A Fun-Filled Fall Getaway

by deana | Aug 17, 2022 | Blog

A Fun-Filled Fall Getaway To Wytheville, VA

Picturesque outdoor scenes of colorful foliage; hayrides and haunted houses; festivals and farm-fresh goodies—there’s so much to love about the fall season.

And there’s no better place to soak up the best of this enchanting season than Wytheville, a unique destination nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of southwest Virginia.

Whether you’re planning a getaway for two or a trip for the whole crew, you’ll find everything you’re looking for in our small town with big adventures.

Pack up the family for a fall vacation in Wytheville, VA, where farm fun, haunted houses, scenic drives, and artsy attractions await.

Fun on the Farm

The kiddos will love all the Fall on the Farm festivities waiting at Richdale Farm, a 650-acre, 5th-generation family-owned farm. Take a hayride to the hillside slide; navigate your way out of the winding corn maze; take your best shot with the apple cannon; and pick out the perfect pumpkin to take home and carve a masterpiece jack-o-lantern with.

Keep the farm fun going with a visit to Williams Orchard on W. Lee Hwy. This family-owned-and-operated farm hosts their Fall Festival every weekend in October, with activities ranging from hayrides and corn mazes to pumpkin-picking, pumpkin launchers and apple shooters, and more. The festival takes place on Saturdays 10am-5pm and Sundays 12-5pm.

Don’t let your visit to Williams Orchard end without shopping the wide selection of seasonal treats, farm-fresh fruits and vegetables, fall mums, sweet corn, canned goods, and more at their on-site store.

Hikes and Hand-crafted Wines

While you may be familiar with Beagle Ridge Herb Farm for its gorgeous lavender and herb gardens and walk-through butterfly house, the 210-acre farm also features undeveloped wilderness that you can explore on a guided tour, as well as remote trails that are great for hiking. Make plans to visit this natural wonderland for an unforgettable day immersed in the beautiful Wytheville outdoors.

After a long day of festivities and outdoor adventures, there’s no better place to wind down than West Wind Farm Vineyard & Winery. Here you’ll find an impressive selection of small batch, hand-crafted wines made from grapes grown right on this fourth-generation farm using age-old wine-making methods. Even more special? Each and every batch is hand-tended from harvest to bottle by the family.

While you’re there, be sure to visit the tasting room and browse the diverse selection of unique gifts, gourmet snacks, and home décor to take home from your Wytheville trip.

Horror-Filled Haunted Houses and Attractions

Get your heart racing and adrenaline pumping at Wytheville’s haunted houses and other scare-filled attractions.

The spooky sights and sounds in the post-apocalyptic maze of hallways and rooms at the award-winning Helheim Haunted Attraction will send you running for the hills! The 2022 season is expected to be their biggest and best yet. Follow them on Facebook for updates on dates, tickets, and more.

If you’ve ever wanted to experience a “real” haunted house, look no further than Haunted Graham Mansion, located just outside of Wytheville in Max Meadows, Virginia. This historic mansion was officially deemed haunted by the SyFy Channel’s Ghost Hunters and has become one of the area’s haunt-season hot spots. You can experience a spook-filled time at the mansion every Friday and Saturday night from September 30th through October 29th.

Another unique, can’t-miss experience is Dinner with a Ghost at the 1870 Octagon Mansion History Museum, which is known for having active paranormal activity. The evening begins with champagne and a delicious 4-course, chef-prepared gourmet meal. Guests then take part in a fascinating two-hour paranormal investigation, complete with digital audio recorders, alarms, REM-pods, motion detectors, K-2 Meters, and DVR cameras.

Scenic Drives to Soak up the Fall Foliage

Easily one of the best parts of the fall season in Wytheville is the brilliantly colored Blue Ridge Mountains, with rich waves of red, orange, and yellow hues. Paired with the cool, crisp autumn air, and the only thing that could be better is a scenic drive to take it all in.

Bring your motorcycle or travel by car for a leisurely ride taking in the stunning fall scenery along the winding loops of the Claw of the Dragon Motorcycle Trail and the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway.

One of the most popular bike rides in the South among motorcycle enthusiasts, the 200-mile Claw of the Dragon traverses southwest Virginia’s captivating back roads, looping through the Blue Ridge Mountains, and takes visitors to parts of seven different Virginia counties. The trail’s epicenter is located in none other than picturesque Wytheville.

No matter what season you’re visiting Wytheville, a drive along the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway—“America’s Favorite Drive”—is a must. However, the fall season offers an unmatched beauty of the most breathtaking scenery found along the 500-mile parkway that follows the majestic Appalachian Mountains, all the way from Shenandoah National Park in the northern Shenandoah Valley of Virginia to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina.

