The Roanoke Valley in Virginia is a beautiful place full of opportunities for residents and visitors to experience first-rate arts, culture, dining, shopping, and outdoor activities. The area has so much to offer, that it can be had to decide what to do first. To make things easier, we’ve come up with a list of the top 5 things to do in Roanoke, VA.
1. Visit Mill Mountain Park & the Roanoke Star
Going to Mill Mountain Park and seeing the Roanoke Star is at the top of most people’s lists of things to do in Roanoke, VA. The park is on beautiful Mill Mountain and features beautifully landscaped areas, hiking & biking trails, and a zoo. And while you’re there you can’t miss the famous Roanoke Star landmark. This icon of the Blue Ridge Mountains is on top of Mill Mountain and stands almost 90 feet tall. At night it’s illuminated by 2,000 feet of neon tubing.
2. Hit the Water at Smith Mountain Lake State Park
One of the most popular activities to do in Roanoke, VA is head to Smith Mountain Lake State Park. It’s the biggest lake in the state with almost 500 miles of shoreline. Head there for a day (or more) on the water. Fishing, boating, wakeboarding, waterskiing, sailing, and jet skiing are all popular activities on Smith Moutain Lake. There are also beaches suitable for swimming. And the views of the Blue Ridge Mountains from the lake are beautiful.
3. Visit the Taubman Museum of Art
The Taubman Museum of Art is a great place to visit for anyone who enjoys art. Your visual enjoyment starts with the museum building itself, which was designed by famed architect Randall Stout. The museum has a permanent collection of 2,000 pieces of artwork in 11 galleries. Plus, there are captivating visiting exhibits and special installations. You don’t have to be an art expert to enjoy this Roanoke attraction.
4. Enjoy Roanoke City Market
After you explore what the beautiful Valley has to offer in outdoor activities, head to the Roanoke City Market for shopping and dining. The locals call it the Farmers’ Market and it is open all year. There are boutiques as well as places to buy local produce and flowers. Make sure to stop and see the four entrances, which are all covered in beautiful mosaics of porcelain tiles.
5. Explore Center in the Square
If you enjoy the Roanoke City Market, head over to the adjacent Center in the Square. This is one of the best things to do in Roanoke because it’s home to a number of arts, science, and cultural attractions, including:
- Living Coral Reef Aquarium
- Turtles of Virginia Fresh Water Aquarium
- Butterfly Garden
- Harrison Museum of African American Culture
- History Museum of Western Virginia
- Science Museum of Western Virginia
- Mill Mountain Theatre
- Roanoke Pinball Museum
Tour South Peak
At South Peak, Roanoke’s premier luxury home community, you’re always close to all the best Roanoke, VA activities. Enjoy all that the Roanoke Valley has to offer and come home to luxury. Schedule your tour today and come see for yourself the incredible homes and amenities we have to offer at South Peak.