Explore a charming cultural center in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Few destinations have both renowned outdoor adventure offerings and world-class culture. But that's precisely what you get with a visit to Roanoke, Virginia. The city is home to more than 1,000 miles of trails to hike and bike, as well as a vibrant downtown filled with museums, restaurants and galleries. And although the nickname — Star City of the South — was given because of the iconic Roanoke Star on top of Mill Mountain, you’ll find that Roanoke shines for all kinds of reasons.
Explore Roanoke
- Downtown
- Grandin Village
- Salem
Downtown
Overview
With the bright star atop Mill Mountain shining down on the downtown neighborhood, the area is the vibrant center of the city. It's home to an array of restaurants, museums, galleries, bars and shops at Center in the Square. Try your hand at some vintage pinball machines and stroll through a picturesque park.
Known For
Dining, Nightlife, Museums
Grandin Village
Overview
Known as one of the hippest neighborhoods in the Roanoke Valley, Grandin Village has an adorable main street complete with a restored 1930s art deco movie theater. It's easy to spend a few hours walking through the urban village, checking out local shops and restaurants — and it's all just 2 miles from downtown Roanoke.
Known For
Dining, Family Friendly
Salem
Overview
Although Virginia's Championship City got its nickname for being home to the Salem Red Sox Minor League Baseball team, Salem is a first-class city for many other reasons. You’ll discover a lively food and drink scene and several arts and cultural activities along the main drag.
Known For
Dining, Drinking, Sports
Stay in The Center of it All
Immerse yourself in your destination at these centrally located hotels.
World-Class Recreation and Culture Meet in Roanoke, Virginia
Explore Downtown — and Mill Mountain
Spend the day exploring the small but mighty downtown. Visit museums, dine at local casual eateries and check out some popular breweries in your first 24 hours. Plus, drive to the top of Mill Mountain to see the famous star and take in the view.
Hike Through History in Salem
Grandin Village is today's jumping-off point, with breakfast at Scratch Biscuit Company. After, stroll through the adorable neighborhood and pop into the local shops, then rent a bike and ride on the Roanoke River Greenway. Then it's lunch and a car ride to visit Dixie Caverns before ending with dinner and dancing downtown.
Bike the Roanoke River Greenway
Just 15 minutes from downtown is the vibrant city of Salem. Spend the morning enjoying breakfast and walking along the main street before grabbing lunch to fuel up for the hike to one of the most photographed spots on the Appalachian Trail. Then it's back to Salem for dinner and a drink to top off the evening.