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30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Roanoke (Virginia)

Beautiful won’t do justice in describing the amazing city of Roanoke.

Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of southwest Virginia, Roanoke has been the center for massive tourist visitations because of its beautiful and amazing tourist attraction centers.

Roanoke was coined from the Indian word “Rawrenock,” a name given to the shell beads worn by Native Americans and used as trade goods.

Although long before then, the city was known as “Big Lick.”

So, if you looking for the best and most fun things to do in Virginia? Then search no more because you wouldn’t find any other city better than Roanoke.

This “Magic City” has a lot of things you can do there.

Ranging from the famous Mill Mountain Star also called Roanoke Star — the world’s second-largest illuminated man-made star, Taubman Museum of Art, and the City Market, among many others.

Check out our list of things to do in Roanoke below.

Things To Do In Roanoke, Virginia

1. Mill Mountain Star & Park

things to do in Roanoke

Photo Courtesy of Wikipedia

Arguably Roanoke’s biggest tourist attraction center, Mill Mountain Star, also known as Roanoke Star, is the world’s largest freestanding illuminated man-made star.

It was constructed in 1949 at the top of Mill Mountain in Roanoke, Virginia.

You could get a view of the star from about 60 miles (97 km) distance from it.

Also, the star stands tall at about 1,045 feet (319 m) above the city of Roanoke.

However, there is a lot still to enjoy at Mill Mountain Star and Park apart from just seeing the star.

The park has a hiking area where you can walk, hike, stretch and exercise yourself even as you enjoy the magnificent view of the star.

If you have elderly ones who want to have a taste of the park, you needn’t worry because the park is family-friendly as well.

Your elderly ones can just enjoy the view of the star, take beautiful pictures of it and with it, and probably hike a little if they really want to. There are short trails which they can make use of.

Also at the park, there are maps available to guide you and you’ll have access to lots of information as regards the construction of the star.

Visiting the park is both entertaining and educative.

However, another beautiful thing about the park is that it boasts clean facilities, a neat environment, well-maintained trails, and a spacious parking lot.

All in all, the Mill Mountain Star and Park is the perfect place to revel in the majesty of Roanoke, Virginia.

Address: 2198 Mill Mountain Spur, Roanoke, VA 24014, United States

2. Taubman Museum of Art

Things to do in Roanoke

Photo Courtesy of Taubman Museum of Art

Although it just opened in 2008, the Taubman Museum of Art has since established itself as one of the most visited attraction centers in Roanoke.

The Taubman Museum of Art has contributed significantly to the culture and high level of fun things to do in Roanoke.

The museum has a whooping 11 galleries, and it produces 15-20 exhibitions every year as part of the Fralin Center for American Art.

Inside the museum, you’ll get to see a lot and different magnificent artworks, exhibits, and collections from various renowned artists.

Some of these artists are John Singer Sargent, Thomas Cowperthwait Eakins, and Purvis Young, among many others.

Also, the museum has two sections: the downstairs houses exhibit majorly from local community organizations, and the upstairs features varieties of exhibitions as well.

The fancy costume designs and accessories to go along with them are beautiful to behold as well. Women will especially love this section of the museum.

In case you want to ease yourself, the museum has clean bathrooms with an exquisite touch.

The staffs are friendly, well accommodating, and also well knowledgeable about the exhibits in the museum.

Overall, it is always an amazing experience at the Taubman Museum of Art. You definitely have to visit.

Address: 110 Salem Ave SE, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States

3. Center In The Square

Photo Courtesy of Centre In The Square / Visit Roanoke

Here is another big attraction center in Roanoke, Virginia.

Center In The Square was first commissioned in 1983 and it welcomed over 45,000 during its first weekend.

And since then, it has grown to be not just a big attraction center, but also the commercial hub of Roanoke, Virginia.

There are over twelve arts and cultural organizations renting a space in the square.

Also, there are several new restaurants and bars where you can try out different delicacies and enjoy tasty wines in the square.

Not to mention historical buildings and great places where you can sightsee and also take beautiful pictures.

