Today, we’re continuing our Virginia adventures with a stop at one of my favorite mountain towns: the resplendent city of Roanoke. This is a city profoundly shaped by the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the mighty Roanoke River. Dubbed the “Capital of Virginia’s Blue Ridge,” Roanoke serves as a vibrant center for higher education, business, museums, the arts, and unparalleled outdoor access. Guarding the city and the nearby Valley is the iconic Roanoke Star, whose illuminated presence atop Mill Mountain has rightfully earned Roanoke the moniker “Star City.”
In this post, we’ll dive into a bit of Roanoke history before touring its must-see spots. It’s a city I personally return to time and again because it’s a true haven of natural beauty, offering tons of fun—from museums to the Mill Mountain Zoo, plus great local shops and eateries. Roanoke truly is a Blue Ridge star worth exploring.
Roanoke Through History:
Carved out of an ancient mountain range, the Roanoke region was left with a great basin of fertile ground, establishing it as a crossroads of civilization for thousands of years. The Tutelo, a Siouan tribe, were living here in the 1700s when the first permanent European settlers arrived in the greater Roanoke area in the 1740s.
The current site of Roanoke lies near the intersection of the Great Wagon Road and the Carolina Road—two branches of a vast network of early colonial roads that evolved from ancient Native American trails in the Appalachian region. The Native Americans who originally settled what would become the Roanoke Valley cultivated an agriculture-based society along the winding river. These early inhabitants even created a form of currency called ‘rawrenoc,’ fashioned from smoothed shells, from which the word “Roanoke” is likely derived.
The Roanoke River itself is a significant landmark. Its headwaters begin in Virginia’s Appalachian Mountains near Roanoke, and it meanders through Virginia and North Carolina, eventually reaching its terminus near the Outer Banks. This is, in fact, the very location where the famous Lost Colony of Roanoke occurred in the 1580s—a fascinating visit for a future American Nomad adventure!
The first European settlers ventured into the valley around 1740. This natural area was defined by its abundant salt marshes and salt licks, where animals frequently gathered for nourishment. Early pioneers like Mark Evans and Tasker Tosh from Pennsylvania strategically settled near these salt licks, precisely where established Native American and animal trails intersected in the heart of the valley.
Many of these early settlers were hardy Scotch-Irish immigrants, joined by significant numbers of Germans who arrived from Pennsylvania via the Great Wagon Road.
Initially, the Roanoke Valley was primarily an agrarian society. However, with the arrival of the area’s first railroad, the Virginia and Tennessee, in 1852, the region transformed into a melting pot of industry.
Roanoke was originally known as Big Lick before being incorporated under its current name in 1884. While the Civil War certainly impacted the region, Roanoke was not as devastated as other areas of Virginia. During Reconstruction, it recovered robustly through a burgeoning tobacco trade and the significant growth of the railroad industry, including the expansion of lines like the Shenandoah Valley Railroad and the Norfolk and Western Railway. You can learn about Roanoke’s Railroad History at the Virginia Transportation Museum https://vmt.org/
Today, Roanoke is a bustling convergence of industry, natural ecotourism, and vibrant arts and culture. With the Star looking down from above, Roanoke’s future is undeniably bright.
Roanoke’s Star Attractions
Roanoke offers something for everyone from outdoor enthusiasts to art lovers, history buffs, shopping and delicious eats – you’ll find it here. Here are a few of my favorite Roanoke haunts.
Star City Sights:
Getting into Roanoke’s Art Scene:
Taubman Art Museum:
Hands down, this is my favorite museum in Roanoke. The Taubman’s permanent collection includes a world-class collection of American art from masters like John Singer Sargent, Frederick Carl Frieske Thomas Eakins, Childe Hassam, Norman Rockwell and so many more. In addition to the permanent collection, the Taubman consistently hosts amazing traveling exhibits like Titian to Monet (2022) and an art exhibit on Louis Comfort Tiffany’s paintings (2023). Plan your visit here.