Downtown Wytheville’s Art Scene

When you’ve had your fill of farm fun, haunted houses, and scenic drives admiring the Virginia fall foliage, slow things down with a stroll in Downtown Wytheville and explore the city’s vibrant art scene.

Formato Fine Arts

Formato Fine Arts on W. Main Street is a women-led art gallery, featuring the works of emerging and established local artists. Stop by there Tuesday through Saturday from 12-5pm to see the wide range of interesting pieces, from paintings, sculptures, and prints, to photography and performance art.

You can purchase pieces from the gallery, as well as a range of eclectic items from the gift shop. For an engaging, hands-on experience, you can take a two-hour painting class and leave with a truly one-of-a-kind trip souvenir to cherish for years to come.

Laurel Creek Pottery

Immerse yourself in the heritage of Appalachia at Laurel Creek Pottery, a pottery studio and folk-art gallery located in a late-1800s log cabin on E. Main Street. Here you’ll not only get a first-hand look at the town’s history but also a chance to enjoy a working, barrel-fired ceramics shop.

The shop is open Monday and Wednesday through Saturday from 11am-6pm. If you visit on Friday between 3–6pm, you’re in for a real treat! You can catch Laurel Creek Pottery’s owner, Laura Abbey, doing a live demonstration of her ceramic creation process.

Laurel Creek hosts events and workshops throughout the year, so be sure to check out their calendar to see if your visit lines up with an upcoming event!

Rose Cottage School of Art

On E. Spring Street, you’ll find a creative paradise known as the Rose Cottage School of Art. This unique organization is an artistic hub, where you can take fine art and music lessons and participate in camps and paint nights, as well as a variety of workshops by visiting artisans.

Check out their Facebook page and website before your visit to Wytheville to see the line-up of upcoming classes, events, camps, and more.

Wytheville’s Theatre Experiences

In addition to an awesome art community, Wytheville is home to unique theatre experiences you won’t soon forget. And with the weather cooling down, local theatres are heating up with a season full of entertainment.

You can look forward to Broadway-style professional productions and four-course plated meals customized to fit the theme of the production at Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre, the only all-musical dinner theater in the state. During the warmer months, the Bier Garten is open for cafe-style dining as well.

Soon, visitors will be able to catch live music and theatrical performances at the historic Millwald Theatre, slated to open later this year. “While a date has not yet been announced, a reopening debut concert is tentatively being planned for the fall,” according to the theatre’s new Executive Director. Follow them on Facebook for the latest updates.

The fall is filled with fun, family-friendly events and activities in Wytheville, VA. Check out our Events Calendar and start planning your trip today!

Wytheville Small Town Fall Town

by deana | Aug 4, 2022 | Blog

Wytheville . . .

Small Town/Fall Town

Although Summer may be coming to a close, it doesn’t mean the fun has to end. In fact, the change of the season brings a new lineup of Fall activities perfect for the entire family. The beautifully colored mountains and homegrown attractions in Wytheville make for an ideal autumn getaway or romantic escape.

Scenic backroads offer a beautiful alternative to the hustle-bustle of the interstates and a glimpse at unique businesses along the way. Local farms dressed in the beauty of harvest time as fields become blanketed with the orange of pumpkins. Many attractions offer music and crafts in the fall season as well as some spooky activities for all ages. This Fall round up will help you to make the most of peak leaf season and discover Wytheville… There’s Only One!

Mountain Top Music at Big Walker Lookout:

A better setting for live music (and photos) does not exist in the Fall. Big Walker Lookout, perched atop Big Walker Mountain, is Virginia’s oldest privately owned attraction and quintessential roadside attraction. The old country store offers the wares of regional artisans, authors, and musicians, as well as locally made preserves and Homestead Creamery ice cream which is not to be missed. The 100-foot observation tower provides a 360 degree panorama of the splendor of Autumn in the mountains where only the birds see more. As a Crooked Road affiliate venue, Mountain Top Music occurs every weekend from May through October. Live regional music with a breathtaking backdrop is a must for Fall fun.

Leaf it all behind and get Outside:

The natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains is spectacular anytime of year but the changing of the season adds a special element when experienced first-hand. Crystal Springs Recreation Area is a perfect choice for an immersive hike just minutes from Downtown Wytheville. CSRA includes multiple trails of varying difficulty and length on 1,800 acres of town-owned property. Primitive camp sites, mountain biking, and a bike terrain park are additional CSRA features. The New River Trail State Park is ranked in the top five Virginia State Parks each year and with good reason. This 57-mile rails-to-trails park offers biking, camping, horseback riding, fishing, and canoeing adventures perfect for the whole family set against the backdrop of the majestic New River.

