Set in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa has been attracting the rich and notable since it opened its doors in 1913. Guests have included Thomas Edison, Woodrow Wilson, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Henry Ford, President and Mrs. Franklin Roosevelt, and Enrico Caruso, to name just a few. All history aside, this is a great place to go in the springtime, both because of Grove Park's activities and the blooming gardens at the Biltmore Estate located only eight miles away.
This year, the Grove Park will be offering its Easter Celebration on April 13-15. Weekend activities will include a special performance in the Great Hall on Friday evening, Easter Sunrise Services, a children's Easter egg hunt on the lawn, a huge Easter buffet in the Grand Ballroom, and a visit from the Easter Bunny with candy for the children. If you're coming down this weekend, try to get there in time for the Friday night Seafood Buffet in the Blue Ridge Dining Room. Make sure to make all buffet reservations very early - preferably well before you arrive. These buffets fill up fast, and families with children want to make sure to be seated at a their time of choice.
The Inn's variety of children's programs are offered on weekends at this time of year. On Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., kids can participate in the Teddy Bear Club for 3-5 year olds and Operation Kidnap Club for 6-11 year olds. Kids' Night Out is offered on Friday and Saturday evenings from 6-10:30 p.m., and includes dinner, night swimming, organized games, face-painting and campfires.
While in Asheville, don't miss the blooming flowers at the Biltmore House and Gardens. You and your family can spend hours exploring this old estate, strolling through the incredible gardens, and discovering the winery, antiques and art. If you time it right, your children may also be able to participate in the Easter Egg Hunt on the grounds. This event is usually held on the day before Easter Sunday.
At the Grove Park Inn, children under 16 stay free in their parents' room. For more information, call (800) 438-5800 or visit them on the web www.groveparkinn.comand ask about the Easter Celebration Package available during this weekend.