Attractions

Historic Places and Museums

Biltmore Estate

Located in Asheville, North Carolina, Biltmore Estate was the vision of George W. Vanderbilt, who first opened his country house to friends and family on Christmas Eve 1895. America’s largest home, the 250-room French Renaissance chateau exhibits the family’s original collection of furnishings, art and antiques. Biltmore Estate encompasses over 8,000 acres including renowned gardens designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the father of American landscape architecture. Also included on the grounds is the award-winning Biltmore Estate Winery, which offers tours and tastings, the four-star Inn on Biltmore Estate, the Equestrian Center and other outdoor activities.

Thomas Wolfe Memorial

Considered by many to be one of the giants of 20th Century American Literature, Thomas Wolfe immortalized his childhood home in his epic autobiographical novel, Look Homeward, Angel. Wolfe’s colorful portrayal of his family, his hometown of Asheville, North Carolina, and the Old Kentucky Home boarding house earned the historic Victorian home a place as one of American Literature’s most famous landmarks as the Thomas Wolfe Memorial.

Asheville Arts Museum

The Asheville Art Museum annually presents an exciting, inviting and active schedule of exhibitions and public programs based on its permanent collection of 20th and 21st century American art. Any visit will also include experiences with works of significance to Western North Carolina’s cultural heritage including Studio Craft, Black Mountain College and Cherokee artists. Special exhibitions feature renowned regional and national artists and explore issues of enduring interest. The Museum also offers a wide array of innovative, inspiring and entertaining educational programs for people of all ages.