The startling truths about springtime in Roanoke
We were hosted by Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge and invited to give our opinions to other travelers. All reviews are our own.
Roanoke, Virginia
Drive time: 6.5 hours from Nashville
This article will include:
1) an extensive list of things to do in Roanoke, Virginia this spring
2) the startling truths about springtime in Roanoke
3) fun things to do in Roanoke organized by travelers’ interests
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Springtime in Roanoke, a magical season.
Is it time to come out of wintery hibernation, yet?
Spring says “Yes! Hang up your parkas, and throw on your best sandals.”
Following Spring’s advice, let’s take a moment to dream together about your next springtime road trip.
If you’ve never visited the mountainous region of Virginia known as Virginia’s Blue Ridge, you must add it to your travel calendar as soon as possible!
Consider this destination with its sprawling vistas to help cure those wintery blues.
Why? What’s the big draw?
We’re glad you asked. This article is going to feature a plethora of springtime adventures in and around the Roanoke area so you can fill up your road trip itinerary. Let’s get to it.
Here’s a quick list of things to do in Roanoke, Virginia, this spring:
Something for every traveler? Let’s take a closer look at the activities above.
If you’re the kind of traveler who prefers to relax…
Do you like mellow activities and just enjoying the sights when you travel?
Smith Mountain Lake is just the spot for you. By searching Smith Mountain Lake rentals, you will find every style and size of lakefront cabins. Can you picture yourself relaxing lakeside with your favorite beverage by the crystal waters of Smith Mountain Lake this spring? Be sure to add a stop to Homestead Creamery when you visit the lake…because few things can help you relax like homemade ice cream and lake views.
Source: Smith Lake Mountain Rentals
Source: Smith Mountain Lake rentals
Homestead Creamery
If relaxing is your travel game, you may also want to book a spa service at the historic Hotel Roanoke’s Salt Foot Sanctuary. We hear they offer massages and mineral water foot soaks that are guaranteed to remedy all effects of adulting.
If you’re the kind of traveler who loves exploring new towns and cities…
Do you prefer to stay in town and check out the local shops and eateries?
Hotel Roanoke
Roanoke is the perfect walking town. Start at Hotel Roanoke’s Pine Room, which offers patio dining, then cross the pedestrian footbridge into the heart of town. Local shops line the street, allowing visitors to work up an appetite while window-shopping. Buy fresh fruit from the farmer’s market or stop by restaurants that have outdoor seating in the square. Try Chocolatepaper and Deschutes Taproom along the way.
If you prefer spicing up your fare with local brews, head on over to Golden Cactus Brewing. You can spice up your Instagram feed while you’re at it. There are murals all over that part of town!
If you’re the kind of traveler who prefers adventure to stillness…
Do you like to fill your getaway with family-friendly adventures?
If you prefer the wind in your hair and lake water misting your face, rent a posh pontoon boat from Bridgewater Marina and Boat Rentals’ newest fleet! Ask for directions to the dam and you will get to see the most impressive views on the lake! Don’t worry about packing a lunch. There are marinas with restaurants scattered along the shoreline. We loved Los Amigos Bar and Grill at Crazy Horse Marina.
The Roanoke River was recently voted #3 Best Urban Spot for Kayaking! But you don’t need to buy gear to enjoy it. You can rent all types of sports toys from Roanoke Mountain Adventures, a locally-owned outfitter. From bikes to kayaks to paddleboards, this store will fit you and help you select the appropriate equipment for your needs. The best part about using Roanoke Mountain Adventures is convenience! They are located right on the river AND the greenway. You don’t have to worry about hauling and securing big equipment to your car.
Roanoke River, Virginia
Roanoke Mountain Adventures, Roanoke, Virginia
If you’re the kind of traveler who feels at home in the outdoors…
Would you rather be ANYWHERE but indoors?
Hiking trails are plentiful in Roanoke. You can hike up to the iconic Roanoke Star and see a bird’s-eye view of the city.
Mountain bike trails are amazingly close to the city center, which is quite a unique experience.
If you’re the kind of traveler who prefers unique travel experiences…
Are you craving hidden gems and unique experiences when you travel?
Smith Mountain Lake Alpaca Farm will teach you all about the differences between llamas and alpacas. You’ll discover why alpaca farming may be a better investment than the day trading you’re doing! Feeding and hugging alpacas are also included in this special experience.
Texas Tavern was voted one of the smallest restaurants in the world. You’ll need to stop by and have a burger, just to say you did.
Black Dog Salvage is a renowned salvage store as well as an internet sensation. Hosts of the show “Salvage Dawgs” on the DIY Network, this shop, full of antiques and eclectic furniture, is fan favorite.
So…what are the startling truths about springtime in Roanoke, Virginia?
1) There is something to do for every age, every activity level, and almost every interest group. Not every destination can boast about that.
2) You can experience a full family vacay in just a short weekend.
3) Roanoke is an award-winning destination. It was ranked one of the Top 2020 Romantic Getaways in Virginia by U.S News and World Report. And Smith Mountain Lake made the list in 2020 for the Prettiest Lake in Every State by Reader’s Digest.
4) This is one of the best locations to experience low-stress, outdoor adventures (as there is no struggling for parking or fighting big crowds.)
5) The local brewery scene is buzzing.
6) Roanoke is a stop on Amtrak’s Northeast Regional Route, making it a perfect destination to pair with a train ride to Washington D.c, Boston, New York, and Philadelphia.
7) There is an entry point to the Appalachian trail located here.
*please call ahead to book reservations and inquire about COVID19 closures and restrictions
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