Located in the Barn, find smoked pulled pork, beef and chicken; true Southern veggies; bread pudding and other desserts.

For more info on the estate, go to our overview, Biltmore Insider's Guide .

The Inn on Biltmore Estate, Asheville

Winery Visits & Tours

In addition to the nation's most visited winery at Biltmore, take a winery tour in the foothills area including around Hendersonville and Morganton. Sample the local wines while enjoying the mountain views. See our Top Wineries to see in western North Carolina.

10 Reasons to Get a Biltmore Annual Pass

Biltmore is a little slice of heaven and as any local can tell you, using the annual pass just twice almost makes up its value, plus it comes with so many great perks and exclusive discounts you can’t find anywhere else. Read on for the top reasons to get your annual pass, and find out how to get discounted annual passes, for a limited time.

• Biltmore Winery Tours & Wine Tasting
• Grand Gardens of Biltmore House
• Biltmore Outdoors: Hiking, Biking, Horses & More
• Biltmore Summer Outdoor Concerts

Check this out!

Christmas at Biltmore 2024

Fall at Biltmore

Biltmore Estate & George…

Biltmore Winter Specials &…

Thinking of relocating.

Explore moving, retirement and real estate options in Asheville and Western North Carolina

Join our Newsletter!

Visiting the Biltmore Estate: What to Know Before You Go

Sharing is caring!

If you plan on visiting the Biltmore Estate on your trip to Asheville, then you’ll want to prepare a bit in advance to know exactly what to see and do here.

The Biltmore is more than just a home tour. Between the grounds, activities, and Antler Hill Village, there are tons of other things to do.

I love coming here and have been in multiple different seasons, so I wanted to put together my best tips for visiting the Biltmore Estate and what you should know before you arrive.

Disclaimer: This post ma y contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through this link, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for keeping Stuck On The Go going!

Best Time to Visit Biltmore Estate

Choosing the best time to visit the Biltmore Estate is like picking your favorite flavor at an ice cream shop—each one has its own charm!

In spring, you’ll find a kaleidoscope of floral hues, perfect for your Instagram-worthy garden strolls; just remember that it’s a popular time, so crowds are expected.

Summer and fall weekends are also crowded, but between the lush gardens, mountain views, and fall foliage, these are fantastic times to come.

For Christmas decorations and the special Candlelight Tour, visit in November, December, or the first few days of January.

If you want to visit at a time when there are no crowds, I recommend January through March. This is when there will be the fewest crowds, but the grounds are pretty barren, and the weather can be very cold.

The tour of the house is still fantastic and there are plenty of plants in the Conservatory that you can enjoy. Plus this is when you can get the lowest ticket prices.

What to See & Do at Biltmore Estate

There are so many cool things to do at Biltmore, so if you can spend a full day here, that’s what I would recommend. It’s a great addition to your Asheville itinerary !

Here are a few things you may want to put on your list.

Tour the House

Most people visit Biltmore for the house tour, which gives them a behind-the-scenes look at what life was like for the Vanderbilts. The tour is self-guided and you can take as much time as you want, which is great because there’s so much to see.

You do get an audio tour device included with your admission ticket and the audio content lasts for about 50-minutes. I like this so you get some background info about what you’re seeing but it can be information overload.

Other specialty tours, like the Rooftop or Backstairs Tour, are led with a maximum of 12 guests and access to places you don’t see on a regular house tour. You can also take exclusive 90-minute tours with smaller groups and behind-the-scenes access.

Explore the Gardens

The gardens at Biltmore are simply a dream. Designed by the famous landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted – yes, the same one behind New York’s Central Park – these gardens are a treasure.

There are six formal and informal gardens to explore that are stunning in spring, summer, and fall. During all seasons, you can enjoy the Conservatory where you’ll find a variety of tropical plants and I especially love the orchids here.

