Roanoke, Virginia is a vibrant southern city with a lot to offer both residents and visitors. Known as Star City of the South because of the iconic star that shines above the city, Roanoke has a vibrant arts scene and is full of culture and personality waiting to be discovered. These attributes make it the ideal place for a winter getaway. To help you plan your trip, we’ve come up with four fun things to do in Roanoke VA this winter.
Mill Mountain Star and Park
The Mill Mountain Star is at the top of many visitors’ lists of fun things to do in Roanoke VA. The iconic star is the largest manmade star in the world and dates back to 1949. Originally the star was to be a Christmas decoration used seasonally but it was later decided to leave the star up permanently and it has become a symbol of the city year-round. The star is illuminated in all white lights regularly and is lit in red, white, and blue on Memorial Day, Flag Day, July 4th, September 11th, and Veterans Day as a sign of the community’s patriotism. Mill Mountain Park allows visitors to see the star as well as enjoy trails and a Discovery Center.
Center in the Square
Center in the Square is the artistic and cultural center of the city, so its no surprise that there are many fun things to do in Roanoke VA in this location. Museums that explore history, art, and science can be found in this downtown area as well as venues for live musical and theatrical performances, green spaces, a butterfly garden, and an aquarium. Center in the Square is also the perfect location to find amazing dining and great shopping. If you’re looking for things to do while you’re in Roanoke then Center in the Square provides many options.
Grandin Theatre
This historic theatre combines the old and the new. The beautiful movie palace building dates back to 1932, and it was the first theatre in the city to feature “talking pictures.” After a seven year stint as a live theatre venue and a few closings, the theatre now screens new films as a non-profit movie palace. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Roanoke VA this winter, taking in a show at this vintage gem is a great option.
