[mtdjed]

Traveling from TV to Asheville and plan to visit the Biltmore mansion. The basic entrance fee Is about $50/person and I understand the self tour audio @ $10 is worthwhile. Question is whether supplementary tours are advisory for a one day visit after the basic tour or is this overkill for a one day visit. Heard that the basic self guided tour is about 2 hours and that there are other things to visit there (Gardens, Winery, shops). Is another 60 to 90 minute guided tour advisable the same day? Consider both husband and wife viewpoint.

[Fourpar]

Make a day of it: Mansion, Gardens & Winery. It's a magnificent bit of history and a big, beautiful property!

[Whimsey]

Originally Posted by mtdjed

Traveling from TV to Asheville and plan to visit the Biltmore mansion. The basic entrance fee Is about $50/person and I understand the self tour audio @ $10 is worthwhile. Question is whether supplementary tours are advisory for a one day visit after the basic tour or is this overkill for a one day visit. Heard that the basic self guided tour is about 2 hours and that there are other things to visit there (Gardens, Winery, shops). Is another 60 to 90 minute guided tour advisable the same day? Consider both husband and wife viewpoint.

We were there a few years ago and had a guided tour. You can do it on your own but if I remember correctly the guided tour took us to places in the house such as the basement that were not accessible on your own. BTW the basement was very interesting and that is where the pool is along with rooms such as the gym, the laundry, canning rooms and all other kitchen rooms. You can to the winery and other places on your own. We had a fantastic buffet at the Deerpark Restaurant on the Biltmore grounds. The Winery is quite nice also. Enjoy

[jebartle]

Biltmore is great, especially in the spring or Christmas....Asheville is probably one of my favorite towns, save some time to browse around.....Enjoy the App. Trail...A beautiful state....

[BobandMary]

We were there about 2 years ago. We did the general admission tour on the first day. We liked it so much that we went back the next day. The guys did the architecture tour. The girls did the maid's tour. We then met for lunch in the stable restaurant.

[asianthree]

Take the tour, you are driving that far spend the money, it's worth it. Winery is nice average wine, but they so have a beautiful bottle for looks

[Chi-Town]

We did the self guided audio tour. It was at least 2 hours and a good amount of time afterwards was spent enjoying the grounds. Went to the Inn at the Biltmore Estate for an early dinner on the veranda. Pleasant meal with a grand view. Then off to the Winery which was a treat with nice grounds and light entertainment.

One day worked out very well for both us as there was a large variety of things to do and see.

[dotti105]

Be sure to go downtown and check out some of the local, (NOT CHAIN) restaurants for which Asheville is famous .

Asheville was also "Beer City" USA for a couple of years in a row. Lots of craft beer and great music and art.

Check out the Chocolate Lounge for dessert, but go hungry!

Also west Asheville has some fabulous breakfast only restaurants.
We have a daughter there and love to visit.

No trip is complete without a stop at "12 Bones", the absolute BEST bar b q and sides ever!! all made on the premises. They are only open for lunch and the line forms at 11:00 but well worth the time!

Have a wonderful time. It s a fascinating little city!

[EnglishJW]

Originally Posted by mtdjed

Traveling from TV to Asheville and plan to visit the Biltmore mansion. The basic entrance fee Is about $50/person and I understand the self tour audio @ $10 is worthwhile. Question is whether supplementary tours are advisory for a one day visit after the basic tour or is this overkill for a one day visit. Heard that the basic self guided tour is about 2 hours and that there are other things to visit there (Gardens, Winery, shops). Is another 60 to 90 minute guided tour advisable the same day? Consider both husband and wife viewpoint.

My wife and I have been to the Biltmore many times and we have always enjoyed it. One particular highlight for both of us was the Roof Top Tour which is described on their website as:

"Rooftop Tour Enjoy amazing views from rooftops and balconies and get a closer look at the design and construction of Biltmore House with this 60-minute guided tour of areas not on the regular house visit. Offered daily at 10:00 a.m., 11:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:00 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 2:30 p.m., and 3:00 p.m. Advance reservations are required."

Cost: $17 per person