No matter what your kids are interested in, there’s so much fun to enjoy in Roanoke. It’s a great mid-size city for families to explore and you can easily hop from the great outdoors to the downtown area multiple times in a day. Roanoke is definitely a great southern city to visit with kids that’ll keep us coming back.
Key Takeaways
- Roanoke offers a mix of outdoor and cultural activities suitable for all ages.
- Families can enjoy biking on the Roanoke River Greenway and guided excursions with Roanoke Mountain Adventures.
- Dixie Caverns provides an exciting underground adventure with family-friendly tours.
- Mac & Bob’s in Salem is a popular dining spot with a casual atmosphere and award-winning food.
- The Science Museum of Western Virginia features interactive exhibits and live demonstrations.
Explore the Roanoke River Greenway
The Roanoke River Greenway is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of Roanoke. This scenic trail follows along the Roanoke River, providing a picturesque route for both walking and biking. With seven trailheads to choose from, it’s easy to find a convenient starting point for your adventure. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of spots to stop for food or a sweet treat, making it a perfect outing for families.
Rent Bicycles from UnderDog Bikes
For a fun family activity, rent bicycles from UnderDog Bikes and enjoy a leisurely ride on the Greenway. The rental shop offers a variety of bikes suitable for all ages, ensuring everyone in the family can join in on the fun. Biking along the Greenway is a great way to cool off in Roanoke Valley creeks and watering holes.
Guided Excursions with Roanoke Mountain Adventures
If you prefer a guided experience, Roanoke Mountain Adventures offers excursions that take you through some of the most beautiful sections of the Greenway. These guided tours are perfect for families looking to explore the area with the help of knowledgeable guides. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, these excursions provide a safe and enjoyable way to see the sights.
Discover the Wonders of Dixie Caverns
Underground Adventure
Explore the underground with an adventure at Dixie Caverns. This unique attraction offers a fascinating journey through stunning rock formations and hidden chambers. A guided tour will take you deep into the caverns, where you can marvel at the natural beauty and learn about the geological history of the area. It’s an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
Family-Friendly Tours
Dixie Caverns provides family-friendly tours that are both educational and entertaining. The knowledgeable guides share interesting facts and stories, making the tour engaging for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a curious child or an adult fascinated by nature, these tours offer something for everyone. Don’t miss the chance to explore this underground wonderland.
Enjoy a Meal at Mac & Bob’s in Salem
Award-Winning Dining
When you’re in Salem, a visit to Mac & Bob’s Restaurant is a must. Located at 316 E Main St, this popular Main Street restaurant has won numerous dining awards. The menu offers a variety of delicious options, ensuring there’s something for everyone in the family.
Casual Atmosphere
Mac & Bob’s is known for its fun, casual atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a family meal. Whether you’re wrapping up a day of exploring or just looking for a great place to eat, you’ll feel right at home here. The friendly staff and welcoming environment add to the overall dining experience.
Wrap up the night with dinner at Mac & Bob’s in Salem. This popular Main Street restaurant has won numerous dining awards and is a fun, casual atmosphere.
Visit the Science Museum of Western Virginia
Interactive Exhibits
Kids won’t even realize how much they’re learning, because they’re having so much fun, when they visit the Science Museum of Western Virginia. It’s packed with visual and hands-on exhibits that bring science to life for kids. Also located at Center in the Square, you can combine your visit with the Children’s Museum and Pinball Museum.
Live Demonstrations
Get an up-close look at steam locomotives and classic cars at the Virginia Museum of Transportation. Take a break for lunch at one of the many local restaurant options in the City Market Building. Explore the galleries of the Taubman Museum of Art, especially the extremely kid-friendly Art Venture section of the museum. Head to Center in the Square for all kinds of fun, including aquariums, rooftop views, and multiple museums, including the Science Museum of Western Virginia, the Kid’s Square, and the Roanoke Pinball Museum.
Spend a Day at Mill Mountain Zoo
Animal Encounters
Meet some furry new friends at the Mill Mountain Zoo. See the adorable red pandas and go for a ride on the Mill Mountain ZooChoo. The zoo is home to 170 animals from almost 90 different species, ensuring a fun day for the family! Kids will love the hands-on areas to learn about the critters and nature that they can find at Mill Mountain.
Scenic Views
Explore Roanoke’s iconic star at Mill Mountain Park for scenic views, hiking trails, and the largest illuminated star in the world. Take in the stunning view from the overlook and go for a walk on one of the many trails that surround the star. Visitor-friendly with dining and zoo attractions, it’s a perfect spot for a family outing.
Take a Hike on the Appalachian Trail
The Appalachian Trail offers a variety of family-friendly trails that are perfect for all ages. One popular option is the Sawtooth Ridge via Appalachian Trail, Virginia. The hike offers a rewarding overlook at the end and is considered short and relatively easy, with great views along the way. It’s a fantastic way to introduce kids to the joys of hiking without overwhelming them.