The highlight of your visit to Centre In The Square will no doubt be the 8,000-gallon Living-Coral Reef Aquarium. Such a beautiful sight to behold!

There is no end to the things to do at the Center In The Square.

Even the best storyteller won’t do justice to telling you all the amazing things this Center holds.

This Square is a must-visit for all people looking to have the best experience in Roanoke, Virginia.

Address: 1 Market Square SE, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States

Hungry? Check out some of our best top-pick Restaurants in Roanoke to enjoy the best cuisines!

4. Virginia Museum Of Transportation

things to do in Roanoke

Photo Courtesy of Wikipedia

Do you want to know more about the transportation history of Roanoke, Virginia? The Virginia Museum of Transportation is the best place to get all the information you need.

There’s a lot to see at the Virginia Museum of Transportation ranging from automobiles, the finest rail collections in the United States, model trains, airships, etc.

Apart from the model trains, there are real trains just outside the museum.

Although kids will have lingering memories of this place due to the model trains and miniature buses they will get to see.

Also, there is a gift shop where you can get souvenirs, gift items, stationeries, etc.

There are some picnic tables just outside the museum where you can have a good time and relax with your kids, friends, and families.

If you stay a little longer, you might be lucky to see an actual train pass as there are train tracks right beside the museum.

Also, if you are coming along with your vehicles, you don’t need to worry about parking as the museum has a big parking space with maximum security guaranteed.

Overall, there’s a lot to do at the Virginia Museum of Transportation.

Whenever you are in Roanoke, ensure you visit.

Address: 303 Norfolk Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24016, United States

5. Roanoke Pinball Museum

things to do in Roanoke

Photo Courtesy of Roanoke Pinball Museum

What do you know about pinball? Do you want to experience what a pinball looks like?

Visit Roanoke Pinball Museum.

Roanoke Pinball Museum began operations in 2015 and has had close to 60 playable pinball machines since then.

The quality of pinball machines at Roanoke Pinball Museum is one that cannot but be overemphasized.

Even so, at Roanoke Pinball Museum, young and old pinball players will learn about the history of the game, the science behind it, and how to appreciate the color, composition, and general design of the artwork and features.

They have friendly and well-accommodating staffs that are ready to take you through the process and explain to you some functions you might not understand on the Pinball machines.

Also, the museum is available to host all kinds of social events, for example, birthday parties, convocation ceremonies, get-togethers, team-building events, etc.

The Roanoke Pinball Museum is a hybrid of entertainment and education.

Ensure you visit while in Roanoke!

Address: 1 Market Square SE, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States

6. Roanoke Valley Greenways

things to do in Roanoke

Photo Courtesy of Roanoke Valley Greenways

A great place to take a walk, stroll, hike, or explore with a bike.

Roanoke Valley Greenways contains a network of about 400 miles of paved and natural surface routes.

There are a lot of beautiful things you can do along the trails. From reveling in the amazing view of the waterway, using the trail as a training ground, and many more.

The lush greenery and wildflowers contribute to the scenic view of the park as well.

The trail is also family-friendly. Kids and elderly ones can take a walk on the trail as well.

It is well maintained, with little or no thistles and thorns.

Also, the trail is a straightforward route to take if you want to get to the Roanoke river if you want to go fishing and carry out different fun activities on the river.

You need not worry about getting out of the water, as there are boats, canoes, and kayaks that will make it easy for you.

The Roanoke Valley Greenways is a great place to take some beautiful nature pictures and create art of your own.

Whenever you are in Roanoke, make out time to visit the Greenways.

Address: 1206 Kessler Mill Rd, Salem, VA 24153, United States

7. Black Dog Salvage

things to do

Photo Courtesy of Visit Roanoke

It’s hard to find a salvaged home like Black Dog Salvage around.

Black Dog Salvage was founded in 1999 and it is home to different arts, antiques, and vintage items.

However, Black Dog Salvage now has two warehouses. One at the original site and the other less than a mile away from the original.

At Black Dog Salvage, you’ll have the chance to browse through all the cool items they have in stock.

In their main store, you’ll find architectural salvage, old home pieces, bespoke upcycled designs, replica garden statuary, furniture paint, salvage-inspired furniture, and decor.

