Location: Roanoke
Top Things to do in Roanoke
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What to do and see in Roanoke, Virginia (VA): The Best Things to do
A 100-foot high star atop a mountain and visible from miles around welcomes you to the "Star City of the South," a great beginning for your weekend getaway to this city rich in culture, history, fun and entertainment. Close to the star is the Mill Mountain Zoological Park, where you'll see the endangered Snow Leopard, Amur Tiger and Red Wolf, along with 40-plus other animal species. The Center in the Square is the city's cultural hub, where you can catch a Broadway-quality show at the Mill Mountain Theatre or hear the celebrated Roanoke Symphony. Museums are everywhere, and whether your interest lies in art, history, science or transportation, you'll find a museum to match it. The Harrison Museum of African-American Culture honors achievements of African Americans and includes an impressive African exhibit. For underground delights, head over to the Dixie Caverns for a 45-minute tour of breathtaking cave formations, after which you can browse through pottery, rock and mineral and other shops. There's something to keep you occupied and entertained every minute in this environmentally-conscious, friendly and very welcoming Virginia city.
Restaurants in Roanoke
1. Virginia Museum of Transportation
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 684 reviews
Antique automobiles and trucks, electric and deisel locomotives, and vintage steam, are all part of the nostalgic show at this historic freight station that doubles as a museum .
Reviewed By bmwbillk - Charlotte, United States
Roanoke is known for all the trains... and the museum had plenty as well. very well displayed and such that you could actually get inside some of them. Nice collection of cars including Packards and Studebakers. Worth the time.
2. Mill Mountain Star & Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,263 reviews
A "must see" on most visitors list, an 88-foot manmade star (the largest in the world) sits on majestic Mill Mountain along with a beautifully landscaped city park, that boasts hiking and biking trails, and a zoo.
Reviewed By schultzrebecca - New Bern, United States
This is such a beautiful place -- has been in existence since I was a little girl, The star is a Roanoke landmark and the overlook gives a breathtaking view of the beautiful Roanoke Valley. I strongly recommend the visit -- free and you can take as little or as long as you'd like!
3. Center in the Square
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 222 reviews
Adjacent to Market Square and the City Market, Center in the Square provides a home to four cultural arts and science non-profit organizations in our signature building in downtown Roanoke: Roanoke Pinball Museum, Harrison Museum of African American Culture, History Museum of Western Virginia, Science Museum of Western Virginia, and Mill Mountain Theatre. Visit our website or call for individual museum admission pricing. Mill Mountain Theatre and Children's Theatre of Roanoke tickets are available through our full-service box office. Come inside to enjoy our aquariums in the atrium and green rooftop without charge. Building Hours: Monday - Saturday 10 am - 5 pm, and Sunday 1 - 5 pm. [Note: Roanoke Pinball Museum is closed Mondays. History Museum is closed on Mondays October through April.]
Reviewed By tdjohnso11 - Fairfax, United States
Fun place to visit. Downtown Roanoke. Heart of the city. So many restaurants, breweries and shops. Interactive museums and hone of the pinball museum. Had to be dragged out of that one. In the morning during farming season there is a outdoor market with vendors selling fresh produce. Great place to walk around a bight too. Shop owners were friendly with great advice on where to eat.
4. O. Winston Link Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 296 reviews
Reviewed By travel-here-there
Despite some adjustments to flow due to the pandemic, this museum is an excellent presentation of both local and railroad history so it should appeal to a variety of people. In addition, for those interested in photography equipment and techniques, the museum includes excellent exhibits and explanations of the tools and processes used. I also found the Roanoke 1980s flood story an interesting addition for variety. Possibly the best part of the museum though is the amazing historic train station building it is in! You could spend an hour or three in here, but be sure to stay for the worthwhile video in the theatre that plays on the hour!
5. Roanoke Valley Greenways
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 214 reviews
Reviewed By jbrown14t
Beautiful circle of paved bike and walking paths circle the entire city. The city was extremely kind to build this safe, easy, and beautiful multi-mile circle around the entire city. While the majority of bicyclists prefer to still clog traffic in spite of a paved multi lane without automobiles the city invested millions into, rest assured for a family outing, walk, ride or date this is the place to do it. Beautiful scenery through every part of Roanoke.
6. Black Dog Salvage
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 584 reviews
We are the home of DIY Network's "Salvage Dawgs" - episodes available on Amazon, Discovery Plus, iTunes, YouTubeTV, and streaming devices. Our inventory changes daily! We now have two warehouses located in Roanoke, Virginia. Discover architectural salvage, old house parts, custom upcycled designs, reproduction garden statuary, furniture paint, salvage inspired furniture, and decor in our main showroom. Curated regional artisans and vendors also add a constantly changing mix of new, vintage, and antique home decor. Shop for unique gifts, souvenirs, apparel, dog gear, and our expanded gourmet Market collection. Visit our nearby salvage warehouse for new arrivals and antique lumber. Explore outside for antique wrought iron, clawfoot tubs, and amazing art inspiration! Don’t see what you’re looking for? Work with our custom design team to create your vision! Staying in Roanoke? Inquire about The Stone House, our 1911 historic vacation rental property located next door.
Reviewed By paradisc - Acushnet, United States
Was back visiting family in the area and this is the second time I have visited this place. If you watch the show it’s a must see place, even if you haven’t I would recommend stopping because there are so many unique items here you’ll be amazed. The people who work here are talented and creative. The items that are saved and resold will bring back memories of the past. If you have a hour or two to kill, check out this place, you won’t be sorry.
7. Carvins Cove Natural Reserve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 88 reviews
Reviewed By wchan3272019 - Bryan, United States
Great quite place of relaxation. Great lake view, clean, nice hiking trails, there are options to rent kayak or boat, first come first serve. There are people fishing, kayaking, and the staff is friendly. Small fee per car per day, but worth it.
8. Big Lick Brewing Company
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 97 reviews
Downtown Roanoke's premier craft brewery, taproom and beer garden specializing in craft beer with an emphasis on quality and variety.
Reviewed By vivamifiesta
Adequate amount of outdoor seating and plenty of free parking next door or close by. The brewery are using safe protocols during COVID-19. We enjoyed their selection of hard seltzer’s on tap and ordered take out food from Tuco’s Tacos, which is just across the road. Good times!
9. Roanoke Pinball Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 139 reviews
The Roanoke Pinball Museum is an interactive showcase cultivating curiosity in science, art, and the history of pinball while preserving and honoring its role in American culture. We have over 55 playable machines with production dates ranging from the 1930's to the present day. Pay one price and play all day! School tours and party rentals are also available... inquire within!
Reviewed By Trickyfae - Roanoke, United States
This place can literally be hours of fun and history. There are well over 20 pinball games in this vintage style arcade. All you can play at a standard price. I would highly reccomend this place for families on weekends. But it would be more for children 5+ as pinball is no basic game, and I personally do not enjoy seeing unattended children banging on/damaging some unique pieces of history. I personally could spend 3 hours here. They do sell beverages and have restrooms at this facility so this can be a great day activity. I honestly can't wait to go back! As it is more then your monies worth!
10. Taubman Museum of Art
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 411 reviews
Reviewed By 360marionb - Timmonsville, United States
We didn’t know about this museum, but it was suggested to us by AAA. As an artist, I love to look at art and the items on display were awesome. We will definitely go back again when in the area.
