Roanoke, VA: Your Next Adventure Awaits
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Nestled in the heart of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, Roanoke is a true vacation gem. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, culture or entertainment, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Roanoke, VA!
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Downtown Roanoke: Hip, Happening and Fun!
I got to visit downtown Roanoke, Virginia recently and was incredibly (and pleasantly) surprised by what I found.
Before my trip, I knew that Roanoke has a strong railroad history which made it a strong industrial hub in the late 1800s. And, I knew that its location in the heart of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains make it a popular destination for outdoor adventure (more on that in a bit).
But, Downtown Roanoke truly surprised me with its walkability, great entertainment options and cool vibe! I had no idea there were so many great things to do in Roanoke, VA.
Budget Travel TIP!!! Get the VBR SAVINGS PASS — an easy, free download to your phone for savings at local attractions, restaurants and shops. I downloaded it just to see what they offer and there are currently 62 digital coupons. It took less than a minute to download and view!
Center in the Square
The heart of downtown Roanoke is the Center in the Square, home to museums, an aquarium, the Mill Mountain Theatre and the Six and Sky Rooftop Grille, a fabulous restaurant and bar with incredible views.
But it wasn’t always like this. Like most cities in the United States in the 1970s, downtown Roanoke faced urban flight. City buildings sat empty and crime was an issue.
And then, the Western Virginia Foundation for the Arts and Sciences purchased an abandoned feed and seed warehouse built back in 1914 and converted it into a hub for education and tourism. To entice tenants to relocate to Downtown Roanoke, the foundation offered two years of free rent to any non-profit that moved in. Five brave non-profits took advantage of the offer: The Arts Council, the Art Museum, the History Museum, the Science Museum and the Mill Mountain Theatre. And, the Center in the Square opened its doors in 1983.
Today, the Center in the Square anchors downtown Roanoke. There are several museums, including free aquariums which are quite popular with kids, the Harrison Museum of African American Culture, the Children’s Museum, the History Museum, and the Science Museum. The Center in the Square is a great place to find things to do in Roanoke for kids, families or adults.
You’ll also find the Roanoke Pinball Museum, which features pinball machines from across many decades, most of which you can play, and the Roanoke STARCADE, which is home to video arcade games.
The Center in the Square is located at One Market Square in Downtown Roanoke. The Center in the Square Parking Garage is the closest, though there are plenty of options for parking in Roanoke.
Virginia Museum of Transportation
Located in downtown Roanoke’s century-old freight station, the Virginia Museum of Transportation preserves the history of rail, car and air travel in Virginia.
The museum is home to a large collection of historic automobiles, train engines and cars, and the interior of a passenger plane.
A large model train exhibit and a small kids’ playroom are a special draw for kids.
Plan your visit to the Virginia Museum of Transportation:
- Address: 303 Norfolk Ave SW in Roanoke
- Parking: There’s complimentary parking at the museum.
- Hours (2024): Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Noon to 5:00 p.m. Closed Monday.
- Admission: Rates vary and some discounts are available.
When planning your visit, call ahead to make sure your visit doesn’t coincide with a school field trip! Allow 2-3 hours to see everything at the museum.
Taubman Museum of Art
In contrast to the other century old buildings in Downtown Roanoke, the Taubman Museum of Art sits as a modern “artwork” housing exhibition galleries, classrooms, a library, auditorium, cafe and museum store.
The building is constructed of locally quarried stone and glass, designed to emulate the mountains and valleys of the region. Expansive glass panels allow natural light to flood the atrium area during the day. It’s a stunning structure, fitting for the art displayed within.
The museum’s permanent collection includes more than 2,000 pieces displayed on a rotating basis including American art, contemporary art, regional art and folk art.
The museum also hosts special art exhibitions throughout the year as well as special events.
Plan your visit to the Taubman Museum of Art:
- Address: 110 Salem Ave SE, Roanoke.
- Parking: The closest parking is at Tower Garage, 19 Norfolk Avenue. A limited amount of free, two-hour parking is available along Norfolk Avenue behind the museum.
- Hours: Friday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, Noon to 5 p.m. CLOSED Monday-Thursday.
- Admission: FREE! Yes, admission to the Taubman Museum of Art is FREE!
When visiting, allow a minimum of two hours.
If visiting with kids, especially if they have never been to an art museum before, use these tips for visiting art museums to make the visit more meaningful to them.
Black Dog Salvage
Black Dog Salvage, made famous as “Salvage Dogs” on the DIY Network, is one of the more popular things to do in Roanoke for reality home improvement fans.
Architectural salvage is a big draw, but the brand has expanded to include “The Marketplace,” where vendors that complement the Black Dog style can sell their products — a great place to look for gifts. There’s also an art loft, an outdoor entertainment venue called “The Dog Bowl” and the Stone House, an exceptional VRBO option for your Roanoke visit.
Plan your visit to Black Dog Salvage:
- Address: 902 13th Street SW, Roanoke
- Parking: Free parking is available onsite.
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Special events and concerts at the Dog Bowl: Constantly changes, so check the website!
- Book a stay at the POPULAR and beautiful STONE HOUSE! Plan ahead!
Grandin Theatre
The Grandin Theatre, which first opened in 1932, is the oldest theater in Roanoke. The theater itself is beautiful. Today, the theater hosts live music performances, movies — both first run and special presentations. The theater is integral to the community and seeks to preserve both its history and the history of the people of Roanoke.