You can visit the other warehouse too, to see new collections and antiques that have not yet been displayed at the main store.

Also, there is a shop where you can get souvenirs, gift items, apparel, house decors, and other items.

In case you want to beautify your home, you can shop for house decor materials at Black Dog Salvage. Their decoration materials are very beautiful.

Guides are also available to guide and direct you inside the building.

Finally, this place offers something different from other places you’ll visit at Roanoke.

It is not your usual fun place to be.

Address: 902 13th St SW, Roanoke, VA 24016, United States

Planning to visit other places in Virginia, check out our list of best and most fun things to do in Virginia Beach and things to do in Norfolk, and things to do in Alexandria!

8. City Market, Roanoke

things to do

Photo Courtesy of Richmond Gentleman

City Market Roanoke is an open-air market, and it is the oldest of its kind, still in operation in Virginia.

The market, located at the heart of Downtown Roanoke, offers a uniquely entertaining shopping experience in the region.

The market has a lot of shops selling different items.

For example, there is a store where you can get vegetables and fruits, a store selling local arts and antiques, etc.

Also, inside the market are different restaurants that sell food from different parts of the world.

If you would like to taste and experience different foreign dishes, then there is no other better place to do that than City Market, Roanoke.

Aside from the great shopping experience this market offers, festival periods at the market are also one to look forward to.

Going to the market during this period is more exciting as you get to experience double fun.

You can also decide to take a tour around the market and experience the hustle-bustle of the environment. The environment is pet friendly, therefore you can take a stroll with one if you want to.

Also, the market has clean and well-kept restrooms and they are available in case you want to relieve yourself.

City Market, Roanoke has something for everyone; so check it out.

Address: Market Square SE, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States

9. O. Winston Link & History Museum of Western Virginia

things to do in Roanoke

Photo Courtesy of Historical Museum of Western Virginia

Visiting O. Winston Link Museum brings you closer to the railroading and rural culture of trains, especially ones with steam engines in the historical Roanoke period.

The museum opened in January 2004 and is home to the photographer, O. Winston Link, a twentieth-century railroad photographer credited with combining steam railroading and rural culture photographic works.

O. Winston Link is well known for his night-time images of steam locomotives shot in the 1950s, which were lit by a slew of flashbulbs.

At the museum, you’ll get to see hundreds of photographic works of O. Winston Link.

Also, there are audio files that give more detailed information about Link’s photographic works.

Some instruments he used in creating his night-time photographs are on display as well in the museum.

However, in case you want to purchase some of Link’s photographic works, the museum sells high-quality posters of his work at very reasonable prices.

This museum is also an ideal place to come along with your kids.

They will get to learn a lot of history and get access to information that will be very useful for them.

The staffs at the museum are friendly and well knowledgeable as well.

A fun, exciting, and educative place to be, O. Winston Link and History Museum of Western Virginia is a must-visit!

Address: 101 Shenandoah Ave NE, Roanoke, VA 24016, United States

10. Mill Mountain Zoo

things to do

Photo Courtesy of Mill Mountain Zoo

Visiting Mill Mountain Zoo should be included in your bucket list of the best things to do in Roanoke, Virginia.

Moreover, what’s a vacation without exploring wildlife?

Mill Mountain Zoo is one of those attraction centers within Mill Mountain Park.

It’s a lovely 568-acre regional park that Roanoke Park and Recreation look after. The zoo has been around since 1952.

Come along with your kids to see different animals and learn about them.

Some interesting animals you’ll get to see include bald eagles, a red wolf, a red panda, Pallas cats, etc.

Also, since the zoo is inside Mill Mountain Park, which is on Mill Mountain, you’ll get to see the beautiful views of Roanoke.

The prices for entering the zoo are very affordable and the environment is clean and well kept as well.

Address: Mill Mountain Spur, Roanoke, VA 24014, United States

11. Big Lick Brewing Company, LLC

things to do

Photo Courtesy of Anouche Yuruten

Are you a wine lover and do you want to test your wine tasting prowess while you are in Roanoke?