You can explore the grounds beyond the gardens and there are about 22 miles of hiking trails that take you through a variety of landscapes. Pick up a map at the Bike Barn & Outdoor Adventure Center.

If you would rather explore on two wheels, you can also rent bikes at Biltmore and explore the grounds that way.

Visit Antler Hill Village

Antler Hill Village is where you’ll find Biltmore Winery (many people’s favorite winery in Asheville ), shopping, additional dining options, and more.

This is where the Outdoor Adventure Center is located and the Farmyard where you can see multiple animals that would have been on kept on the Biltmore Estate.

Craft demonstrations from blacksmiths, broom makers, and woodworkers are available during certain times of day. Shops include Antler Hill Outfitters, The Barn Door, and Traditions.

If you’re hungry, then Cedric’s Tavern and The Smokehouse Food Truck are here plus The Creamery for ice cream.

Have a Tasting at the Winery

The Biltmore Winery is actually the most visited winery in the US. Your ticket includes a complimentary wine tasting at the Winery, but the line does get pretty long.

FYI – you no longer need reservations for a tasting.

If you would rather just grab a glass, then you can do that at the Wine Bar (also in Antler Hill Village) and they have charcuterie boards and light snacks.

There are also additional tour and tasting options like a Behind-the-Scenes winery tour, Red Wine & Chocolate Pairing Tasting, or the Farm to Table Tour & Taste (must have annual pass or stay in Biltmore lodging).

Extra Activities

There are all kinds of additional activities you can do at the Biltmore from guided hikes to farm tours to craftsman workshops and more.

These are all offered at an additional cost though, and some can be very expensive. The variety of activities is pretty neat. In addition to what I’ve already mentioned, they also have horseback and carriage rides, clay shooting, and a Land Rover experience.

You can also get a treatment at The Spa which is located inside The Inn if you are staying on-property or if you are an annual passholder.

Dine at Their Restaurants

There are some amazing restaurants on the Biltmore property and if you don’t mind paying the prices, I highly recommend eating at least one meal here.

I’ve been to the Stable Café a few times and it has been great. It’s also located in what was the horse stables so it’s a unique experience.

If you’re looking for something with a wow-factor, go with The Dining Room. Just note that reservations are available to Annual Passholders and Daytime Ticket Holders from January to October only. If you’re staying at Biltmore, reservations are available year-round.

The Biltmore Dairy Bar and The Creamery both have great ice cream and there are many other popular restaurants on-site like Cedric’s Tavern, The Bistro, and quick stops like The Smokehouse Food Truck.

If you don’t want to eat on property, I recommend grabbing breakfast in Asheville before you arrive for the day, having a snack here, then eating a late dinner.

Stay Overnight

For the full Biltmore experience and to feel like a North Carolina celebrity , you can stay overnight at either the Village Hotel, The Inn, or Cottages. Just know these are going to be crazy pricey no matter which one you choose!

The Village Hotel in Antler Hill Village is the most moderately priced, but you are still looking at $150/$160 on a weekday in the off-season.

The Inn on Biltmore Estate is a Four-Star hotel and for similar dates (weekday/off-season), it’ll be from $250 – $350 per night. $500 on weekends in the off-season. Prices will obviously be even higher for both places during the busy season.

The Cottages are the premier lodging option so even more expensive – $1,000+ per night.

Staying at the Biltmore does give you access to perks like additional tours, spa treatments, and more. You can also explore the grounds at your leisure.

If you choose to do this, make sure you get off property and explore some of the other things to do and tours in Asheville .

Events at Biltmore Estate

There is always something new going on at the Biltmore and each season brings a different theme.

Typically some events run all year long, like one year there was a Downton Abbey exhibit where some of the costumes were on display that characters wore in the movie. Another is the Chihuly exhibit where some of the famous artist’s glass work was on display.

Some events are included in admission and some require an additional ticket.

Other seasonal events are Christmas at Biltmore during November and December or Biltmore Blooms in spring.

