Thinking of a luxurious getaway or moving to beautiful Roanoke, Virginia? Here’s your ultimate guide to experiencing Roanoke at its best. With its rich history, stunning mountain views, and vibrant local culture, Roanoke offers the perfect mix of upscale dining, outdoor adventures, and cultural attractions. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or considering making this area your new home, this 3-day itinerary highlights the best of the city. If you’re thinking about relocating, I’d be happy to help! As a Realtor with Keller Williams Realty, I’m David Keeter, and I’d love to share my local expertise and assist with your move. Let’s uncover everything that makes Roanoke so special!

Day 1: Roanoke’s Heart

Morning

Start your day with breakfast at Bread Craft, a trendy downtown spot famous for its fresh baked pastries, artisan breads and rich coffee. Try their flaky croissants or hearty avocado toast with a perfectly brewed cappuccino. This cozy cafe is the perfect way to get your day started.

Mid-Morning to Early Afternoon

Take a walk in Downtown Roanoke, where charming brick streets, local boutiques and cultural landmarks await. This vibrant area has something for everyone:

• • • Taubman Museum of Art: Check out the modern architecture before stepping inside to see rotating exhibits of contemporary art and fascinating collections. Don’t miss the museum shop for unique gifts and souvenirs.
    • Virginia Museum of Transportation: A must see for train enthusiasts and history buffs, this museum showcases Roanoke’s rail heritage with vintage locomotives, model trains and exhibits on aviation and automobiles.
    • Center in the Square: This cultural hub has something for all ages. Visit the rooftop butterfly garden for a peaceful escape, challenge yourself at the pinball museum, explore hands-on exhibits at the science center or simply take in the city views from the rooftop terrace.

Lunch

When you’re hungry, head to Jack Brown’s Beer & Burger Joint for a casual yet indulgent meal. Famous for its craft beers and gourmet burgers, this spot has signature creations like the “Greg Brady” topped with mac and cheese and Martin’s BBQ potato chips. It’s a local favorite.

Afternoon Options

After lunch, choose your own adventure:

Option 1: Rent a bike from Roanoke Mountain Adventures and ride the Roanoke Valley Greenway. This paved trail follows the Roanoke River and has beautiful views of nature and plenty of spots to stop and take in the scenery. End your ride with a sweet treat from the beloved Blue Cow Ice Cream, where unique, seasonal flavors like Goat Cheese and Cherry or Cookie Doughnut are sure to please.

Option 2: Visit Mill Mountain Star & Park, home of the Roanoke Star. Enjoy the views of the city and the Blue Ridge Mountains from this elevated spot. Explore the short, family-friendly hiking trails or stop by the Mill Mountain Zoo to see red pandas, snow leopards and playful otters. It’s a quintessential Roanoke experience that combines natural beauty with fun.

Evening

As the day winds down, treat yourself to dinner at Fortunato, a modern Italian eatery in the heart of downtown. Indulge in house-made pasta dishes like truffle tagliatelle or wood-fired pizzas with premium ingredients.

End the night with drinks and live music at Martin’s Downtown, a local favorite with a laid back atmosphere and live tunes. Whether you’re sipping a cold beer or dancing to the band, it’s the perfect way to cap off your day in Roanoke.

Day 2: Hiking and Nature Escapes

Morning

Start your day with Southern comfort at Scratch Biscuit Company, a local favorite for hearty, flaky biscuits and creative, savory dishes. Whether you go for a classic sausage biscuit or one of their specials, you’ll be fueled up for the day.

After you eat, get ready for one of Virginia’s most iconic hikes: McAfee Knob. This trailhead is just 25 minutes from downtown Roanoke and is an 8-mile round trip with moderate to strenuous challenges. You’ll hike through forest, over rocks and experience the natural beauty of the Appalachian Trail. The highlight, of course, is the summit where you’ll be treated to panoramic views and one of the most photographed spots on the trail. Don’t forget to snap a photo of yourself on the overhanging rock!

