Roanoke, Virginia Travel Guide

Discover Roanoke, Virginia: A blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Roanoke, nestled in the heart of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains, is a city that effortlessly blends natural beauty with rich history and vibrant culture. Known as the 'Star City of the South,' Roanoke offers an array of experiences for every type of traveler. The city's iconic Mill Mountain Star, the largest man-made star, illuminates the skyline and serves as a beacon for visitors exploring the area's scenic vistas and outdoor adventures. Roanoke is a paradise for nature lovers. The Blue Ridge Parkway, with its panoramic views and winding trails, is perfect for hiking, biking, and photography. The nearby Appalachian Trail offers more rugged terrain for seasoned hikers. Smith Mountain Lake, a short drive away, provides ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and relaxing by the water. The city's cultural scene is equally impressive. The Taubman Museum of Art, with its striking modern architecture, houses a diverse collection of works from regional and international artists. Roanoke's historic downtown is bustling with unique shops, local eateries, and the renowned Roanoke City Market, one of the oldest continuously operating open-air markets in the country. Visitors can also dive into the city's railroad history at the Virginia Museum of Transportation, which showcases an extensive collection of locomotives and railcars. Roanoke's culinary scene is a delightful blend of Southern comfort food and innovative cuisine. From farm-to-table restaurants to cozy coffee shops, there is something to satisfy every palate. The city's breweries and wineries offer a taste of local craft beverages, making it a great destination for foodies and drink enthusiasts alike. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, cultural enrichment, or a taste of Southern hospitality, Roanoke, Virginia, is a destination that promises unforgettable memories.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Roanoke.

Visit the Mill Mountain Star at night for spectacular views of the city.
Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility.
Check out the Roanoke City Market for local produce, crafts, and a taste of the community.
Book a guided tour at the Taubman Museum of Art to fully appreciate its collections and architecture.
For a unique experience, ride the vintage trains at the Virginia Museum of Transportation.

Neighbourhoods in Roanoke

Downtown Roanoke

South Roanoke

Old Southwest

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Roanoke

Explore Roanoke: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Roanoke

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Mill Mountain Star

Experience breathtaking views and rich history at the iconic Mill Mountain Star in Roanoke, Virginia—your gateway to scenic beauty and cultural heritage.

4.8

Mill Mountain Star

Discover the breathtaking views and cultural significance of the Mill Mountain Star, an iconic landmark in Roanoke, Virginia, illuminating the night sky.

4.8

Mill Mountain Park

Discover the natural wonders of Mill Mountain Park, a serene retreat in Roanoke, Virginia, offering stunning views, diverse trails, and rich wildlife.

4.7

Mill Mountain Park

Discover the beauty of Mill Mountain Park, a serene haven in Roanoke, Virginia, offering stunning views, hiking trails, and a peaceful retreat in nature.

4.7

Best landmarks in Roanoke

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Browse the full guide

All Landmarks

Mill Mountain Star

Discover the breathtaking views and vibrant history at the iconic Mill Mountain Star in Roanoke, Virginia, a cultural landmark and scenic spot.

4.8

Mill Mountain Park

Explore Mill Mountain Park in Roanoke, Virginia – a scenic paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers with breathtaking views and diverse trails.

4.7

Elmwood Park

Discover tranquility in Elmwood Park, Roanoke's urban paradise, featuring lush landscapes, family-friendly amenities, and vibrant community events.

4.6

Virginia Museum of Transportation, Inc.

Discover the fascinating history of transport at the Virginia Museum of Transportation in Roanoke, a must-visit heritage museum for all ages.

4.6

Best restaurants in Roanoke

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Browse the full guide

All Restaurants

The Great 611 Steak Company

Experience top-notch steaks and welcoming hospitality at The Great 611 Steak Company in Roanoke, VA - a true delight for food lovers.

4.5

Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen

Discover Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen in Roanoke for delicious traditional American meals made from scratch in a cozy family-friendly atmosphere.

4.4

Carrabba's Italian Grill

Experience the vibrant tastes of Italy at Carrabba's Italian Grill in Roanoke - where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality.

4.6

Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint Roanoke

Discover gourmet burgers and craft beers at Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint in Downtown Roanoke – A true American dining experience!