The Eleanor D. Wilson Museum at Hollins University features the work of renowned, emerging, and regional artists. The museum presents exhibitions in a wide variety of media and genres, including selected exhibitions from the permanent collection. With programming such as artist talks, workshops, and tours, the museum provides a forum for art through viewing, dialogue, and an understanding of the creative process. The museum also offers student internships, volunteer opportunities, and an undergraduate course on museum curatorial practices offered every other year.
Dig into Roanoke’s History…
Dive into History and Photography at The Roanoke History Museum and the O. Winston Link Museum, both operated by the Historical Society of Western Virginia, share space within the magnificent former passenger station of the Norfolk & Western Railway.
Also housed in this historic building are the Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge offices and the Roanoke Valley Visitors’ Bureau. In addition to its main museum exhibits, the Society curates engaging free exhibits in the building’s public spaces, significantly enhancing the experience for visitors seeking local information. The Society also manages the Raymond Loewy Gallery of industrial design, which is also free to the public.
The O. Winston Link Museum is dedicated to the captivating photography of O. Winston Link, the 20th-century railroad photographer widely considered the master of juxtaposing steam railroading with rural American life. He is most noted for his iconic 1950s photographs of steam locomotives at night, dramatically lit by numerous synchronized flashbulbs. Learn more about O. Winston Link and the museum here
Roanoke History – The History Museum of Western Virginia collection comprises the largest repository of material devoted to tracing human history of Western Virginia, and especially of the Roanoke area. Nearly 6,000 three-dimensional objects, 1,000 textiles, 1,300 books, 8,000 photographs, 8,000 documents and hundreds of maps, slides and postcards are in the collection, available for displays.
Virginia Museum of Transportation
Conveniently located in downtown Roanoke’s century-old freight station, the Virginia Museum of Transportation invites you to discover Virginia and the Roanoke Valley’s rich railroad and transportation history. The museum has been collecting and preserving Virginia’s transportation heritage since 1963. Visitors can “choo-choo” their way into adventure, marveling at a magnificent collection of steam, diesel, and electric locomotives. Kids will especially love the interactive exhibits that vividly bring the history of Virginia’s railroads to life. This is an educational, fascinating, and truly unmissable museum experience in Roanoke!
Discover Downtown Roanoke:
Downtown Roanoke is a vibrant community hub anchored by amazing restaurants, unique local shops, world-class museums like The Taubman Museum of Art and the Center in the Square building, the historic City Market, and a wealth of other captivating attractions.
Center in the Square: A must-visit in the heart of downtown Roanoke. Explore multiple museums from science to history to pinball machines in this a seven-story regional non-profit cultural center. This remarkable facility is not only a cultural hub but also home to an extraordinary collection of aquariums. The 8,000-gallon Living Reef Aquarium, the largest of its kind in the Mid-Atlantic, teems with over 400 colorful marine fish and 150 species of soft and stony corals. Additionally, visitors can marvel at two 300-gallon cylindrical jellyfish tanks, a Turtles of Virginia tank featuring three native species, and a 400-gallon rotating exhibit tank currently showcasing “Predators of the Amazon.”
The Center also boasts a multi-level green roof, offering breathtaking panoramic views of downtown Roanoke and the surrounding mountains, making it a popular venue for entertainment events. Within this iconic building, you’ll discover several amazing museums including the Harrison Museum of African American Culture, Don & Barbara Smith Children’s Museum – Kids Square, and the Science Museum of Western Virginia. Other exciting attractions include the Roanoke Pinball Museum and Mill Mountain Theatre.
