Was in Asheville just a couple days ago and was similarly shocked by the ticket price. It seems like tourist attraction entry fees worldwide are outpacing the pace of inflation, and with few other castle-like attractions in the region I can see how they feel that they are in a position to name their own price. The Hilton Biltmore Park (not as close to the estate as you might assume) offered a package where you could get two days of admission for the price of one ($60).

We decided to pass on Biltmore. The Blue Ridge Parkway area offered stunning views for the cost of half a tank of gas (which itself was pretty cheap around there!), so we're pretty happy with our Asheville experience!