There are also multiple events throughout the year that are exclusive to annual passholders.

Tips for Visiting Biltmore

My biggest tips for visiting the Biltmore Estate are: go on a weekday if possible and make reservations if you want to dine at the Biltmore.

If you can’t visit on a weekday, then try to do the house tour early and then you have all day to explore the grounds and anything else.

The tour time listed on your ticket is when you need to be in front of the house, ready to walk in – not pulling up at the gatehouse.

If you park in lots A or B and don’t have mobility issues, it’s a nice walk to the house. They do have a shuttle system that you can ride from Lot E if you need assistance though.

Buy your tickets in advance and plan to spend plenty of time here – ideally a full day – so you get your money’s worth. Check with wherever you are staying to see if they offer discounted tickets.

You’ll want to wear comfortable clothes as well, especially if you plan on exploring the gardens and grounds extensively. This is a lot of walking.

Admission Prices & Ticket Options

Tickets can get pretty expensive and depend on the season and time of the week you plan to visit. In the winter which is their low season, you’ll pay between $70 – $110 for a basic House & Grounds day pass.

During other seasons, expect to pay between $80 – $130 for the basic day pass. The sky is the limit on how much you want to spend since you can add on multiple other tours and activities.

I’ve mentioned a few of the additional activities available and tours, but here are a few of the additional tour options:

• Rooftop Tour
• Biltmore House Backstairs Tour
• Exclusive 90-Minute Tour: Guests of the Vanderbilts
• Exclusive 90-Minute Tour: A Vanderbilt Christmas (Seasonal)
• Candlelight Christmas Evenings (Seasonal)

FAQs About Visiting Biltmore Estate

Is biltmore worth it.

Biltmore is only worth the money if you can spend the entire day there, or at least 6 – 8 hours. The prices are very high, so you’ll want to have plenty of time to enjoy everything the Estate has to offer.

How much time do you need to spend at Biltmore?

You’ll want a full day to spend at Biltmore at least so you have time to enjoy the home tour, walk the grounds at your leisure, and check out Antler Hill Village and Biltmore Winery.

Can you just drive up and see the Biltmore House?

No, you cannot see the Biltmore House without paying for a ticket. There is a gatehouse where they check for admission and you will not be permitted past that point without a ticket.

Can you just walk around the Biltmore Estate?

No, you cannot walk around without a ticket. There is only one road where the public can enter the Biltmore grounds and your admission ticket will be checked at that point. If you don’t have one, you will be turned away. You cannot hike onto Biltmore grounds from elsewhere.

Wrap Up: Visiting Biltmore Estate

While visiting the Biltmore Estate is a costly attraction, it can be a magical way to spend a day in Asheville. It really transports you back in time!

It’s more than just a house tour – the gardens, shops, and Winery are also well-worth exploring. You’ll also get to see beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from the estate.

I hope this helps you plan your own trip to Biltmore and gives you some ideas for what to do while there!

Anna is a North Carolina native who grew up traveling the southern US with her family. Now she is a full-time travel blogger who road trips the US and shares about outdoor adventures and epic things to do. Want to know more? Read her full story here.

Similar Posts

3 Days in Shenandoah National Park: A Complete Itinerary

Spending 3 days in Shenandoah National Park will give you the perfect introduction to this beautiful place and you’ll leave wanting to plan a return trip immediately. Many people wonder how long to spend in Shenandoah National Park and the answer is as long as you can. If you have 5-7 days in the park…

The Absolute Best Places to Stay in North Carolina

North Carolina is special because there is such a wide range of landscapes to enjoy across the entire state. We’ve got the tallest mountain east of the Mississippi and some of the most beautiful coastline you’ve ever laid eyes on. If you’re like me, when you’re traveling you want to stay somewhere that brings out…

