Biltmore is open year-round so guests can enjoy visiting America’s largest home and historic gardens, discovering the 8,000 acre “back yard,” and so much more.
Even at Biltmore, however, there are rainy days—what’s the best way to enjoy all the estate has to offer when Mother Nature isn’t cooperating?
In George and Edith Vanderbilt’s day, you could curl up in the Library with a good book, enjoy the indoor Swimming Pool, get a workout in the Gymnasium, or spend the afternoon bowling—all without ever leaving Biltmore House!
For today’s guests, here’s a list of our five favorite rainy day activities:
The Conservatory
This glorious garden-under-glass is a fascinating place to explore in any weather, but it’s especially nice to enjoy all the benefits of a lush garden full of tropical plants without getting drenched in a downpour!
Biltmore House Specialty Tours
Let the rain fall while you experience a different side of Biltmore House and its surroundings. Specialty tours such as the Guided Upstairs – Downstairs Tour offer a behind-the-scenes look at the ways the Vanderbilts, their guests, and their staff spent time on the estate.
Garden spots
If you’re strolling in our historic gardens, there are a couple of great spots to take shelter from the rain: choose the Library Terrace with thick vines overhead to protect you from getting wet while you relax on the benches, or opt for the vine-covered Pergola below South Terrace.
Biltmore Legacy
Antler Hill Village is home to Biltmore Legacy, currently featuring The Vanderbilts at Home and Abroad exhibition, which sheds light on the time the Vanderbilts spent as a family at Biltmore and beyond. Whether the day is rainy or bright, don’t miss this fascinating glimpse into the lives of George, Edith, and Cornelia Vanderbilt.
America’s most-visited winery
Stormy weather? Let it pour outside while you enjoy the “pours” inside at America’s most-visited Winery! This original estate dairy barn was converted to a winery in 1985, and you can experience everything from our complimentary tour and tastings to special activities like Red Wine & Chocolate Seminar, Biltmore Bubbles, and more.