Your Next Family Destination
is Wytheville, Virginia

by Hannah Lusk

There’s no place quite like Wytheville, Virginia. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains where Interstates 77 and 81 meet, Wytheville is rich in history and teeming with activities for every type of adventurer.

If your family enjoys nature, you’ll be in paradise when you visit Wytheville. Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and discover a town that we’re sure you’ve seen in passing. From hiking, biking, and water activities to historic museums, gardens, and unique shops, there is no shortage of family fun, in Wytheville… There’s Only One!

Lodging

When planning your escape to Wytheville, book a stay at one of our charming lodging options.

We have multiple nationwide chains, one-of-a-kind boutique hotels like The Bolling Wilson Hotel, or bed and breakfasts like Trinkle Mansion Bed & Breakfast. No matter which accommodation you choose, you will be met with a relaxing atmosphere and wonderful amenities the whole family will enjoy.

If you want to get closer to the beautiful nature that makes Wytheville stand out, consider staying at one of our multiple campgrounds and RV parks. Wytheville’s KOA Holiday is perfect for adults and children alike. Nestled in the Blue Ridge mountains, the KOA campground is unlike any other in the country. Fishing, mini-golf, bowling, water slides, and updated campsites are just a few of the dozens of amenities this campground has to offer. A new Conestoga covered wagon experience will delight even the youngest in the family. 

Outdoor Activities

Wytheville is all about experiencing the unique and incredible features of southern Virginia. During your stay, there are several outdoor attractions that are must-sees for your family.

Crystal Springs Recreation Area is one of those attractions. The park is located on 1,800 acres of Wytheville property where you can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, primitive camping, and more. Don’t forget to pack a lunch and enjoy a picnic at one of the area’s picnic spots. There are informational signs and a Kids in Parks Track Trail virtual program if your family is new to hiking or would like to learn about the area while you take in the beauty of the native flora and fauna.

Among the area’s top attractions is the Jefferson National Forest. Atop Big Walker Mountain, you will find the oldest and highest private scenic attraction in Virginia standing at an elevation of 3,405 feet – the Big Walker Lookout. The lookout features an observation tower, swinging bridge, a Country store, and is a Virginia Birding trail site. Not to mention the panoramic views you will experience of surrounding mountains and nearby farmland.

Another one-of-a-kind attraction is the New River Trail State Park. This is a 57-mile linear park that follows an abandoned railroad right-of-way, as part of the area’s “rails to trails” initiative. The park parallels the historic New River – the world’s second oldest river – for 39 miles and passes through three counties.

New River Trail has a gentle slope, which makes it great for visitors of all ages to hike, bike and ride horseback. Within the park you will find boat launches, gift shops, a horse arena, and Foster Falls which offers canoe and bike rentals. The newly opened Inn at Foster Falls features ten luxurious guest rooms, wrap around porches complete with rocking chairs, which makes this the only State Park in Virginia to offer an Inn. This historic property has played many roles throughout its life but has been lovingly revived to its former glory as a beautiful hotel overlooking the New River.

Fishing is popular at the park and throughout the entire region. With the abundance of creeks, lakes, and rivers, Wytheville is the perfect area for the favored activity of fly fishing. Cast a line from the bank of New River or on waterways like Rural Retreat Lake or Cripple Creek.

Aside from the native wildlife you are sure to see while spending time outdoors, there are other locations where you can enjoy animals. Fort Chiswell Animal Park is the largest zoo in Southwest Virginia at 45 acres. This park is home to animals from six continents. Visit the petting zoo to feed goats, llamas, and deer. Board the Safari Bus for a guided ride through the Outback, getting an up-close view of camels, zebra, ostrich, antelope, buffalo, and more.

Historic Sites

For the history buffs in your group, you must see the numerous historic sites and museums that make Wytheville a one-of-a-kind destination.

You can’t miss the birthplace and childhood home of First Lady Edith Bolling Wilson, President Woodrow Wilson’s wife. Born and raised in Wytheville, Edith is a descendant of Pocahontas and the only Appalachian-born First Lady. The museum tells the story of her life and the important role she played during World War I.

