Fun Things to Do in Roanoke | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Roanoke Travel Guide
Quick overview of Roanoke with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Roanoke! Nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia, Roanoke is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and urban amenities. Known as the "Star City of the South," Roanoke is home to the iconic Roanoke Star, a towering landmark that overlooks the city and provides breathtaking panoramic views. With its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities, Roanoke is a destination that caters to all types of travelers. Whether you're interested in exploring the picturesque Blue Ridge Parkway, visiting the fascinating Taubman Museum of Art, or indulging in delicious local cuisine, Roanoke has something for everyone. So pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in Roanoke!
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Things To Do In Roanoke
Roanoke offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. One of the main things to do in Roanoke is to explore the Blue Ridge Parkway. This scenic drive offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and is a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Another highlight of Roanoke is the Mill Mountain Star and Park. The Mill Mountain Star is the world's largest freestanding illuminated star and offers stunning views of the city. The park surrounding the star is a great place for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
For those interested in history, a visit to the Virginia Museum of Transportation is a must. This museum showcases the region's rich railroad heritage and features an impressive collection of historic locomotives and railcars.
Roanoke is also home to the Taubman Museum of Art, which houses a diverse collection of contemporary and modern art. The museum regularly hosts exhibitions and events that showcase the work of both local and international artists.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing in the surrounding area. The Appalachian Trail and Carvins Cove Natural Reserve are popular destinations for those looking to explore the great outdoors.
In addition to these main attractions, Roanoke also offers a vibrant downtown area with boutique shops, restaurants, and breweries. Visitors can explore the local culinary scene and sample craft beers from the many breweries in the area.
Overall, Roanoke provides a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're interested in nature, history, art, or culinary delights, Roanoke has something for everyone.
Tours And Activities In Roanoke
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Best Time To Visit Roanoke
The best time to visit Roanoke is during the spring and fall seasons. In the spring, which is from March to May, the weather is mild and pleasant with blooming flowers and trees. This is a great time to explore the outdoor attractions in Roanoke, such as the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Mill Mountain Star. The fall season, from September to November, offers stunning foliage as the leaves change color, creating a picturesque landscape. Additionally, the weather during this time is comfortable for outdoor activities like hiking and biking. Summer in Roanoke can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching the 90s (Fahrenheit), so it may not be the most ideal time to visit. Winter in Roanoke can be cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing, but if you enjoy winter sports like skiing or snowboarding, this could be a great time to visit as well.
Flight Calendar For Roanoke
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Best Areas To Stay In Roanoke
Roanoke offers several great areas for accommodation.
1. Downtown Roanoke: This vibrant area is perfect for those who want to be in the heart of the city. It is home to numerous restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere and easily access popular attractions such as the Taubman Museum of Art and the City Market.
2. South Roanoke: Known for its charming residential streets and beautiful homes, South Roanoke is a peaceful and upscale neighborhood. It offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling city center while still being conveniently located near amenities. The area is also close to the Roanoke River Greenway, providing opportunities for outdoor activities.
3. Grandin Village: This historic neighborhood is known for its unique shops, cozy cafes, and local businesses. It has a strong sense of community and offers a laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can explore the Grandin Theatre, a restored movie theater that showcases independent films, or enjoy a stroll through the nearby parks.
4. Salem: Located just outside of Roanoke, Salem is a charming town with a small-town feel. It offers a range of accommodation options, including bed and breakfasts and hotels. Salem is home to the Salem Civic Center, which hosts various events throughout the year, and the Salem Red Sox, a minor league baseball team.
5. Roanoke County: For those who prefer a more suburban setting, Roanoke County is an excellent choice. It offers a mix of residential areas, shopping centers, and outdoor recreational opportunities. The area is known for its scenic beauty, with the Blue Ridge Mountains providing a stunning backdrop.
Overall, Roanoke has a variety of accommodation options to suit different preferences. Whether you prefer the excitement of downtown, the tranquility of residential neighborhoods, or the charm of nearby towns, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.
Hotels Map Of Roanoke
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Transportation To Roanoke
There are several transportation options to get to Roanoke.
1. By Air: The Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA) is the closest airport to Roanoke. It is served by several major airlines and offers domestic flights from various cities in the United States.
2. By Car: Roanoke is easily accessible by car as it is located at the intersection of Interstate 81 and Interstate 581. You can drive to Roanoke from nearby cities and states using the well-connected highway system.
3. By Train: Amtrak's Northeast Regional and Crescent routes serve Roanoke. The Roanoke Amtrak Station is located downtown and provides train services to and from major cities like Washington, D.C., New York City, and New Orleans.
4. By Bus: Greyhound and Megabus operate bus services to Roanoke from various cities in the United States. The Valley Metro bus system also provides local transportation within Roanoke and the surrounding areas.
5. By Bike or Walking: If you are in the vicinity, you can also consider biking or walking to Roanoke. The city has a network of bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly paths.
It is recommended to check the schedules and availability of transportation options before planning your trip to Roanoke.
Nearby Destination From Roanoke
1. Salem: A charming town known for its historic downtown and vibrant arts scene.
2. Blacksburg: Home to Virginia Tech, this college town offers a lively atmosphere and beautiful natural surroundings.
3. Lynchburg: A city with a rich history, offering stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a vibrant downtown area.
4. Christiansburg: A growing town with a small-town feel, offering a variety of outdoor recreational activities.
5. Bedford: Known as the "Bedford Boys" town, it honors the sacrifice of soldiers in World War II and offers a quaint downtown area.
6. Radford: A small city nestled along the New River, offering outdoor adventures and a vibrant college community.
7. Lexington: Home to Washington and Lee University and the Virginia Military Institute, this historic town exudes charm and character.
8. Rocky Mount: A town with a rich musical heritage, known for its bluegrass and country music scene.
9. Martinsville: Famous for its NASCAR racing, this city offers a unique blend of motorsports and small-town charm.
10. Pulaski: A town with a strong industrial history, offering outdoor recreational opportunities along the New River.