Discover the Top 29 Must-See Attractions: Things to Do in Roanoke, Virginia

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Welcome to Roanoke, Virginia – a charming city nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains that offers an incredible array of attractions and activities for travelers.

From outdoor adventures like hiking, biking, and scenic drives to fascinating museums, vibrant arts scene, and delightful local flavors, this captivating destination has something for everyone.

In this blog post, we’re excited to share with you our top 29 must-see attractions in Roanoke that will surely make your trip unforgettable.

Key Takeaways

Roanoke, Virginia offers an incredible array of attractions and activities for travelers, from outdoor adventures like hiking and biking to fascinating museums, vibrant arts scene, and delightful local flavors.
Must – see attractions in Roanoke include the Mill Mountain Star & Park, Virginia Museum of Transportation, O. Winston Link Museum, Roanoke Pinball Museum, and Black Dog Salvage.
Outdoor adventurers can explore Roanoke Valley Greenways with over 30 miles of biking and hiking trails or visit Carvins Cove Natural Reserve for stunning views of Southern Virginia Mountains alongside wildlife sightings. They can also hike the McAfee Knob Trail or drive through the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway Drive.
Families visiting Roanoke can enjoy a range of family – friendly activities such as Kids Square Children’s Museum exhibits or have fun at Science Museum of Western Virginia interactive displays; cool off in Splash Valley Water Park; play classic arcade games at Roanoke STARCADE Arcade; experience outdoor recreation and entertainment at Explore Park.

Top Attractions In Roanoke

Mill Mountain Star & Park

A visit to Roanoke is incomplete without experiencing the iconic Mill Mountain Star & Park, a breathtaking destination that combines natural beauty with rich history. Known worldwide for boasting the largest illuminated man-made star, this stunning landmark has been illuminating the Roanoke skyline since 1949 and offers picturesque views of both downtown Roanoke and Virginia’s beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains.

Mill Mountain Park isn’t just about its famous star; it offers plenty more for visitors of all ages. Enjoy interactive exhibits at the Discovery Center, let your children play at the well-equipped playground or engage in friendly sports matches on their tennis courts.

The park is easily accessible by car and remains open year-round with free admission – making it an ideal spot for picnics and outdoor leisure activities any time of year.

Virginia Museum Of Transportation

Photo by Jim Pennucci

The Virginia Museum of Transportation is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Roanoke. As one of the top attractions in the city, it boasts an impressive collection that showcases Roanoke’s rich transportation history through its amazing display of diesel and steam trains, vintage cars, and aeronautical artifacts.

Visitors can immerse themselves in interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences catered to all ages while learning about Virginia and the United States’ unique transportation history.

Besides the historical displays, keep an eye out for special events hosted by the museum throughout the year such as train shows and holiday-themed train rides.

O. Winston Link Museum

The O. Winston Link Museum is a must-visit attraction for photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike, located in the historical Norfolk & Western Railway Passenger Station in Roanoke Valley.

Showcasing the exceptional work of renowned railway photographer O.

The extensive collection features striking photographs and captivating audio recordings that capture the essence of the steam era, making it an immersive experience like no other.

While you’re exploring other top attractions in Roanoke such as Mill Mountain Star & Park and Virginia Museum of Transportation, don’t miss out on visiting this fascinating tribute to one of America’s most iconic photographers at The O.

Roanoke Pinball Museum

Roanoke Pinball Museum should be on the top of your list of must-see attractions when visiting Roanoke, Virginia. Located in downtown, near other popular landmarks, this museum offers a unique and fun experience for all ages.

Housed in a historic building, which adds to its charm, Roanoke Pinball Museum is a family-owned and operated business. They offer private party rentals and event packages that you can take advantage of.

This museum aims to preserve the history of pinball and arcade games so visitors get an opportunity to learn about how these classic games have evolved over time.

Black Dog Salvage

Another must-see attraction in Roanoke, Virginia is Black Dog Salvage. This unique shop specializes in reclaiming and reselling vintage elements from historic structures.

Contractors, interior designers, and DIY innovators alike flock to Black Dog Salvage for its one-of-a-kind items that can add a touch of character to any space. Visitors can take a tour of the warehouse and see the salvaged items on display.

Outdoor Adventures In Roanoke

Roanoke Valley Greenways

The Roanoke Valley Greenways is a network of over 30 miles of trails that wind through the city and offer stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The greenway system includes several different trails, such as the Roanoke River Greenway and Tinker Creek Greenway. It’s a fantastic way to get some exercise while experiencing all that Roanoke has to offer.

You can bike, hike, or jog along these trails which are perfect for families with children who love outdoor activities. The greenways provide access to many popular attractions like Carvins Cove Natural Reserve and Explore Park, making it easy to combine your outdoor adventures with must-see sights around town.