20 Best Coffee Shops in Asheville, NC [2024]

Are you looking for the best coffee shops in Asheville, NC? You’re in the right place! I visit Asheville a few times a year and one of my favorite things to do when traveling is to find the best coffee shops. My go-to drink is a mocha, but I do love it when places create…

4 Best St. Thomas Food Tours on the Island

One of my favorite things to do when traveling is try local cuisine, so you know when I went to the USVI, I was looking for the best St. Thomas food tours. I’ve been multiple times now and every time, I love trying new and delicious foods from seafood to conch fritters to fungi. You…

25 Best Small Towns Near Asheville, NC

When most people visit western North Carolina they are headed to Asheville or Boone – one of the larger towns on that side of the state. But what about the small towns near Asheville? There are so many quaint towns near Asheville that deserve to be explored! Each one of them offers a great jumping…

25 Best Things to Do in Southern Pines, NC

There’s more to Southern Pines than golf and horses. Find places to hike, or relax, wonderful food, and more!

Privacy Overview

First Timer’s Guide to the Biltmore

One of the area’s most popular attractions is the Biltmore Estate. First-time visitors to the area may be unfamiliar with the Biltmore and its rich history. This article is a first timer’s guide to the Biltmore.

What is the Biltmore?

The Biltmore Estate was the private residence of George Washington Vanderbilt and is an incredible achievement of architecture, landscape design, and forestry. We recommend that first-time visitors focus on three key highlights: the Biltmore House, the Gardens and Grounds, and Antler Hill Village.

• The Biltmore House: Inspired by George’s European travels, the massive house was completed in 1896 and resembles a French chateau. The house incorporates cutting-edge amenities of it’s day, including the original elevator still in use. Key highlights include the banquet hall, the library, the bowling alley, and the indoor pool.
• The Gardens and Grounds: The formal gardens and Conservatory are located immediately adjacent to main house. Beyond that, the informal gardens extend for hundreds of acres and include hiking, biking and horse trails.
• Antler Hill Village features shops, exhibits, restaurants, and the very popular Biltmore Winery.

5 Tips for a Great First Visit:

It is easy to feel overwhelmed with the multiple types of tours, activities, and areas of the estate. Here are some of some top tips to help you plan a great first visit:

• Buy your tickets in advance and reserve a self-guided house tour . We recommend purchasing the self-guided tour for first-time visitors. The tour takes about 90 minutes to complete at a comfortable pace. NOTE: this ticket option requires visitors to book tickets in advance, which includes selecting an entry time for your tour.
• Spend the extra money and get the audio guide . A small, portable audio guide includes helpful, informative, and delightful first-hand accounts of life at the Biltmore.
• Ask questions of the Biltmore guides. Knowledgeable Biltmore House guides are conveniently located in each area of the house. They have a wealth of detail about the various artwork and artifacts in each room. If you see something interesting and want to learn more about it, ask them about it. Chances are, they will have great information to share!
• Visit the formal gardens and Conservatory. Since these formal gardens are hidden from the view of the main house, first-time visitors often miss them. Follow the signage at the main house to find the formal garden and the stunning glass Conservatory. You can even order one of our picnic lunches and enjoy dining on the grounds!
• Make time to visit Antler Hill Village . A short drive from the main house is Antler Hill Village. The Village is the location of the Biltmore Winery, the most visited winery in America, which hosts tastings for visitors each day. For those with a sweet tooth, allow time to stop at the Creamery to sample the fresh ice cream is made from the milk of Biltmore cows.

To reserve tickets or to learn more about the Biltmore, visit Biltmore.com . The Biltmore is only 30 minutes from our Waynesville, NC bed and breakfast , a perfect base of operations for exploring Western North Carolina.

• +66 (0)855 480 884
• [email protected]

1 Day Authentic Hill Tribe Tour

Discover Non-Tourist Hill tribe villages, Traditional Hill tribe culture, Village life, Local food

Description

Visit authentic Lisu and Hmong Hill tribe villages, on this 1 Day Hill Tribe Tour in Chiang Mai. These villages are nestled in lush countryside, 1 hour from Chiang Mai. Travel with our local hill tribe guides to Learn about hill tribe culture and way of life, in an ethical way.

