things to do in roanoke va

Roanoke, Virginia, is a charming city surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering a mix of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and historic sites to explore. Here are some things to do in Roanoke, VA:

Outdoor Activities:

1. Mill Mountain Star and Park: Visit the iconic 212-foot-tall star on top of Mill Mountain, which offers stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway: Explore the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, which runs through Roanoke and offers numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and scenic overlooks.
3. Smith Mountain Lake: Enjoy boating, fishing, or water sports on this large lake, which offers beautiful views and outdoor recreation opportunities.
4. Roanoke River Greenway: Take a stroll or bike ride along the Roanoke River Greenway, a 1.5-mile path that follows the river and offers scenic views.

Cultural Attractions:

1. Taubman Museum of Art: Visit this world-class art museum, which features a diverse collection of American art from the 19th century to the present.
2. Science Museum of Western Virginia: Explore the science museum, which offers interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and a giant screen theater.
3. Roanoke Pinball Museum: Play classic pinball machines and enjoy a unique gaming experience.
4. Mill Mountain Discovery Center: Learn about the natural and cultural history of the Roanoke Valley at this interactive museum.

Historic Sites:

1. Historic Downtown Roanoke: Explore the charming historic district, which features many preserved buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries.
2. Roanoke Valley Railroad Museum: Visit this museum, which showcases historic locomotives and offers train rides.
3. Blandy Experimental Farm: Learn about agriculture and conservation at this historic farm, which offers tours and educational programs.
4. Mabry Mill: Visit this historic gristmill, which dates back to the 19th century and offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains.

Other Attractions:

1. Roanoke City Market: Visit this historic market, which offers fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.
2. The Mill: Enjoy dinner and drinks at this upscale restaurant, which offers stunning views of the city.
3. The Taubman Center: Attend a concert, play, or musical performance at this state-of-the-art theater.
4. Roanoke River: Take a scenic drive or boat tour along the Roanoke River, which offers beautiful views and outdoor recreation opportunities.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Roanoke, VA. The city offers a mix of outdoor activities, cultural attractions, and historic sites to explore, making it a great destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.