Fall on the Farms:

Richdale Farm in Wytheville knows how to put the fun in agritourism. During the family farm’s Fall on the Farm festival, you have a variety of activities to choose from. During your visit you can shoot apples at a target with an apple launcher or play pumpkin checkers while the little ones get lost in a straw bale maze and corn pit, the farm even has human-size rat wheels you can race friends and family in. While picking pumpkins may be the initial reason families stop by, the hillside slide is the farm’s most popular activity with the recent addition of the underground portion. The corn maze is another favorite that can be experienced during the day or after dark with the aide of a flashlight. Williams Orchard, another great stop on the fall farms tour, has been welcoming guests for over 70 years. This family-owned operation has a wide variety of produce from July until October ranging from apples and corn to pumpkins and gourds. The Fall Festival features “pick your own pumpkins”, corn maze, tractor drawn hayrides, children’s mini maze, apple launcher, pumpkin chunker and many other fun children’s activities! This event takes place every weekend in October.

Haunted Happenings:

This list wouldn’t be complete without a little scare factor to compliment spooky season and The 1870 Octagon Mansion History Museum is the perfect place to ease you in. Most famous for the massive Civil War artifact collection housed inside, the mansion has an active paranormal scene as well. When a team of paranormal investigators are not on site, you can pull up a chair during Dinner with a Ghost and meet the other “dinner guests” for yourself… if you’re brave enough. Another historic mansion with a sordid past is the Haunted Graham Mansion. Always a commanding presence, the mansion is said to still hold some horrible secrets. With these secrets come unsettled spirits from the past trying to find rest from their dark memories. Take an after dark tour to uncover more secrets from the past. For the thrill seeker in the group, Helheim Haunted Attraction is the nail in the proverbial coffin. This award-winning, spine tingling, post-apocalyptic maze of hallways and rooms is sure to have your heart rate elevated, even before you make it inside.

Leaves and Lagers:

After an amazing hike, day on the farm or hair-raising paranormal experience, the adults in the group will probably need a drink of some kind and we’ve got you covered. The wine connoisseurs will want to head to West Wind Farm Vineyard & Winery. This fourth-generation family farm specializes in small batch, hand-crafted wines from grapes grown in the onsite vineyard. The tasting room is also a shopper’s paradise featuring gifts, gourmet snacks, and unique home décor. Craft beer lovers will find their spot at one of downtown Wytheville’s breweries. 7 Dogs Brewpub features a full-service restaurant with delicious pub-style fare to compliment their wide array of craft beers. Seven Sisters Brewery hosts a revolving schedule of food trucks to pair with the craft beers on tap. Both breweries are family and dog friendly with outdoor spaces, games and live events featuring music and trivia.

Where to Stay:

These homegrown attractions are joined by unique lodging options in Wytheville. The Bolling Wilson Hotel is part of the Ascend Hotel Collection and offers 30 luxurious guest rooms, Graze on Main restaurant and a rooftop lounge. Nearby, the Trinkle Mansion Bed and Breakfast, was named in the top 10 in the country in 2019 by Trip Advisor. This beautiful historic home features four guest rooms and a garden cottage. For a more rustic stay, one of the many nearby cabin and cottage rentals is the perfect solution. Wytheville offers multiple name brand accommodation options at every price point, for a full list of local lodging options, check the visitwytheville accommodations pages.

The Ultimate Blue Ridge Mountains Getaway: Outdoor Adventures & Family Fun in Wytheville, Virginia

by deana | Jul 11, 2022 | Blog, Uncategorized

The Ultimate Blue Ridge Mountains Getaway: Outdoor Adventures & Family Fun in Wytheville, Virginia

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life with a visit to Wytheville, Virginia, where you’ll find yourself lost in the moments, not the crowd. You’re in for a memory-filled family vacation when you discover this small town with a big personality.

Tucked away in the Blue Ridge Mountains where Interstates 77 and 81 meet, Wytheville is rich in history and brimming with activities for every age and type of adventurer. From hiking, biking, and water activities to historic museums, beautiful gardens, and unique shops, family fun awaits at every turn.

Start planning your next vacation to Virginia’s hidden gem and create a custom itinerary for your family with the favorites to follow.

Wytheville, Virginia’s Outdoor Scene

Wytheville is all about experiencing the natural beauty of southern Virginia—the majestic mountains, the glimmering waters, and the endless acres of lush, rolling hills. During your stay, there are countless outdoor attractions and activities that are must-sees and dos for your family.

Crystal Springs View Wytheville - things to do in wytheville va

Crystal Springs Recreation Area

One of those can’t-miss hot spots is Crystal Springs Recreation Area, an 1,800-acre park where hiking, mountain biking, and backpacking adventures abound.