1 Day Hill Tribe Tour

• Suitable For
• Sustainability
• Short trek/nature walk with villager
• Optional cooking workshop with villager
• Visit waterfall
• Suitable for : All ages
• Kid friendly : Yes
• Difficulty : Easy (only gentle walk required)
• Customisable: Yes
• Duration: 8am until late afternoon (Time is flexible)
• Seasonal: Available year round
• This tour starts+ends in Chiang Mai. We can pick up+drop off at your hotel/airport/train station in Chiang Mai
• Pick up time is 8am and we finish in the late afternoon. The timing is flexible though, please contact us about this
• The itinerary is an outline only, and is flexible. This provides the opportunity to explore local life along the way
• We follow village life, rather than expecting village life to follow our expectations. So we cannot guarantee what activities you will see in the village. But you will have the chance to meet villagers, be invited into their homes and to see how they live in an ethical and respectful way
• We focus on authentic experiences, so we are the only group to visit these hill tribe villages
• This 1 Day Hill Tribe Tour Chiang Mai can be customised. Please contact us for more details

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill

Riverboat Theatre | July 26-27 & August 2-3 Explore the "romanticism of the river" through the eyes of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn.

Craft Fair | August 3-4 | 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. | 27th Annual Event Shop an assortment of vendor booths, enjoy live music and hit up the food trucks.

Discovery Starts Here

Welcome to shaker village.

Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill is a landmark destination that shares 3,000 acres of discovery in the spirit of the Kentucky Shakers. Home to the third largest Shaker community in the United States between 1805 and 1910, the vibrant site offers experiences designed to ignite curiosity, expand imaginations and inspire generations.

This is where discovery starts—but it doesn’t end until your hands are dirty and you’ve tried something new. Plan a visit to Shaker Village this year and find the explorer in you. Spirited hospitality, fresh-air adventures and great discoveries are just around the corner.

3,000 Acres of Discovery

Great discoveries call for great explorers and today, Shaker Village is reconnecting its campus to inspire a new community of adventurers, learners, makers and doers. Just like Shaker farms were hubs of agricultural ingenuity,  The Historic Centre ,  The Farm  and  The Preserve  are centers of exploration—jumping-off points for trailblazing experiences.

Find architectural wonders, plan a backyard garden and taste a new dish fresh-from-the-garden. Bring the kids and discover spaces to learn and play, while searching for critters in the creek, finding new four-legged friends and discovering your own simple gifts.

Shaker Village has been a warm beacon of hospitality for more than 200 years.  Named a top hidden travel destination by BBC News , The Inn is much more than a traditional hotel. Guest rooms, suites and private cottages—each offering distinct character—are located in 13 restored Shaker buildings. Rooms are comfortably appointed with Shaker reproduction furniture, original hardwood floors and spectacular countryside views.

Dine on traditional favorites and seasonal Kentucky dishes prepared with  straight-from-the-garden ingredients . Steeped in tradition, The Trustees’ Table’s menus celebrate Shaker Village’s roots by featuring dishes made of seasonal ingredients from our garden and local farmers. The menus offer dishes inspired by the seasons, changing based on the freshest locally available ingredients.

Discover the Perfect Gift! Shop signature Shaker oval boxes, logo merchandise and seasonal gifts, as well as unique children’s gifts, books, soaps and lotions, jams and jellies, Shaker reproductions and more! Visit our three onsite shops or shop online for distinctive Shaker Village-inspired merchandise and one-of-a-kind keepsakes.

Plan Your Visit Today

HOURS + RATES

Admission grants you full access to self-guided and staff-led tours, demonstrations, hands-on activities and more throughout  The Historic Centre ,  The Farm  and  The Preserve . Extended hours and reduced admission available on Fridays and Saturdays!