For those who love breathtaking views, the Appalachian Trail does not disappoint. The scenic overlooks along the trail provide stunning vistas that are sure to captivate both young and old. Whether you’re looking to snap a family photo or simply take in the natural beauty, these overlooks are a must-visit. Don’t forget to bring a pair of binoculars for some wildlife observation!
Experience Treetop Quest at Explore Park
Aerial Adventure Courses
Experience an aerial adventure course built with family fun in mind. Treetop Quest offers ziplines and progressively challenging obstacles for ages 4 through adult. Younger adventurers can enjoy a kids challenge course and a 1,000 square foot net trampoline. Participants ages 7 and older can choose from four levels of treetop fun. Open April through November each year, it’s located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway at milepost 115.
Fun for All Ages
If you’re looking for some family-friendly outdoor fun, then head to Explore Park. It features hundreds of acres of rolling hills, pristine woodlands, hiking trails, and river views. They have a Treetop Quest ropes course if your kids want a birds-eye view and kids as young as four can participate. If you’re looking for kid-friendly mountain biking, Explore Park is where you should head. When night hits, and all of the outdoor adventure wears you out, stay in one of their overnight cabins or rent a campsite.
Explore your wild side! Treetop Quest is a family adventure for ages four and up, with progressively challenging aerial obstacles guaranteed to provide a thrill.
Explore the Taubman Museum of Art
The Taubman Museum of Art is a must-visit destination for families in Roanoke. Explore the galleries and immerse yourself in a world of creativity and inspiration. The museum offers a variety of exhibits that cater to all ages, making it a perfect spot for a family outing.
Have Fun at the Roanoke Pinball Museum
Located in Center in the Square, tweens and teens will love the Roanoke Pinball Museum. It’s a blast from the past, as you can spend hours playing real vintage pinball machines. It’s home to 45 pinball machines that date back from 1948 to the 1990s. They’re organized by date, so you can play through time until your heart is content.
Relax at Carvins Cove Natural Reserve
Boating and Fishing
Carvins Cove Natural Reserve is a haven for water enthusiasts. Whether you’re into kayaking, paddleboarding, or fishing, the Carvins Cove Reservoir offers a serene setting for all. Don’t forget to bring your fishing gear to catch some local fish species.
Picnic Areas
After a morning on the water, unwind at one of the many picnic areas scattered throughout the reserve. These spots are perfect for a family lunch or a quiet afternoon surrounded by nature. The picnic areas are well-maintained and offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Carvins Cove is a popular trail for birding, hiking, and horseback riding, but you can still enjoy some solitude during quieter times of day.
Attend a Family-Friendly Event in Downtown Roanoke
Downtown Roanoke is a hub of activity, offering a variety of family-friendly events throughout the year. Whether you’re into live music, seasonal festivals, or just looking for a fun day out, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. No matter what your kids are interested in, there’s so much fun to enjoy in Roanoke.
Conclusion
No matter what your kids are interested in, there’s so much fun to enjoy in Roanoke. It’s a great mid-size city for families to explore, and you can easily hop from the great outdoors to the downtown area multiple times in a day. From biking along the Roanoke River Greenway to exploring the underground wonders of Dixie Caverns, there’s something for everyone. Wrap up your day with a delicious meal at one of the many family-friendly restaurants like Mac & Bob’s in Salem. Roanoke is definitely a great southern city to visit with kids that’ll keep us coming back. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable family adventure in Virginia’s Blue Ridge!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some family-friendly attractions in Roanoke?
Roanoke offers a variety of family-friendly attractions including the Roanoke River Greenway, Dixie Caverns, the Science Museum of Western Virginia, Mill Mountain Zoo, and the Roanoke Pinball Museum.
Can we rent bicycles in Roanoke for a family ride?
Yes, you can rent bicycles from UnderDog Bikes and enjoy a family bike ride on the Roanoke River Greenway.
Are there guided outdoor excursions available in Roanoke?
Yes, Roanoke Mountain Adventures offers guided excursions for families to explore the great outdoors.
Is Dixie Caverns suitable for young children?
Yes, Dixie Caverns offers family-friendly tours that are suitable for young children and provide an exciting underground adventure.
Where can we enjoy a meal in a casual atmosphere in Roanoke?
Mac & Bob’s in Salem is a popular Main Street restaurant with a casual atmosphere and award-winning dining.
What kind of exhibits can we expect at the Science Museum of Western Virginia?
The Science Museum of Western Virginia features interactive exhibits and live demonstrations that are engaging for all ages.
Are there any animal encounters available at Mill Mountain Zoo?
Yes, Mill Mountain Zoo offers animal encounters and scenic views, making it a great destination for families.
What activities are available at Carvins Cove Natural Reserve?
Carvins Cove Natural Reserve offers boating, fishing, and picnic areas for a fun and relaxing family day out.
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