Best Things to do in Roanoke | Must-see attractions 2025

Virginia Museum of Transportation

Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00; Su 13:00-17:00

Museum

303 Norfolk Ave SW

View map

Virginia Museum of Transportation in Roanoke showcases antique automobiles, trucks, locomotives, and vintage steam engines within a historical freight station.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

St. Andrew's Roman Catholic Church

9:00 AM–3:00 PM

Church

631 N Jefferson St (at Walker Ave.)

View map

St. Andrew's Roman Catholic Church in Roanoke offers a serene spiritual refuge with rich history and beautiful architecture in the heart of Virginia.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated to maintain the church.

Roanoke Pinball Museum

12:00 PM–10:00 PM

Museum

1 Market Sq SE 2nd Floor

View map

Roanoke Pinball Museum features over 55 playable pinball machines from the 1930s to modern times, celebrating the art and history of pinball in American culture.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Paid. One price grants full access to all playable machines.

Thrasher Dog Park

7:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

930 Old Vinton Mill Rd NE

View map

Thrasher Dog Park in Roanoke, VA, offers a spacious, fenced area for dogs to play off-leash, with separate zones for small and large dogs and amenities like benches and shade trees.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free.

Wilson Hughes gallery

Noon–4:00 PM

Museum

117 Campbell Ave SW (First Street)

View map

Wilson Hughes Gallery in Roanoke specializes in contemporary fine art and craft, featuring sculpture, custom furniture, paintings, and photography.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Visits are by chance or appointment.

The Little Gallery

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

301 Market St SE (Kirk Ave)

View map

The Little Gallery in Roanoke, Virginia, showcases original artwork by local and regional artists while offering a unique gifts boutique experience.

Duration: More than 1 hour.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Explore Park

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

56 Roanoke River Pkwy

View map

Explore Park in Roanoke offers outdoor recreation, trails, and historical exhibits showcasing the region's natural and cultural heritage.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special programs may require a fee.

Walter's Greenhouse

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Garden

1356 Coopers Cove Rd

View map

Walter's Greenhouse in Roanoke, United States, offers a wide variety of plants, gardening supplies, and expert advice for enthusiasts and beginners alike.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some workshops may incur a small fee.

Hollins University

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

7916 Williamson Rd

View map

Hollins University, located in Roanoke, Virginia, is a private women's liberal arts university known for its historic campus and strong academic programs.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some specialized events may require a paid ticket.

Tanglewood Mall

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

4420A Electric Rd

View map

Tanglewood Mall in Roanoke, Virginia, offers diverse shopping, dining, and family entertainment options, including a cinema and various retail outlets.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Admission is free, and individual store prices vary.

Science Museum of Western Virginia

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1 Market Sq SE

View map

Science Museum of Western Virginia features interactive exhibits on science and technology, making it a vital educational resource in Roanoke, Virginia.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

General admission: $10 for adults, $5 for children. Discounts available for groups.

Read Mountain Preserve

Dawn to Dusk

Park

6101 Crumpacker Dr

View map

Read Mountain Preserve in Roanoke County offers 5 miles of hiking trails leading to panoramic summit views and a forested recreational experience.

Duration: 1-3 hours.

Free. No admission fee required.

Towers Shopping Center

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

2235 Colonial Ave SW

View map

Towers Shopping Center in Roanoke, VA, features diverse retail shops, dining options, and entertainment, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Individual store prices vary based on purchases.

Hollins University Theatre

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

Virginia

View map

Hollins University Theatre in Roanoke, Virginia features a historic venue for arts, hosting student productions and community events with a capacity of 250 seats.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

General admission varies; check specific events for pricing details.

Jefferson College of Health Sciences

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

College

920 S Jefferson St

View map

Jefferson College of Health Sciences, established in 1914, offers health-related programs and a modern campus in Roanoke, Virginia, promoting student growth and community service.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events or workshops may have a fee.

Vinton War Memorial

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

Washington Ave

View map

Vinton War Memorial honors local veterans with war artifacts, ceremonies, and community events. The venue preserves history while fostering community spirit in Roanoke.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have admission fees.

