Things to do in Wytheville

The bright and quirky landmark at the Cove Road overpass personifies this history-rich town that doesn't take itself too seriously. Take advantage of eclectic activities in Wytheville that range from relaxing to heart-pounding, all within the city's 14 square miles. Pack those bags and enjoy. Your family fun adventure to one of Virginia’s most loved tourist destinations is finally here!

1. A Day at the Museums

Start your vacation learning all about Wytheville's colorful and sometimes eccentric history. An all-in-one ticket purchased through the Town of Wytheville Department of Museums gets you into a trio of fun. Start at the Great Lakes to Florida Highway Museum, an archaic gas station where you'll find petroliana collectibles commemorating the days when Route 21 served as the primary passage between Florida and Ohio. Head out to downtown to see the others, like the Haller-Gibboney Rock House Musuem, which is the residence of a former physician who opened his home as an infirmary and school during the Civil War. You'll want to stop and smell the flowers in the garden before heading next door to the Thomas J. Boyd Museum, home of a former mayor.

2. A First Lady's Birthplace and Hot Dog Joint

Check out one of the exhibits at the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum for a fun-filled educational experience. A sign in front of Skeeter's Hot Dogs located on Main Street reveals that Woodrow Wilson's second wife and first lady, Edith Bolling Wilson, was born in the apartment above. Browse through the museum to learn all about this famous figure who met and married the president through a series of connections. You can take tours of the family’s upstairs apartment in the original condition. When you're done, visit the only continually operating storefront in the building. You'll want to try Skeeter's Hot Dogs if you’re a fan of those Virginia red dogs. Condiments include a house-made creamy coleslaw, mild chili, mustard and onions.

3. Interact with the Animals

Fort Chiswell Animal Park is the closest zoo to Wytheville, located within a 15-minute drive away in the nearby town of Max Meadows. Enjoy a mega-awesome safari ride, giving you the chance to interact with water buffalo, zebras and camels; its petting area features llamas, deer and wild goats. You can even purchase a bag of “zoo chow” at the gift store to feed while on the guided excursion or in the petting area.

4. A View From Above

Take in a picture-worthy view of the Jefferson National Forest and the surrounding countryside from a 100-foot tower set above a mountain reaching 3,400 feet above sea level. The Big Walker Lookout attraction is definitely not for anyone with a fear of heights. Wear your most comfy shoes to climb up and down the 10 flights of stairs to its observation deck. If the sky-high view doesn't get your adrenaline pumping, the price of admission also lets you go across an intense swinging bridge at the base of the tower. Want something to remind you of your victory? Check out arts, crafts and souvenirs at the Big Walker Country Store near the entrance to the tower.

5. Have Dinner and a Show

Enjoy a meal while taking in a show at the world-class Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre (170 Malin Dr., Wytheville). Multi-course dinners include appetizers, salads and a selection of sides and meats, and desserts. The theatre also has vegetarian offerings and a special selection for kids. Remember to bring a light jacket or sweater with you, because management keeps the theater a little on the chilly side. While you're waiting for your daytime or evening show to start, explore the grounds and have a cold one at the nearby Matterhorn Lounge and Bier Garten.

6. Sleep in the Arms of History

Enjoy a richly local experience at the historic Bolling Wilson Hotel, located downtown. This hotel seamlessly merges modern accommodations with historic charm that pays homage to Edith Bolling Wilson. Choose from guest rooms on different floors with decor that commemorates various aspects of her life, including bourbon rooms, canary rooms and orchid rooms. Get a good night's sleep on an upgraded queen or king plush mattress, and wake up to views of the charming downtown or Blue Ridge Mountains. The hotel’s restaurant, Graze on Main (170 E. Main St., Wytheville), features new twists on Southern favorites such as shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes and bacon-wrapped meatloaf.

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