things to do in roanoke virginia

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

Outdoor Activities

1. Blue Ridge Parkway: Roanoke is situated near the Blue Ridge Parkway, which offers stunning scenery, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
2. Carvins Cove Natural Reserve: A 12,500-acre reserve with hiking and biking trails, water sports, and picnic areas.
3. Smith Mountain Lake: A large lake with opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports.
4. Roanoke River Greenway: A 1.5-mile walking and biking trail along the Roanoke River.

Cultural Attractions

1. Taubman Museum of Art: A modern art museum featuring a diverse collection of American art.
2. Science Museum of Western Virginia: A science museum with interactive exhibits and a planetarium.
3. Harrison Museum of African American Culture: A museum showcasing the history and culture of African Americans in the region.
4. Mill Mountain Star: A giant illuminated star that offers panoramic views of the city.

Historical Landmarks

1. Roanoke Rail Trail: A 1.5-mile walking and biking trail built on an old rail line.
2. Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center: A historic hotel that offers tours and accommodations.
3. Old Main Street: A charming street lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.
4. History Museum of Western Virginia: A museum that tells the story of the region’s history and culture.

Food and Drink

1. Roanoke Food Tours: Guided tours of local eateries and breweries.
2. Three Brothers Italian Restaurant: A popular Italian restaurant with a family-friendly atmosphere.
3. The Regency Room: A fine dining restaurant located in the Hotel Roanoke.
4. Big Lick Brewing Co.: A craft brewery with a taproom and outdoor seating.

Events and Festivals

1. Roanoke Festival of the Arts: A annual festival celebrating music, art, and culture.
2. Roanoke Star Christmas Tree Lighting: A festive event marking the start of the holiday season.
3. Roanoke Marathon: A challenging marathon that takes runners through the city and surrounding countryside.
4. Big Lick Blues Festival: A celebration of blues music featuring local and national acts.

These are just a few of the many things to do in Roanoke, VA. The city offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, and historical landmarks, making it a great destination for visitors of all interests.