Map of Roanoke, United States

🌲 What to do in Roanoke 🌲

Roanoke is a vibrant city filled with a variety of activities that cater to every interest and budget. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Roanoke.

• Best Budget Activity in Roanoke:

  Mill Mountain Star and Park: Hike to the iconic Roanoke Star for panoramic views of the city and enjoy picnicking and leisurely walks in the surrounding park.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Roanoke:

  Roanoke Star Line Trolley Tour: Embark on a guided trolley tour that takes you through historic neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and offers insight into Roanoke's rich history.

• Best Luxury Activity in Roanoke:

  Hot Air Balloon Ride over the Blue Ridge Mountains: Soar above the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains in a hot air balloon for a breathtaking and unforgettable experience.

🍴 Where to eat in Roanoke 🍴

Roanoke is a culinary gem, offering a diverse range of dining options and must-try foods. From Southern comfort dishes to international flavors, the city's food scene has something for every palate.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Roanoke:

  Blues BBQ Co.•$:

  Cuisine specialty: Authentic Southern BBQ

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Roanoke:

  Tuco's Taqueria Garaje•$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Flavorful Mexican street food

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Roanoke:

  Alexander's•$$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Fine dining with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients

• Best Budget Bar in Roanoke:

  Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint•$:

  Craft beer and gourmet burgers

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Roanoke:

  The Wall Street Tavern•$$:

  Handcrafted cocktails and live music

• Best Luxury Bar in Roanoke:

  Fortunato•$$$:

  Premium wines and artisanal cocktails

🏰 What to see in Roanoke 🏰

Roanoke is a city rich in history and culture, boasting an array of must-visit landmarks that showcase its unique character and charm. From historical sites to scenic points, Roanoke offers a blend of attractions for every traveler.

• Center in the Square

  A dynamic cultural complex housing museums, galleries, and the Roanoke Star, offering a multifaceted experience for art and history enthusiasts.

• Taubman Museum of Art

  A contemporary architectural masterpiece featuring a diverse collection of visual arts and exhibitions that highlight both national and regional talents.

• Mill Mountain Zoo

  Home to a variety of exotic and endangered species, visitors can enjoy up-close encounters with wildlife while appreciating the zoo's commitment to conservation.

• Roanoke City Market

  Virginia's oldest continuously operating public farmers' market, where visitors can explore local produce, crafts, and homemade goods in a vibrant and bustling setting.

• Virginia's Blue Ridge Overlook

  A scenic overlook offering panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, providing a picturesque backdrop for photography and a serene escape into nature.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Roanoke 🛍️

Roanoke is a shopping haven, offering a diverse range of retail destinations where you can find anything from unique gifts to high-end fashion items. Explore the city's shopping scene for a perfect retail therapy experience.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Roanoke:

  Black Dog Salvage Architectural Antiques: Browse a wide selection of vintage and salvaged architectural pieces, furniture, and home decor items at budget-friendly prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Roanoke:

  Towers Shopping Center: A bustling shopping center with a mix of retail stores, specialty shops, restaurants, and entertainment options to cater to varied tastes and budgets.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Roanoke:

  Mall at Tanglewood: An upscale shopping destination featuring designer boutiques, luxury brands, and upscale dining choices for a sophisticated shopping experience.

🚎 Getting Around Roanoke

• Public Transport

  In Roanoke, public transportation is mainly provided by Valley Metro, operating bus routes throughout the city and surrounding areas. The fare for a single ride is $1.50, with discounts available for seniors, students, and persons with disabilities. Valley Metro also offers a day pass for $3.50 and monthly passes for frequent commuters. The bus schedule varies by route, with most services operating from early morning until late evening.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  Roanoke is served by the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport, located around 5 miles from downtown Roanoke. The airport offers domestic flights to major cities across the US. For train services, the nearest Amtrak station is in Lynchburg, approximately 60 miles away. The city also has a Greyhound bus station for long-distance travel.

• 🚗 Car Rental

  Visitors can rent cars from popular providers like Enterprise, Hertz, and Avis at Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport. Prices typically start at $30 per day, with options ranging from economy to luxury vehicles. 🚲 Bicycle Rental: Roanoke has several bike rental shops, including Roanoke Mountain Adventures and UnderDog Bikes, offering daily rentals starting at $20. Biking is a popular way to explore the scenic Roanoke Valley Trail, which spans over 26 miles of trails suitable for all skill levels.