Carvins Cove Natural Reserve

Carvins Cove Natural Reserve is a top attraction in Roanoke, Virginia for outdoor adventurers, nature enthusiasts, and families seeking to reconnect with nature.

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains, this reserve boasts over 60 miles of trails that offer visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of Virginia’s flora and fauna.

For only $7 park pass fee per person, visitors can access the reserve’s hiking trails, scenic drives overlooking mountains and valleys, kayaking opportunities on an 800-acre reservoir or even off-road mountain biking.

It provides breathtaking views of Southern Virginia Mountains – making it an ideal weekend getaway destination as well as being open throughout all seasons! Visitors are also invited to enjoy picnics with their family at one of the many pavilions available for rent during special events like weddings.

McAfee Knob Hike

One of the top outdoor adventures in Roanoke is the McAfee Knob Hike. This 8.8-mile round trip trail is a must-see attraction for hikers looking to experience breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and surrounding landscapes.

The hike has a moderate to strenuous difficulty level but is well-maintained and marked, making it easy for hikers to navigate. Visitors are advised to wear proper hiking footwear, bring plenty of water and snacks for the trip, and take breaks along the way if needed.

Blue Ridge Parkway Drive

The Blue Ridge Parkway Drive is a must-see attraction in Roanoke, Virginia. This scenic drive spans 469 miles through the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains and passes just 10 minutes west of downtown Roanoke.

Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views from various overlooks like Groundhog Meadow and Devil’s Backbone, as well as hiking opportunities at popular spots such as Peaks of Otter area.

Roanoke offers a variety of hiking trails near the parkway including Rocky Knob Recreation Area, Roanoke Mountain Summit Trail, and the Sharp Top Trail at Peaks of Otter.

Whether it’s springtime wildflowers or fall foliage, there’s something for everyone on this picturesque drive that offers stunning scenery year-round.

Smith Mountain Lake

For travelers who love outdoor adventures, Smith Mountain Lake should be at the top of their list when visiting Roanoke, Virginia. This popular destination offers a range of activities for visitors to enjoy, including fishing, boating, kayaking, hiking, and mountain biking.

The lake is also surrounded by several scenic towns such as Moneta, Huddleston and Union Hall. In addition to its abundance of recreation opportunities and picturesque scenery, Smith Mountain Lake features several dining options like the Blackwater Cafe and Landing Restaurant where guests can unwind after a day spent on the water or exploring local trails.

Visitors can also learn about Booker T. Washington’s life at the nearby national monument or experience wine tasting at the annual Smith Mountain Lake Wine Festival in September.

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Family-Friendly Activities

Families visiting Roanoke can enjoy interactive exhibits at Kids Square Children’s Museum, explore science and technology at the Science Museum of Western Virginia, cool off in the Splash Valley Water Park, play classic arcade games at Roanoke STARCADE Arcade, and experience outdoor recreation and entertainment at Explore Park.

Kids Square Children’s Museum

Kids Square Children’s Museum is a top family-friendly attraction located in downtown Roanoke that offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in a world of play and discovery.

Spanning across several floors, Kids Square features hands-on exhibits and interactive displays designed to engage children aged 10 and under. Exhibits include a kid-sized town, where little ones can explore different professions such as being a doctor or firefighter, as well as a science lab complete with experiments that teach kids about the wonders of physics and chemistry.

At Kids Square Children’s Museum, families are encouraged to participate together in activities that foster creativity, imagination, experimentation, and learning while playing.

Visitors can also enjoy other family-friendly attractions such as Mill Mountain Zoo and Explore Park during their stay in Roanoke.

Science Museum Of Western Virginia

The Science Museum of Western Virginia is a great place to visit with your family when looking for something fun and educational to do in Roanoke. Located in the Center in the Square downtown, it offers interactive exhibits on topics ranging from physics and geology to biology and space exploration.

Kids can enjoy hands-on workshops, learn about different ecosystems in a parakeet garden, or explore their creativity at Kids Square Children’s Museum, which also shares the same building.

The museum is ideal for all ages as its exhibits are designed to be informative yet engaging.

Splash Valley Water Park

Splash Valley Water Park is a must-see attraction for families visiting Roanoke, Virginia. This family-friendly water park offers an array of exciting water attractions, including wave pools, slides, and lazy rivers.

There is also a designated children’s area with a splash pad and kiddie pool for young visitors to enjoy.

The park operates seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day and hosts special events such as movie nights and live music performances. Visitors can take advantage of swim lessons and aquatic fitness classes offered at the park for an additional fee.