The Thomas J. Boyd Museum is the place to go if you want to learn all about the history of the people and places of Wythe County. Their collection includes Wytheville’s first fire truck, early farming equipment, Civil War displays, artifacts from the mining industry, as well as the Summer Without Children exhibit, showcasing the impact the 1950 Polio epidemic had on Wytheville.

The African-American Heritage Museum showcases photos, stories, and artifacts which tell the story of African American education in Wythe County.  Located in the historic Wytheville Training School, this non-profit organization was established in 2000 to preserve the building and its history dating back to 1882 when it was constructed.

Experience Native American life when you visit Wolf Creek Indian Village & Museum. This reconstructed Native American village has tour guides available that can walk you through the area and educate you on the fascinating history of Wolf Creek Indian life from the 1500’s.

The latest addition to Wytheville’s collection of museums is the Jackson-Umberger Homestead Museum. This nine-acre complex is home to multiple structures dating to the 1700s, the Wythe County Decorative Arts Museum as well as a restored gas station that houses the Great Lakes to Florida Highway Museum.

You can discover many more historic sites on our website.

Gardens & Farms

While the area’s history helps Wytheville stand out, the area’s agriculture is another feature that is unlike any other place you’ve visited. Experience herb farms, berry farms, orchards, vineyards and wineries throughout the area.

Beagle Ridge Herb Farm is a premiere lavender farm in Southwest Virginia, but also showcases many other herb and flower gardens. Visit the farm and take a peaceful stroll through the scenic gardens or enjoy tea on the patio while butterflies and birds dance across the sky. The new outdoor café will feature pizza ovens for DIY pizzas topped with herbs of your choosing from the gardens.

Henley Mountain Berry Farm is a popular attraction in the summer months. The farm offers u-pick blueberries, as well as a variety of homemade blueberry products.

West Wind Farm Vineyard & Winery is located on a fourth generation homestead only minutes from the New River. They offer an array of gourmet snacks, soaps, candles, home gifts, and wine, of course!

Shopping, Dining & Family Fun

After a day filled with outdoor adventure and history, enjoy some quality family time with a visit to Wytheville’s eclectic shops, a bite to eat at one of the delicious dining options, a craft beer at a brewery, a show at one of the theaters, or a round of bowling.

Located in the heart of Wytheville is the historic Millwald Theatre. Built in 1928, this venue has recently been restored to its original splendor and has reopened its doors for a new generation of entertainment seeking audiences. A lineup that includes concerts, comedians and classic movies is sure to delight the entire family.

Virginia’s only all-musical dinner theater, Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre also calls Wytheville home. Experience a four-course meal before seeing a Broadway-style, show-stopping musical.

Don’t forget to also check out Cross Roads Social House, a family entertainment center with 14 bowling lanes, laser tag, an arcade, billiards, darts, a trampoline jump zone, party rooms, a restaurant and bar, and an outdoor patio. Everyone in the family is sure to stay entertained here!

Whether you’re in the market for antiques, furniture, apparel, jewelry, or art – or you just like to browse – you can find everything you’re looking for in Wytheville with the variety of shops.

You won’t go hungry while in Wytheville. The town has an abundance of dining options from locally owned restaurants to chain spots. Grab breakfast before you head out on a hike, pick up a to-go lunch to enjoy by the lake, or stop for dinner after a day full of adventure with the family.

No matter what time of year you visit Wytheville, there is always something to do. Other than the pristine nature that surrounds our area, we have an abundance of events throughout the year to keep you entertained. When you visit during the Summer, plan your trip around one of these events, like the Chautauqua Festival in June. You can find details and additional events on our website.

We know that you’ve seen us in passing and now we invite you to explore beyond the exits and get to know us better. We guarantee you’ll love Wytheville… There’s Only One!

Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay in the know with all things Wytheville when planning your getaway! We can’t wait to have you.