Christmas at the Biltmore House and Grove Park Inn

Biltmore House and Grove Park Inn

Christmas in Asheville, N.C. is truly spectacular. With several major landmarks and the world renowned Grove Park Inn, the Christmas season is truly dazzling in this historic mountain city. These two destinations alone can be a great weekend get-away for the family or for couples, add in the Blue Ridge Parkway, Thomas Wolfe Home, one of the many ghost tours, the ever hilarious LaZoom Bus tour, a drive to visit Weaverville and Vance Birthplace, maybe a trip to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, plus the eateries and the holiday activities and it would be easy to stay at least a week. However, if here during the holidays, the Grove Park Inn and Biltmore House are most certainly a must see.

Biltmore House

One of the highlights of the Christmas Season is the candlelight tours and the Tree Raising ceremony at Asheville's most notable historic landmark, The Biltmore House. This beautiful Victorian castle lived in by the Vanderbilt family, who also created Biltmore Village, has been the backdrop for movies, weddings, concerts, and television programs, including Good Morning America. If there is one season to visit this home, it is Christmas! The whole home is decked with trees and garlands and poinsettias with glowing white lights. The Banquet Hall features a 35 foot tree brought in at the beginning of November and at night, the home and antler village come to life with carolers and performers and candlelight tours.

The best part of this is, kids 9 and under are free with a paying adult this entire Christmas season, Nov. 6th-Jan. 2nd. Special Events include Sundays with Santa in Antler Village, beginning Nov. 6h, Gingerbread House Creating, Biltmore Wine Tasting and Signings, good food and shopping. Kids will be in awe of the beauty, history, and size of the home, and if desired, stay on the estate and enjoy fireworks during special evenings of the season.

Grove Park Inn

This hotel overlooking the city and more is perfect for a weekend couples retreat. Complete with a spa, pool, hot tub, and kid care (for dad, golfing). Most importantly, the National Gingerbread House Competitors creations are displayed throughout the giant resort alongside gorgeous decorations and huge Christmas trees. After walking around viewing the gingerbread houses, sit out under the heaters on the balcony with a hot toddy and enjoy the view, by the two fireplaces in the main hall while listening to live Christmas music, or in one of the many balcony seating areas that have been closed off and heated with fireplaces and televisions (especially good for the football fans).

On Thanksgiving, enjoy a buffet and the traditions of watching Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and Football games on one of the many big screens throughout the resort. Christmas buffets Christmas week, along with carolers and historic tours, and ring in the New Year with a live band, several huge buffet, and lots of dancing. While visiting, stop by one of the many shops, especially the candy shop where one can enjoy some hot chocolate or a good cup of Joe.

No matter which attraction is chosen, make a trip to both these unique historic locations during Christmas, both of which will fill the whole family with holiday cheer. Merry Christmas!!