Admission prices vary depending on age and height with discounts available for Roanoke residents and military personnel. Remember to bring your own towels, sunscreen, and appropriate swimwear as the park enforces strict safety rules.

Roanoke STARCADE Arcade

Roanoke STARCADE Arcade is a must-see attraction for families visiting Roanoke, Virginia. With over 60 classic and modern games, including favorites like Pac Man and skee-ball, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Visitors can purchase tokens or wristbands for unlimited play and even take on friends in the laser tag arena with multiple game modes set in an exciting space-themed environment.

Positive reviews mention the friendly and helpful staff who make sure that each visitor has a great time.

Located within the Valley View Mall, visitors can also take advantage of over 90 stores selling everything from clothing to jewelry. The mall provides plenty of shopping options for those looking to grab some souvenirs or relax after playing at Roanoke Starcade Arcade.

Explore Park

Explore Park is a fantastic family-friendly destination that offers a range of activities to suit everyone’s interests. This park is located near the Blue Ridge Parkway and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

But that’s not all; Explore Park has something for everybody! Thrill-seekers can take on Treetop Quest’s zipline or ropes course while history buffs will enjoy the visitors’ center with exhibit showcasing exhibits on local history.

Each holiday season, Illuminights transforms the park into an enchanting winter wonderland with light displays that are bound to amaze kids and adults alike.

Cultural Experiences

Taubman Museum Of Art

The Taubman Museum of Art is a cultural gem located in downtown Roanoke, Virginia. This attraction features 11 galleries showcasing modern and traditional American art from famous artists such as Thomas Cowperthwaite Eakins and John Singer Sargent.

With workshops, events, and educational experiences on offer for visitors, the museum provides an ideal space to explore local culture through its impressive permanent collection of 2,000 unique pieces.

Rotating exhibits ensure that there’s always something new to see at the Taubman Museum of Art. The striking and unique architecture gives this museum an added charm that visitors won’t forget anytime soon.

Harrison Museum Of African American Culture

The Harrison Museum of African American Culture is a must-see attraction for travelers interested in learning about the rich cultural history of Roanoke, Virginia.

Located in the historic Dumas Center for Artistic and Cultural Development, the museum showcases art, artifacts, and photographs related to African American history and culture in the region.

This museum offers an engaging cultural experience for visitors seeking to dive deeper into the diversity of Roanoke. With events and educational programs dedicated to preserving and promoting African American history, you’ll gain insight into this community’s past while also celebrating their present contributions.

St. Andrew’s Roman Catholic Church

Another must-see attraction in Roanoke, Virginia is the stunning St. Andrew’s Roman Catholic Church. This Gothic-style church is a true architectural masterpiece with its intricate stained-glass windows from Munich that are sure to take your breath away.

Aside from its architectural splendor, St. Andrew’s Roman Catholic Church provides a unique cultural experience for those visiting Roanoke. The church reflects not only the city’s religious heritage but also its strong community spirit as well.

Center In The Square

Center in the Square is a cultural hub located in downtown Roanoke, Virginia. The center offers a range of immersive experiences and educational programs for visitors of all ages.

Within the center, you’ll find fascinating museums and galleries such as the Living-Coral Reef Aquarium, Science Museum of Western Virginia, Kids Square Children’s Museum, Taubman Museum of Art, and Harrison Museum of African American Culture.

You can also catch exciting performances and events such as those hosted by Roanoke Symphony Orchestra and the Mill Mountain Theatre.

Local Flavor And Shopping

Roanoke City Market

The Roanoke City Market is a hub of local flavor and shopping, offering a unique and authentic experience for visitors. Dating back to the 1800s, this year-round market showcases fresh produce, baked goods, handmade jewelry, pottery, clothing, home decor, and so much more.

Located conveniently in downtown Roanoke within walking distance of other attractions such as the Taubman Museum of Art and O. Winston Link Museum, the market provides a glimpse into Roanoke’s rich history and culture.

It’s no wonder why it has been recognized as one of the top 29 must-see attractions in Roanoke – a true embodiment of what makes this city special.

Grandin Village

Grandin Village is a charming and lively urban area in Roanoke, Virginia that offers visitors a unique local flavor and shopping experience. The walkable village offers an array of boutique shops, vintage stores, and consignment shops that sell everything from handmade jewelry to antique furniture.

Local Roots is one of the popular farm-to-table dining options tourists should consider while visiting Grandin Village.

In addition to being an ideal destination for shoppers and foodies alike, Grandin Village also features a range of coffee shops, bakeries, and restaurants offering diverse cuisine options.

Visitors can take advantage of all the village has to offer during their stay in Roanoke by exploring its charming streets on foot or renting bikes from nearby cycling stations.