DAILY ADVENTURES

Enjoy a variety of activities and programs throughout the Village that change seasonally. Learn new skills at hands-on workshops in  The Historic Centre , work the livestock and tend the garden on  The Farm , and hike (or ride) through  The Preserve . And more!

Sign up for our Newsletter

Stay up-to-date on the best Shaker Village news & events

We are committed to providing a respectful, safe and enjoyable place for employees to work. View the full application to join our team today

Daily Admission

Tuesday – Sunday 10AM – 5PM All Hours + Rates

• The Historic Centre
• The Preserve
• The Trustees’ Table
• Meetings + Retreats
• Student Groups
• Coach Tours
• Tour Groups
• Social Affairs
• Hours + Rates
• Daily Adventures
• Event Calendar

Boot Hill Casino & Resort with Village Tours & Travel

We offer trips from a variety areas to visit Boot Hill Casino & Resort.  Bus passengers receive free play and free food after arriving on the bus.

For more information, call Village Tours at (316) 315-4923

Now booking bus trips from kansas, oklahoma, texas and nebraska, kansas bus trips.

Now booking trips from: Great Bend, Kansas Stops in Larned

Colby, Kansas Stops in Wakeeney and Ness City

Download Colby Bus Trips

Download Great Bend Bus Trips

Oklahoma Bus Trips

Now booking trips from: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Stops in Woodward, Oklahoma

Download Oklahoma Bus Trips

Texas Bus Trips

Now booking trips from: Amarillo, Texas Stops in Dumas, TX & Guymon, OK

Download Amarillo Bus Trips

Nebraska Bus Trips

Now booking trips from: McCook, Nebraska Stops in Hoxie, KS

Download McCook Bus Trips

Christian Tours

Biltmore Estate & The Chihuly Exhibition

• Itinerary/Pricing
• Tour Photos

• Departure Points: Gastonia, Charlotte, Christian Tours, Hickory, Morganton & Marion

TOUR PHOTOS

• Escorted Vacations
• Charter Transportation
• Group Tour Planning
• Student Group Travel
• Travel Agency
• Wedding Chapel
• Internet Promotions
• Early Booking Discounts
• Customer Tour Evaluation
• Customer Comments
• Helpful Information
• Travel Insurance
• Tour Payments
• Special Needs Information
• Request a Free Catalog
• Request Information by Email
• Our Location
• Photo Gallery

Hilltop Kitchen at the Village

Hours updated 1 month ago

Review Highlights

“ It was raining so we didn't get to sit outside, but I love the availability of the patio overlooking Sandy Hook Center . ” in 2 reviews

“ Food, service, and ambiance did not disappoint . ” in 2 reviews

“ The restaurant is BYOB while they await a liquor license . ” in 3 reviews

Location & Hours

Suggest an edit

4 Riverside Rd

Newtown, CT 06482

You Might Also Consider

Bailey’s Backyard

Christine S. said "We went with two other couples. The food, drinks and dessert were amazing. BUT you need to know one thing. Each couple gave separate credit cards to the server for the bill to be split 3 ways. On OUR credit card was our third and…" read more

in Caterers, Sandwiches, Breakfast & Brunch

Sonic Drive-In

Nicholas S. said "It's good for when you're hungry and don't want to walk anywhere. Foods ok. People are really nice. Chairs aren't the most comfortable, but what're ya gonna do. Also the people working the counter asked me to leave the review so…" read more

in Burgers, Fast Food, Ice Cream & Frozen Yogurt

Amenities and More

Ask the community.

Ask a question

Yelp users haven’t asked any questions yet about Hilltop Kitchen at the Village .