Visit Big Lick Brewing Company, LLC.

Big Lick is a great place to have a great time with your partner, friends, and families.

The interior of the brewery is well decorated and furnished with exquisite furniture to ensure customers have a sense of maximum satisfaction.

The brews are very nice. The bartender and tasting room manager are friendly and well knowledgeable about the wines as well.

However, one beautiful thing about Big Lick Brewing Company, LLC is that it is very spacious with patio seats for people to enjoy their wines.

Aside from the wines and beers, Big Lick also offers delicious foods you can enjoy along with your wines.

Also, there is an event room available for rental. The room can accommodate up to 50 people, along with a section of the outdoor patio.

The brewery is pet friendly and there is a modest parking space available for you to park your vehicles.

Looking for a place to experience good food and wines? You’ll find no other better place than Big Lick Brewing Company.

Address: 409 Salem Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24016, United States

12. St. Andrew’s Roman Catholic Church

things to do in Roanoke

Joe Ravi / Wikimedia Commons

If you know well about Virginia’s deep history and origin, you’ll know that Spanish Catholic missionaries are part of the foundation of this famed state.

St. Andrew’s Roman Catholic Church is a very magnificent church with a medieval architectural design and an exquisite look both on the outside and on the inside.

It is one of the most eye-catching structures in Roanoke.

Like the beautiful church it is, the worshippers are beautiful as well.

They are very friendly and welcoming. Even if it’s your first time at St. Andrew’s, you can never feel lost or left out.

There is also a small social room available next to the church where you can partake in mass by watching it on the big screens in the room.

Visit St. Andrew’s Roman Catholic Church to see the magnificent interior the church is being made of.

Address: 631 N Jefferson St, Roanoke, VA 24016, United States

13. Carvins Cove Natural Reserve

things to do

Photo Courtesy of Songhyun Choi

Carvins Cove Natural Reserve is one of the biggest Natural Reserves in Roanoke.

It is located just seven miles from the north side of Roanoke. Also, Carvins Cove Natural Reserve is a combination of both hardwood and mixed pine forests which covers a landmass of about 12,000 acres.

Other facilities in the reserve include a 630-acre reservoir and 60 miles of trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain climbing.

The trails at Carvins Cove are one of the easiest to hike and bike, even as you catch a scenic view of the beautiful lake.

On the lake as well, you can paddle a boat or go kayaking.

However, one of the most beautiful features that attract tourists to Carvins Cove Natural Reserve is its serenity and calmness.

It is one of the best places you can have a personal time, meditate and be free from the noises and hustling-bustling of the world.

Indeed, Carvins Cove Natural Reserve is therapeutic!

Address: 9644 Reservoir Rd, Roanoke, VA 24019, United States

14. Smith Mountain Lake

things to do in Roanoke

Photo Courtesy of Wikipedia

Another big reservoir in Roanoke. Smith Mountain Lake is located southeast of the City of Roanoke and southwest of Lynchburg.

The construction of the lake started in 1960 and was completed in 1963. Smith Mountain Dam oversaw the construction.

The lake has a surface area of 32 sq mi (83 km2) and a water volume of 2.8 km3 (2,300,000 acre-ft).

However, since then, Smith Mountain Lake has become a popular recreational area for tourists.

There are lots of things to do on the lake, from water skiing, boating, wakeboarding, and sailing, among many others.

If you love fishing, it is allowed on the lake as well.

Even professional fishing tournaments used to be carried out on Smith Mountain Lake.

On the lake, a park has been opened as well, called Smith Mountain Lake Park. This park has a separate beach for swimming.

Also, if you love playing golf, there is a golf course available for you to enjoy.

It is all fun on Smith Mountain Lake. Ensure you include it inside your bucket list of fun things to do in Roanoke.

Address: 901 E. Cary St. Suite 900 Richmond, VA 23219

15. McAfee Knob

things to do in Roanoke

Photo Courtesy of McAfee Knob / Visit Virginia Blue Ridge

Climbing up to the peak of McAfee Knob will absolutely leave you dumbfounded.

