Map Of Virginia Roanoke Travel Guide

Introduction

Welcome to Roanoke, Virginia’s beautiful city located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Roanoke is a city known for its outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, vibrant nightlife, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re a local resident or a first-time visitor, Roanoke has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, and much more.

Top Attractions

1. Mill Mountain Star

Mill Mountain Star is a famous landmark in Roanoke that offers breathtaking views of the city. The iconic star, which is illuminated at night, is one of the largest man-made stars in the world. Visitors can hike or drive to the summit and enjoy the panoramic views of the valley below.

2. Taubman Museum of Art

The Taubman Museum of Art is a contemporary art museum located in downtown Roanoke. The museum features a collection of more than 2,000 works of art from around the world, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed media. Visitors can also enjoy special exhibitions, lectures, and workshops throughout the year.

3. Virginia Museum of Transportation

The Virginia Museum of Transportation is a unique museum that showcases the history of transportation in Virginia. The museum features a collection of more than 2,000 artifacts, including vintage locomotives, cars, and planes. Visitors can also take a ride on a vintage train or trolley.

Hidden Gems

1. Roanoke Pinball Museum

The Roanoke Pinball Museum is a fun and unique attraction that allows visitors to play vintage pinball machines from the 1950s to the present day. The museum features more than 50 pinball machines, and visitors can play as many games as they like for a flat fee.

2. Black Dog Salvage

Black Dog Salvage is a salvage and architectural antiques business that is also featured on the DIY Network show Salvage Dawgs. Visitors can browse the warehouse and purchase unique items such as reclaimed wood, vintage lighting fixtures, and architectural salvage pieces.

3. Green Hill Park

Green Hill Park is a hidden gem located in Roanoke’s Southside neighborhood. The park features a variety of outdoor amenities, including a disc golf course, picnic areas, and walking trails. Visitors can also enjoy the park’s stunning views of the Roanoke Valley.

Food Scene

1. Local Roots

Local Roots is a farm-to-table restaurant that sources its ingredients from local farmers and producers. The menu changes seasonally and features dishes such as grilled pork chop with sweet potato puree and roasted vegetables.

2. The River and Rail

The River and Rail is a Southern-inspired restaurant located in downtown Roanoke. The menu features classic dishes such as fried chicken and shrimp and grits, as well as more modern offerings such as pork belly tacos and beet salad.

3. Texas Tavern

The Texas Tavern is a Roanoke institution that has been serving up classic diner fare since 1930. The menu features items such as hot dogs, hamburgers, and chili, and the restaurant is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Budget-Friendly Tips

1. Free Museums

Many of Roanoke’s museums offer free admission, including the Virginia Museum of Transportation, the Taubman Museum of Art, and the Harrison Museum of African American Culture.

2. Hiking Trails

Roanoke is home to a variety of hiking trails that are free to use. Some popular trails include the Appalachian Trail, the Roanoke River Greenway, and the Mill Mountain Star Trail.

3. Farmer’s Markets

Roanoke’s farmer’s markets offer fresh, local produce at affordable prices. The City Market and the Grandin Village Market are both popular options.

Outdoor Adventures

1. McAfee Knob

McAfee Knob is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Virginia. The trail is 8.8 miles round trip and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

2. Carvins Cove Natural Reserve

Carvins Cove Natural Reserve is a 12,000-acre park that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. The park is home to several scenic overlooks and a 630-acre reservoir.

3. Smith Mountain Lake

Smith Mountain Lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and water sports. The lake features 500 miles of shoreline and is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Family-Friendly Activities

1. Mill Mountain Zoo

Mill Mountain Zoo is a small zoo located on Mill Mountain. The zoo features a variety of animals, including red pandas, snow leopards, and kangaroos. Visitors can also enjoy the zoo’s playground and picnic areas.

2. Splash Valley Water Park

Splash Valley Water Park is a seasonal water park located in Roanoke’s Green Ridge Recreation Center. The park features a lazy river, water slides, and a splash pad.

3. Center in the Square

Center in the Square is a cultural center located in downtown Roanoke. The center features several attractions, including the Science Museum of Western Virginia, the Harrison Museum of African American History and Culture, and the Roanoke Pinball Museum.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

1. Explore Roanoke’s Street Art

Roanoke is home to several murals and street art installations that are hidden throughout the city. Visitors can take a self-guided walking tour or book a guided tour to learn more about the art and the artists behind it.

2. Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that offers stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Visitors can stop at several overlooks and hiking trails along the way.

3. Explore Roanoke’s Caves

Roanoke is home to several caves that are open for exploration. The Dixie Caverns and Natural Bridge Caverns are both popular options.

Natural Wonders

1. Natural Bridge

Natural Bridge is a natural limestone arch that is over 215 feet tall. Visitors can explore the bridge and the surrounding area on hiking trails and guided tours.

2. Roaring Run Falls

Roaring Run Falls is a scenic waterfall located in Roanoke’s Jefferson National Forest. Visitors can hike to the falls and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

3. McAfee Knob

McAfee Knob is not only a popular hiking destination, but it also offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Vibrant Nightlife

1. Martin’s Downtown

Martin’s Downtown is a live music venue located in the heart of downtown Roanoke. The venue features local and national acts, as well as weekly karaoke and trivia nights.

2. Corned Beef and Co.

Corned Beef and Co. is a popular bar and restaurant located in downtown Roanoke. The bar features live music on the weekends and is known for its signature drink, the “Roanoke Red.”

3. Blue 5

Blue 5 is a restaurant and music venue that features live music every night of the week. The restaurant offers classic Southern cuisine and a wide selection of craft beers.

Local Markets

1. City Market

The City Market is a historic market located in downtown Roanoke. The market features local vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.

2. Grandin Village Market

The Grandin Village Market is a weekly farmer’s market located in Roanoke’s Grandin Village neighborhood. The market features local vendors selling fresh produce, meats, and artisanal products.

3. Roanoke Co+op

The Roanoke Co+op is a community-owned grocery store that features organic and locally sourced products. The store also has a cafe that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Beaches and Mountains

1. Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a popular beach destination located approximately four hours from Roanoke. The beach features three miles of boardwalk and several attractions, including the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center.