Recommended Reviews

• 1 star rating Not good
• 2 star rating Could’ve been better
• 3 star rating OK
• 4 star rating Good
• 5 star rating Great

Select your rating

Overall rating

Our first time at Hilltop did not disappoint! We came for a late breakfast on Memorial Day...I had bacon and eggs with home fries. The home fries were savory and delicious... with just the right amount of seasoning. The bacon was absolutely amazing. Thick and tender. I could've eaten five orders. My husband ordered the French toast and it was perfect. Crisp on the outside and wonderfully creamy on the inside, served with fresh maple syrup and a side of perfectly ripe fresh berries. We were told the menu is evolving as they have not had an official opening yet and I am eager to see what's next! Our server was very attentive and super friendly. It was raining so we didn't get to sit outside, but I love the availability of the patio overlooking Sandy Hook Center. Excellent experience and we will definitely be back!

French toast

Bacon, eggs home fries, coffee and OJ

Lunch today was out of this world. Confit Duck salad. marinated so long and paired with such complementing flavors it didn't even need a salad dressing! Alisha, our hostess and server was very friendly and extremely knowledgeable about the menu. Her recommendations were spot on! On top of that, the bartender made THE BEST Bloody Mary! Could not have asked for a better afternoon.

A newly opened restaurant in Sandy Hook still working through the kinks. The decor of the restaurant is beautiful. My husband & I came in for dinner 8pm on a Saturday night. It was quite hoping this will improve over time. Started out with the calamari - small portion, chewy, but had good breading and seasoning. They have a smaller regular menu with a big specials menu. Maybe over the next month or two they will move some of the specials to the permanent menu. Then make the specials menu a bit smaller. Our dinner - My husband got a slow cooked marinated roast pork sandwich with cheese, broccoli rabe and au jus. Big sandwich with good flavor. French fries with the sandwich were Amazing! But he was only given four fries which were disappointing. They were too good to give so few My dinner - burnt ends with cole slaw, corn on the cob, and baked beans. This was my first time trying burnt ends. I had heard they have alot of fat. The meat they did have nice and juicy. The baked beans were not for me. The cole slaw nice and creamy. The corn on the cob was so good - sweet & perfect. I hope the next time I go on a Saturday night they have taken some suggestions and have alot more customers. They have great potential.

I found the food to be overpriced and mediocre. With so many superior options in town I don't see how this place can survive. Service was subpar as well. I wish them luck but we won't be back. It is also worth noting that the restaurant is BYOB as they do not have their liquor license.

A new restaurant always has to work out some kinks but Hilltop Kitchen did a phenomenal job when I visited. We were seated right away and consistently checked in on throughout our meal. There are multiple dining room options including booths, tables as well as patio seating. The restaurant is BYOB while they await a liquor license. We tried the traditional eggs Benedict with added fresh avocado and a bacon, egg and cheese. The home fries had great flavor, eggs cooked perfect and the homemade bacon had a nice thickness and saltiness. I will definitely be back to try dinner!

Went to Hilltop for brunch and holy smokes was it delicious. Sat outside on the beautiful patio, which had lots of shade from both umbrellas and trees and enjoyed the delicious avocado toast. The service was great, the owners took the time to chat with us about their future plans and how things were going thus far.

Beautiful summer day so I figure it would be good to have a lunch meeting on their outside patio. Food, service, and ambiance did not disappoint. The nicoise salad was delicious!

Nicoise Salad

In one word: avoid. The water came quickly. Then it was another 16 minutes before a waitress appeared asking if it was ok that it would take some time (at least 20 minutes) before we got our food as there were "10 orders ahead of ours." Mind you this was July 3rd lunchtime in a small, quiet CT town that had basically emptied out for the holiday The place was empty save for about 2 or three other tables. I can only imagine what happens when they are busy! We left. No loss as The menu was also unappealing - unless you are clamoring for high caloric meats (lots of pork) and "chefs secret sauce." There were hardly any vegetarian options and zero vegan. The one star is for the atmosphere. We went down the road to Sugo and had an excellent meal and service.

