Biltmore Blooms Festival of Flowers: Asheville, NC

Duration: 5 Days |  Meals Included: 4 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 2 Dinners

 

Trip Highlights:

 

 

Biltmore Blooms at Biltmore Estate

Celebrate the arrival of spring during Biltmore Blooms, the estate-wide event that brings George Vanderbilt’s magnificent 8,000-acre property to life with color. Set against the backdrop of this regal French château—a National Historic Landmark nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Asheville—this annual tradition features more than 100,000 tulips in full bloom, greeting visitors from the main entrance to the Walled Garden and throughout the estate. Stroll through the 20-acre azalea garden bursting with vibrant hues, and discover cascades of native and exotic blooms in the natural gardens and along scenic walking trails. Enjoy live music performances in the Conservatory and Winter Garden, engaging seminars at A Gardener’s Place, seasonal menus at estate restaurants, and exclusive Festival of Flowers commemorative wines at the Winery. Guests are invited to explore the house, gardens, and winery at their own pace with self-guided tours throughout the estate.

 

 

Asheville, NC Sightseeing Tour

Experience the charm and creativity of Asheville on a guided sightseeing tour through this vibrant mountain city. Travel along picturesque streets lined with striking Art Deco architecture, historic landmarks, and a lively arts scene that makes Asheville one of the Southeast’s most distinctive destinations. Along the way, enjoy views of the magnificent Basilica of Saint Lawrence, renowned for its stunning Spanish Renaissance architecture and impressive dome, as well as the historic Thomas Wolfe Memorial, the childhood home of the famed American author. We will also pass by the Basilica of Saint Lawrence parish community, a cornerstone of Asheville’s cultural and spiritual heritage. This is a perfect introduction to Asheville’s rich history, architectural beauty, and artistic flair—all set against the scenic backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

 

Museum of the Shenandoah Valley

The Museum of the Shenandoah Valley offers a fascinating overview of the area. Enjoy a self-guided tour of the historic Glen Burnie House, furnished with art and antiques from one of the Valley’s most prominent private collections. Surrounding the house are six acres of stunning gardens. The Glen Burnie Gardens are considered among the most beautiful public gardens in Virginia. From the stately Grand Allee to the secluded Hidden Garden, each space offers its own unique charm. Inside the museum, explore four major gallery spaces, including the Shenandoah Valley Gallery, where a blend of artifacts, multimedia exhibits, and detailed dioramas bring the Valley’s story to life.

 

The Reynolda House

Step into the elegance and legacy of The Reynolda House, the beautifully preserved 1917 estate of tobacco magnate R. J. Reynolds. This remarkable 64-room home offers an intimate glimpse into early 20th-century life, showcasing original furnishings, family clothing, and even children’s toys—creating a warm, lived-in atmosphere that brings history vividly to life. Set within this inviting historic home is an extraordinary collection of American art, widely regarded as one of the finest south of Washington. Masterworks are thoughtfully displayed throughout the residence, blending art and environment in a way that feels both personal and inspiring. A visit to Reynolda House offers a unique experience where history, art, and Southern charm come together.

 

The Grove Arcade

The Grove Arcade, which originally opened in 1929, flourished as one of the nation's leading public markets until World War II. After decades of transformation, it reopened to the public in 2002 and is now a vibrant downtown destination featuring boutique shopping, regional crafts, and a variety of unique dining experiences, all under one roof. Whether you're craving a classic burger or inspired dishes from Latin America, Italy, or Thailand, the Grove Arcade offers an array of eclectic options for lunch.

 

Meal Information:

 

Dinner on day two is included at Stone Ridge Tavern. Choices are (guests order when seated):

• Beef Tips: marinated steak tips served over rice and topped with gravy

• Greco Chicken: tender grilled chicken breast, marinated in lemon, garlic, & oregano, and topped with soft goat cheese, marinated tomatoes, sauteed spinach and signature balsamic reduction

• Sesame Encrusted Atlantic Salmon: topped with ginger sesame aioli

• Greek pasta: Spaghetti sautéed in olive oil and a light garlic butter, and topped with feta cheese, kalamata olives, spinach, diced tomatoes, and parmesan cheese (does not include a side-it's served with salad & garlic bread)

• Baby back ribs: Hand rubbed with seasonings, slow cooked for tenderness,chargrilled for extra flavor, & brushed with honey BBQ sauce

Dinner is served with your choice of salad (tossed, Greek or Caesar) and your choice of side (baked potato, sweet potato fries, French fries, garlic mashed potatoes, mixed vegetables, asparagus, applesauce or coleslaw), with chocolate cake with whipped cream for dessert. Soft drinks are included.

 

Dinner on day four is included at Wood Grill Buffet

Dinner is served buffet-style and includes fried chicken, wings, meatloaf, pot roast, fried shrimp, fish, salad, and a variety of sides and desserts. A non-alcoholic beverage is included.

 

Lunch on day five is included at Piccadilly's Public House & Restaurant. Choices are:

Menu TBA

 

Menus are subject to change.

 

Need to Know:

• Biltmore Estate: The Biltmore Estate covers a vast area indoors and outdoors; wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in weather-appropriate attire. Guests may carry small personal bags no larger than 19" x 14" x 9", Backpacks and wheeled bags are prohibited. Clear, plastic water bottles are the only water bottles allowed. Biltmore does not accepting cash; acceptable forms of payment are credit or debit cards.

• Every Starr trip includes deluxe round-trip motorcoach transportation from one or more of our departure locations.

• A Starr Tour Director will accompany you on this trip.

• Baggage handling at hotels is included.

 

Accessibility:

• Your visit to Biltmore House includes three floors and several flights of stairs. Because of the historic architecture, only the first and second floors are accessible by wheelchair. Guests who are unable to go to the third floor and basement may visit the designated second floor rest area and watch a video of the rooms they are unable to access.

• Starr has a select quantity of wheelchair accessible motorcoaches available; therefore, we suggest you contact a Travel Advisor to discuss any needs you may have before reserving your trip.

Day 1: Holiday Inn Express Wytheville (Wytheville, VA)

The hotel features an indoor pool, whirlpool, and fitness room. Guest rooms include coffee maker, mini-fridge, microwave, hair dryer, and iron/board.

 

Days 2 and 3: Hampton Inn Asheville Biltmore Area (Asheville, NC)

The hotel features an indoor pool and fitness room. Guest rooms include coffee maker, mini-fridge, microwave, hair dryer, and iron/board.

 

Day 4: Hyatt Place Harrisonburg (Harrisonburg, VA)

The hotel features a restaurant/lounge, indoor pool, and fitness room. Guest rooms include coffee maker, mini-fridge, hair dryer, and iron/board.