Last Updated on May 24, 2023 by Kimberly Stroh
Nestled in the rolling green mountains of SouthWest Virginia, Wytheville boasts quirky small town charm that is too great to pass on if you’re traveling with kids. It looks like a sleepy town to outsiders, but it’s packed with plenty of attractions to entertain tourists – even the youngest of visitors. With attractions ranging from close animal encounters to the world’s largest pencil, here are the BEST things to do in Wytheville Virginia with kids!
I love the dynamic offerings of Wytheville. The city is located at the convenient crossings of I-81 and I-77, making it the perfect destination for tourists that need a respite from driving.
I have a travel secret for families: you can afford a dreamy family vacation. The key is to find BIG fun in SMALL towns. Smaller destinations cater to families, they’re a great way to avoid crowds and they’re much more cost-effective.
Some of these Wytheville attractions are even free! I recommend a two or three day stay and you’ll be able to squeeze in all of these recommendations below.
Did you know that Wytheville is located only 1.5 hours south of Roanoke? It’s the closest airport location to Wytheville. Consider adding these other Roanoke kid attractions to your Wytheville trip:
Best Things To Do In Wytheville Virginia With Kids
Know before you go: the city is pronounced WITH-vil. Questioning how to pronounce the name of the city certainly reveals that you’re a tourist, but don’t stress, everyone is so friendly in Wytheville!
Beagle Ridge Herb Farm
When I walked into Beagle Ridge Herb Farm, the sweet woodsy smell of lavender was captivating. The farm engages all of your senses and it tops the list as my favorite Wytheville attraction. The lavender farm is open from May to September but packs in plenty of fun during those few months.
The farm features over 16 different varieties of lavender with so many ways to enjoy them. Grab a handful of lavender for U-Pick, attend a tea party, walk through the butterfly house or shop for handmade gifts.
One of the most unique Wytheville lavender farm experiences is to book a picnic with Lick Mountain Excursions, which is available with pre-registration. It’s a custom picnic in the mountain that overlooks Beagle Herb Farm. Hike to your picnic location or chose to be transported.
For a more tame option you can hike to the nearby pond instead, and enjoy a picnic or Charcuterie board. It’s a serene (and tasty) way to experience the beautiful views.
Edith Bolling Wilson Museum
Wytheville is famous for being the birthplace of First Lady Edith Bolling Wilson – wife of President Woodrow Wilson. She was a trailblazer and often referred to as “the secret president” because of the aid she provided her husband in decision making when his health was suffering.
Tour the home where Edith grew up at the Edith Bolling Wilson Birthplace Foundation and Museum. Younger guests can watch the short film and take a quick tour. Or opt for a guided tour where you can deep dive into the history.
Kids will love to learn how White House sheep played a huge role in World War I. Purchase the book, How the SHEEP Helped Win The War, before your trip to Wytheville! The book will help kids make some historical connections to the city.
Hunt Down Wytheville’s Famous Love Signs
Virginia is for lovers and Wytheville is home to several LOVEworks signs that make great photo opportunities. Look for the LOVEworks sign in downtown Wytheville that represents the city’s history. Additionally, there’s another one at Beagle Ridge Farm and Big Walker Lookout.
Wytheville Is Home To Virginia’s Largest Pencil
One of Wytheville’s most quirky attractions is a giant pencil (yes, you read that right). The pencil sits in front of the Wytheville Office Supply Store and you truly can’t miss it. It’s roughly 25-feet-long and it’s neat little spot in the downtown area for photos. Down the street is The Paint Store with a giant can of paint! Odd, fun & quirky – Wytheville has something for everyone.
Experience Living History At Willowbrook Homestead Museum
Families can experience living history and art at the Willowbrook Homestead Museum. The 9-acre property includes the history Willowbrook Jackson/Umberger House, which is full of priceless art. But kids will want to venture outside where they can tour the historical smokehouse, cabin, and log barn. Plus there are working areas, such as a blacksmith shop.
Check the museum events calendar for live demonstrations where kids can experience how the historic landmarks were once used.
Party Hard At Crossroads Social House
Blow off some steam and have fun at Crossroads Social House. Crossroads is a family entertainment center with 14 bowling lanes, laser tag and a trampoline jump zone. I love this destination for a rainy day, when the kids still have energy to burn. Plus, there’s a full service restaurant and bar area for parents to enjoy.
Catch A Flick At Millwald Theatre
Originally built in 1928, the Millwald Theatre is Wytheville’s most recent restoration project that’s bringing a new level of entertainment to the downtown area. It’s a 515-seat auditorium which hosts live and filmed events.
I love that the Millwald Theatre is using classic cinema to bring the community together. Check the events calendar for themed movie nights and FREE movie nights. It’s another great rainy day option.
Climb To New Heights At Big Walker Lookout
Another great roadside attraction is Big Walker Lookout. It’s billed as Virginia’s oldest privately-owned scenic attraction and it’s worth a stop. Climb stairs up to a 100-foot observation tower where, on a clear day, you can see five states.
From downtown Wytheville, it’s a scenic drive to Big Walker Lookout – driving along the famous road known as the “Claw of the Dragon.” After you climb to the top, be sure to stop into the Country Store to grab a scoop of Virginia’s best ice cream.
Go Hiking, Biking or Kayaking Near Wytheville
Outdoor lovers can appreciate the vast options of trailheads that can be found around Wytheville. If you’re looking for a beautiful mountain destination to explore, look no further than New River Trail State Park.
The park parallels the scenic New River for 39 miles. Trails inside of the park are great for all ages to hike, bike and ride horseback.
If you want to stay close to the outdoor action, check out the new Inn at Foster Falls. It’s a charming inn that’s located inside of New River Trail State Park. The two-story Victorian building looks over the river, with gorgeous mountain views. The inn can accommodate families and offers a daily breakfast and afternoon dessert.
Fort Chiswell Animal Park
If your kids are anything like mine, they have a deep love for animals. Families with young kids will not want to miss out on Fort Chiswell Animal Park. This little zoo is home to over 200 animals and kids absolutely love it.
Guests can purchase “zoo chow” along with their ticket and feed animals at the petting zoo and on the Safari Bus. You’ll laugh as the animals come right up to your safari bus to munch on your chow. Kids can feed camels, water buffalo, zebras and more! It’s such a delightful interactive animal experience that’s one-of-a-kind.
Eat a Hot Dog At Skeeters
Right below the apartment where First Lady Edith Bolling Wilson was born is home to one of Wytheville’s most iconic restaurants – Skeeter’s World Famous Hot Dogs! It’s like an institution to Wytheville and the locals love it.
Skeeter’s has been serving hot dogs since 1925. It’s a great family-friendly restaurant destination that kids will love. It’s also easy on your wallet.
Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre
Enjoy next level musical theatre at the Wohlfahrt Haus Dinner Theatre. Nosh on a four-course dinner will watching the best of Broadway – right in Wytheville. For families, I recommend some of the holiday show offerings that are kid-friendly. Kids will love that the dinner is themed according to the show that you’re viewing!
