Wise Travel Guide

Trek Zone

Town

Facts and practical information

Located in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains, Wise, Virginia, is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and small-town charm. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and welcoming community, Wise is the ideal destination for travelers looking to explore the beauty of the Virginia region.

Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to love in Wise, with its proximity to the Jefferson National Forest and the scenic Powell River. Hiking, biking, and fishing are popular activities in the area, and visitors can take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. For those looking for a more relaxed outdoor experience, the town also offers several parks and green spaces where visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll or a peaceful picnic.

History buffs will appreciate Wise's rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its historic downtown area and the nearby town of Big Stone Gap. The region is home to several historic sites and museums, including the Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park, where visitors can learn about the area's coal mining history and the cultural traditions of the Appalachian people.

In addition to its natural beauty and historical significance, Wise also offers a variety of dining and shopping options for visitors to enjoy. From cozy cafes and local eateries to boutique shops and art galleries, the town's vibrant downtown area is a great place to explore and experience the local culture.

Alternative names: Founded: 1874 (150 years ago)Population: 3.1 thous.Area: 3.06 mi²Elevation: 2493 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 36°58'34"N, 82°35'1"W

Location

VirginiaUnited States

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Wise Top Attractions

Wise Attractions - What to See and Explore

Wise offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Wise County Courthouse, E. M. Fulton House. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Tower • Neo-renaissance architecture
Wise County Courthouse
The Wise County Courthouse is located at 206 East Main Street in downtown Wise, Virginia. As well as being home to Wise County's judicial system, it also serves as the chief administrative building for the county.
36°58'48"N • 82°34'50"W
E. M. Fulton House
The E. M. Fulton House, also known as Glay Williams House and Vernoy Tate House, is a historic home in Wise, Wise County, Virginia. It was built in 1905–1906, and is a 2 1/2-story, six bay, Colonial Revival style frame dwelling clad in a red brick veneer. It sits on a sandstone foundation and has a hipped and gable roof with dormers.

Day trips

Wise – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Wise, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Bristol Motor Speedway (Bristol), Freedom Hall Civic Center (Johnson City), TVA Credit Union Ballpark (Johnson City).

37 milesSE
Iconic short track speedway and drag strip
Bristol Motor Speedway, Bristol
Bristol Motor Speedway, often referred to as "The Last Great Colosseum," is a beacon for NASCAR enthusiasts and a must-see for any tourist visiting Bristol, Tennessee. This iconic stadium is best known for its short-track racing and is one of the most famous venues in...
46 milesS
Civic center, Sport venue, Sport
Freedom Hall Civic Center, Johnson City
Freedom Hall Civic Center is a multi-purpose arena in Johnson City, Tennessee. Starting in 2014, it became the basketball venue for East Tennessee State University.
47 milesS
Arenas and stadiums, Sport venue, Sport
TVA Credit Union Ballpark, Johnson City
TVA Credit Union Ballpark is a stadium in Johnson City, Tennessee. It is primarily used for baseball, and is the home field of Johnson City Doughboys in the summer collegiate Appalachian League. It was previously home to the Johnson City Cardinals Minor League Baseball team of the Appalachian League.
30 milesS
Museum
Mountain Music Museum, Kingsport
The Mountain Music Museum in Kingsport, Tennessee, was a museum dedicated to the history of music that originated primarily in East Tennessee, North Carolina, Southeast Kentucky, Virginia and West Virginia during the 19th century and evolved into what is now generally recognized as bluegrass music and country music.
48 milesS
Church, Greek Revival architecture
Jonesborough United Methodist Church, Jonesborough
Jonesborough United Methodist Church is a church in Jonesborough, Tennessee. Its building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a contributing property in the Jonesborough Historic District.