4.6

Best bars in Roanoke

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Browse the full guide

All Bars

Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint Roanoke

Delight in mouthwatering burgers and craft beers at Jack Brown's Beer & Burger Joint, the must-visit bar and American restaurant in Roanoke.

4.6

Martin's Downtown

Discover the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grill favorites at Martin's Downtown in Roanoke, VA, a culinary gem for every traveler.

4.6

Wasena City Tap Room & Grill

Discover Wasena City Tap Room & Grill for a delightful dining experience featuring hearty grilled dishes and an extensive craft beer selection in Roanoke, Virginia.

4.5

Fork in the Alley

Experience the best of pizza and American cuisine at Fork in the Alley, Roanoke's vibrant sports bar and restaurant where every meal is a celebration.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Roanoke

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Browse the full guide

All Nightclubs

The Watering Hole

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious grilled delights at The Watering Hole, Roanoke's favorite bar and grill.

4.2

The Filling Station Sports bar & Grill

Experience the best American cuisine and sports excitement at The Filling Station Sports Bar & Grill in Roanoke, VA.

4.1

213 Lux Lounge

Discover the lively atmosphere of 213 Lux Lounge, a premier destination for nightlife in Roanoke, blending cocktails, hookah, and vibrant entertainment.

4.1

The Front Row

Discover the vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere of The Front Row, a top grill in Downtown Roanoke offering delightful dishes and signature cocktails.

4.6

Best shops in Roanoke

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Browse the full guide

All Shops

Tanglewood

Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Tanglewood in Roanoke, Virginia, where diverse stores and delicious dining await every visitor.

3.7

Roanoke Antique Mall

Explore Roanoke Antique Mall, a vintage paradise in Virginia filled with unique antiques and collectibles, perfect for treasure hunters and nostalgia seekers.

4.3

Mast General Store Roanoke

Explore the eclectic offerings of Mast General Store Roanoke, where outdoor gear meets nostalgic treats, nestled in the heart of Downtown Roanoke.

4.7

Townside Festival Shopping Center

Explore the Townside Festival Shopping Center in Roanoke, Virginia, for an unforgettable shopping and dining experience in a lively atmosphere.

4.2

Explore Roanoke on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Roanoke, mapped for you.

Roanoke Essentials

Roanoke is accessible via Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA), which offers direct flights from major hubs like Atlanta, Charlotte, and Chicago. Alternatively, Amtrak's Crescent line provides rail service to Roanoke from cities including New York, Washington D.C., and New Orleans. For those driving, Roanoke is conveniently located off Interstate 81 and is also accessible via U.S. Route 220.
Roanoke offers several transportation options. The Valley Metro bus service operates throughout the city and surrounding areas. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available. For exploring the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway and nearby outdoor attractions, renting a car is advisable. Many of the downtown attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore on foot.
The official currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. ATMs are abundant throughout the city for cash withdrawals. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and tips, especially in more rural areas or local markets.
Roanoke is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it's important to take standard precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. Higher crime rates have been reported in certain neighborhoods such as Northwest Roanoke and parts of Southeast Roanoke. It’s best to stay vigilant and consult local advice when exploring less familiar areas.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Roanoke has several medical facilities, including Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. Always keep your travel insurance details handy to cover any medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably, especially for outdoor activities; casual attire is widely accepted. Religion: Do respect local places of worship; some may require modest clothing. Public Transport: Do stand on the right and walk on the left on escalators. Don't play loud music or talk loudly on your phone. Greetings: Do greet people with a polite 'hello' or a handshake. Southern hospitality is common, so a friendly demeanor goes a long way. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like barbecue and craft beer. Don't forget to tip waitstaff, typically around 15-20% of the bill.
To experience Roanoke like a local, visit the Historic City Market in downtown Roanoke for fresh produce and local crafts. Take a walk or bike ride on the Greenway trails that connect various parts of the city. Engage with locals at community events and festivals. Don’t miss the iconic Roanoke Star on Mill Mountain, which offers stunning views of the city. For a unique dining experience, try one of the many farm-to-table restaurants that focus on local ingredients.

