Location: Roanoke
Top Things to do in Roanoke
10 Things to do Good for a Rainy Day 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. Roanoke Craft Beer Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 125 reviews
Weekly public and private tours of craft beer breweries in the Roanoke Valley and Virginia's Blue Ridge region. Discover and unlock the mystery of craft beer. Enjoy tastings, behind the scenes tours, a Beer Brewing 101 lesson, history of beer and the craft beer movement. Plus fun with like minded beer lovers! Great outing for your group and the ideal way to Discover Roanoke like an insider! Private groups tours available for groups of 10-14.
2. The River Rock
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 12 reviews
We hope to be the hub of the Roanoke region's climbing community by providing incredible climbing, instruction, and service to complete beginners and seasoned experts alike. Whether you are an avid climber with years of experience or someone who has never experienced the thrill of the sport, you'll find exciting terrain, excellent instruction, and friendly faces at The River Rock.
3. Riddle Me Roanoke
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 47 reviews
We are a well established Escape Room in Roanoke, Virginia that focuses on fun! Players enter a themed room, collect clues and solve puzzles to complete a major objective for the room. It is totally immersive, live action, hands-on, and lots of fun! All of our rooms are private at no extra charge, so players don't have to round up a lot of friends to play, or play in a room with a bunch of strangers.
Reviewed By 639lgrnr
We had a really lovely time - we did The Malt Shop and it was challenging and kept us guessing right until the end! We will definitely be coming back!
4. Deschutes Brewery Tasting Room
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 36 reviews
Reviewed By CavaHoo22 - Roanoke, United States
This tasting room is a preview of the brewing facility that Deschutes is going to build in Botetourt County and is an awesome way to develop a following for their beer before they open that facility. Small, but very modern, space with several bar top tables and window seats. There are only a couple regular tables, so you might have to get lucky if you're looking for one of those. There are a couple outdoor bar tops as well. The beer is great and I highly recommend a flight so that you can taste several different ones unless you already have a favorite from this brewery that you like to stick to. Several good I.P.A. options, as well as, some good darker beers also. There is a style to suit every taste though. The staff is friendly and very efficient even when the place is crowded. If you're exploring downtown, I'd definitely suggest stopping in here. No food served here other than meat and cheese plates, but you can bring your own in.
5. Salt Foot Sanctuary
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 20 reviews
A blissful transforming mini-escape with a lasting impression. Ideal for couples or small groups! A shared experience performed in our sanctuary and centered on luxurious, handmade, and wonderfully aromatic mineral foot soaks. Choose the ultimate pampering, add a massage during the soak. Located at the historic Hotel Roanoke.
Reviewed By Hygiene57 - Roanoke, United States
I had an amazing facial with OSEA products. Love the feel and fresh smell. Donna was my esthetician. She applied lots of great cleansers, serums, etc. and then massaged my face, neck, and upper chest area. Extra bonus was massaging my arms, hands and feet. It was so relaxing I almost drifted off. Highly recommend.
6. Mill Mountain Theatre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 35 reviews
40 years of Broadway quality theatre right here in Roanoke - the Valley's only Professional Live Theatre! Year-round season with two stages in Center in the Square. Family Entertainment on the Trinkle Main Stage (seats 400), Cutting-Edge Theatre on the Waldron Stage (seats 100.)
7. 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.
8. 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!
9. Stellina
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 9 reviews
Reviewed By rlwags13 - Front Royal, United States
Stopped in here before dinner and had a very nice time at the bar. The bartender was very friendly and made us some tasty beverages. Cozy & sleek atmosphere, interesting cocktails, kind staff. Would return if in town again.
10. Black Dog Salvage
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 584 reviews
We are the home of DIY Network's "Salvage Dawgs" - episodes available on Amazon, Discovery Plus, iTunes, YouTubeTV, and streaming devices. Our inventory changes daily! We now have two warehouses located in Roanoke, Virginia. Discover architectural salvage, old house parts, custom upcycled designs, reproduction garden statuary, furniture paint, salvage inspired furniture, and decor in our main showroom. Curated regional artisans and vendors also add a constantly changing mix of new, vintage, and antique home decor. Shop for unique gifts, souvenirs, apparel, dog gear, and our expanded gourmet Market collection. Visit our nearby salvage warehouse for new arrivals and antique lumber. Explore outside for antique wrought iron, clawfoot tubs, and amazing art inspiration! Don’t see what you’re looking for? Work with our custom design team to create your vision! Staying in Roanoke? Inquire about The Stone House, our 1911 historic vacation rental property located next door.
Reviewed By paradisc - Acushnet, United States
Was back visiting family in the area and this is the second time I have visited this place. If you watch the show it’s a must see place, even if you haven’t I would recommend stopping because there are so many unique items here you’ll be amazed. The people who work here are talented and creative. The items that are saved and resold will bring back memories of the past. If you have a hour or two to kill, check out this place, you won’t be sorry.
