By JANELLE L. PLUMMER
Observer Staff
Oct. 25, 2007

From rush-hour traffic to crowded streets, many times city life can feel exhausting. So getting away from bright lights and busy highways can feel relaxing, peaceful and enjoyable for those good ole city folks.

Just 90 minutes outside the beltway, deep in the Shenandoah Valley, stands a piece of American history and a great getaway—Wayside Inn.

Since 1797, Wayside Inn, formerly known as Wilkerson’s Tavern, is the oldest continuously operating Inn in America, according to Wayside.

Wayside Inn is the nation’s oldest continually operating inn. (Photo by Janelle Plummer)

Located in Middletown, Va., the Inn attracts people from around the world.

Stan Colten, assistant to the owner Leo M. Bernstein, said that ambassadors and the U.S. presidents, along with everyday people, have visited Wayside.

Colten said that President George Washington, Lt. Gen. Jubal A. Early from the Civil War, John D. Rockefeller, Dan Aykroyd, Tom Cruise, Tom Hanks and many others have visited the historic Inn.

Employee Mandie Haines, 24, said that it is nice to meet people from around the world.

“People have come from England, California and Texas,” Haines said. “They’ve been coming here for 20 years. [Wayside Inn] is very enjoyable.”

Wayside Inn stores guest books dating back to the early 1900s, Colten said.

“The history is great in this place,” he said. “I don’t make the history. The history is already here.”

While some famous people prefer private rooms, Colten said that John Bellucci is a frequent visitor at Wayside.

From banquets to weddings, Wayside Inn is used for various occasions.

Colten said that President Lyndon Johnson’s daughter and son-in-law were engaged and had a reception at the Inn.

However, during the Civil War, soldiers from both the North and South frequented the Inn in search of refuge and friendship, according to Wayside.

“It was used as a hospital, during the Civil War,” Colten said.

After the Civil War, the Inn was bought by Jacob Larrick, who changed its name to Larricks Hotel, according to Wayside.

Then, early in the 20th century, the Inn was sold again, this time to Samuel Rhodes who added a third floor, wings on each side, and a new name, The Wayside Inn, according to Wayside.

Bernstein, a Washington D.C. financier and antique collector, bought and restored the Inn 52 years ago.

“I work for a great owner,” Colten said. “He’s a genius, and I’m dedicated to him.”

Known for its colonial atmosphere, Wayside Inn has 22 different rooms that are all furnished with antiques.

Colten said that there are thousands of dollars worth of antiques at Wayside.

“It’s a different setting,” he said. “You won’t see that in too many places in this world. Each room is antique with its own style.”

Wayside Inn is known for its original colonial recipes. (Photo by Janelle Plummer)

In the end, Colten said that Wayside is known for its southern hospitality, original colonial peanut soup, Miss Irene’s meatloaf, the Inn’s famous smothered chicken and the old fashion chicken pot pie.

“It’s a nice place to visit and get away,” Colten said. “We have brunch and it’s the best in the state of Virginia. I don’t think anybody can top us.”

Tree Long, a cook at Wayside, knows about the southern food the inn provides to its guests. She also recognizes what it feels like to make history everyday.

Long is the sixth generation senior cook that has worked at the Inn. Her grandmother, aunts and uncles have all worked at Wayside.

Long joined the staff in 1986 and has been there ever since. She said she is excited to continue the family tradition.

Wayside Inn has provided lodging for over 200 years, and in the 21st century it continues to do just that.

“I hope it’s here forever,” Long said, with a smile.

>>Download the Waysite Inn’s lunch menu here.

Other Attractions in Middletown

While staying at the Wayside Inn, visit these hot spots in Middletown, Va.

Wayside Theatre - Enjoy a play. See professional actors take the stage at this theatre. It is in walking distance of Wayside Inn. Now playing Shadow of the Raven: The Stories of Edgar Allen Poe. Click here for more information.

Family Drive-In Theater - On a cool summer’s day, take a ride to the drive-in theater. Just down Route 11, a few miles from the Inn. The theater is closed during the fall and winter seasons.

Route 11 Potato Chips - Taste different flavors of potato chips, and see how they are made. Just a couple of blocks away from the Inn. Click here for more information.

Cedar Creek Battlefield Foundation and Cedar Creek Battlefield - Visit this historic site in Middletown, where the 1864 Battle of Cedar Creek was fought. Click here for more information.