Location: Roanoke
Top Things to do in Roanoke
What to do and see in Roanoke, Virginia (VA): The Best Things to do Good for Big Groups
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. Roanoke Food Tours
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 249 reviews
Why Take The Tour? Roanoke is rich in colorful history, culture, and one-of-a-kind culinary treats. Combine these with a leisurely walk and an opportunity to make new friends – and you have a unique, memorable and fun way to experience our city! Discover off-the-beaten-path areas, fascinating culture, and talented food artisans. Delicious, fun and memorable for Roanoke visitors and locals alike. Join us Friday - Sunday year round. Private group tours available for groups of 8+.
4. Tour Roanoke
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 20 reviews
Breathtaking view and award winning wine await! Discovering our region's hard working and small farm wineries - and tasting the fruits of their labor! We'll visit the vineyard/wineries, enjoy at least 6 wine tastings at each winery, plus a pour of your selection, round trip transportation, a guided tour of winery, "Wine Making 101" and other information. Advance tickets are required. Must be 21 or older. Private group tours available any day of the week for groups of 8+.
5. 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.
6. Mill Mountain Star & Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,263 reviews
A "must see" on most visitors list, an 88-foot manmade star (the largest in the world) sits on majestic Mill Mountain along with a beautifully landscaped city park, that boasts hiking and biking trails, and a zoo.
Reviewed By schultzrebecca - New Bern, United States
This is such a beautiful place -- has been in existence since I was a little girl, The star is a Roanoke landmark and the overlook gives a breathtaking view of the beautiful Roanoke Valley. I strongly recommend the visit -- free and you can take as little or as long as you'd like!
7. Jeter Farm
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 31 reviews
Jeter Farm is a 5th generation family farm right outside of Roanoke, VA in Botetourt County raising vegetables, beef cattle, custom hay, small grains, and offer a fall harvest festival with a corn maze, pumpkin patch and much more. For details about the Fall Festival visit our website and like us on Facebook. We're also available to host special events by reservation only.
8. Big Lick Brewing Company
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 97 reviews
Downtown Roanoke's premier craft brewery, taproom and beer garden specializing in craft beer with an emphasis on quality and variety.
Reviewed By vivamifiesta
Adequate amount of outdoor seating and plenty of free parking next door or close by. The brewery are using safe protocols during COVID-19. We enjoyed their selection of hard seltzer’s on tap and ordered take out food from Tuco’s Tacos, which is just across the road. Good times!
