Wytheville combines historic charm with a beautiful setting in Southwest Virginia. Explore the postcard-perfect downtown district, visit Civil War battle sites and check out family-friendly attractions like an animal park and raceway. For outdoor enthusiasts, the rugged mountains, rolling hills and pristine waterways of Southwest Virginia are at your doorstep.
Things to do in Wytheville
Handsome red-brick buildings from the 18th century line the streets of Downtown Wytheville. Iron lamp posts decorated with flower-filled baskets add to the heritage charm. Stop by the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Museum to learn about the town’s connection to the much-loved First Lady. The African American Heritage Museum occupies a beautifully restored historic schoolhouse and features exhibits on the diverse community in Wytheville.
Enjoy epic views on the Big Walker Mountain National Forest Scenic Byway. The 25-kilometre scenic drive winds through the countryside and past hardwood forests and historic homesteads. Climb the Big Walker Lookout Tower for sweeping vistas over the surrounding mountains, valleys and forests.
Visit local historic sites and learn about the role Wytheville played in the Civil War. The Toland’s Raid Trail takes you past a series of sites where Union and Confederate soldiers once clashed. Historical markers offer more information on each site.
Switch into top gear at the legendary Wythe Raceway. On Saturday nights from April to October, you can see lightning-fast cars race around the dirt track. Most nights feature entertainment like fireworks, motorbike races and live music.
Meet animals from around the world at Fort Chiswell Animal Park. Set on almost 20 hectares, the park is home to zebras, giraffes, monkeys, camels and more. Hand-feed animals from an open-air bus on the safari trail and snap photos with llamas, alpacas and goats at the petting zoo.
Getting around Wytheville
Downtown Wytheville is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The town is in Southwest Virginia, a two-hour drive from Charlotte in North Carolina. Rental cars offer the freedom to visit Wytheville and explore surrounding sights and attractions at your own pace. Charlotte Douglas International Airport is a 2.5-hour drive away.