Had a wonderful dinner tonight at Hilltop Kitchen in Sandy Hook and will definitely be back. The ambiance out on the patio was lovely and our waiter Connor was very attentive. We started with the fried green tomatoes with remoulade which was outstanding. Our entrees were cooked perfectly. Highly recommend!

Excellent service and exquisite food! Second time here and both times we had a wonderful experience. Lobster roll special the first time was delish! Tried the fried green tomatoes! Also, the grilled cantaloupe crostini was out of this world! Very impressed with their menu and loved the attention to detail and the staff. Highly recommend.

5 other reviews that are not currently recommended

0.05 miles away from Hilltop Kitchen at the Village

Try New $3 Footlong Dippers at Subway

in Wraps, Sandwiches, New American

The Lodge Bar & Grill

7.0 miles away from Hilltop Kitchen at the Village

Frank L. said "It's been a while since I spent happy hour sitting at the bar at The Lodge. A friend and I were passing by after a long lunch and decided to stop in. It was fairly busy, with almost all the seats at the bar taken, and all the tables…" read more

in Bars, Burgers, New American

People Also Viewed

The Red Colony Diner

Tambascio’s Italian Grill

Eggs & Co

Stony Hill Diner

Mangia Mangia

Biksbees Eatery

Grandpas Diner

Vazzy’s Osteria

My Place Restaurant

Best of Newtown

Things to do in Newtown

Other Places Nearby

Find more Breakfast Brunch Spots near Hilltop Kitchen at the Village

Find more Delis near Hilltop Kitchen at the Village

Find more Pizza Places near Hilltop Kitchen at the Village

Browse Nearby

Things to Do

Restaurants

Thrift Stores

Dining in Newtown

Search for Reservations

Book a Table in Newtown

I-40 Traffic Detour Update: July 19–22. VIEW DETAILS .

The Barn & Farmyard

• Barn & Farmyard
• Biltmore Legacy

Explore this Section

Antler hill barn.

Step into the everyday lives of families who lived on the estate raising livestock, tending crops, and working at Biltmore Dairy in the 1890s.

The Barn in Antler Hill Village—once the social and work center for these families—is once again a lively hub of activity, seasonally featuring:

• Live demonstrations by blacksmiths, woodworkers, and other craftspeople
• Turn-of-the-century games and hands-on crafts for the kids
• Shopping at The Barn Door, offering beautiful home décor and accessories, plus an eclectic selection of arts and crafts items

See Barn Craft Demonstrations seasonal availability

The Farmyard in Antler Hill Village

Kids will enjoy meeting the friendly farm animals at the Farmyard, plus such seasonally-offered daily activities as farm talks, goat milking, and goat brushing and hoof trimming demonstrations.

Adjacent to the Farmyard, our Pisgah Playground features climbing logs like those harvested by students in Biltmore’s forestry school. There’s also a lookout, a rock climbing formation, a sand play area, and other activities that connect the estate’s past with your children’s imagination.

Access to Antler Hill Barn & Farmyard is included in your Biltmore daytime admission.

See Farmyard Visits seasonal availability See Pisgah Playground seasonal availability

Bring YOUR kids to meet OUR kids! At Biltmore’s Farmyard, this proud mama shows off her adorable baby.

Hands-on crafts at Antler Hill Barn are an engaging experience for Biltmore’s younger guests.

This guest makes feathered friends at Biltmore’s Farmyard.

Biltmore’s blacksmith shares his craft with young guests at Antler Hill Barn.

Few sounds are more delightful than the soft clucks of happy chickens! Come meet the many wonderful breeds that populate Biltmore’s Farmyard.

A member of Biltmore’s knowledgeable Farmyard staff introduces this family to one the estate’s friendly goats.

This precious calf awaits your cuddles at Biltmore Farmyard.

Hours of Operation

Directions & parking, help center.