Christina

My parents always ask if there is a family membership they can gift or contribute to us for Christmas— we have had memberships to the zoo, science museum, children’s museum… and the past few years, the Biltmore Estates (in Ashville NC). It’s such a great deal for our family because individual tickets are expensive, whereas a year-long membership is very cost-effective! We try to visit at least 4 times a year to enjoy each season, and we make a day of it. We often take someone with us (but not always)— we also have enjoyed special displays and visiting exhibits (like the King Tut exhibit or Candlelight Christmas).

We met my sister @npond (who lives in NC) with her kids, and brought my mom (@kthomp5 ) and my daughter’s good friend 2 weeks ago to enjoy a gorgeous fall day. It started off chilly and was summery by the end of the day.

We had early tickets to tour the house with the excellent included audio guides. We eventually split into 2 groups, me with the younger kids who were less tolerant of loitering; my sister with the older kids who found so many aspects fascinating and wanted to take in every bit they could. It’s so fun to see them integrate it with their history and literature studies. This time we also saw guest rooms we never had seen before, including one decorated with pictures of Mary & baby Jesus, called “The Madonna Room.”

We packed a picnic lunch and ate in the gardens as a break, then toured the gardens & greenhouse. Last of all we checked out the historical stables and workshops, finishing at the excellent ice cream shop!