Its significance stretches back to the pre-Revolutionary War era, and the town owes its name to George Wythe, a signer of the Declaration of Independence who was known to be a mentor to the young Thomas Jefferson. Later, Wytheville was twice a key battleground in the Civil War, as Union and Confederate Armies battled for control of the area's railroads and supplies. Wytheville is also the hometown of first lady Edith Bolling Wilson, wife of President Woodrow Wilson and America's first Appalachian-born first lady.
You can walk through history in Wytheville on a historic walking tour, or head for the unspoiled beauties of Wytheville's hiking trails. The city is a destination for outdoor recreation, offering hiking, dining, shopping in a charming mountain town. Kids love interacting with animals at Fort Chiswell Animal Park and walking through the butterfly house at Flying Flowers. Big Walker Mountain National Forest Scenic Byway is a favorite for motorcyclists, hikers, and autumn leaf chasers, offering magnificent views of the Blue Ridge Parkway.
If you aren't scared of heights, climb the 100-foot tower on Big Walker Mountain for an unobstructed panoramic view. BW Country Store also sits at the summit, selling sundries and souvenirs. Enjoy the store's delicious homemade butter pecan ice cream on the outdoor picnic tables, and come May through October to experience the artisan or musical events here every weekend. The site is a great rest stop in a day full of site seeing at nearby Jefferson National Forest, the Virginia Birding Trail, or Virginia's Civil War Trails.
Back in Wytheville downtown, you can spend the evening dining, shopping, and strolling. Look out for the town's unofficial mascot downtown — a giant pencil installed over a local office supply store. Americana charm appears everywhere you look in and around Wytheville, from a restored 1920s gas station museum to Wytheville's smallest church, just off highway 77. Step inside for a moment of silence in this tiny but serene roadside chapel. Sit in one of the few mini pews, sign the guestbook, and rest in the outdoor swing.
When are the best times to visit Wytheville, VA?
Wytheville offers plenty to entertain you any time of year. Avid hikers will brave the heights in the winter, but it does get cold due to the higher elevation, so you'll need to gear up if you plan to be in the outdoors in the off-season. Most people visit Wytheville in the warmer months, from spring to autumn. Spring is still chilly, and the leaves and blooms come later due to the mountainous climate, so you may wish to visit in late March through April if you plan to hike or bike.
If you are traveling with kids for spring holidays, check out the Village Egg Hunt around Easter. The Chautauqua Festival draws in literary lovers in June, with a Fourth of July celebration the following month. The area's trails also attract fitness fanatics for the Wolf 5K in April and the New River Trail Challenge and Family Fest in September. The latter's main event is the triathlon, but the rest of the family will enjoy food, music, and activities during this weekend. Fall winds down with a few heritage festival days, flea markets, and haunted mansion events leading into Halloween.
Summertime is the perfect time to visit if you are embarking on a tour of the area's wineries, including West Wind Farm Vineyard and Winery, which offers tasting tours on a scenic hilltop. Enjoy a wine dinner and check their calendar for music events in season. Rural Retreat Winery and Vineyards is also a great option for rainy days, as the facility exhibits local artworks in its two historic buildings.
Reserve a table at Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre any time of year, which boasts a schedule of “all musicals, all the time.” There's always something to do in Wytheville. Just be sure to book your hotel stay with all these events in mind to ensure you get the best rate in advance and secure lodging before hotels completely book.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Wytheville, VA:
Wytheville, VA: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. rate trends by star rating class in Wytheville, VA. Browse these charts to evaluate the most cost effective seasons to stay in Wytheville for any future trips.
What are the best luxury hotels in Wytheville, VA?
4 Star Average Prices: $145.00
The most luxurious hotel in Wytheville, Virginia, is undoubtedly the Bolling Wilson Hotel, an Ascend Collection hotel. Up-to-date yet classically elegant, this hotel welcomes guests with chic design, from the classical Grecian column portico at its entry to lobby sitting areas decorated with orchid tone leathers and artwork. Its guestrooms continue the theme, with designer headboards that feature toile upholstery or leather and nail-head detailing. Velvet side chairs reinforce this boutique hotel's stylish profile.
On the service side, guests want for nothing. Daily housekeeping keeps their space orderly and serene, and guests love the on-site dining options, which include a lounge and restaurant. Be sure to head to the rooftop for exquisite views of the surrounding countryside. You will also be pleasantly surprised that this hotel offers a free daily breakfast, an unexpected value for hotels of this caliber. The Bolling Wilson Hotel will be a stay that you will not forget during your visit to Wytheville, Virginia.
Where are affordable hotels near Wytheville, Virginia?
3 Star Average Prices: $91.43
For the budget-conscious, you won't find a better combination of value and comfort than at Red Roof Inn & Suites Wytheville. The rooms feature updated décor and fittings, evidenced in their modern-style laminate wood flooring and bedding, flat-screen televisions, and complimentary internet.
Guests traveling with pets also love staying at this hotel. Daily housekeeping and free breakfast add to the Red Roof Inn & Suites' appealing amenities. If you need anything during your stay, the 24-hour front desk is always standing by to assist.