For a truly immersive experience, embark on a guided hike to see the most scenic sites and learn about the native flora and fauna. The trail system includes informational signs, and children love the interactive Kids in Parks Track Trail virtual program.

Whichever adventure you choose, don’t forget to pack a lunch so you can enjoy a hearty meal at one of the park’s picturesque picnic spots!

Big Walker Lookout

a view of the mountains in wytheville va

Also among the area’s top attractions is Jefferson National Forest and Big Walker Mountain. Atop this grand mountain you will find the oldest—and highest—scenic attraction in Virginia, standing at an elevation of 3,405 feet: the Big Walker Lookout.

This panoramic lookout is part of the Virginia Birding Trail and offers stunning views of surrounding mountains and nearby farmland. Take it all in from a bird’s-eye view from the 100-foot lookout tower and swinging bridge.

Don’t let your visit end without stopping by BW Country Store, a staple of Big Walker Mountain for nearly 75 years. This quaint store features handmade goods by local artisans, live music from local musicians, book signings from local authors, and historic demonstrations of lye soapmaking, apple butter cooking, and blacksmithing.

New River Trail State Park

Biking and Hiking in Virginia - New River Trail Bike in Wytheville

You’ll have a hard time forgetting the memories you make at New River Trail State Park! This 1,200-acre park and 57-mile trail system is situated along an abandoned historic railroad right-of-way that runs parallel to the historic New River—the world’s second oldest river—for 39 miles and passes through four counties.

New River Trail State Park offers the full gamut of outdoor fun: hiking, biking, horseback riding, boating, paddling, fishing, and camping.

Blaze the mild terrain of New River Trail, ideal for visitors of all ages for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Take your biking adventure to the next level at the Hoover Mountain Biking Area. Set sail by boat, canoe, or kayak at Foster Falls. When you’re tuckered out and ready for some R&R, set up camp at one of the primitive campsites.

Fishing Fun in Wytheville and Wythe County

Fishing is a time-honored family-bonding activity, and there’s no better destination to reel in fun and make lifelong memories than southwest Virginia’s Wytheville and Wythe County! The area’s clear, sparkling waterways make fishing one of the most popular activities for visitors and locals alike.

Wythe County is teeming with an abundance of lakes and streams perfect for casting a line, including:

New River—a historic broad river with deep pools, beautiful bluffs, shoals, scattered islands, and rocky ledges, boasting numerous easy access points and boat launches.

Cripple Creek—where trophy-size trout await (Note: there is a fee to fish, and reservations are required.).

Dry Run Creek—a forked creek in Jefferson National Forest that is home to the illusive Brook trout, as well as large rainbow and brown trout.

Venrick Run—a small mountain stream located at Crystal Springs Recreation Area that is brimming with trout.

Rural Retreat Lake—a 90-acre lake with boating and shoreline fishing access that is filled with a wide variety of fish, including muskellunge (musky), largemouth bass, hybrid striped bass, northern pike, sunfish, channel catfish, and crappy.

Stocked trout pond at Rural Retreat Lake—a little pond sitting adjacent to Rural Retreat Lake that is stocked seasonally with trout.

Hale Lake—a small reservoir in the National Jefferson Forest that’s stocked seasonally with trout.

Cripple Creek

Rural Retreat Lake

Rainbow Trout

Make your fishing adventure even more enriching with a full-service guide on a half-day, full-day, or overnight fishing trip!

Fort Chiswell Animal Park

Aside from the native wildlife you are sure to see while spending time outdoors, you can get up close and personal with animals from six different continents at Fort Chiswell Animal Park, the largest zoo in southwest Virginia, spanning 45 acres.

Fort Chiswell offers an all-around interactive experience. 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 to Explore in Wytheville, VA

Even if you’re not a history buff, part of the fun of visiting a destination is immersing yourself in the local history and learning about the places and people that make it so special. Soak up Wytheville’s rich history at the many historic sites and museums in town.

Thomas J. Boyd Museum

A good place to start is the Thomas J. Boyd Museum, which showcases the fascinating history of Wythe County. Here, you’ll find Wytheville’s first fire truck from the 1850s, early farming equipment, Civil War displays, historic photos of the town’s earliest schools and churches, artifacts from the mining industry, and the illuminating Summer Without Children exhibit, which details the impact the 1950 Polio epidemic had on Wytheville.

Wytheville Boyd Museum - things to do in wytheville va

Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum

Explore the birthplace and childhood home of First Lady Edith Bolling Wilson, a descendant of Pocahontas and the only Appalachian-born First Lady. This unique museum is one of just eight historic sites across the country dedicated to a First Lady, and highlights the important role First Lady Wilson played during World War I.

