35 Best Things to do in Roanoke!

Roanoke, located in the heart of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, is a charming city known for its scenic beauty, vibrant arts scene, and rich history. Often called the “Star City of the South,” Roanoke offers visitors a blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast looking to explore the nearby Appalachian Trail or someone who enjoys museums, local cuisine, and arts, we’ll showcase the best things to do in Roanoke during your visit to Virginia.

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1. Historic Attractions

Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center

The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center has been a part of the city’s landscape since 1882, and Tudor-style architecture gives the hotel a unique design, making it a memorable stay for visitors. It features luxurious rooms, a full-service spa, and multiple dining options, including the AAA Four-Diamond-rated Regency Room, known for its Southern-inspired cuisine. Guests can enjoy an outdoor pool and business facilities, making it a great choice for both leisure and work trips. The conference center offers 63,000 square feet of meeting space, making it a popular venue for events and gatherings.

The City Market Square

Operating since 1882, City Market Square is the oldest continuously running open-air market in the state, offering fresh produce, meats, baked goods, and handcrafted items. Vendors sell locally grown fruits, vegetables, flowers, and plants, making it a gr eat place to shop for fresh ingredients. The market also features artisan crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and wooden furniture. The building has been renovated over the years and now houses several local restaurants. The market is open seven days a week, closing only on Christmas and New Year’s Day, making it a reliable spot for fresh goods.

Downtown Roanoke

The Downtown Roanoke is the largest metropolitan area in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, offering a mix of local restaurants, breweries, shops, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore Elmwood Park, a popular venue for concerts and festivals, or take a walk along the Elmwood Art Walk, which features public art displays. Center in the Square, a multi-story building, is home to museums, arts organizations, and a rooftop patio with great views. Downtown Roanoke also has a growing innovation district, connecting to the city’s medical center and featuring businesses and entertainment spots.

O. Winston Link & Roanoke History Museum

The O. Winston Link & Roanoke History Museum is housed in the former Norfolk & Western Railway passenger station, and s howcases the work of O. Winston Link, a renowned photographer known for his pictures of steam locomotives at night, carefully captured the beauty of rail travel. His collection includes over 2,000 photographs and sound recordings, documenting the final years of steam-powered trains in the region. The museum is operated by the Historical Society of Western Virginia, offering exhibits on the Roanoke’s past, including its role in transportation, industry, and local culture.

2. Outdoor Adventures

Hiking Trails

Roanoke is a great place for hiking, with scenic trails that offer mountain views, peaceful forests, and outdoor adventure. Mill Mountain Park, home to the Roanoke Star, has several trails passing through wooded areas, providing beautiful city views. Located along the Blue Ridge Parkway, Explore Park covering 1,100 acres of forests and open landscapes for visitors to enjoy. Chestnut Ridge Trail, near the Blue Ridge Parkway, is a good choice for an easy walk through nature. The Appalachian Trail passes through the Roanoke area, offering challenging hikes with stunning scenery and camping sites.

Smith Mountain Lake

The Smith Mountain Lake is located southeast of Roanoke, offering visitors peaceful surroundings, and plenty of outdoor activities. The Smith Mountain Dam was built in 1963 around the lake, that spans 32 square miles and 500 miles of shoreline, making it the only largest lake inside Virginia. Boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports are popular here, with many marinas providing boat rentals and storage. Hiking trails and picnic spots allow for exploration, while waterfront restaurants offer great views. Many travelers choose to stay in lakefront cabins or resorts, enjoying direct access to the water.

Rock Climbing at McAfee Knob

The McAfee Knob is a most famous spots along the Appalachian Trail, best known for hiking, but the area also has hidden climbing opportunities for those looking to explore beyond the trails. The hike to McAfee Knob is about 7.5 miles round trip, with a challenging trail that takes around 4 hours to complete. The route follows the Appalachian Trail and leads to the overlook with a 270-degree panoramic view of the Catawba Valley, North Mountain, and Tinker Cliffs. The area is part of Virginia’s Triple Crown, which includes Dragon’s Tooth, McAfee Knob, and Tinker Cliffs, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Kayaking and Canoeing

Roanoke is a great place for kayaking and canoeing, with plenty of options offering scenic views and outdoor adventure. The Roanoke River Blueway is stretching for 45 miles and providing a mix of urban and natural paddling experiences. The Upper James River Water Trail is another option, covering 64 miles and offering paddling with views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. For those looking for a quiet experience, Carvins Cove Natural Reserve has a 600 acres reservoir, perfect for kayaking. Rentals and guided tours are available at Roanoke Mountain Adventures, making it easy for beginners to get started.

