Itching to get out of town, Raleighites? Skip the jet lag and jump in your car for a road trip to Roanoke, Virginia instead. From hiking up to the Roanoke Star to a late-night snack at the historic Texas Tavern — we’re spilling all the details on how to have an unforgettable time in the Star City.
📍 Essential info
Drive time: ~3 hours
Year city was established: 1884
Est. population: 100,000
🎟️ Experience
Take a hike | Roanoke is an outdoorsy paradise tucked into the Blue Ridge mountains. While you’re in town, make your way up to the iconic neon Roanoke Star by foot or car. If you’re up for the challenge, take the Triple Crown: three challenging trails totaling nearly 20 miles.
Visit Center in the Square | This unique space is home to cultural arts + sciences nonprofits, including an aquarium and pinball museum, and is the perfect place to bring kids.
Learn from local museums | The Taubman Museum of Art is housed in a stunning piece of architecture mimicking the Blue Ridge mountains — and the world-class art inside isn’t too bad either. You can also visit the the Virginia Museum of Transportation in downtown’s freight station to learn about the US through our modes of transportation.
🍔 Eat
Texas Tavern | This 24/7, cash-only eatery is the oldest restaurant in Roanoke and boasts cheap prices on cheeseburgers, hot dogs, famous chile, and breakfast.
Evie’s Bistro and Bakery | Come for the dessert, stay for the sandwiches — including veggie + vegan options. Locals rave about the Marie Antoinette cake.
Bloom | Indulge in a farm-to-table menu of small plates at this intimate restaurant.
Crystal Spring Grocery Co. | This gourmet shop offers lunch + brunch every day, plus grab and go meals to take on your next Roanoke adventure.
Sidecar | Sample traditional European foods, including sausages, steak frites, and foie gras in downtown Roanoke.
Pop’s Ice Cream and Soda Bar | Did someone say nostalgia? In addition to some sweet treats like egg creams and sundaes, this spot is known for its grilled cheese and tomato bisque.
🏨 Stay
The Stone House | This cozy + recently renovated 1911 home sleeps six and has historic charm with updated amenities. Plus, take a peek at Black Dog Salvage next door.
The River House | This charming home is in the middle of it all — the back deck overlooks the Roanoke River + Roanoke Greenway and is perfect for a busy weekend or a relaxing getaway.
Fire Station One Boutique Hotel | This former fire station has seven rooms, each with a different theme, including luxury loft, Parisian studio, and mid-century. While you’re there, dine at Stock Bistro and shop the showroom, all under one roof.
Hotel Roanoke | This 1882 hotel is a historic landmark but is still outfitted as a luxury stay. We’re eyeing the Pure Wellness guest rooms equipped with white noise machines, plush robes, and heated bathroom floors.
Wait a minute, Raleighites. Before you head out the door, find the cheapest places to fill up your gas tank and stock up on road trip snacks from Peace Street Market. Also, bookmark this map so you have no trouble finding all of our recommendations while visiting Roanoke.
🚗 Cruise
No matter where the highway takes you, our road trip must-haves will ease your journey as you make your way to your destination.
- With more than 23,000 location-based audio stories, Autio’s Unlimited Plan: Lifetime Subscription is your perfect companion offering mini podcasts about the history, culture, and geology of areas you drive through.
- You’ll stay fully charged up and connected with this 4-in-1 retractable car charger that has iPhone compatibility and secure plug-in capability.
- Rock a comfortable sweatshirt and pants set for the road featuring a cozy elastic waistband and side-seamed pockets to store your valuables.
- Keep your tailbone supported during lengthy drives with a thick memory foam cushion that is machine washable and gives complete postural support.
- Avoid getting stranded with a dead battery by packing this portable car jump starter that gives up to 50 jumps in a single charge — no flagging down a stranger needed.
- Easy to clean and leak-proof, this collapsible car trash can gives you 2 gallons of storage capacity to keep your vehicle free from clutter.
