History goes hand-in-hand with the state of Virginia. From the earliest days of settlement, to trying times of war, the Old Dominion has witnessed an expansive history of this country. It’s not surprising, therefore, to learn that some attractions in the state are actually the oldest in the entire country.
The Wayside Inn is a great example. Founded in 1797, this building is the oldest continuously run inn in America. With a beautifully decorated interior, the Wayside is a true gem in Middletown. Learn more about why you’ll want to book your stay at this unique accommodation:
The Wayside Inn is located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley in the quaint town of Middletown.
Google Maps
Wayside Inn/Facebook
This historic site dates back to 1797, when the building accepted its first guests.
Neal E./Yelp
Wayside Inn/Facebook As time evolved, Valley Pike (present day Route 11) became a relay station for guests traveling by stagecoah. In this day, servants would wait outside the Inn to spot a cloud of dust far out over the horizon. At the signal, they’d hurry inside to announce their sighting to the rest of the staff. By the time of the stagecoach’s arrival, a hot meal would be waiting for them.
Since its beginnings, the Wayside Inn has continued to offer a picturesque place for rest and relaxation.
Dan S./TripAdvisor
Kelliroo K./Yelp It’s this kind of dedicated service that has persevered throughout the Wayside’s extensive history. Even during the Civil War, the Inn was spared any turmoil as it aided soldiers from both sides of the country.
As soon as you step into the lobby, you may feel as though you’ve stepped back in time.
Wayside Inn
Beautiful antiques, portraits, and memorabilia from bygone decades decorate the walls.
Kelliroo K./Yelp
Mike W./Yelp It was under the ownership of Samuel Rhodes that the Inn was given its present name in addition to a third floor and wings on each side of the building. More and more automobiles were touring the Shenandoah Valley and the Wayside quickly became known as “America’s First Motor Inn.”
Visitors can also enjoy home cooked meals from the cozy dining room, the oldest room in the Inn.
management/TripAdvisor
Betlaze/TripAdvisor
Kelliroo K./flickr The decor you’ll see at the Inn today was put in place by a noteworthy antique collector by the name of Leo M. Bernstein. He purchased the Inn in the 1960s and made sure that the space was filled with hundreds of antiques.
Kelliroo K./Yel
No two of the 22 guest rooms at the Inn are alike; each is decorated with its own special detail.
Momonaroadtrip/TripAdvisor Touring the Inn today, you’ll notice the beautiful 18th-century aesthetic, seemingly uninterrupted by the passage of time. Each room has been decorated with its own unique flair, to ensure that each guest can enjoy a memorable experience.
Wayside Inn Whether you stop by for a tour or happen to stay for a weekend, you’ll be truly impressed by the hospitality and history of Virginia’s Wayside Inn.
The Inn can be found at 7783 Main Street, Middletown VA 22645. Have you visited or stayed at the Wayside Inn? If so, please share your experience there with us!
Google Maps
Wayside Inn/Facebook
Neal E./Yelp
As time evolved, Valley Pike (present day Route 11) became a relay station for guests traveling by stagecoah. In this day, servants would wait outside the Inn to spot a cloud of dust far out over the horizon. At the signal, they’d hurry inside to announce their sighting to the rest of the staff. By the time of the stagecoach’s arrival, a hot meal would be waiting for them.
Dan S./TripAdvisor
Kelliroo K./Yelp
It’s this kind of dedicated service that has persevered throughout the Wayside’s extensive history. Even during the Civil War, the Inn was spared any turmoil as it aided soldiers from both sides of the country.
Wayside Inn
Mike W./Yelp
It was under the ownership of Samuel Rhodes that the Inn was given its present name in addition to a third floor and wings on each side of the building. More and more automobiles were touring the Shenandoah Valley and the Wayside quickly became known as “America’s First Motor Inn.”
management/TripAdvisor
Betlaze/TripAdvisor
Kelliroo K./flickr
The decor you’ll see at the Inn today was put in place by a noteworthy antique collector by the name of Leo M. Bernstein. He purchased the Inn in the 1960s and made sure that the space was filled with hundreds of antiques.
Kelliroo K./Yel
Momonaroadtrip/TripAdvisor
Touring the Inn today, you’ll notice the beautiful 18th-century aesthetic, seemingly uninterrupted by the passage of time. Each room has been decorated with its own unique flair, to ensure that each guest can enjoy a memorable experience.
Whether you stop by for a tour or happen to stay for a weekend, you’ll be truly impressed by the hospitality and history of Virginia’s Wayside Inn.
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