Midland Baptist Church

9:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

Dale Ave.

View map

Midland Baptist Church in Roanoke, USA, offers a rich historical and community-centered worship experience in a welcoming environment.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcomed for special projects and community initiatives.

Shenandoah Baptist Church

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Church

6520 Williamson Rd

View map

Shenandoah Baptist Church in Roanoke, Virginia, offers a welcoming community atmosphere with a focus on faith and outreach programs.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome for special events and community services.

Thrasher Memorial United Methodist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Vinton

View map

Thrasher Memorial United Methodist Church, located in Roanoke, USA, offers spiritual services and community engagement in a historic and architecturally rich setting.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations appreciated for maintenance and community programs.

Vinton Wesleyan Church

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Church

246 Jefferson Ave

View map

Vinton Wesleyan Church in Roanoke, United States, features traditional architecture and a vibrant community, fostering spiritual growth and fellowship.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcome but not required.

Belmont Christian Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Roanoke

View map

Belmont Christian Church in Roanoke, VA, offers a welcoming community space with unique architecture and a rich cultural history. Join worship or community events.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated during community events.

Saint Pauls Memorial Methodist Episcopal Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

502 Gilmer Ave NW (5th Street NW)

View map

Saint Pauls Memorial Methodist Episcopal Church in Roanoke, Virginia, features Gothic Revival architecture and serves as a notable historical site within the community.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance and community programs.

First Church of the Brethren

10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Church

2001 Carroll Ave NW

View map

First Church of the Brethren in Roanoke offers a historic glimpse into 1930s architecture and community service, known for its welcoming spirit and spiritual events.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Garden City Church of the Nazarene

10:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Virginia

View map

Garden City Church of the Nazarene in Roanoke offers a welcoming environment for community worship and events, focusing on faith and outreach activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may have a nominal fee.

Ghent Grace Brethern Church

5:00 PM–7:00 PM

Church

1511 Maiden Ln SW

View map

Ghent Grace Brethern Church, established in Roanoke, offers a spiritual retreat with rich community engagement and a significant history dating back to the 1950s.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations for community programs are appreciated.

Grandin Court Baptist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Virginia

View map

Grandin Court Baptist Church is a historic place of worship in Roanoke, Virginia, founded in 1949, known for its community involvement and unique architecture.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for special programs.

Northminister Presbyterian Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

3911 Greenland Ave NW

View map

Northminster Presbyterian Church in Roanoke, United States, is known for its unique architecture, community engagement, and historical significance since its founding in 1955.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may have separate fees.

Oakland Baptist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Virginia

View map

Oakland Baptist Church in Roanoke, United States, offers historical significance and beautiful architecture since its founding in 1892 by Rev. W.E. Smith.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for community services.

Raleigh Court Presbyterian Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

1837 Grandin Rd SW

View map

Raleigh Court Presbyterian Church in Roanoke serves as a significant place of worship in the community, offering spiritual guidance and cultural activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Riverdale Baptist Church

9:00 AM–1:00 PM

Church

Vinton

View map

Riverdale Baptist Church in Roanoke offers a welcoming community with a rich history dating back to 1934, known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant services.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated during services and events.

Roanoke Avenue Baptist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

2202 Roanoke Ave SW

View map

Roanoke Avenue Baptist Church, established in 1892, is a historic church in Roanoke, Virginia, known for its Gothic Revival architecture and community involvement.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations accepted for special programs and events.

St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church

By appointment

Church

2339 Grandin Rd SW

View map

St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church in Roanoke, United States, is known for its beautiful architecture and serene ambiance, offering a space for worship and community events.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Saint Thomas of Canterbury Anglican Catholic Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Roanoke

View map

Saint Thomas of Canterbury Anglican Catholic Church in Roanoke offers a historic worship space with unique architecture and rich community ties; a place for spiritual growth and reflection.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free entry. Donations welcome for community services.

Sweet Union Baptist Church

10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Church

521 Madison Ave NW

View map

Sweet Union Baptist Church in Roanoke, VA, established in 1867, is a historical site with notable architecture and cultural significance, attracting visitors interested in local history.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Special events may have fees.