McAfee Knob is a geological feature on Catawba Mountain in Catawba, Virginia, United States, with an elevation of 3,197 feet (974 m) above sea level.

Although hiking the trails of McAfee Knob can be a bit difficult, the experience is definitely worth it.

The mountain is a steady climb of 1,700 feet and it takes 4 to 6 hours to get to the peak.

The hiking trail ends on rocky mountain terrain that protrudes into the air like a diving platform.

Also, there are spots available for picnicking on the mountain, although one has to be very careful of the steep drop-offs nearby.

The mountain is always overcrowded during the weekend, therefore it will be advisable to visit during weekdays in order to enjoy maximum fun on the trails and also to get a perfect spot for parking.

However, getting to see the beautiful views of Roanoke and other surrounding cities is an experience that will linger in your memories for years to come.

McAfee Knob will get you worked out and active. Ensure you visit today.

Address: Catawba Valley Drive Catawba, VA 24070

16. Bottom Creek Gorge Preserve

things to do

Photo Courtesy of Bottom Creek Gorge Preserve / Go Hike Virginia

Bottom Creek Gorge Preserve is the second highest waterfall in Virginia.

This waterfall is the source of one of those streams that flow into the Roanoke River.

Also, Bottom Creek Gorge Preserve is known for being the habitat of rare aquatic species.

Four native species of fish particularly have their habitat in only this preserve.

They are: the orange fin madtom, the riverweed darter, the bigeye jumprock and the Roanoke darter.

It also contains over 10% of all known fish species in Virginia, including native brook trout.

Also, Bottom Creek Gorge Preserve has three trails — the blue, red, and yellow trails.

In case you love hiking, you can start hiking from the red trail and then move to the yellow trail.

You can take these trails down into the gorge and also get to the stream. Although climbing back up the trail is a bit tasking.

However, the blue trail is a great way to stroll through the mountains.

And the road along the trail is said to have been home to an old slave settlement.

It is not advisable to come along with your pets to the trails as the trail is a bit rough and can get muddy, especially during the rainy season.

Visiting Bottom Creek Gorge Preserve helps you to enjoy the scenic view of a waterfall. Don’t miss out on it.

Address: n37 91298 w80 83627, 7 10th Ave S, Shawsville, VA 24162, United States

See also the list of things to do in Blacksburg and things to do in Arlington!

17. Green Ridge Recreation Center & Splash Valley Water Park

things to do in Roanoke

Photo Courtesy of Green Ridge Recreation Center

Are you looking for a place to enjoy both indoor and outdoor fun with your family in Roanoke? Green Ridge Recreation Center and Splash Valley Water Park is the best place you can visit.

Green Ridge is a public recreational facility operated by the County of Roanoke, Virginia.

Also, Green Ridge is a very big recreational park, which is about 75, 000 square feet and this enables it to house lots of amenities that induce fun.

Some amenities you will find at Green Ridge include an indoor pool, gymnasium, interactive game room, and wellness center.

There is a separate splash valley as well at the park where kids can enjoy the water fountains and have fun at the playground.

You needn’t worry about safety and security while visiting Green Ridge, as there are very spacious locker rooms with private showers and a family changing area.

Also, there is a child care service being run at the park. You can leave your little kids there so you wouldn’t be disturbed while catching fun at the park.

The staffs are very nice, friendly and accommodating as well.

One beautiful thing about this creation center is that it is always clean and well maintained despite the fact many people always visit the park.

Green Ridge Recreation Center and Splash Valley Water Park is the perfect destination to have a beautiful family time and bond together.

Address: 7415 Wood Haven Rd, Roanoke, VA 24019, United States

18. Science Museum Of Western Virginia & Hopkins Planetarium

things to do in Roanoke

Photo Courtesy of Science Museum of Western Virginia

Are you a nerd or science freak and you’ll love to see different scientific works? Get yourself to the Science Museum of Western Virginia.

The Science Museum of Western Virginia became the Commonwealth of Virginia’s first science museum in January 1970.

At the Science Museum of Western Virginia, there is a lot to see and learn. It is a hybrid of education and entertainment.