- Harrison Museum of African American Culture: Explore the rich heritage and vibrant contributions of African Americans at the Harrison Museum of African American Culture in Roanoke, VA. This acclaimed museum offers an immersive experience into the African American journey through a diverse range of exhibits. From compelling art collections to historical artifacts and powerful multimedia presentations, the museum provides a comprehensive look at the cultural, artistic, and historical achievements of African Americans in the Roanoke Valley and beyond. Plan your visit here
- Science Museum of Western VA: Ignite your curiosity in this amazing museum right in the center of Roanoke. Explore interactive exhibits that bring science to life. My favorite exhibit is the Parakeet Garden, which an immersive parakeet exhibit where guests can enter the garden and be able to feed and closely interact with over 250 parakeets! The museum also has a planetarium that is ‘out of this world.’ Plan your visit here
- Kids Square: A playground of imagination in the Center in the Square that invites kids to explore, create and discover through hands-on exhibits to exciting activities, we make every visit an adventure for curious young minds. Whether it’s building, crafting, or uncovering new ideas, there’s always something fun to do.
- Pinball Museum: Learn about the history of pinball and play over 75 pinball machines from 1932 to the modern era.
Visit Roanoke’s Market – Since 1882 the Roanoke City Market has served as a hub for fresh produce, local food and artisan goods. The area around Roanoke is fertile and you’re certain to find delicious fresh fruits, veggies, jams and more at this market. Website
LIVE Entertainment in Downtown Roanoke:
Downtown Roanoke is home to several performing arts centers including the iconic Mill Mountain Theatre. Now located in The Center in the Square, The Mill Mountain Theatre produces Broadway quality shows all year. The theatre also serves as a venue for touring acts.
The Jefferson Center is your ticket to amazing theatre, live music, comedy and more. Housed in the old Jefferson Senior High School this 121,000-square-foot building is now a multi-use cultural center for community enrichment. Today Jefferson Center enriches lives through shared experiences by delivering premier live performances, transformative educational opportunities, and providing a special place for the community. Website
Elmwood Amphitheater: This beautiful outdoor venue in the heart of Elmwood City Park hosts major concerts in the summer months like country superstar Billy Currington, Train and more. Purchase your tickets here.
Exit, Pursued by The Bear Theatre: Community driven theatre in Downtown Roanoke. Check out their schedule here.
Other places in the Roanoke area for live entertainment:
Berglund Center: from Broadway to national touring bands – there is always something going on at The Berglund Center.
Mill Mountain Park
Mill Mountain Park is a true Roanoke treasure, inviting you to scale the heights of Mill Mountain and explore over 568 acres of stunning parkland. Here, you’ll discover iconic landmarks like the world-famous Roanoke Star, the Roanoke Parks and Recreation’s Discovery Center, and a chance to see amazing animals at the Mill Mountain Zoo. This park is incredibly convenient, located right beside the Blue Ridge Parkway, and offers tons of trails for hiking and biking, plus abundant picnic areas. Make Mill Mountain a top priority during your visit to Roanoke—you won’t regret it!
- Shoot for the Stars with a visit to the Roanoke Star at Mill Mountain: This iconic symbol of Roanoke has shone a light and served as a beacon for the city since Christmas 1949. Originally installed by the Roanoke Merchants Organization as a holiday decoration, it was so beloved that the star remained, becoming a permanent guardian of Mill Mountain. Today, it stands as the world’s largest free-standing, man-made, illuminated star, glowing brightly every night. Plan your visit here.