Virginia Heights Baptist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

2014 Memorial Ave SW

View map

Virginia Heights Baptist Church, established in 1953, features striking architecture and serves the Roanoke community with services and various outreach programs.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome to support community programs and events.

Parkway Wesleyan Church

10:00 AM–2:00 PM

Church

3645 Orange Ave NE

View map

Parkway Wesleyan Church in Roanoke, United States, serves as a community hub, offering spiritual guidance, programs, and events in a welcoming environment.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are encouraged but not required.

Cave Spring Baptist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

4783-4799 U.S. 221

View map

Cave Spring Baptist Church is a historic Baptist congregation in Roanoke, Virginia, showcasing unique architecture and rich cultural significance.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free to visit. Donations are welcomed.

South Roanoke United Methodist Church

9:00 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Roanoke

View map

South Roanoke United Methodist Church was established in 1889, noted for its traditional architecture and vibrant community involvement in Roanoke, Virginia.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for community programs.

Cavalry Memorial Church

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Roanoke

View map

Cavalry Memorial Church in Roanoke features beautiful architecture and historical significance as a center for community and worship since 1891.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance and events.

Mill Mountain Star

Open 24 hours

Park

2000 J B Fishburn Pkwy

View map

Mill Mountain Star in Roanoke, Virginia is the world's largest illuminated freestanding star, offering panoramic views and a significant local landmark since 1949.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. No ticket required to visit.

Mill Mountain Zoo

10:00 AM–4:30 PM

Zoo

Mill Mountain Spur

View map

Mill Mountain Zoo in Roanoke, founded in 1952, showcases 183 animals from 70 species, emphasizing conservation and education for all ages.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Adults: $10, Children (2-12): $7. Children under 2: Free. Discounts for seniors and military.

Mill Mountain Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

View map

Mill Mountain Park in Roanoke, Virginia, features hiking trails, scenic views, and a notable 88-foot-tall star – the largest in the world.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. No entry fees apply.

Explore Park Visitor Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

56 Roanoke River Parkway

View map

Explore Park Visitor Center offers indoor exhibits about the area's natural history, cultural heritage, and outdoor recreational opportunities in Roanoke, Virginia.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special programs may require a paid ticket.

Wasena Park

Open 24 hours

Park

1119 Wiley Drive Southwest

View map

Wasena Park in Roanoke offers riverfront views, walking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds within a scenic natural environment, making it a popular recreational spot.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. No entrance fee required.

Bottom Creek Gorge Preserve

7:00 AM–7:00 PM

Nature reserve

7 10th Ave S

View map

Bottom Creek Gorge Preserve, located in Roanoke, USA, features diverse ecosystems, scenic trails, and unique geological formations in a preserved natural setting.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Special events may have associated fees.

Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport

4:00 AM–10:00 PM

Airport

5202 Aviation Dr NW (at Towne Square Blvd. NW)

View map

Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport serves as a key transportation hub in Roanoke, Virginia, offering flights to major U.S. cities with modern amenities and services.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free. Parking fees apply, with options for short-term and long-term stays.

Taubman Museum of Art

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

110 Salem Ave SE

View map

Taubman Museum of Art in Roanoke, Virginia features 19th- and 20th-century American art, a striking architectural design, and diverse temporary exhibitions.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Harrison Museum of African American Culture

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

523 Harrison Ave NW

View map

The Harrison Museum of African American Culture in Roanoke showcases local African American history and traditional and contemporary African art within the cultural hub of the city.

Duration: More than 1 hour.

Free.

Metropolitan Community Church Of The Blue Ridge

10:30 AM–12:00 PM

Church

Virginia

View map

Metropolitan Community Church of the Blue Ridge is an inclusive congregation in Roanoke, promoting spiritual growth and community outreach since 1979.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome for community services.

Hollins University Painting Studio

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Gallery

Roanoke

View map

Hollins University Painting Studio offers artists a collaborative space with access to professional equipment, critiques, and a serene environment, located in Roanoke, Virginia.

Duration: 2 hours.

Free for students, fees may apply for workshops open to the public.