Kids will particularly love this place because of the different eye-catching scientific exhibits available for display.

Also, the aquarium housing different species of colorful fishes is very beautiful.

Interestingly, the Science Museum of Western Virginia has quite a lot of the best things to do.

Some of them include Be The Astronaut — you’ll learn how to fly spaceships and drive space rovers; learn about the fungi kingdom; learn about all the internal organs of the human body, among many others.

A visit to Roanoke without bringing your kids to the Science Museum of Western Virginia is an incomplete one.

Address: 1 Market Square SE, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States

19. Roanoke Food Tours

things to do

Photo Courtesy of Downtown Food & Cultural Tour

Tasting and experiencing different delicacies should be on your bucket list of the best things to do in Roanoke.

And Roanoke Food Tours provides the perfect platform for you to enjoy different foods from different cultures all over and beyond Roanoke.

Also, during Roanoke Food Tours, you’ll learn about the history of some foods and new places to dine.

You can tour up to seven different restaurants during the Roanoke Food Tours.

The tour guide is excellent and well knowledgeable about the foods and their history.

Roanoke Food Tours is definitely one of the most exciting things you can do in Roanoke.

Address: 2409 Lincoln Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24015, United States

20. Beamer’s 25, Roanoke

things to do in Roanoke

Photo Courtesy of Beamer’s 25

Who says good food is hard to come by? Not in Roanoke!

Roanoke is home to lots of exquisite restaurants and Beamer’s 25 is one of them.

Beamer’s 25 is well notable for its special culinary skills. Also, fresh ingredients, delectable sauces, and fantastic drinks to wash it all down are all that they believe in Beamer’s 25.

Their tasty smoked cheddar pimento dip appetizer and solid BLTA are just too cool and tasty not to try out.

The cheeseburgers, along with a beer, are fantastic as well.

Also, you can sit outside the restaurant and enjoy the cool, serene environment as you enjoy your meal.

Customer service at Beamer’s 25 is very great as well. They deliver the meal exquisitely and they won’t waste your time — fast, delectable service!

If you are looking for a perfect place to go on a date with your partner, Beamer’s 25 sure hit the pass mark.

You might not know, but it is a perfect site for proposing to your partner as well.

Address: 357 Salem Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24016, United States

21. Explore Park, Roanoke

things to do

Photo Courtesy of Explore Park

Located at milepost 115 on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Roanoke County, Virginia, Explore Park is one of the biggest parks in Roanoke.

The park is a 1,100-acre (450 ha) passive recreation facility managed by the Roanoke County Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism.

You’ll find some historical structures at the park and also a trail where you can bike or hike.

Other fun things you can do on the trail include rope climbing, treetop quest, etc.

Also, the park provides access to the Roanoke River via an external county road, in case you want to explore the river or go fishing.

However, visiting Explore Park during the night holds as much fun as it does during the day. The display of the lights and fluorescent always makes the night beautiful.

The park is family-friendly as there are tents where you can camp with your family and picnic together.

There is a bathroom area as well, and it is always clean and well maintained.

Explore Park is arguably one of the best places you can visit in Roanoke.

Address: 56 Roanoke River Pkwy, Roanoke, VA 24014, United States

22. Mill Mountain Theater

things to do

Photo Courtesy of Mill Mountain Theater

Are you looking for a place to relieve yourself and relax? Then visit Mill Mountain Theater.

The center for top-notch entertainment in Roanoke, Southwest Virginia.

Like its mission statement, Mill Mountain Theater strives to use high-quality, professional theatre plays and experiences to inspire, delight, enlighten, educate, and challenge audiences in Southwest Virginia.

The singers and actors invited to perform at the Mill Mountain Theater are always very professional.

With excellent sound, great visuals, and perfect production, Mill Mountain Theater offers nothing less than quality, and great music.

The seats at the theater are very comfy and they are arranged to ensure you catch all the actions on stage.

The restrooms are also very neat and well maintained.

A great place in Roanoke to have a nice, beautiful evening with your partner, friend, family, or even alone.

Mill Mountain Theater should be at the topmost position on your list of things to do in Roanoke.