- Mill Mountain Zoo: Nestled atop beautiful Mill Mountain, this amazing zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including charismatic red pandas, playful Asian small-clawed otters, fascinating local Virginia wildlife, and many more. The Mill Mountain Zoo is passionately dedicated to promoting an appreciation and understanding of animal and habitat preservation through quality exhibits, engaging educational programs, and partnerships with other conservation initiatives.Through admissions and donations, the Zoo also directly supports vital local and global conservation efforts. The Zoo is part of a critical red wolf conservation program, actively working to increase the population of this critically endangered species—with an estimated mere 17-19 individuals remaining in the wild. Keeper Chats offer a unique opportunity to learn directly from zoo experts about our animals’ diets, habitats, conservation, behavior, and their individual journeys to Mill Mountain Zoo. For a delightful ride, our Zoo Choo train operates seasonally, providing an experience that creates adventurers and enthusiasts across all generations! I recommend purchasing your zoo tickets in advance here
- Discovery Center: At the Mill Mountain Discovery Center, you’ll delve into the local ecosystem, learning about the unique flora and fauna that define the area. The center features hands-on displays, informative panels, and captivating wildlife exhibits, all designed to spark curiosity and promote environmental awareness. It’s an ideal destination for families, school groups, and nature enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding of Roanoke’s natural heritage. Beyond its educational exhibits, the center serves as a perfect gateway to the beautiful trails and outdoor spaces of Mill Mountain Park, where you can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and stunning views of the Roanoke Valley. Plan your visit to the Mill Mountain Discovery Center and connect intimately with the natural beauty and history of Roanoke, VA. Website
Discover Roanoke’s great OutDoors:
The Roanoke Valley’s natural beauty is legendary. From the towering Blue Ridge Mountains to its ambling country roads, picturesque meadows, and the winding Roanoke River, outdoor enthusiasts flock to Roanoke. Let’s explore Roanoke’s Great Outdoors with these must-see sites!
Much of Roanoke’s Outdoor Adventure is tied to the wonders of the Blue Ridge Parkway, which cuts directly through Roanoke. Ground zero for Blue Ridge Adventure for all ages in Roanoke is the Explore Park.
Explore Park: Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 115, Explore Park features hundreds of acres of rolling hills, pristine woodlands, hiking trails, river frontage, outdoor adventure and a visitor information center. Soar through the trees on the Tree Top Quest aerial adventure course, featuring zip-lines and challenging obstacles for ages four and up. Stay overnight in a cabin, yurt or primitive campsite. Enjoy a craft beer or Virginia wine and cider at Twin Creeks Brewpub. Stop inside the visitor center to browse our gift shop featuring artisan crafts and parkway memorabilia. Website
One of my favorite vistas near Roanoke is the Roanoke River Overlook, located just north of the city core. From here, a wonderful hike descends directly to the riverfront. This particular spot is just one of dozens of scenic turnouts and fantastic hiking areas you’ll find within thirty minutes of Roanoke, whether you drive north or south along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
If you drive south on the parkway, you can reach the iconic Mabry Mill, one of the most photographed spots on the parkway.
If you head north about thirty minutes you’ll reach my favorite retreat, The Peaks of Otter Lodge, which we visited in a recent American Nomad adventure.
Here are some resources to plan your Blue Ridge Parkway adventure from Roanoke.
Official Blue Ridge Parkway Website
Blue Ridge Parkway Association Website
Roanoke Valley Greenway: With over 400 miles of trails, you’ll discover beauty, peace and wilderness and urban trails. This is a jewel and one of the best greenway systems in the Southeast. Step off the beaten path and blaze your trail on the Roanoke Valley Greenway system. Official Website
Read Mountain Preserve: Park of the Greenways trail system, this 243-acre park has 4.5 miles of natural surface trails. Known as a “mountain island,” it is visible from most parts of the Roanoke Valley as a long undeveloped ridge. The trails ascend challenging terrain in dry woodlands. Parking, a picnic shelter and an overlook are provided from Crumpacker Drive. The park lands, protected by a conservation easement, were donated to Roanoke County, with the hiking trails built by volunteers. The main destination within the Preserve is Buzzards Rock, which offers views of the Hollins area and Carvins Cove. Other trails provide loop options. Website
Carvins Cove– Just seven miles from the north side of Roanoke, Carvins Cove Natural Reserve, this is the fifth largest city park in the United States. It is a hidden gem, beloved by locals. This expansive reserve encompasses more than 12,000 acres of both hardwood and mixed pine forests, a vast 630-acre reservoir, and an impressive 60 miles of trails perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Notably, over 11,200 acres of Carvins Cove Natural Reserve are protected by the largest conservation easement in Virginia’s history, making it a vital piece of Virginia’s green infrastructure. Beyond its recreational offerings, Roanoke’s Carvins Cove also serves as a crucial source of fresh water. Rainfall drains naturally from the reserve into the beautiful Carvins Cove Reservoir, where the water is treated. An astounding 10 million gallons of water are filtered each day for customers of the Western Virginia Water Authority, which also expertly manages the Cove’s boat dock and reservoir access. Plan your visit here.