Golfing Courses

Roanoke is home to several golf courses that offer a mix of scenic views and enjoyable play for golfers of all skill levels. Ole Monterey Golf Club, built in 1920, is one of the oldest courses in the area, featuring postcard-like views of downtown Roanoke, Mill Mountain Star, and the Blue Ridge Mountains. Blue Hills Golf Club provides a well-maintained course along with a restaurant and wellness services.

Ballyhack Golf Club is a private destination known for its challenging layout and stunning landscape. For a more casual experience, Brookside Par 3 Golf Course offers a short course that is great for beginners and families. Roanoke also has several other courses within a short drive, including Roanoke Country Club, Hunting Hills Country Club, and Hanging Rock Golf Club, each offering unique layouts and playing experiences.

Roanoke Green Valley

Roanoke Green Valley is part of the Roanoke Valley Greenways, a network of trails designed to connect communities and provide outdoor recreation opportunities. Established in 1997, the greenway was created with a partnership between Roanoke County, the City of Roanoke, Salem, and the Town of Vinton to make it one of the best trail system that provides many outdoor opportunities. The network includes over 400 miles of trails, with options for casual walks or more challenging hikes. Seasonal events and guided walks provide opportunities to learn about the area’s history and environment.

3. Iconic Landmarks

Mill Mountain Star

Built in 1949 as a temporary Christmas decoration, Mill Mountain Star became a permanent fixture and a symbol of Roanoke. Standing 88.5 feet tall, it is the largest freestanding illuminated star in the world, visible from up to 60 miles away. The star is lit every night, creating a bright glow over the valley, making it a must-see attraction. The overlook near the star offers stunning views, especially during sunrise and sunset, making it a popular photography spot. Visitors can reach the overlook point by driving or hiking through Mill Mountain Park, which features trails, Mill Mountain Zoo and some picnic areas.

Virginia Museum of Transportation

The Virginia Museum of Transportation is housed in a century-old freight station and features a wide collection of steam, diesel, and electric locomotives. The Norfolk & Western J Class #611, a famous steam locomotive, is one of the highlights of the museum. Visitors can explore exhibits on automobiles, aviation, and model trains, learning about how transportation has evolved over time. The Auto Gallery displays classic cars, including early 20th century models and electric vehicle technology. It has an aviation section, showcasing aircraft history and innovations, making it a fun experience for families.

Taubman Museum of Art

The Taubman Museum of Art is a modern architecture designed by Randall Stout, making it a standout attraction in Roanoke. Inside, visitors can explore a mix of historical and contemporary art, with changing exhibits throughout the year. It’s collection features American art, including paintings, sculptures, and photography, offering a broad perspective on artistic expression. It has hands-on area such as Art Venture that allow families to engage in creative activities and explore interactive exhibits. It also hosts guided tours, artist talks, and workshops, making it a lively place for learning and inspiration.

Eleanor D Wilson Museum

The Eleanor D. Wilson Museum is a wonderful place to explore contemporary and modern art, located at Hollins University in the Richard Wetherill Visual Arts Center. With three interconnected galleries and 4,000 square feet of exhibition space, the museum displays works from regional, national, and international artists, covering a variety of mediums including paintings, photos, and sculptures. Visitors can attend artist talks, workshops, and guided tours to deep their appreciation of the displayed art. A Resource Center is available for visitors to learn more about the works and the artists behind them.

Salem Museum

The Salem Museum is housed in the historic Williams-Brown House, which dates back to the 1840s. It covers over 300 years of history, including exhibits on Native American heritage, the Civil War, and the development of Salem and the Roanoke Valley. Visitors can view both exhibits, ensuring there is always something new to learn. It also hosts educational programs, special events, and guided tours, making it a great destination for families and history enthusiasts. One notable exhibit, Service Through Knowledge, explores the history of the Salem Rescue Squad and its contributions to the community.