Address: 1 Market St SE, Roanoke, VA 24011, United States

23. Read Mountain Preserve

things to do in Roanoke

Photo Courtesy of Read Mountain Preserve

Read Mountain Preserve is a 243-acre park and one of Roanoke County’s major and largest passive recreation places.

The park has a 5-mile trail system that ranges in complexity from moderate to severe.

However, the park’s major attraction is a 2-mile walk that leads to Read Mountain’s summit, known as Buzzards Rock.

The view of the whole Roanoke region at the mountain’s summit is one of the greatest sights you’ll ever witness.

Although the trail is rough and cranky, there is a trail map and there are signposts that will enable you to navigate your way easily.

However, you might still want to come along with your hiking boots.

There are some historic buildings you can visit at the preserve, as well.

Since the Roanoke River flows through this preserve, there is an opportunity for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.

Address: 6101 Crumpacker Dr, Roanoke, VA 24012, United States

24. The River & Rail Restaurant

things to do in Roanoke

Photo Courtesy of The River and Rail Restaurant

Another exotic restaurant in Roanoke, Virginia, The River and Rail Restaurant offers Southern classic meals.

The River and Rail restaurant offers something different from other restaurants in Roanoke.

Most of the meals offered at River and Rail are prepared from locally sourced and seasoned ingredients from the heart of Roanoke itself.

Some foods you should try out at the restaurant include oyster wraps, banana pudding, pickled vegetables, etc.

Also, the restaurant has a full-service bar that offers excellent and tasty wines and beers.

They offer cocktails too which you can enjoy with your meals.

The River and Rail restaurant is not only renowned for its exquisite Southern cuisine and excellent wines.

The interiors of the restaurant are well-furnished and placed to ensure that customers receive maximum comfort and relaxation.

Visiting the restaurant in the evening particularly holds more fun; not to talk about visiting with your partner. What a romantic evening you are in for!

Address: 2201 Crystal Spring Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24014, United States

25. Jeter Farm, Roanoke

things to do

Photo Courtesy of Jeter Farm

Looking to experience something different and unique in Roanoke? A visit to Jeter Farm would do.

Jeter Farm is a family-owned farm located just right outside of Roanoke, Virginia, in Botetourt County.

At Jeter Farm, you will learn a lot about animal welfare. It is as much educating as fun as it is.

Also, you will get to see lots of beautiful plantations like the corn maze, pumpkin patch, etc.

There are a lot of fun things to do for kids as well. The pumpkin train slides, hayrides, shelled corn, and jump houses, among many others, are some things kids can engage in.

Also, there are maps available to help you navigate your way through the corn maze and pumpkin patch so you need not worry about getting lost.

The tractor ride is one to look forward to.

In case you go hungry, there is a store where you can get something to eat, refresh and relax a little.

A great place to have a great family time and also learn together.

Address: 181 Blue Ridge Blvd, Roanoke, VA 24012, United States

26. Valhalla Vineyards, Roanoke

things to do in Roanoke

Photo Courtesy of Valhalla Wines

By now, you should know that Roanoke is home to lots of excellent, tasty wines.

Valhalla vineyards started operations in 1998 and they have been producing excellent wines to date.

Valhalla wines are produced locally because they grow their grapes themselves.

At Valhalla Vineyards, you get to taste some world-class wines like cabernet Sauvignon, syrah, merlot, viognier, chardonnay, cab franc, and many more.

Also, Valhalla Vineyards is home to some beautiful vistas and you get to take in all those scenic views even as you enjoy your wines.

You can get food at the winery to complement your wines or you can come along with some yourselves.

There are spaces available for picnicking under the timber frame patio at the winery.

In case you want to host any event, Valhalla Vineyards has venues for parties, meetings, get-togethers, seminars, etc.

Visiting the winery in the evening will allow you to enjoy the more beautiful and scenic view of the winery’s immediate surroundings.

The fresh breeze in the cool of the evening will even give you a more relaxing feeling.

Overall, Valhalla Vineyards is a great place to relax and have a good time.

