Skip to main content
DESTINATION

Wytheville

Founded in 1790, Wythe County was named for Virginia's first signer of the Declaration of Independence, George Wythe. The town was the site of several Civil War skirmishes, including a July 1863 attack by Union forces under Col. John Toland. The mountain town in the Blue Ridge Highlands later became a summer resort due to its cool climate and “healing waters.” The second wife of President Woodrow Wilson, Edith Bolling, was born in Wytheville, the daughter of a local judge.

The surrounding Jefferson National Forest, Big Walker Mountain Scenic Byway and the historic New River offer vast recreational opportunities including hiking, bicycling, fishing, camping, boating and picnicking. A 100-foot observation tower on top of Big Walker Mountain offers a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. Numerous sites on Virginia's Birding Trails and Virginia's Civil War Trails can also be explored. The Claw of the Dragon Motorcycle Trail offers more than 200 miles of scenic routes to explore.

Visitor Centers

Wytheville Convention & Visitors Bureau 975 Tazewell St. Wytheville, VA 24382. Phone:(276)223-3355 or (877)347-8307

Self-guiding Tours

Walking tours of the town showcase more than 100 historic structures, beginning downtown at Wytheville's Heritage Preservation Center at 115 W. Spiller St. Tours are divided into several themed loops allowing for both short and long walks. Both printed brochures and audio versions of the tours are available from the heritage center and from the convention and visitors bureau. A mobile website also is available, as is a brochure describing a driving tour of local African American historical sites.

Shopping

Along East Lee Highway off I-81/I-77, three antique malls collectively feature more than 300 dealers.

Things to Do

The Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum

Wytheville's Heritage Preservation Center

More Articles

THE VALUE OF TRIP CANVAS

Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas

Get Ideas from the Pros

As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.

Build and Research Your Options

Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.

Book Everything in One Place

From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!

BACK TO TOP