Those who haven't thought about including Roanoke in their travel plans for Virginia are missing out on something special. This city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of southwest Virginia has a lot to offer.
With mountains all around and a river flowing through, there are many things to do in Roanoke for adventure seekers. You can indulge in long hikes, water sports, and plenty of outdoor activities. And after your outdoor escapades, don't forget to explore the city's lively neighborhoods.
Come see the famous Mill Mountain Star in Roanoke! It's a big, bright symbol overlooking the city. You can go up there during the day for great views or at night when it's all lit up.
The star is on Mill Mountain and it's so big that it's called the "Star City of the South." You can hike up the mountain to see it and the city sights. Make sure to go after dark to see the beautiful lights!
Even if trains, photography, or old buildings aren't your thing, you might still find this museum fascinating. The O. Winston Museum showcases the photographic, audio, and video works of photographer Winston Link.
Link documented the final days of steam trains on the Norfolk and Western Railway. This Roanoke VA attractions displays over 300 images in black and white and color, inviting everyone to delve into this lively yet vanished part of history.
Driving along the Blue Ridge Parkway is a treat and its breathtaking beauty is beyond words. Stretching 469 miles, this scenic route curves through the Blue Ridge Mountains, treating visitors to the most stunning mountain vistas worldwide.
Moreover, there are two stone churches along the parkway, both listed on the Virginia and National Registers of Historic Places. They're worth snapping a few photos of. There are plenty of nearby campgrounds, perfect for those who love outdoor adventures.
Locate your adventurous side at Treetop Quest! It's an adventurous family-friendly vacation suitable for ages four and up, featuring zip lines and exciting aerial challenges.
With five obstacle courses ranging from easy to challenging, a net trampoline, and three trees set up for vertical climbing, there's plenty of excitement in store. Adventurers can swing through the forest like Tarzan, balance on tightropes, and zip across the trees on exhilarating zip lines.
Step into the world of Broadway-quality theatre at Mill Mountain Theatre which was established in 1964! For over four decades, it has been the top spot in the Valley for Professional Live Theatre, showcasing musicals and plays all year round.
With two stages housed in the Center in the Square, you can enjoy family-friendly entertainment on the Trinkle Main Stage with 400 seats, or cutting-edge theatre on the Waldron Stage with 100 seats. Experience the magic of live performance, perfect things to see in Roanoke Virginia.
When looking for things to do in Roanoke VA with your kids, consider visiting Mill Mountain Zoo! It's a small zoo that's open year-round where you'll find over 50 native and exotic animals, birds, and reptiles to see and learn about.
The zoo was established in 1952 with a nursery rhyme theme, featuring farm animals, birds, and Virginia wildlife. Today, it's expanded to house more than 183 animals, representing 70 species from all over the globe.
At the Taubman Museum of Art, you'll discover a diverse array of artworks, from stunning paintings to rugged sculptures and everything in between. With such a wide variety, it's easy to find something that speaks to you.
The museum's collection primarily showcases American art, boasting over 2,200 works by renowned artists like Romare Bearden, Thomas Hart Benton, Thomas Eakins, Audrey Flack, and Robert Henri. Plus, the best part is admission is free!
Hunt down amazing deals, find cool souvenirs, and taste delicious local food at the City Market Building! It's a lively place where you can experience the local community and culture firsthand.
This market is the oldest one in Virginia and stays open all year. There are lots of activities like holiday events, a chili cook-off, and monthly Art by Night. You'll also meet interesting people and see fresh produce, making it a favorite spot in Virginia.
For a diverse collection of transportation marvels all under one roof, visit the Virginia Museum of Transportation in Roanoke!
You'll find a range of vehicles, including cars, trains, steam and diesel train motors, cabooses, a U.S. Mail train car, a passenger train theater car, buses, fire engines, snow cats, a Panama Canal rail tug, and even airplanes like the Piper Cub and a Vought F-8 Crusader Navy Jet. Plus, there's even more to discover!
Also known as St. Andrew's Catholic Church, the Basilica of Saint Andrew was built between 1900 and 1902 when the city's Catholic population was growing. Inside, it has tall ceilings and arched structures that make it feel big.
Colorful windows show stories from the Bible and pictures of saints. It's not just beautiful; it's also a place where the Roanoke community comes together for spiritual things.
Folks who can spend hours hunting the gems should stroll around Black Dog Salvage. It's a well-known warehouse that has a wide range of old and restored furniture in a spacious area.
In this attractions Roanoke VA, local artists and sellers carefully select and display a constantly changing collection of new, old, and antique home decorations. You can find special presents, keepsakes, clothes, and items for dogs here.
There's so much to do at Center in the Square to have a blast. This spot offers events like shows, exhibits, and more. It's all about showing you neat stuff and making sure you enjoy yourself.
From the Roanoke Pinball Museum to the Harrison Museum of African American Culture and even aquariums, there's plenty to explore. Plus, don't miss the amazing views of the city from the rooftop. It's all waiting for you at these attractions in Roanoke VA.
You'll have a blast discovering new things at the Science Museum of Western Virginia. With lots of exhibits and interactive displays, everyone in the family will have a good time.
The museum has a tropical butterfly garden where you can see butterflies from different parts of the world. There are also engaging exhibits exploring topics like Healthy Bodies, Healthy Earth, and How It Works. It's easy to see why this display of scientific discoveries is a hit with visitors to Roanoke.
Children will adore playing at Kids Square, a place dedicated to making learning fun and exciting for them. It's a top spot for families to come together and have fun while learning in a hands-on way, with a special emphasis on S.T.E.A.M. education (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics).
So, get ready to dive into a world of non-stop fun and laughter, because at Kids Square, the only thing that goes up is the joy of playing!
Take your time to explore the fascinating artifacts on display at Harrison Museum. This historical attractions in Roanoke Virginia offer a glimpse into past societies and cultures.
Situated in the first public high school for African-American students, this museum showcases memorabilia, photographs, objects, and oral histories related to the African-American experience in the Roanoke Valley, along with African and contemporary art. Get ready to take an insightful journey through history and culture.
A must-visit place where you can see local animals living freely is the Carvins Cove Natural Reserve. While you're there, learn about conservation efforts to protect nature.
Spanning over 12,000 acres, this reserve features diverse forests with hardwood and mixed pine trees. It includes a big reservoir and 60 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Bring your kayaks, or you can rent them, along with paddleboats, to enjoy the water activities.
Located in Virginia's Blue Ridge in the Roanoke Valley, McAfee Knob is a highly sought-after destination for hikers worldwide and is renowned as one of the most photographed spots on the Appalachian Trail.
While the views from the top are stunning, be prepared for a moderate to strenuous hike. The trail is challenging, with rough terrain and uphill sections that will test your muscles. But the reward of reaching the summit makes it all worthwhile! McAfee Knob is Roanoke Virginia points of interest for hikers.
Hikers on the Bottom Creek Gorge trail can take in breathtaking views of Virginia's second-highest waterfall, surrounded by stunning plants and wildlife. The rushing streams of Bottom Creek create perfect photo opportunities.
Covering more than five miles of moderate trails, Bottom Creek Gorge offers plenty of room for exploration. Hikers begin their adventure on an old road leading up a hill and then have the option to follow three different trail branches to continue their hike.
For those looking for a peaceful getaway, Smith Mountain Lake is the ideal destination. This Roanoke Virginia attractions is a vast reservoir that's perfect for enjoying the spring and summer seasons.
The lake provides numerous activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, water skiing, and hiking. With its many coves, it's perfect for a weekend retreat or an extended stay. The state park offers plenty of amenities including a beach, interpretive center, cabins, campground, marina, and more.