Visit the African-American Heritage Museum to view photos, stories, and artifacts highlighting the colorful story of African-American education in Wythe County dating back to the late-1800s. Admission is free, but donations are welcome.

Experience a day in the life of the area’s early Native Americans with a trip to Wolf Creek Indian Village & Museum. Tour guides are on site to show you around the village and teach you about the captivating history of the Wolf Creek Indians that dates back as far as the 1500s.

Wytheville’s Historic Shot Tower

Last, but certainly not least, your Wytheville visit would be amiss if you did not stop to explore the Historic Shot Tower overlooking New River that was built more than two centuries ago to make ammunition for the firearms of the early settlers.

Fresh-Air Fun at Wytheville, VA’s Farms and Gardens

One of the best ways to experience Wytheville’s breathtakingly beautiful landscape is at local farms, gardens, orchards, vineyards, and wineries.

The whole family will have a field day at Beagle Ridge Herb Farm, a premiere lavender farm in southwest Virginia spanning more than four miles. Here you’ll find a multitude of lush display gardens filled with not only lavender but also an array of herb and flowers.

Beagle Ridge is also home to southwest VA’s only walk-through butterfly house, all aflutter with 32 butterfly species. Before leaving to embark on your next Wytheville adventure, be sure to stop by the farm’s new outdoor café, featuring pizza ovens for DIY pizzas, topped with herbs of your choosing from the gardens.

The summer months are perfect for checking out Henley Mountain Berry Farm, a go-to for u-pick blueberries and a variety of homemade, artisanal blueberry goods. The farm is part of the Mountain Crossroads Artisan Trail in Wythe County and a member of Round the Mountain Artisan Network in Southwest Virginia.

For more farm-fresh goodies, head over to Williams Orchard, a family-owned-and-operated Wytheville farm that has served visitors for more than 70 years. Here you’ll find a broad range of picks, from apples and corn to pumpkins and gourds.

Come fall, the festivities kick into high gear for the annual Pumpkin Festival, featuring u-pick pumpkins and kids’ activities every weekend in October, including a corn maze, tractor drawn hayrides, children’s mini maze, and more.

The wine connoisseur in your crew will love West Wind Farm Vineyard & Winery, located on a fourth-generation homestead just minutes from New River. This hot spot not only serves up a remarkable wine selection, but also a variety of gourmet snacks, soaps, candles, home gifts, and more from local artisans.

Beagle Ridge Herb Farm – Butterfly House

Williams Orchard

West Wind Farm Vineyard & Winery

Shopping, Dining, and Family Fun in Wytheville, VA

After taking in the natural beauty and vibrant history of Wytheville and Wythe County, slow things down a bit with some shopping, local food, and classic family fun.

Search for the perfect trip souvenir at Wytheville’s charming shops, from boutiques and antique shops to art galleries, jewelry stores, and farmers markets. Shop ‘til you drop, and then make a beeline for Wytheville’s eateries to savor the local flavor and fuel up for more family-filled fun.

Wytheville boasts a tasty array of dining options with something for every palate—homemade country fix’ns and world-famous hotdogs, Italian cuisine and award-winning Southern cuisine, romantic rooftop dining, and everything in between.

Things to do in Wytheville - Farmers Daughter

Wytheville Log House - restaurans in wytheville va

Whdt Golden Oldies - restaurants in wytheville va

For dinner and a show, head over to Virginia’s only all-musical dinner theater, Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre. Indulge in a delicious, four-course meal while taking in a show-stopping, Broadway-style musical at this German-themed gem.

Don’t forget to also check out Cross Roads Social House, a family entertainment center with bowling, 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!

Lodging: Find the Perfect Place to Stay in Wytheville, VA

Ready to start planning your family getaway to Wytheville, VA? The first step is finding a place to rest your head.

Whether you’re looking for a charming B&B, a hotel with every amenity, a rustic cabin, or even a cozy, secluded Airstream, Wytheville has just the spot for you and your crew!

If you want to get closer to the stunning nature that makes Wytheville unique, consider staying at one of our campgrounds and RV parks. Take your pick of primitive campsites, deluxe cabins, RV sites.

Wytheville’s KOA Holiday is especially great for kiddos. It offers not only a full range of camping options but also mini golf, a spacious pool with slides, and an on-site Bowling and Family Fun Center featuring an indoor batting cage, arcade games, and more. Take the camping fun to the next level with a stay in the new Conestoga covered wagon!

No matter which accommodation you choose, you will be met with smiling faces and a relaxing atmosphere.