Roanoke’s City Market

Established in 1882, Roanoke’s City Market is the oldest continuously operating open-air market in Virginia, offering a mix of seasonal fruits, vegetables, meats, baked goods, and artisan products. The market is open year-round, seven days a week, closing only on Christmas and New Year’s Day, making it a reliable spot for fresh ingredients and unique finds. Vendors set up stalls under awnings, while others display their goods in Market Square. The City Market Building, originally built in 1886, has been renovated over the years and now houses local restaurants, offering a variety of dining options.

Center In The Square

The Center in the Square is a cultural hub that brings together museums, entertainment and events in one place. Visitors can explore attractions like the Roanoke Pinball Museum, Kids Square, and the Science Museum of Western Virginia, all housed within the building. The Harrison Museum of African American Culture and the History Museum of Western Virginia offer exhibits that highlight the region’s rich heritage. One of the highlights is the 8,000 gallons Living Reef Aquarium, home to colorful marine life, along with jellyfish tanks and a rotating exhibit showcasing different aquatic species.

Salem Civic Center

The Salem Civic Center is part of the James E. Taliaferro Sports and Entertainment Complex, which also includes Salem Stadium and Salem Memorial Baseball Stadium. Built in 1967, the civic center has hosted a variety of events, including NCAA basketball tournaments, rodeos, boxing matches, and professional wrestling. The 6,820 seat arena is used for concerts, trade shows, conventions, and other gatherings, making it a central location for entertainment in the area. One of the most popular annual events is the Salem Fair, one of the largest fairs in Virginia, featuring rides, food, and local vendors.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Mill Mountain Zoo

Founded in 1952, Mill Mountain Zoo is home to a variety of animals, including species native to Virginia and others from around the world. One of its important conservation efforts focuses on red wolves, a critically endangered species with only a small number remaining in the wild. The zoo features bald eagles, black bears, snow leopards, and red pandas, giving visitors a chance to learn about different habitats and animal behaviors. The Zoo Choo, a seasonal train ride, adds a fun experience for families. Educational programs and events offer interactive learning opportunities for visitors of all ages.

Roanoke Pinball Museum

The Roanoke Pinball Museum is inside the Center in the Square, making it easy to visit while exploring Roanoke. It features over 70 playable pinball machines, with production dates ranging from the 1930s to today. Visitors can play classic and modern pinball games without needing quarters — just one admission fee covers unlimited play. The mission is to preserve pinball’s role in American culture while educating guests about the mechanics and design behind the games. It hosts tournaments and exhibits highlight the evolution of pinball, showing how technology has shaped the machines over time.

Kids Square Children’s Museum

The Kids Square Children’s Museum is designed for children to play, and learn through hands-on exhibits. Since opening in 2017, it has become a favorite spot for families looking for engaging experiences. It features pretend play areas, including a mini hospital, grocery store, and construction zone, where kids can role-play and develop social skills. Science exhibits introduce basic concepts in physics and engineering through interactive displays, while art stations encourage creativity through painting, drawing, and crafting. Seasonal events and summer camps keep visits exciting and new each time.

Splash Valley

The Splash Valley is operated by Roanoke County Parks, Recreation & Tourism and offers exciting attractions for visitors of all ages. The park features two 34 foot high water slides, which is perfect for thrill-seekers looking for a thrilling rides. For a relaxing experience, the Current River provides a gentle waterway where guests can float and relax. Families with children can enjoy the Zero-Entry Leisure Pool, which has a shallow area for safe play, and the Children’s Sprayground, filled with interactive water features. The park also has shaded spots for lounging, making it easy to take a break from the sun.

Rosie’s Gaming Emporium

The Rosie’s Gaming Emporium is a popular entertainment spot offering electronic gaming machines, live performances, and casual dining, located just outside Roanoke at 1135 Vinyard Rd. Visitors can enjoy games like Ultimate Fire Link, Buffalo Triple Power, and Devil’s Lock, with separate smoking and non-smoking areas are available. The emporium is part of Colonial Downs, which operates multiple gaming locations across Virginia, making it a well-known gaming destination in the state. Guests can grab a meal at Rosie’s Kitchen, which serves burgers, fries, sandwiches, and other classic options.