For tickets and pricing, check the Grandin Theatre website as offerings are always changing.
The Grandin Theatre is located at 1310 Grandin Road in Roanoke. There is limited free parking on the street and in the back lot by the Natural Food Co-op. There is also paid parking available nearby.
NOTE: Because of the age of the Grandin Theatre, it is not fully ADA accessible. The Main Theatre and the Screening Room are accessible, and guests who have accessibility needs are encouraged to call a couple days before visiting as some screenings can be moved to accommodate their needs.
Crafteria
Crafteria, which is located in a repurposed mid-century cafeteria (hence the name), is home to almost 200 small batch food and handmade goods craftspeople. There’s also a record shop, beer, wine and food stalls for grab and go. The kitschy design and eclectic offerings all just fit.
It’s a fun place to shop for unique items made by local artisans. Strolling through this unique space is one of my favorite things to do in Roanoke, VA.
Crafteria is located at 16 Church Ave, SW in Roanoke. Hours vary, though generally, Crafteria is open Tuesday-Sunday, but not on Mondays. There is on-street parking available nearby as well as a parking lot across the street.
Downtown Roanoke is very walkable. If you stay at the historic Hotel Roanoke, you can leave the car at the hotel and explore on foot. Most museums, entertainment venues, local restaurants and shops are all close by. But, for adventure, hop in the car and head to the mountains to explore more.
Beyond Downtown Roanoke: Head outside for adventure!
Beyond downtown, there are lots more things to do in Roanoke, VA and the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.
The Roanoke Star
The Roanoke Star, which sits atop Mill Mountain overlooking the Roanoke valley and mountain vistas, is a welcome sign to all who come to the region.
It is the largest, free-standing, man-made star in the world and a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
Head to the scenic overlook at Mill Mountain Park for the best photos of the Roanoke Star and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Directions: Get to Mill Mountain Park via the Blue Ridge Parkway. The Mill Mountain Parkway exit is at Milepost 120. Drive along Mill Mountain Parkway for about 2 1/2 miles and turn left on Mill Mountain Spur Road to enter Mill Mountain Park. Continue 3/4 of a mile to the end of the road to reach the parking lot beside the Roanoke Star.
Treetop Quest
Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Explore Park, test your skills at Treetop Quest. Designed for families with kids ages four and above, your adventure takes you through the forest on Tarzan swings, through climbing cargo nets, on tightropes, across ziplines and through other obstacles. Designed to be progressively more difficult, there’s something for every level of ability.
The course is managed and run by Roanoke County parks and recreation, which keeps costs down. AND, if you book your adventure online, you’ll save $5 over admission at the gate.
Learn more and schedule your adventure at the Treetop Quest website.
The Appalachian Trail and McAfee Knob
A part of the Appalachian Trail passes through the Roanoke area and is a great day hike for the adventurous traveler.
One of the most popular spots is McAfee Knob, which sits on Catawba Mountain. Those who take this world renowned hike are awarded with panoramic views of the valley and mountains beyond. There are great photo opportunities as well.
The McAfee Knob hike is approximately 8 miles round trip, with an elevation change of 1,700 feet. The full hike takes 4-6 hours, and hikers should follow the 7 principles of leave no trace when taking this hike.
Directions: From Interstate 81, take Exit 141 to VA 419/311. Go north for approximately 1/4 mile and turn right on Route 311. Travel 5.5 miles north on Route 311 to the top of Catawba Mountain, where there’s a gravel parking lot and the spot where the Appalachian Trail crosses the road. From the parking lot, walk back across Route 311 to begin the hike.
On weekends, the McAfee Knob Trail Shuttle eases parking congestion at this popular hiking attraction, and tickets can be booked in advance.
PRO TIP: Because this is one of the most popular hiking trails in the region, locals recommend hiking weekdays if at all possible.
Roaring Run in Botetourt County
Nearby Botetourt County has some family friendly hiking trails, particularly Roaring Run.
The Roaring Run Recreation Area includes an easy 1.5 mile trail that meanders along the Roaring Run stream with great views of rock walls, waterfalls, trees and wildlife. A basic restroom at the base of the trail is available, and at the waterfall, rock ledges provide a spot to relax and enjoy the view or a picnic lunch.
This natural trail has uneven terrain, with tree roots, rocks and rock stairs, but it is generally an easy trail suitable for most. Close toed shoes, bug spray and water bottles are recommended.
Directions: From I-81 take Exit 150 for US Highway 220 North past Eagle Rock. At VA 615, turn left and go 5.5 miles to VA 621. Turn right onto VA 621 and go one mile to the Roaring Run entrance on the left. Driving distance from I-81 is approximately 27.5 miles.
PRO TIP: Plan to spend a whole day in Botetourt County. If visiting in summer, start the day with a refreshing trail hike then head to Fincastle to discover fun finds in this historic town.
These are just a few of the many outdoor adventures to enjoy in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. There’s also great mountain biking, kayaking on the James or Roanoke River, and much more to see in Virginia’s Blue Ridge.
No matter what your interest, Roanoke probably has what you’re looking for. There are so many great things to do in Roanoke, VA: entertainment, shopping, fabulous dining and hiking. Whatever you want, your adventure awaits in Roanoke.