Lunch

Before you head out on your hike, stop by the Roanoke Co-op and pick up a fresh and healthy picnic to enjoy at the top of McAfee Knob. From artisan sandwiches and salads to local snacks, the Co-op has everything you need to make your summit lunch special.

Afternoon

After your hike, it’s time to relax. Head to Black Dog Salvage, a must-see for fans of unique, upcycled treasures. Featured on the TV show Salvage Dawgs, this architectural salvage shop is filled with one-of-a-kind finds from vintage furniture and reclaimed wood to quirky decor and artwork. Spend some time in the massive showroom and you might just find the perfect souvenir to remember your trip.

Evening

End your day with dinner at Pueblo Chico Mexican Grill where bold flavors and colorful dishes await. Enjoy their signature margaritas—made with fresh ingredients and full of flavor—and pair with authentic dishes like sizzling fajitas or their famous street tacos. The warm atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring. Feeling adventurous? Take advantage of Virginia’s to-go cocktail laws and bring one of their expertly mixed cocktails back with you to enjoy later.

Day 3: Savor Mountain Views and Local Culture

Morning

Start your day with a warm latte at Sweet Donkey Coffee, a cozy café in the tree-lined streets of South Roanoke. Known for its charm and great brews, it’s the perfect spot to ease into the morning. Grab a seat on their big porch or find a comfy corner indoors and enjoy a locally roasted coffee or one of their seasonal drinks.

Lunch

For lunch, head to Evie’s Bistro, a hidden gem in the historic Old Southwest neighborhood. This warm spot is famous for its homestyle meals made with love and its indulgent, made-from-scratch desserts. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or something lighter, they have something for everyone. Don’t miss their signature pies or cakes that locals can’t stop talking about!

Afternoon

After lunch, take a drive on the world-famous Blue Ridge Parkway, often called “America’s Favorite Drive” for a reason. This route is stunning, with winding roads that offer panoramic views of mountains, forests and valleys.

Extend your afternoon with a trip to Peaks of Otter Lodge, about 45-60 minutes north. Here you’ll find a peaceful lake surrounded by mountains, perfect for a walk or picnic. If you’re up for a challenge, hike Sharp Top, one of the area’s most famous peaks, with incredible views from the top and a glimpse into Virginia’s natural beauty.

Evening

End your day with dinner at Bloom, in the trendy Wasena neighborhood. Known for its modern take on Southern cuisine, Bloom’s menu is full of creative dishes made with local ingredients. Pair your meal with one of their expertly curated wines or craft cocktails for the perfect dinner. With its warm atmosphere and friendly service, Bloom is the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on your day in Roanoke. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, innovative vegetarian options or a decadent dessert, Bloom will leave you with a lasting impression.

Bonus Tip: Explore Roanoke’s Neighborhoods

While you’re in town, be sure to check out Roanoke’s neighborhoods:

• Grandin Village: A lively neighborhood with a mix of old and new, known for its beautiful homes, cozy coffee shops, boutiques and the iconic Grandin Theatre, a hub for independent films and community events. It’s a warm and welcoming place for both locals and visitors.
• Wasena: A walkable and family-friendly area with parks, river access for kayaking or paddle boarding and a growing food and drink scene with breweries, cafes and restaurants. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and those who want to chill.
• Old Southwest: This historic neighborhood is famous for its architecture, Victorian homes and big front porches that invite neighborly chats. Tree-lined streets and a strong sense of community make this a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city.
• South Roanoke: A charming neighborhood with elegant homes, boutique shopping and small town charm. Close to the city center for the perfect balance of convenience and tranquility, it’s a highly desirable area for families and professionals.

Visit Roanoke

Roanoke is a beautiful blend of mountains, history and community. Whether you’re here for a long weekend or thinking of moving, this Southwest Virginia gem has something for everyone.

If you’re considering a move, I’d love to help you see what life here could look like. I can guide you every step of the way – from finding the perfect neighborhood to your dream home. Contact me today!