I had no idea growing up who the Vanderbilts were. Then we moved to North Carolina and on a holiday field trip toured the Biltmore Estate.
Oh, my goodness!
The largest privately owned home in America is exquisite. I marveled at the size. I was in awe that this home so large, was invisible until you were almost directly in front of it.

During the holidays it is a splendid vision of celebration. Garlands, trees, ornaments galore!
I remember visiting Grandma Fran and being so excited to share with her about my field trip to Biltmore. She listened and then shared she had grown up with the Henry Ford family and often played with the Vanderbilt child, in the Halloween room!
It would be decades later that I took my own children to this magical house, with my mother, sister and nieces, and nephew.
Adding to our love for Biltmore, we've been reading the Serafina series by Robert Beatty. It takes place at the Biltmore. It's so much fun reading about a place you've visited, where you can truly imagine yourself as the character!

If your summer, fall or holiday plans include the mountains of North Carolina, take advantage of the great Groupon Offers for Biltmore.

Right now they are offering kids 16 and under are FREE with a paying adult, $10 off when you book in advance and other great deals for Biltmore on Groupon!
It's really an incredible experience. It's like time traveling back in time and experiencing a life, that even by today's standards are exquisite!