Berglund Center

The Berglund Center was originally known as the Roanoke Civic Center when it opened in 1971 but was renamed in 2014. It features a multi-purpose arena, a performing arts theater, and an exhibition hall, which can seat up to 10,500 guests, is home to the Roanoke Rail Yard Dawgs, a professional ice hockey team in the Southern Professional Hockey League. The performing arts theater hosts Broadway shows, comedy acts, and live music, bringing national and regional talent to the stage. Trade shows, conventions, and fairs take place in the exhibition hall, making it a hub for business and entertainment.

Roanoke City Parks

Roanoke has a great selection of parks that offer outdoor activities, scenic views, and relaxing spaces for visitors. The city maintains over 70 parks and plazas, providing plenty of options for walking, biking, and enjoying nature. The city’s parks also connect to Roanoke’s Greenway System, which includes over 100 miles of paved and natural trails, perfect for biking and hiking. Seasonal events, concerts, festivals, fitness programs, and environmental education activities keep the parks lively throughout the year. Many parks have playgrounds and restrooms, making them great spots for families with children.

5. Natural Attractions

Appalachian Trail

Stretching 2,200 miles, Appalachian Trail runs from Georgia to Maine, and passing through George Washington & Jefferson National Forests, providing access to scenic spots like McAfee Knob, Dragon’s Tooth, and Tinker Cliffs. The McAfee Knob trailhead is one of the most photographed spots on the entire Appalachian Trail, offering a 270 degree panoramic view of the valley below. The Dragon’s Tooth hike features a 35 foot rock spire, while Tinker Cliffs provides dramatic cliffside scenery. Several entry points near Roanoke make it easy to access the trail, including Blackhorse Gap and Catawba Mountain.

Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that takes you through the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering breathtaking views. Stretching 469 miles, the parkway connects Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina, making it one of the most visited roads in the National Park System. Roanoke is a great access point, with eight different entry locations leading to stunning overlooks, hiking trails, and picnic spots. The Mill Mountain Parkway exit at Milepost 120 is a convenient way to reach downtown Roanoke and the famous Roanoke Star.

Mill Mountain Park

Covering 568 acres, Mill Mountain Park is home to the famous Roanoke Star, a large illuminated landmark that overlooks the city and it connected to the Roanoke Greenway System. Visitors can explore over 10 miles of multi-use trails, perfect for hiking, biking, and nature walks. The Discovery Center provides educational exhibits and interactive displays about local wildlife and nature. The Mill Mountain Wildflower Garden, maintained by volunteers, showcases native plants and seasonal blooms. The park connects to the Roanoke Greenway System, allowing access to other trails and natural areas.

Carvins Cove Natural Reserve

Covering 12,700 acres, Carvins Cove Natural Reserve is one of the largest city parks in the United States and is protected by a conservation easement. The 630 acres reservoir serves as a water source for the region and is a popular spot for kayaking, fishing, and paddleboarding. The reserve has over 60 miles of trails, making it a great place for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Visitors can explore scenic routes through hardwood and pine forests, while the park has three main access points — Boat Landing, Bennett Springs, and Timberview, each offering different trail experiences.

Read Mountain Preserve

Covering 243 acres, Read Mountain Preserve is one of the largest natural areas in Roanoke County, protected by conservation efforts to maintain its forests and wildlife. One of the main attraction is the Buzzards Rock Trail, a 2 miles hike leading to a stunning overlook with panoramic views of the Roanoke Valley. The preserve has five blazed trails, offering different levels of difficulty for hikers, including Rocky Way Trail and CCC Trail, which provide alternative routes to explore the mountain’s ridges and wooded paths. The well-maintained trails and information signs making navigation easy for visitors.

6. Day Trips & Excursions

Lynchburg

Planning a day trip from Roanoke to Lynchburg is about 56 miles drive, taking a little over an hour by car. Once in Lynchburg, visitors can start their day at Percival’s Island Natural Area, a peaceful spot with walking trails and scenic views along the James River. For history lovers, Point of Honor, a restored 19th century mansion, provides insight into the city’s early days. The Academy Center of the Arts hosts performances and art exhibits, making it a great stop for culture enthusiasts. Food lovers can explore local restaurants in Downtown Lynchburg, where cafes and diners serve Southern-style dishes.

