Roanoke & Salem—Stars of the Valley

Late Summer 2008
by John Long

Roanoke Valley Tourism Information

Salem Tourist Information

The Roanoke Valley is located in the southern tip of the Shenandoah Valley, just off I-81 at Exits 143-132, and off the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 120. You can experience all the amenities of a large city here, along with all the charm of a quaint downtown, in both Roanoke and Salem.

The city of Roanoke is recognized for its railroad heritage, many festivals, and historic farmers market area, surrounded by unique shops and museums of art, history, and science. In downtown Roanoke, travel back in time to re-live the days of the railroad, when steam was king. The O. Winston Link Museum and the Virginia Museum of Transportation will cover all the details. Be sure to visit the historic Roanoke Farmers Market for fresh produce, beautiful flowers, great food, art, photography, jewelry, pottery, and handcrafted items of all sorts. Some days, you'll even catch great live music there! The market is open daily, 9-5.

Drive up Mill Mountain to see the Roanoke Star and enjoy the panoramic view from the Overlook. Make time to explore Mill Mountain Zoo, as well.

While you're in the Roanoke Valley, have a bite to eat in one of the area's great authentic Mexican restaurants!

When folks drop off of I-81 for a visit to Salem, they often wonder where the witches are. Sorry, that was another Salem, in a state farther north! There's always something going on at the Salem Civic Center—September brings the Cole Brothers Circus (12-13), the Home Solutions Expo (20-21), and other great events well worth a look.

There's plenty of history in Salem. While the Salem Museum (in Longwood Park on East Main St.) is closed for renovations, you can still stop by and pick up a walking (or driving) tour of Salem's historic areas. On September 13, experience the fun of Olde Salem Days, and on October 25 and 28, try the spooky entertainment of the Salem Museum Ghost Walk.

Prefer sports? Salem is one of America's great sports towns, boasting one of the best baseball stadiums in the minor leagues. Catch the excitement at a game of the Salem Avalanche, a Carolina League affiliate.

Maybe shopping is your thing. Along Main St. (US460) and in the Downtown Historic District you'll find numerous antique malls and specialty shops. Local restaurants abound as well—you won’t leave Salem hungry!

Salem's charms aren't just skin deep. Want to enjoy some subterranean splendor? Just west of town is Dixie Caverns, a favorite attraction for nearly 80 years. The Caverns also features a pottery, an antique mall, and camping. There's darn good fishing nearby also!

Article text ©2008, Shenandoah Specialty Publishing, LLC.
May be printed for personal use only.

Our Local Advertisers