Wytheville Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, best things to do, and local culture and customs of Wytheville in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Wytheville

Nestled in the southwestern region of Virginia, Wytheville is a charming town with a rich history and breathtaking natural beauty. It boasts a range of attractions, from the culturally significant to the scenic, that will appeal to visitors of all ages and interests.

List of Places to Visit in Wytheville

Here’s a list of must-visit destinations in Wytheville:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Haller-Gibboney Rock House Museum - A beautifully-preserved 1823 house that showcases life in Wytheville during the 19th century.
  • Thomas J. Boyd Museum - An extensive collection of artifacts dating back to the early days of Wytheville.
  • Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum - The birthplace of Edith Bolling Wilson, the wife of former President Woodrow Wilson.

Natural Attractions of Wytheville: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • New River Trail State Park - A scenic hiking and biking trail that winds along the New River, perfect for nature lovers.
  • Big Walker Lookout - A 100-foot observation tower that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Wolf Creek Indian Village and Museum - A reconstructed Native American village that’s perfect for a day trip with the family.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wytheville

Wytheville offers many trails that are suited for hikers and bikers of all skill levels. Some of the best routes include:

  • New River Trail State Park
  • Appalachian Trail
  • Big Walker Lookout

Best Things to Do in Wytheville: Activities and Tours

Some of the best activities and tours in Wytheville include:

  • Wytheville Ghost Tour - A spooky tour that takes visitors on a tour of the town’s most haunted sites.
  • Blue Ridge Vineyard Wine Tasting - A tasting tour that showcases the best wines and vineyards in the region.
  • Wytheville Farmer’s Market - A bustling market that offers fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wytheville

Here’s a week-long itinerary that will show you the best of Wytheville:

Day Activity
Monday Explore the Haller-Gibboney Rock House Museum
Tuesday Hike along the New River Trail State Park
Wednesday Take a day trip to Wolf Creek Indian Village and Museum
Thursday Visit the Thomas J. Boyd Museum
Friday Go on the Wytheville Ghost Tour
Saturday Do a wine tasting tour at the Blue Ridge Vineyard
Sunday Shop at the Wytheville Farmer’s Market

Food and Drink Scene of Wytheville

Wytheville has a vibrant food and drink scene, which means visitors will have plenty of options to enjoy the local cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Buttermilk Fried Chicken - A Southern classic that’s served in most local restaurants.
  • Brunswick Stew - A hearty stew that’s made from chicken, beef, and vegetables.
  • Blackberry cobbler - A sweet and tart dessert that’s made from locally grown blackberries.

Local Beverages

  • Virginia cider - Made from locally sourced apples, Virginia cider is a refreshing drink that’s perfect for a hot summer day.
  • Virginia wine - The Blue Ridge Mountains provide the ideal location for grape growing, and the region produces some of the best wines in the country.
  • Virginia craft beer - Wytheville is home to several craft breweries that produce unique and delicious beers.

Where to Stay in Wytheville: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Wytheville offers a range of accommodation options to suit every traveler’s needs. Some of the best options include:

  • Bolling Wilson Hotel - A beautifully restored historic hotel that’s located in the heart of downtown Wytheville.
  • Hampton Inn Wytheville - A modern hotel that offers comfortable rooms and all the amenities of a chain hotel.
  • The Inn at West End - A charming bed and breakfast that offers cozy rooms and a homey atmosphere.

What to Buy in Wytheville: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some souvenirs and local products that visitors should consider bringing home:

  • Artisanal soaps and candles from Wytheville Mercantile
  • Hand-made pottery and ceramics from Brush Creek Farms
  • Locally produced honey from The Happy Hickory

Local Culture and Customs of Wytheville

Wytheville has a strong sense of community and a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can experience this first-hand by taking part in local festivals like the Chautauqua Festival and the Wytheville Labor Day Picnic and Bluegrass Festival. Additionally, the town’s many historic sites and museums offer a glimpse into the past and the town’s fascinating history.

Best Time to Visit Wytheville

Wytheville is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is in the fall when the leaves change colors. Additionally, the town hosts several festivals in the summer and fall, which are always a hit with visitors. Winter can bring snow, making for a winter wonderland, but some of the outdoor activities and trails may be inaccessible during this time. Spring is beautiful, but can also bring rain.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wytheville

Do:

  • Be respectful of the town’s history and local customs.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Take part in local festivals and events.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage historic sites and buildings.
  • Disrespect local residents.
  • Ignore safety precautions when enjoying outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Wytheville

Wytheville is a safe town, but visitors should exercise caution, especially when enjoying outdoor activities. Always wear proper gear and footwear, and be aware of your surroundings.

Health in Wytheville

Wytheville is a healthy community, but visitors should be mindful of their personal health. Always bring necessary medication or medical equipment. Drinking enough water if hiking and wearing sunscreen as needed is also important.

Getting to Wytheville: Transportation Options and Logistics

Wytheville is best accessed by car, as the region offers stunning drives with changing leaves during fall. That said, there are a few options for reaching Wytheville:

Airports Near Wytheville

  • Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA)
  • Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
  • Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU)

Bus Stations Near Wytheville

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Wytheville

Other Options

  • Amtrak Train Station in nearby Bluefield, WV

How to Get Around in Wytheville

Wytheville is a small town and can easily be traveled by foot or bike. If a car is needed, there are car rental agencies located in the town, including Enterprise and Budget.

Where to Go Next from Wytheville: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to continue exploring the region, there are a few nearby destinations worth checking out:

  • Blue Ridge Parkway - A scenic drive that offers gorgeous views of the Appalachian Mountains.
  • Blueridge Highland - A beautiful area, home to local vineyards and orchards, and perfect for a weekend getaway.
  • Roanoke - A vibrant city that’s located about an hour and a half away from Wytheville.

Conclusion

Wytheville offers visitors a unique blend of history, nature, and adventure. Whether you’re looking to explore the town’s rich cultural heritage or enjoy the great outdoors, Wytheville has something for everyone.