Biltmore Estate Announces Reopening Date After Helene Forces Closure

ASHEVILLE, North Carolina – The iconic Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina, has announced a reopening date after Tropical Storm Helene caused extensive damage to the historic attraction.

Built by George Vanderbilt in the 1890s, the 8,000-acre estate, one of North Carolina’s most popular tourist destinations, has been closed since Helene devastated Asheville and the surrounding area on September 28.

RELATED: Biltmore Estate Staff and Guests Arrange Impromptu Wedding for Couple During Helene

Biltmore staff said forested areas suffered extensive wind damage, and the Biltmore entrance in Biltmore Village suffered significant flooding and building damage.

The Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in America, built by George Vanderbilt between 1889 and 1895, is one of the area’s top tourist attractions. It has been closed since late September when Tropical Storm Helene caused extensive damage. (Photo

The winery, gardens and hotels sustained minimal damage, the property said. Unfortunately, some of their animals died during the storm.

RELATED: War-torn Ukrainian family finds peace in North Carolina, only to drown in Helene floodwaters

Helene caused at least 72 deaths in Buncombe County, where Biltmore is located, according to NPR. On October 15th, more than 90 people were still missing in western North Carolina.

READ MORE: More than 90 people still missing in North Carolina after Hurricane Helene

“For more than 125 years, Biltmore has been a witness to the resilience of this community,” Biltmore staff said in a Facebook post. “Our region’s compassion and resolve have grown every day under the weight of this storm. Thanks to the incredible work of so many generous people, recovery is happening all around us.”

When will the Biltmore reopen?

Biltmore Estate will reopen on November 2, just in time to “celebrate the joy of the holiday season together.”

Christmas at Biltmore, when the property is decked out in holiday decor and hosts candlelit Christmas nights, is a beloved holiday tradition in North Carolina.

“Welcoming guests back to the property is a critical support of our community and we look forward to welcoming them back soon,” officials said on Facebook.