Natural Bridge Zoo

A day trip to Natural Bridge Zoo is about a 40 minutes drive away from Roanoke, making it an easy getaway for families and animal lovers. Opened in 1972, the zoo focuses on the care and conservation of endangered species, offering visitors a chance to learn about different animals. Guests can see giraffes, white tigers, zebras, and camels, along with many other species. The zoo allows interactive experiences, where visitors can feed and interact with certain animals, making it a fun and educational visit. The petting area is popular with children, offering close encounters with friendly animals.

George Washington & Jefferson National Forest

From Roanoke, a day trip to George Washington & Jefferson National Forest is a great way to enjoy outdoor activities. Covering over 1.8 million acres, the forests stretch across Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky, offering 2,200 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Popular hiking spots include Apple Orchard Falls, a 3.4 miles trail leading to a 200 foot waterfall, and Devils Marbleyard, a 2.8 miles trail with a unique boulder field. It also have over 2,300 miles of streams, making them ideal for fishing and paddling. Camping areas are available for those who want to extend their visit overnight.

Fairy Stone State Park

The Fairy Stone State Park is a great place for a day trip that takes about an hour’s drive from Roanoke, making it an easy getaway for nature lovers. The park is well known for its fairy stones, small cross-shaped crystals found along trails and near streams. Visitors can hike the Little Mountain Falls Trail, a 3.3 miles loop featuring scenic views and a waterfall along the way. Fairy Stone Lake provides opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and swimming, making it a great spot for water activities. Picnic areas and campgrounds offer spaces for relaxation, while well-maintained trails make hiking enjoyable.

Greensboro, NC

Start a day trip to Greensboro in North Carolina, and the drive is about 100 miles, taking around 2 hours from Roanoke. Once in Greensboro, visitors can start at the Greensboro Science Center, which has an aquarium, museum, and zoo all in one place. The International Civil Rights Center & Museum is another must-visit, offering exhibits on the civil rights movement. For some outdoor fun, Guilford Courthouse National Military Park provides walking trails and historical landmarks. Greensboro has lined streets filled with great shopping and dining options, with restaurants serving Southern-style dishes.

Beckley, WV

Planning a day trip to Beckley in West Virginia is about 125 miles, taking around 2 hours from Roanoke. Once in Beckley, visitors can start at the Beckley Exhibition Coal Mine, where guided tours take guests through an underground mine, offering insight into the region’s coal industry. The Tamarack Marketplace is a great stop for local crafts, fresh produce, and handmade goods. Outdoor lovers can visit Twin Falls Resort State Park, which features hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic views. Beckley has Winterplace Ski Resort, one of the popular spots for skiing and snowboarding in the winter months.

How to Reach Roanoke

Roanoke is accessible by major highways, including Interstate 81, which connects to cities like Washington, D.C., and Knoxville, as well as U.S. Route 220 and U.S. Route 460, which provide direct access from nearby areas. For those traveling by air, Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA) offers flights through major airlines with connections to larger hubs like Charlotte and Atlanta. The airport is just 5 miles from downtown, making it easy to reach hotels and attractions by rental car, taxi, or rideshare service.

Amtrak’s Northeast Regional train passing through downtown Roanoke, providing a scenic view and comfortable ride from Philadelphia and New York City. Bus services, including Greyhound, offer additional travel options from various locations. Visitors looking for a scenic road trip can drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway or use I-81 and US-220 for a smooth journey into the city. Roanoke is well-connected, making travel easy whether arriving by air, rail, or road.

Local Transportation

Getting around Roanoke is simple with several transport options available for visitors and locals. Valley Metro is the city’s public bus system, offering fixed-route services throughout the Roanoke Valley. The buses run on a set schedule, making it easy to travel between neighborhoods, shopping areas, and downtown attractions. For those travelling between Roanoke and the New River Valley, the Smart Way Bus provides a connection to Virginia Tech and Blacksburg.

The Star Line Trolley is a free service that runs along Jefferson Street, linking downtown Roanoke with Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. Taxis and rideshare services like are available in Roanoke, offering flexible transportation for those who prefer direct routes. Visitors can also rent cars from several agencies located near Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport. For those who enjoy biking, Roanoke has a growing network of bike-friendly routes and greenways, making cycling a great way to explore the city.

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FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)

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