When is the best time to visit Roanoke?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Roanoke

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Roanoke. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [HOU-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [SEE yuh]
- YesYup
  [YUHP]
- NoNah
  [NAH]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [PLEEZ/NOH PROB-lem]
- Thank youThanks
  [THANKS]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [PAHR-dn mee/MAHY bad]
- How are you?How y'all doin'?
  [HOU yawl DOO-in]
- Fine. And you?I'm good. How 'bout you?
  [AHM gud. HOU 'bout yuh?]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [YUH speak ING-glish]
- I don't understandI ain't gettin' it
  [AH aint GET-tin it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check out the menu?
  [KAN eye chek out thuh MEH-nyoo]
- I don't eat meatNo meat for me
  [NOH meet fohr mee]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [CHEERS!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I settle up, please
  [KAN eye SET-ul uhp, please]
- Help!Help!
  [HELP!]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [GET lost!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [CALL thuh KOPS!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [GET uh DOK-tur!]
- I'm lostI'm turned around
  [AHM turnd uh-ROUND]
- I'm illI'm feelin' sick
  [AHM FEEL-in sik]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna purchase...
  [AH wahn-uh PUR-chus]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [JUST BROW-sing]
- How much is it?How much does it cost?
  [HOU much DUZ it cost?]
- That's too expensiveThat's pricey
  [THATS PRY-see]
- Can you lower the price?Can you cut the price?
  [KAN yuh CUT thuh price?]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [WHATS thuh TIME?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [ITS wun]
- Half past (10)Ten thirty
  [TEN THUR-tee]
- MorningMornin'
  [MORN-in]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [AF-tur-NOON]
- EveningEvenin'
  [EEV-nin]
- YesterdayYest'day
  [YES-t'day]
- TodayToday
  [Tuh-DAY]
- TomorrowTomorrer
  [Tuh-MOR-rer]
- 1One
  [WUN]
- 2Two
  [TOO]
- 3Three
  [THREE]
- 4Four
  [FOHR]
- 5Five
  [FIVE]
- 6Six
  [SIX]
- 7Seven
  [SEV-en]
- 8Eight
  [AYT]
- 9Nine
  [NINE]
- 10Ten
  [TEN]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [WHEREZ thuh...]
- What's the address?What's the location?
  [WHATS thuh loh-KAY-shun]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you point it out (on the map)?
  [KAN yuh POINT it out (on thuh map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus) comin'?
  [WHENS thuh NEKST (BUS) KUHM-in]
- A ticket (to ....)A pass (to ....)
  [Uh PASS (to ....)]

History of Roanoke

Roanoke, originally known as Big Lick, was officially established in 1852. The name 'Big Lick' came from a large outcropping of salt used by wildlife. This area saw significant growth due to its strategic location near the Roanoke River, which facilitated trade and transportation.
The arrival of the Norfolk and Western Railroad in the 1880s was a pivotal moment for Roanoke. The railroad brought an influx of jobs and people, transforming the town into a bustling hub of commerce and industry. In 1882, the town was officially renamed Roanoke and incorporated as a city in 1884.
The Hotel Roanoke, built in 1882 by the Norfolk and Western Railroad, has been a cornerstone of the city's history. This Tudor-style hotel has hosted numerous dignitaries and events over the years. It was renovated and reopened in 1995, maintaining its historical charm while offering modern amenities.
During World War II, Roanoke played a significant role in the war effort. The city's industrial capacity was harnessed to produce military supplies and equipment. The Norfolk and Western Railway's extensive network was vital for transporting troops and materials, making Roanoke a critical logistics hub during the war.
The Roanoke Star, also known as the Mill Mountain Star, was erected in 1949. Standing at 88.5 feet, it is the world's largest freestanding illuminated man-made star. The star has become an iconic symbol of the city, visible from many vantage points around Roanoke and serving as a popular tourist attraction.
Roanoke, like many Southern cities, faced significant challenges during the Civil Rights Movement. The desegregation of schools and public facilities was a contentious issue. In 1960, the first African American students were admitted to previously all-white schools, marking a significant step toward racial equality in the city.
In recent decades, Roanoke has become known for its advancements in healthcare. The establishment of the Carilion Clinic and the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine have turned the city into a regional healthcare and research hub. This has spurred economic growth and attracted a diverse population of healthcare professionals.
Roanoke has a vibrant cultural scene, with institutions like the Taubman Museum of Art, the Jefferson Center, and the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra. The city's rich artistic heritage is celebrated through numerous festivals, galleries, and public art installations, making it a cultural beacon in the region.