Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina is known the world over. Many people are fascinated not only by the size of this home, but by its beauty as well. Even if you’ve never been to Biltmore Estate, there’s a good chance you’ve seen this home in magazines and on TV. That’s because Biltmore Estate is often featured in Christmas specials. During the holiday season this home is made even more beautiful with Christmas trees and other holiday decorations. Even if you have been to Biltmore Estate, you may not know all there is to know about America’s largest home.
Fun Facts about Biltmore Estate #1: Built Between the Years of 1888 to 1895
Biltmore Estate took almost 7 years to build. But, this fact isn’t so shocking when you consider the size of the home. Another fun fact is that the Vanderbilt’s were worth $200 million which was an absolute fortune back in the 1800s.
Fun Facts about Biltmore Estate #2: 175,000 Square Feet
With assets totaling $200 million, it was easy for the Vanderbilt’s to build a home that was 175,000 square feet. It’s hard to put that number into perspective, but 175,000 square feet is the size of several average homes put together. In fact, 175,000 square feet is the size of 88 average-sized homes.
Fun Facts about Biltmore Estate #3: Largest Home in America
Biltmore Estate is the largest home in America. This home is so impressive that it has been used in several Hollywood films. In fact, 12 movies have been filmed at Biltmore Estate. Some of these films didn’t include shots of the home, but did include the impressive views of the gardens and the rest of the estate.
Fun Facts about Biltmore Estate #4: Amazing Features
Biltmore Estate includes several jaw dropping features. One of the most amazing features is the 70,000 gallon indoor pool. Other impressive features include a two story library, a winery, and several turn of the century novelties including elevators, fire alarms, and an intercom system.
Fun Facts about Biltmore Estate #5: Opened to the Public on March 15, 1930
On March 15, 1930 Biltmore Estate was opened to the public. At this time the home was still occupied by the Vanderbilt decedents. Another fun fact is that to this day the home remains in the Vanderbilt family.
Fun Facts about Biltmore Estate #6: Opened as a House Museum in 1956
In 1956 the house was evacuated by the Vanderbilt family and turned into a house museum. From then on tourists were able to visit the home more often. In fact Biltmore Estate is open year round. But, one of the most popular times to visit is during the holiday season.
Fun Facts about Biltmore Estate #7: A Favorite Structure in the United States
During a 2007 poll, Biltmore Estate was chosen as the 8th favorite structure in the United States.
Fun Facts about Biltmore Estate #8: Draws In One Million Visitors Each Year
Each year, Biltmore Estate draws in several thousand visitors. In fact, one million tourists visit Biltmore Estate each year. Whether you love architecture, gardens, or beautiful homes you really should make it to Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina at least once in your life.
