5 Things to Do at the Biltmore in Asheville, North Carolina, This February

Year-round, the Biltmore Estate is bustling with activities and fun. Situated in Asheville, North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, this February proves a particularly wonderful time to visit the beautiful grounds.

The home of George Vanderbilt, the mansion was completed in 1895 and now stands as America's largest privately-owned estate with 250 rooms ready for guests to explore. This month, the house museum has love in the air for visitors eager to indulge in some Valentine's Day romance. Below, a few of our favorite things to do.

1. Take a red wine and chocolate tasting class.

Running thrice daily, $35 per person gets you a delectable and informative lesson in finely crafted chocolate and wine produced at the estate. If you love vino and sweets, call 800-211-9803 to reserve your spots.

2. Enjoy dinner and dancing with the Deerpark Wine and Roses Dinner and Dance.

Looking for a romantic way to spend Valentine's Day? You can't beat this sparkling wine reception followed by a three-course feast. Come 8:30 p.m., there will be live music and dancing for all to enjoy. During dinner, there will also be a live jazz performance to help wash down all the delicious fare. Tickets for this Valentine's Day event cost $150 per person plus tax (gratuity included) and can be reserved by calling 800-411-3812.

3. See Downton Abbey: The Exhibition.

Watch the hit show come to life with interactive exhibits and a chance to see some of the show's fashions and learn more about the history of the Downton Abbey era. If you adore the Crawley family, plan your trip soon—this experience closes on April 7th. Tickets are included with daytime admission or an overnight stay at the estate's hotel that includes daytime admission. P.S. Feeling lucky? Enter now through Feb. 16th for your chance to win the Downton Abbey: The Exhibition Getaway to Biltmore sweepstakes, which includes a two-night stay at the property, admission to Biltmore House and Gardens and the Downton Abbey exhibit, a wine tasting, afternoon tea, and more.

4. Attend the Sparkling Soiree: Bubbles & Jazz Masquerade.

On Leap Day this year, enjoy this roaring '20s themed party with live music, dancing, and plenty of tasty food like savory canapés and sweet petit fours accompanied by Biltmore wines. At the black tie optional affair, a prize will also be awarded for the best dressed, so don your finest garbs. The event costs $150 per person plus tax (gratuity included) and reservations can be made by calling 800-411-3812 and hitting extension 3.

5. See beautiful flowers with the Orchid Talks tour.

Let nature dazzle you at the Biltmore's gardens' glass conservatory as you see a stunning assortment of orchids and learn more about these blooms from a member of the estate's horticultural team. The experience is included with admission but limited to 15 guests daily so make a reservation at any guest services location.

Suddenly, a long weekend at the Biltmore doesn't seem long enough.