Location: Roanoke
Top Things to do in Roanoke
10 Museums in Roanoke That You Shouldn't Miss
A 100-foot high star atop a mountain and visible from miles around welcomes you to the "Star City of the South," a great beginning for your weekend getaway to this city rich in culture, history, fun and entertainment. Close to the star is the Mill Mountain Zoological Park, where you'll see the endangered Snow Leopard, Amur Tiger and Red Wolf, along with 40-plus other animal species. The Center in the Square is the city's cultural hub, where you can catch a Broadway-quality show at the Mill Mountain Theatre or hear the celebrated Roanoke Symphony. Museums are everywhere, and whether your interest lies in art, history, science or transportation, you'll find a museum to match it. The Harrison Museum of African-American Culture honors achievements of African Americans and includes an impressive African exhibit. For underground delights, head over to the Dixie Caverns for a 45-minute tour of breathtaking cave formations, after which you can browse through pottery, rock and mineral and other shops. There's something to keep you occupied and entertained every minute in this environmentally-conscious, friendly and very welcoming Virginia city.
Restaurants in Roanoke
1. Fleda A. Ring Artworks
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1 reviews
Our innovative, artist-run gallery features local, regional and national artworks. We partner with artists to give them a space to grow, experiment and sell their work.
2. Alexander/Heath Contemporary
3. Kid's Square
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Reviewed By sandracarte - Roanoke, United States
This is a great place for children from 1 up to 11-12 years of age. They have a variety of play stations . All the children seem to have a great time going from place to place. Best tip , just follow them around and see what they do . We have been members for 2 years and it’s been money very well spent . The kids absolutely love this place we go at 10 , do snacks in the main lobby watching big screen movies , then go back up to the museum for more fun. They have seats around for adults to sit as the children play. I highly recommend.
4. Virginia Museum of Transportation
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 684 reviews
Antique automobiles and trucks, electric and deisel locomotives, and vintage steam, are all part of the nostalgic show at this historic freight station that doubles as a museum .
Reviewed By bmwbillk - Charlotte, United States
Roanoke is known for all the trains... and the museum had plenty as well. very well displayed and such that you could actually get inside some of them. Nice collection of cars including Packards and Studebakers. Worth the time.
5. O. Winston Link Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 296 reviews
Reviewed By travel-here-there
Despite some adjustments to flow due to the pandemic, this museum is an excellent presentation of both local and railroad history so it should appeal to a variety of people. In addition, for those interested in photography equipment and techniques, the museum includes excellent exhibits and explanations of the tools and processes used. I also found the Roanoke 1980s flood story an interesting addition for variety. Possibly the best part of the museum though is the amazing historic train station building it is in! You could spend an hour or three in here, but be sure to stay for the worthwhile video in the theatre that plays on the hour!
6. The Little Gallery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 25 reviews
Open seven days a week, The Little Gallery is a fine art gallery and consultancy that provides art sourcing and art advisory services for residential, hospitality and corporate spaces. We feature a wide ranging collection of landscape, still life, and abstract paintings, as well as select photography and sculpture and specialty gifts. We believe there’s no substitution for the physical experience of art. As such, we host events and curate exhibitions. Visitors who attend our events or exhibitions can discover the art they love and learn about the talent behind the art.
7. Wilson Hughes Gallery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6 reviews
A contemporary fine art & craft gallery. Original paintings and ethnic crafts. Open Daily by appointment.
8. Roanoke Pinball Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 139 reviews
The Roanoke Pinball Museum is an interactive showcase cultivating curiosity in science, art, and the history of pinball while preserving and honoring its role in American culture. We have over 55 playable machines with production dates ranging from the 1930's to the present day. Pay one price and play all day! School tours and party rentals are also available... inquire within!
Reviewed By Trickyfae - Roanoke, United States
This place can literally be hours of fun and history. There are well over 20 pinball games in this vintage style arcade. All you can play at a standard price. I would highly reccomend this place for families on weekends. But it would be more for children 5+ as pinball is no basic game, and I personally do not enjoy seeing unattended children banging on/damaging some unique pieces of history. I personally could spend 3 hours here. They do sell beverages and have restrooms at this facility so this can be a great day activity. I honestly can't wait to go back! As it is more then your monies worth!
9. Pop-up Sunday Art Market - 2nd & 4th Sundays
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6 reviews
Please join us each 2nd and 4th Sunday of the month in celebration of Roanoke's diverse art scene! The Art Market will feature fine artists, makers, craftsmen, and performance artists in a rotating process. Each event will feature a varying selection of artists from around the region. Plan on making every 2nd and 4th Sunday Art Market a part of your family's weekend!
10. Science Museum of Western Virginia & Hopkins Planetarium
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 92 reviews
Fun for the whole family, the Science Museum of Western Virginia features a tropical butterfly garden filled with butterflies from around the world; fun and interactive exhibits exploring Healthy Bodies, Healthy Earth and How It Works; live animals and the popular "FROGS"; the Living River & Touch Tank; and amazing traveling exhibits such as "TUTANKHAMUN: Wonderful Things From The Pharaoh's Tomb," running June 14-Dec. 31, 2014.
Reviewed By sarafB2209OD
My 11 year old, his grandparents and I have been here twice and thoroughly enjoyed the center. The display get continual upgrades and the volunteers are well educated making the center both fun and educational.