Stony Fork Campground

Vintage Airstream Inn

KOA Holiday

Get your free Visitors Guide to map out an epic trip to Wytheville, Virginia. We look forward to welcoming you soon!

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

Get the scoop on upcoming events to experience on your family vacation to Wytheville.

Small Virginia Town Offers Charm, History, Recreation or Relaxation to Guests

by deana | May 14, 2021 | Blog

SMALL VIRGINIA TOWN OFFERS CHARM, HISTORY, RECREATION OR RELAXATION TO GUESTS

by Connie Pearson, ThereGoesConnie.com

Are you longing for a short break from your usual routine, perhaps some scenic beauty away from crowds? May I suggest the tiny but fascinating town of Wytheville, Virginia? This town of fewer than 10,000 will surprise you with its number of attractions. You can stay as busy or relaxed as you choose.

People often make their way to Wytheville because of the outdoor recreation opportunities. For hiking and biking, check out Big Walker Mountain Trail, New River State Park or Crystal Springs Recreation Area. During the right seasons, you might want to try your luck catching some of the rainbow or brown trout known to thrive in the area.

Big Walker Lookout is billed as Virginia’s oldest privately owned scenic attraction. In addition to the 100-foot observation tower, you’ll also find a store full of souvenirs, crafts and canned goods. The store also serves Homestead Creamery ice cream, and the lemon crunch flavor is something special.

If you visit with children, consider a few hours at Cobb Hill Alpaca Farm or Fort Chiswell Animal Park. In the spring, Beagle Ridge Herb Farm is wonderful. The lavender farm and butterfly house are great places to learn about plants and living things of all kinds. For history buffs, check out the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum, dedicated to the former first lady; the Thomas J. Boyd Museum and the Haller-Gibboney Rock House Museum, all in the downtown area.

Wytheville is home to Virginia’s smallest church, where the doors are always open. It is nondenominational and holds eight.

Take your time to stroll both sides of Main Street, where you can browse a wide variety of specialty shops and boutiques.

Plenty of lodging options

At the junction of interstates, you’ll find several hotel chains; but my highest recommendation goes to the beautiful boutique hotel in the center of town, the Bolling Wilson Hotel. There are only 30 guest rooms, so book as early as possible.

Each room and the theme of the entire décor is a tribute to Wilson. Real orchids and paintings of
orchids are throughout.

According to stories, President Woodrow Wilson sent her a bouquet of orchids every day of their courtship. Be sure to find the town’s 100-foot mural depicting her entire life.

Graze on Main is the restaurant inside the Bolling Wilson Hotel. It is so named because the president and first lady kept a flock of sheep on the White House lawn during World War I so the regular grounds-keepers could work elsewhere supporting the war effort.

The wool from the sheep was auctioned off, with proceeds also going to war expenses. Don’t miss the carrot cake, the dessert chosen by the Wilsons for their wedding cake.

Dining options

Across the street from the hotel and next door to the Wilson Birthplace Museum, you’ll find Skeeter’s World Famous Hot Dogs. It has been in business since 1925, and its hot dogs made the list of “best in America” according to Rachel Ray Magazine.

“The Works,” a bargain at less than $3, comes with cheese, slaw, mustard, onions and chili.

A few blocks down Main Street you’ll find 1776 Log House Restaurant. The original part of the building was indeed built in 1776 by a man who had to leave the project to fight in the Revolutionary War. More was added in 1804, and the Civil War factors into its history too.

You’ll wish the walls could tell the tales of those who occupied the rooms in the past, but even more you’ll want to dive into the homemade loaf of fresh-baked bread brought to your table as a starter. Don’t miss the corn fritters with honey or the stuffed squash.

Dinner Theatre

Wytheville has a generous share of chain restaurants, too, so you won’t go hungry, but may I also suggest a meal and entertainment combination?

The musical productions at Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre are always popular, so be sure to book your tickets early. They have both matinee and evening performances after a four-course meal.

This summer’s shows include “Under the Boardwalk” through June 27 and the gospel revue, “Oh, Happy Day!” (July 1–Aug. 29).

Wytheville has the distinction of the being the only town in the world with that name. It embraces its uniqueness, and I found it to be a friendly and fascinating place to visit.

Beagle Ridge Herb Farm celebrates 20 years in Wytheville

by deana | Mar 26, 2021 | Blog

Beagle Ridge Herb Farm celebrates 20 years in Wytheville

A Unique Attraction for a Unique Southwest Virginia Destination

by Colette Boehm, Laurie Rowe Communications

WYTHEVILLE, VA—March 2021—Known for its “homegrown” attractions, Wytheville, Virginia has a lineup of one-of-a-kind, locally owned attractions that set it apart from other destinations. Beginning this spring Beagle Ridge Herb Farm and Environmental Education Center (1934 Matney Flats Road, Wytheville, Virginia 24382, 276-621-4511) will take center stage among them as it invites visitors to celebrate its 20th anniversary with unique events, tours and herbal products.