Roanoke is within one hour of amazing Virginia State Parks including the popular Natural Bridge State Park, Smith Mountain Lake, Fairy Stone State Park and Claytor Lake State Park. Read the Virginia Parks Roanoke Guide Here
Roanoke’s proximity to the Roanoke and James Rivers makes it a popular place for paddling and river access. The Roanoke Blueway is a popular waterway for paddlers. You can learn more about Roanoke paddling opportunities here. Looking for a guide check out Roanoke Mountain Adventures here.
Destination Coffee:
Roanoke is home to one of my favorite coffee shops – Mill Mountain Coffee...only two blocks from The Taubman and Center in the Square, this coffee shop serves up specialty coffee and teas.
Other popular local Roanoke Coffee Shops: Sweet Donkey Cafe, Second Cafe, RND Coffee, Little Green Hive, Cello, Bibliopub – library in a coffeeshop!
Don’t miss the chance to say ‘MEOW’ to the cats at Toebean Cat Cafe
Good Eats in Roanoke:
Roanoke has tons of delicious eateries, especially in the downtown district. I love Billy’s Seafood and Steak (by the Taubman)…Check out this wonderful Roanoke Dining Guide from Downtown Roanoke Association Have a favorite Roanoke restaurant – let me know in the comments at the bottom of the post.
Where to Stay:
The Roanoke Valley offers travelers a variety of great lodging from chain hotels to local boutique hotels, bed and breakfasts and more. My mom and I stayed at the Country Inn and Suites just outside of town on our last visit, or we make the trip to Roanoke from The Peaks of Otter Lodge. Here are a few local favorites.
Hotel Roanoke: This 4-diamond property offers the rich tradition of making people feel welcome with a true commitment to service. Built in 1882, the Tudor-style Hotel Roanoke is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has been inducted into the Historic Hotels of America. Make your reservations here
Liberty Trust Hotel: Located in the heart of downtown Roanoke, The Liberty Trust is a 54-room boutique, historic hotel that invites guests to relax in luxury. With custom-made furnishings, top-quality detailing and finishes, and upscale amenities, the hotel’s design is significantly inspired by its original standing as the former historic First National Bank headquarters constructed in the early 20th century. The hotel is the only member of the prestigious Preferred Hotels & Resorts, Connect Collection in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. Make your reservations here
Fire Station One Boutique Hotel: Stay in an over 100 year old restored firehouse that welcomes guests in a cozy environment. They also have a restaurant on-site. Make your reservations here
When to Visit Roanoke?
Every season in Roanoke offers a unique chance to explore the diverse ecosystem of the Roanoke Valley. Spring is a time when vibrant wildflowers emerge from the cold, frosted meadows of winter, while summer offers a heavenly escape to enjoy area trails and cooler temperatures away from the more oppressive heat of lower elevations. Fall is arguably the peak season in Roanoke, as the Blue Ridge Mountains become a breathtaking canvas aflame with brilliant oranges, reds, and yellows, painting the mountain peaks in spectacular color.
Ready to Plan Your Roanoke Adventure, here are some helpful resources:
Thanks for exploring Roanoke with American Nomad Traveler…Next up we’ll stop by Appomattox Courthouse National Historic Park where the Civil War ended in April 1865, before embarking on Revolutionary War adventures in North and South Carolina. Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the blog for the latest posts.
Hi, I’m Adele Lassiter, the travel enthusiast behind American Nomad Traveler. This is where I share my love for history, cool museums, art, and travel tips. When I’m not writing, I’m a singer-songwriter with a passion for Americana music. You can find my new album here: adelelassiter.bandcamp.com
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