Address: 6500 Mt Chestnut Rd #8108, Roanoke, VA 24018, United States

27. Riddle Me Roanoke

things to do

Photo Courtesy of Riddle Me Roanoke

Another great place to have a fun time in Roanoke, Riddle Me Roanoke, offers an amazing escape room experience.

Riddle Me Roanoke has a lot of fun and challenging games that are being updated from time to time to ensure visitors have a great time in the center.

However, one beautiful thing about Riddle Me Roanoke is that their designers and game masters have put together a collection of rooms that are ideal for families, friends, travelers, coworkers, and special events.

Some games available in the escape rooms include riddles, puzzles, ultimate search, etc.

The games in this room are very challenging. You have no option but to work together with your team members.

Riddle Me Roanoke offers team-building skills, cooperation skills, brainstorming skills, etc., which makes it a perfect place for having a beautiful family time.

Visiting Riddle Me Roanoke with your partner also increases the rate at which you both bond together.

Also, the staffs at Riddle Me Roanoke are very friendly and accommodating.

The prices for accessing the room are very friendly as well.

Riddle Me Roanoke is the center of fun and more fun. You can’t afford not to visit.

Address: 2067 A Electric Rd, Roanoke, VA 24018, United States

28. Roanoker Restaurant

things to do

Photo Courtesy of The Roanoker Restaurant

Roanoker Restaurant has been a blessing to the taste buds of citizens of Roanoke since 1941.

The restaurant offers lots of delicious and exquisite delectable meals that will leave you coming back for more.

You should try out their homemade buttermilk biscuits, fried chicken, sausage gravy, meatloaf, etc.

They remain of the highest quality to date, even after almost 80 years.

Their freshly made coffee will go along with these foods as well.

They offer dine-in and takeaway services, too.

Roanoker Restaurant has a nice interior that provides a refreshing and relaxing atmosphere for its visitors.

Whether it is breakfast, lunch, or dinner, rest assured you are having a good meal.

Address: 2522 Colonial Ave SW, Roanoke, VA 24015, United States

29. Roanoke Antique Mall

things to do

Photo Courtesy of David Benton

Roanoke Antique Mall is a great place to shop for some historical collections in Roanoke.

At Roanoke Antique Mall, there is definitely something for everyone.

You can decide to go sightseeing at the mall or purchase some antiques.

There are different collections to choose from. And the prices are very friendly as well.

There are shops where you can purchase some food items and refresh yourselves as you continue your tour of the mall.

Also, there are spaces and benches where you can relax inside the mall.

The restrooms, like the mall environment, are sparkling clean and well maintained.

With friendly and well-accommodating staff, Roanoke Antique Mall is quite the experience.

Address: 2302 Orange Ave NE, Roanoke, VA 24012, United States

30. The Eleanor D. Wilson Museum

things to do in Roanoke

Photo Courtesy of Virginia Tourism Corporation

The Eleanor D. Wilson Museum is an art museum located inside Hollins University.

This museum is a very large museum with an exhibition space of approximately 4,000 square feet.

Also, the museum has three galleries that are interconnected with each other.

The Eleanor D. Wilson Museum also helps not only the students of Hollins University to have access to some educating information, but also the larger Roanoke community as well.

It is accessible free of charge to residents of Roanoke.

Also, a Resource Center within the museum provides access to extra material, artwork, and hands-on resources that complement the museum’s current displays.

Various educating programs for both kids and adults are being held at the museum as well.

There’s a lot to sightsee and learn at The Eleanor D. Wilson Museum.

A great combination of education and entertainment. Don’t forget to bring your kids here while you are in Roanoke.

Address: 8009 Fishburn Dr, Roanoke, VA 24020, United States

 

FINAL REMARKS

A great city with amazing historical foundations, museums, beautiful parks, restaurants, etc.

Roanoke is a must-visit for every tourist, hoping to have a great and fun time.

After going through our list of best things to do, you wouldn’t agree less.

However, as you are preparing to visit Roanoke, ensure you include some of the places here in your bucket list of things to do in this historical town.

And try to check them all out.

Wishing you a happy and safe trip!