This Southwest Virginia town (pronounced “withville”) is located at the crossroads of Interstates I-77 and I-81, two hours north of Charlotte, North Carolina. Its location, set amid the mountains and rolling valleys of the Blue Ridge Mountain range, is the perfect home for Beagle Ridge Farm. Over the years its 210 acres have been filled with gardens of lavender and herbs, a butterfly house, as well as nature trails.

In its 20 years of operation, owners Ellen and Gregg Reynolds have established the property as Southwest Virginia’s premier lavender farm. It features 14 themed display gardens as well as the Flying Flowers butterfly house to showcase its herb and perennial collections. It’s the only one of its kind in the region.

Things to do in Wytheville - Beagle Ridge Lavender

“If you would have told me in 2001 when we opened, that we would have grown to be the business I see before me,” said Ellen Reynolds, “I would have been skeptical. As we look forward to our spring opening on May 1st, we are so excited that 2021 will be our 20th anniversary. It seems like a blur but here we are, 20 years older, hopefully wiser and with so many new friends who have shared their love of herbs, lavender and butterflies with us on our journey. We look forward,” she added, “to an even bigger 20th season. Lots of new additions so stay tuned.”

The Reynolds have special events planned throughout the year, beginning in April. They offer a two-day Lavender Academy for those who want to delve into the details of choosing, growing, pruning and harvesting lavender. Other classes focus on topics ranging from growing herbs and pollinator gardens to butterfly awareness and wreath making to distilling essential oils. They also offer Lick Mountain Excursions, guided tours through the property’s undeveloped wilderness, as well as hiking along the remote trails.

West Wind Farm Vineyard and Winery (180 West Wind Dr., Max Meadows, VA, 24360) is a fourth-generation homestead in Southwest Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains with roots dating back more than a century. Today the family makes small-batch, hand-tended wines and welcomes guests to enjoy the wines and the views from their cozy tasting room.

Many choose to explore the culture and spirit of Wytheville throughout its charming downtown. Classic downtown streets are lined with locally owned businesses and one-of-a-kind shops. From home-town-favorite specialty shops to local brew pubs, Wytheville is a place like no other. There are museums to explore days gone by and unique lodging options for enjoying the night to come. For a delightful diversion just off the Blue Ridge Parkway, Wytheville is the perfect spot to enjoy an authentic Southwest Virginia experience.

Things to do in Wytheville - Beagle Ridge

This unique attraction is just one of many that make Wytheville a destination like no other. Natural areas like Crystal Springs Recreation Area (723 Pump Hollow Road, Wytheville, Virginia 24382) with its 1,800 acres of preserved land and the 58 mile long New River Trail, one of America’s top-ranked rails-to-trails routes, offer more ways to enjoy the outdoors. And Big Walker Lookout (8711 Stoney Fork Rd, Wytheville, Virginia 24382, 276-663-4016) is the oldest – now celebrating its 75^th year – and highest private attraction in Virginia. At an elevation of 3,405 feet, Big Walker Lookout offers a spectacular view of the Appalachian Mountains.

Downtown Wytheville has a whole host of one-of-a-kind spots, too, including five historic museums. Visitors can begin planning their journey at visitwytheville.com. Beagle Ridge and a whole host of homegrown attractions are waiting in one-of-a-kind Wytheville.

ABOUT WYTHEVILLE

There’s only one Wytheville. It’s true, no other town in the world shares this name. But with one visit, guests discover that its name is not the only thing making this destination special. Situated at the crossroads of two major Interstates (I-77 and I-81) this is so much more than a stopover location. With a classic downtown chock-full of gems, Wytheville offers unique lodging, dining and entertainment options. Nearby, there are trails for hikers and cyclists as well as for those who love birding and byways. Add a bundle of homegrown attractions, and you’ve got a must-see destination in Wytheville. There’s only one!

A Mountain Getaway

by deana | Feb 19, 2021 | Blog

A Mountain Getaway in Wytheville, Virginia

Three Day Itinerary

Discover why this charming mountain town is unique in more ways than just its name.

Day 1

Morning

Begin your day with a spectacular view “where only the birds see more” at Big Walker Lookout, Virginia’s oldest and highest privately-owned attraction. Perched atop Big Walker Mountain at an elevation of 3,045 feet, the beautiful panoramic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains is only enhanced by climbing the 100-foot observation tower, where on a clear day you can see five states. Inside the Country Store, browse the creations of over 25 local artisans and sample hand-dipped ice cream, homemade fudge, jams and relishes.

