Wise VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Wise, Virginia.
1. High Knob Recreational Area
SCENIC MOUNTAIN LOOKOUT
High Knob Recreational Area offers stunning panoramic views from its observation tower along with hiking trails and a lake for recreation. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, swimming, and fishing during warmer months while taking in breathtaking vistas of surrounding mountain ranges. The area is particularly popular during fall when the foliage creates a spectacular display of colors across the landscape.
2. MountainRose Vineyards
LOCAL WINE TASTING
MountainRose Vineyards is a family-owned winery offering wine tastings and tours in the heart of Appalachia. Visitors can sample award-winning wines made from grapes grown on the property while learning about the winemaking process. The vineyard also hosts special events throughout the year including festivals and live music performances.
3. Bear Creek Reservoir
PEACEFUL WATER RECREATION
Bear Creek Reservoir provides a tranquil setting for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation in Wise County. The reservoir's calm waters are stocked with various fish species making it a popular destination for anglers. Surrounding trails offer opportunities for hiking and nature photography in a serene woodland setting.
4. Guest River Gorge Trail
HISTORIC RAILWAY PATH
Guest River Gorge Trail is a 5.3-mile converted railway path that takes visitors through stunning canyon landscapes carved by the Guest River. The trail features a 1922 railway tunnel, 300-million-year-old cliff formations, and numerous scenic vistas along its length. Hikers, bicyclists, and runners can enjoy this special area managed by the Forest Service while experiencing the natural beauty of a designated State Scenic River.
5. Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park
REGIONAL HISTORY COLLECTION
Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park showcases the cultural heritage of the region through extensive historical collections housed in a Victorian mansion. Exhibits display artifacts from the exploration era through industrialization, with particular emphasis on coal mining history. The museum hosts special programs throughout the year including educational workshops and seasonal events celebrating Appalachian traditions.
6. Moon Dog Brick Oven
POPULAR ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Moon Dog Brick Oven is a beloved local eatery serving Italian cuisine and American favorites in a casual atmosphere. The restaurant specializes in brick oven pizzas with fresh ingredients and a variety of specialty toppings. Locals and visitors alike appreciate the moderate prices and quick service for lunch and dinner options.
7. Trail of the Lonesome Pine Outdoor Drama
HISTORIC APPALACHIAN THEATER
The Trail of the Lonesome Pine Outdoor Drama is Virginia's official outdoor drama that brings to life John Fox Jr.'s famous novel about life in the coal fields. Performers reenact the story against the backdrop of the natural Appalachian landscape during summer season performances. This long-running production offers visitors insight into the region's cultural history through dramatic storytelling and period costumes.
8. Natural Tunnel State Park
NATURAL WONDER FORMATION
Natural Tunnel State Park features a massive naturally formed limestone tunnel once called the 'Eighth Wonder of the World' by William Jennings Bryan. Visitors can view the tunnel from observation decks or take a chairlift down to explore the tunnel floor where an active railroad still runs. The park also offers camping, swimming, hiking trails, and seasonal activities like the Christmas Lighting of the Tunnel event.
9. Flag Rock Recreation Area
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE SPOT
Flag Rock Recreation Area offers spectacular views from atop High Knob Mountain with hiking trails, picnic areas, and a mountain biking system. The area gets its name from a large American flag displayed on the rock face visible throughout Norton. Visitors might catch a glimpse of the legendary 'Woodbooger,' Norton's version of Bigfoot, commemorated by a statue at the recreation area.
10. The Inn at Wise
HISTORIC DINING ESTABLISHMENT
The Inn at Wise offers dining experiences in a beautifully restored historic building in downtown Wise. This establishment serves American cuisine in an elegant atmosphere that reflects the area's rich heritage. Patrons appreciate both the quality of food and the architectural beauty of this local landmark.
11. Birthplace of Country Music Museum
MUSIC HISTORY EXPERIENCE
The Birthplace of Country Music Museum celebrates Bristol's legacy as the birthplace of commercial country music through the historic 1927 Bristol Sessions recordings. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to experience the evolution of this musical genre and its cultural impact on American society. The museum works in conjunction with the annual Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion festival to preserve and promote the region's musical heritage.
12. The Clapboard House
UNIQUE LOCAL SHOPPING
The Clapboard House is a charming boutique store offering distinctive home goods, gifts, and apparel in downtown Wise. Shoppers can find unique locally-made items alongside carefully curated merchandise not available in chain stores. The shop provides a personalized shopping experience with friendly service representative of small-town Appalachian hospitality.
13. Barter Theatre
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
Barter Theatre is the nation's longest-running professional theater that began during the Great Depression when patrons could barter food for admission. Today, this State Theatre of Virginia produces a year-round schedule of high-quality performances ranging from classics to contemporary works. The historic venue has launched the careers of many notable actors including Gregory Peck, Patricia Neal, and Ernest Borgnine.
14. John Fox Jr. Museum
AUTHOR'S HISTORIC HOME
The John Fox Jr. Museum preserves the Victorian home where the famous author wrote his novels about Appalachian life. Visitors can tour the restored rooms filled with original furnishings, manuscripts, and personal belongings of the novelist known for 'The Trail of the Lonesome Pine.' The museum provides insight into early 20th century literary life and the author's influence on perceptions of mountain culture.
15. Spearhead Trails
OFF-ROAD ADVENTURE SYSTEM
Spearhead Trails offers an extensive network of multi-use trails designed for ATVs, dirt bikes, mountain bikes, and hikers throughout Southwest Virginia. The trail system spans hundreds of miles across reclaimed mining lands, providing recreational opportunities while supporting economic development in the region. Adventure seekers can experience varying difficulty levels from beginner to expert while enjoying spectacular mountain scenery.