November 6th through January 3rd, America's largest home is decked out in festive finery; candlelight evenings are especially magical. Tickets for admission vary based on date and time. Please see website for details, including information on timed-entry days. The estate is open on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Days. General tours are self-guided. In addition to Biltmore House, admission includes the grounds, Biltmore Winery, River Bend Farm, specialty gift shops and restaurants. Special online rates are available, tickets can be printed at home.

For a real treat, see the amazing display of gingerbread houses at Grove Park Inn Resort and Spa in Asheville on November 18, 2009 - January 3, 2010 on Mondays - Thursdays. Viewing of the entries to the National Gingerbread House Competition is free for non-guests of the hotel! Your only cost is $10 for valet parking (which is highly recommended). In addition to the gingerbread overload, see the beautiful holiday displays throughout and warm by the giant fireplaces in the grand lobby.

For the past 20+ years, Arts and Crafts enthusiasts, including new collectors, veterans, curators, crafts persons, authors, builders, architects, designers, editors, and bungalow owners, have traveled to the Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa in Asheville for the annual Arts & Crafts Conference and Antiques Show in February. The three-day conference (February 19 - 21, 2010) is usually a sellout, with 1,500 attendees and more than 2,000 tickets sold for the antiques and contemporary crafts show.

We're excited about our 2009 excursions! On selected dates starting November 6th thru December 23rd, the Polar Express comes to life when the train departs the Bryson City depot for a journey to our "North Pole". Guests on board will enjoy hot chocolate and treats while listening and reading along with the magical story. Experience the joy of watching the children's faces when the train arrives at our "North Pole," where Santa Claus will be waiting. Santa will board The Polar Express where he will greet each child and present them with a special memento. Holiday carols will be sung on the return trip to Bryson City. First Class seating includes a deluxe hot cocoa served in commemorative ceramic mug, light snacks and seating in our club and dining car seating. $57 per person for adults and teens 13 and older. $40 per child over 24 months of age. $10 Children 24 months and younger. Ticket price includes admission to the Smoky Mountain Trains Museum in Bryson City. Some Premium Date Rates Apply. Call for more information 800-872-4681.