Big Lick Brewing Company

If you’re a beer lover, Roanoke’s Big Lick Brewing Company is a must-visit. With over a dozen breweries in the city, Big Lick stands out with its locally crafted beers and inviting atmosphere.

The brewery has an impressive selection of IPAs, stouts, pilsners, and more.to choose from – all made onsite – and offers tastings as well as guided tours of the brewing process.

In addition to their delicious libations, they also offer tasty bar bites like wood-fired pizzas and charcuterie boards.

Farm To Table Dining Options

Roanoke’s culinary scene is all about using locally sourced ingredients, which means you’ll find plenty of farm-to-table dining options to choose from.

If you’re looking for more casual dining options that still utilize local produce and meats, Pop’s Ice Cream & Soda Bar and Mac and Bob’s are great choices. And if you want to experience a true taste of Roanoke culture, head over to the Historic Roanoke City Market where you can enjoy locally-sourced food such as fresh fruit and vegetables straight from the farm or baked goods made with flour milled right here in Virginia.

Roanoke’s Unique Shops And Boutiques

Roanoke’s shopping scene is a perfect blend of small-town charm and metropolitan vibes. From antique shops to farmers markets, the city offers a diverse shopping experience that caters to every taste and preference.

One of the must-visit spots for shoppers in Roanoke is the Historic Roanoke City Market, which has been around since 1882. Here you can find farm-fresh produce, handmade crafts, clothing, jewelry, specialty foods, and much more from local vendors.

Additionally, you can visit Charlotte’s Web Antiques or Old’s Cool Antique Store for rare vintage finds or Local Roots for sustainable farm-to-table dining options with homemade dishes like pimento cheese and spicy rabbit stew.

Seasonal Events And Festivals

Discover the festive spirit of Roanoke with seasonal events such as Illuminights at Explore Park, Dickens of a Christmas, Fashions for Evergreens at the Historic Hotel Roanoke, Bank of Fincastle Tinsel Trail, and Winter Wonderlot Parade.

Illuminights At Explore Park

Illuminights at Explore Park is a must-see seasonal event in Roanoke that takes place from November to January. During this event, the park is transformed into a winter wonderland with over 500,000 lights illuminating the trees and displays throughout the park.

In addition to the stunning light displays, Twin Creeks Brewpub offers food and beverage options for visitors during Illuminights at Explore Park. This event is just one of many seasonal events and festivals that take place in Roanoke each year.

Dickens Of A Christmas

One of the top seasonal events in Roanoke, Virginia is “Dickens of a Christmas.” This beloved event takes place annually in downtown Roanoke and features roasted chestnuts, carriage rides, street performers, and more.

Visitors can stroll along festively decorated streets and experience a Victorian-era holiday celebration like no other. There’s even a chance to meet some of Charles Dickens’ most famous characters! The event attracts locals and tourists alike looking to get into the holiday spirit.

Fashions For Evergreen At The Historic Hotel Roanoke

One of the highlights of Roanoke’s holiday season is Fashions for Evergreens at the Historic Hotel Roanoke. This annual event features a spirited competition among local businesses and organizations to create the most creative and dazzling Christmas trees.

You’ll see some truly amazing designs, ranging from traditional to whimsical, all adorned with eye-catching decorations. Anyone can attend this free event, which runs from Thanksgiving Day until New Year’s Day.

Bank Of Fincastle Tinsel Trail

The Bank of Fincastle Tinsel Trail is a beloved event in Roanoke, Virginia that takes place from November to January. During this festive season, community businesses and organizations decorate Christmas trees along the Fincastle Walking Trail.

This free event provides visitors with a warm and welcoming atmosphere while supporting local businesses and organizations, making it an excellent way to get into the holiday spirit.

In addition to admiring the beautifully decorated trees, visitors can take small group tours of the Botetourt County Historical Museum and enjoy complimentary refreshments.

Winter Wonderlot Parade

A popular seasonal event in Roanoke, Virginia is the Winter Wonderlot Parade. This parade, which takes place in the downtown area, offers a festive and family-friendly atmosphere that is sure to delight visitors of all ages.

But the holiday fun doesn’t stop there – Roanoke has a range of seasonal events and festivals throughout the year, including Dickens of a Christmas and Fashions for Evergreens at the Historic Hotel Roanoke.

Visitors can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities during their stay, such as hiking to McAfee Knob or taking a scenic drive on Blue Ridge Parkway.

Conclusion

Roanoke, Virginia is a traveler’s paradise, with an abundance of exciting activities and attractions to explore. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures or cultural experiences, family-friendly fun or local flavor, Roanoke has it all.

From the Mill Mountain Star & Park to the Virginia Museum of Transportation, from Carvins Cove Natural Reserve to the Smith Mountain Lake, there are countless places waiting to be discovered.