Make it a family getaway to the mountains, including the sites and scenery.
Day 1
Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you arrive in scenic Roanoke, at the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Before you do anything, visit the Roanoke Valley Visitor Center to pickup a map. Then walk around the historic Roanoke City Farmers' Market for shopping, dining and sightseeing. Wherever you choose to have lunch, save room for a treat at chocolatepaper.
Check out the planetarium schedule at the Science Museum of Western Virginia where you can see a show and play around a while with the hands-on exhibits.
Stop in at the History Museum of Western Virginia to see how our history shaped the region.
Check in at the Holiday Inn Valley View to receive a welcome basket to the Roanoke Valley along with a disposable camera, or perhaps Comfort Inn Airport. Plan for an evening meal at Metro!.
Day 2
Have breakfast and pick up a picnic lunch as you make your way to the Peaks of Otter, just 35 minutes from Roanoke off the Blue Ridge Parkway. Plan to hike (or take the shuttle to) Sharp Top for an incredible scenic view.
On your way back, stop at Mill Mountain Zoo for a fun visit and ride on the ZooChoo. A family photo at the Roanoke Star Overlook will provide a fun fall getaway keepsake.
Consider Blue 5, a Blues & Jazz themed restaurant, for dinner.
Day 3
A traditional breakfast awaits you at The Roanoker Restaurant before you spend the morning taking in our railroad heritage at the O. Winston Link Museum. Discover how the steam era influenced much of the region.
Stroll along the Railwalk, an interactive display of rail artifacts which will lead you to the Virginia Museum of Transportation. This museum houses one of the largest collections of rolling stock in the east, including the 1218 and J611 historic steam engines.
Not far is Macado's - a great family dining lunch stop before heading home.