Lunch

7 Dogs Brewpub is a local hot spot that not only brews up delectable craft beers but also offers a full pub-style menu in a family- friendly atmosphere. The outdoor beer garden is full of games and swings and of course, with a name like 7 Dogs, your four-legged friends are more than welcome. Evenings offer a variety of live music and trivia style contests.

Afternoon

Get back to nature at Crystal Springs Recreation Area, located just three miles from downtown. Hikers and mountain bikers can choose their own adventure in this 1800-acre preserve with trails ranging in length and difficulty. Bikers can also test their skills at the new mountain bike terrain park with more than a dozen features such as balance beams, a teeter totter and a wooden berm wall. Just over the ridge is Beagle Ridge Herb Farm, Southwest Virginia’s premiere lavender farm. Stroll 14 themed display gardens, enjoy tea on the patio or roam through Flying Flowers, the walk-through butterfly house.

Evening

Cap off your day with dinner and a show at Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre. This year- round entertainment venue serves up a delicious four-course plated meal before you sit back and enjoy a professional Broadway-style musical. A post show nightcap at the Matterhorn Restaurant, inside the theatre, is the perfect encore.

Day 2

Morning

Discover how it all began for this charming mountain town at the Thomas J. Boyd Museum. Named for the Father of Wytheville, this museum features exhibits on the area’s natural resources, the heritage of local decorative arts and their craftsmen and “The Summer Without Children”, how the Polio epidemic of 1950 impacted this small town. Just down the block, take a trip to the White House at the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum. One of only eight sites in the country dedicated to a first lady, this museum chronicles the life of the only Appalachian-born First Lady and how she would come to be known as the first female president.

Lunch

Locals flock to Chau’s Corner Bakery, a modest storefront on the outside with the most eclectic and mouthwatering menu inside. Drawing on her heritage and different places she’s lived, at this no-frills eatery Chau single- handedly prepares authentic Vietnamese dishes as well as Cajun etouffee and Texas-style tamales with homemade baked goods available daily.

Afternoon

Step back in time with Wytheville’s Historic Walking Tour. This self-guided experience leads you on a journey throughout the town’s interesting history. Seven “loops” include the architectural influences of historic homes, buildings and sacred places both present and absent. Interesting stories, intriguing facts and even tragic tales are woven to tell the story of what shaped Wytheville. The tour winds through beautiful neighborhoods, along historic Church Street and throughout Downtown Wytheville.

Evening

The history lesson continues with a dining experience like no other at the Log House 1776 Restaurant. Fine dining in an eighteenth-century atmosphere is on the menu at this locally owned treasure. The menu is full of must-taste experiences. Christopher’s Lounge serves craft cocktails and the multiple gift shops within the block of buildings are overflowing with unique finds. Be sure to take a stroll through the gardens before dinner and walk among the rabbits and doves.

Day 3

Morning

Despite its name, the New River is one of the oldest rivers in the world, second only to the Nile. Like the Nile, it flows from South to North and is located adjacent to New River Trail State Park. This 57- mile rails-to-trails park weaves alongside the New River to the delight of bikers, horseback riders, canoers, kayakers and fishermen. Camping, bikes and canoe rentals are available on site. The Historic Shot Tower imparts to park goers the history of the surrounding lead mines and how its bounty was transformed into ammunition before modern technology.

Lunch

Just minutes from New River Trail is West Wind Farm Vineyard & Winery, situated on a fourth- generation family farm. Sample the family crafted wines then choose your favorite to compliment a create-your-own charcuterie board made with local cheeses, Virginia peanuts and gourmet pickled veggies from the tasting room shop. The patio, surrounded by beautiful rolling hills, is the perfect spot to drink in your refreshments. The tasting room at West Wind Farm is also a shopper’s paradise, filled with an array of soaps, candles, home décor, and local artisan creations.

Afternoon

Take a ride on the wild side at Fort Chiswell Animal Park. This safari attraction will put you up close and personal with animals from six continents. The windowless bus winds through the outback while Puff, the camel pops his head in for a treat. The wildebeests, zebras, ostriches and water buffalo don’t miss their chance for a nibble of your zoo chow either. Cody, the bison is a crowd favorite, as is Cheeto, the giraffe. See if you’re tall enough to feed him lettuce from your hand.

Evening

A trip though the outback is sure to inspire an international appetite. Choose from one of Wytheville’s many international cuisine options including Chinese, Greek, Mexican, Italian, German or Japanese. Head back downtown to relax and take in some live music and great craft beer at one of the local breweries.