Journey Through Time at the Virginia Museum of Transportation
Explore the rich heritage of transportation at the Virginia Museum of Transportation in Roanoke, featuring steam locomotives and vintage vehicles.
A brief summary to Virginia Museum of Transportation, Inc.
- 303 Norfolk Ave SW, Roanoke, Downtown Roanoke, Virginia, 24016, US
- +1540-342-5670
The Virginia Museum of Transportation, located in the heart of Roanoke, Virginia, offers an intriguing exploration of the evolution of transportation in Southwest Virginia. As a heritage museum, it houses a diverse collection of vehicles, including iconic steam locomotives, classic automobiles, and even electric vehicles. Visitors can marvel at the intricate details of these machines, each telling a story of innovation and progress. The museum also provides interactive exhibits that allow guests to engage with the history of transport through various hands-on experiences. In addition to its remarkable vehicle displays, the museum serves as a hub for community engagement and education. It operates as a non-profit organization, emphasizing the importance of preserving transportation history. The museum often hosts special events, including model train shows and educational workshops, appealing to both families and enthusiasts alike. A highlight for visitors is the scale model club that showcases miniature renditions of various transport modalities, providing a unique perspective on the subject. For those looking to take home a piece of their visit, the museum features a gift shop stocked with a variety of transportation-themed memorabilia, perfect for collectors or as thoughtful gifts. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for a fun outing, the Virginia Museum of Transportation is an enlightening stop that offers a thorough glimpse into the local heritage of travel and transport.
Local tips
- Plan your visit on weekends to enjoy additional family-friendly activities.
- Check the museum's schedule for special events and exhibitions that might coincide with your visit.
- Don't forget to visit the gift shop for unique souvenirs related to transportation history.
- Consider bringing a camera; there are plenty of great photo opportunities with the vintage vehicles.
- If you drive an electric vehicle, take advantage of the charging station available on-site.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in Old Southwest and want to walk to the Virginia Museum of Transportation, start at the intersection of 4th St SW and Campbell Ave SW. Head east on Campbell Ave SW for about 0.5 miles until you reach the intersection with Norfolk Ave SW. Turn left onto Norfolk Ave SW and continue walking for another 0.2 miles. The museum will be on your left at 303 Norfolk Ave SW.
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Public Transit - Bus
To reach the Virginia Museum of Transportation by bus, locate the nearest bus stop in Old Southwest. You can take the Roanoke Valley Transit bus route 4, which operates along Campbell Ave. Board the bus heading towards the Downtown Roanoke area. After approximately 5-7 minutes, get off at the stop nearest to Norfolk Ave SW. From there, walk about 0.2 miles west on Norfolk Ave SW to reach the museum at 303 Norfolk Ave SW. Be sure to check the current bus schedule for exact timings, and the fare is typically around $1.00.
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Landmarks nearby to Virginia Museum of Transportation, Inc.
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