'A beacon of hope': Biltmore Estate reopens after Hurricane Helene flooding, invites visitors to return

Visitors returned to the Biltmore Estate in Asheville Saturday after a 36-day closure due to flooding caused by Hurricane Helene.

Crews worked around the clock to repair and prepare the estate in time for the holiday season, allowing the historic site to reopen safely.

“We have the best team in the world that’s been working tirelessly to clean up the estate and get us ready to reopen for the holidays,” said Chase Pickering, a fifth-generation family member of George Vanderbilt. “Today, being able to open the front entrance and welcome our guests back safely is truly inspiring.”

Pickering expressed hope that the Biltmore can once again be a “beacon of hope” for the community, as it has been for generations.

While some areas of Western North Carolina are still recovering, many places, including Biltmore, are welcoming visitors back with open arms.

Pickering encouraged visitors to plan ahead and stay informed by visiting the estate’s website.

The reopening brought an upbeat atmosphere, as thousands of visitors filled the grounds.

“It’s just so heartwarming,” Pickering said. “Everyone is positive, respectful, and friendly. Today is truly inspiring for all of us at Biltmore.”

In support of ongoing recovery efforts, the Vanderbilt family and the estate have also established a $2 million Biltmore Relief Fund to assist employees in crisis and support local nonprofits working on hurricane recovery.