Behind-the-Scenes Tours

Two special behind-the-scenes tours, the North Wing and South Wing, lead through various rooms all the way to the roof. Up here the architectural and structural elements sit within arm's reach. Look into the eyes of stone gargoyles, and trace the first owner's initials--GV--on the copper panels. Remnants of gold leafing, like fading brush strokes, still reflect the sunlight.

While countless others traverse the house below, you can't help but feel you've found the secrets. Consider that when George Vanderbilt stood in this spot, he owned everything he saw. Out here, the incredibly grand scope of Biltmore eases into focus.

Left: On the North Wing and South Wing Tours, you'll see the mansion's architectural details up close.

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