Downtown Roanoke Food, History & Cultural Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a walking tour that showcases the tastes and richness of Virginia's Blue Ridge. We'll stroll historic downtown Roanoke and enjoy iconic landmarks, satisfying aromas, and delicious tastings. This tour is ideal for visitors and locals. Discover Roanoke's vibrant food scene and visit the thriving historic downtown area. You will uncover intriguing hidden gems, iconic landmarks, back alleys, and Roanoke's colorful past. This tour is a fun way to showcase the "Star City" to our out-of-town guests.
Available options
Downtown Food & Cultural Tour
Spark your sense of adventure on a culinary journey! Experience our vibrant food scene and downtown. Discover our bustling historic district and its tastes, sights, and aromas on this 3 hour tour.
What's included
Local guide
Beverages
Food tasting
Detailed itinerary
1
A wonderful overview and bathroom break!
2
Wonderful view and and our finish location.
What's not included
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
21 reviews
5★
20
4★
1
3★
0
2★
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Tripadvisor
4.9
75 reviews
5★
71
4★
4
3★
0
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1★
0
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please advise of any medical related food allergies or diet restrictions at time of booking.
Minimum drinking age is 21 years (valid ID is required)
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Wear comfortable walking shoes
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Meeting point
Meet Tour Guide in the main lobby.
(540) 309-1781 - Call if lost or running late.
Important notes
Meet your Tour Guide at the:
Hotel Roanoke
(Main Lobby)
110 Shenandoah Avenue
Roanoke, VA, 24016
Call (540) 309-1781 if you are running late or have questions.
In order to complete this booking in the Tour Roanoke system you are kindly requested to email info@TourRoanoke.com the following information:
• phone number (preferably cellular phone number)
• email address
• Medical dietary allergies or restrictions for members of your group (if any)
Thereafter you will receive via email, an eTicket from Tour Roanoke for your tour once we get the above information. Thanks and we look forward to seeing you soon.
The minimum drinking age is 21 years
About Roanoke
Roanoke, Virginia, known as the 'Star City of the South,' is a vibrant city nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, rich history, and Southern charm, making it an appealing destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement.
Top Attractions
Mill Mountain Park
Mill Mountain Park offers stunning views of Roanoke and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. It features a star-shaped overlook, walking trails, and a nature center.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (small fee for parking)
Roanoke Pinball Museum
This unique museum features a vast collection of playable pinball machines and arcade games from various eras. It's a fun attraction for all ages.
Entertainment
1-2 hours
$15 per person
Taubman Museum of Art
The Taubman Museum of Art showcases a diverse collection of American art, including paintings, sculptures, and contemporary works. The museum's unique architecture is also a highlight.
Museum
1-2 hours
$10 per person
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that offers breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It's a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and photography.
Nature
Half-day to full-day
Free (parking fees may apply at some overlooks)
Virginia Museum of Transportation
This museum features an impressive collection of transportation artifacts, including locomotives, aircraft, and vintage cars. It's a great attraction for history and transportation enthusiasts.
Museum
1-2 hours
$10 per person
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fried Chicken
Crispy, golden-fried chicken, often served with classic Southern sides like mashed potatoes and gravy.
Main Course
Contains gluten and allergens; vegetarian and vegan options available at some restaurants.
Apple Butter
A sweet, spiced spread made from cooked apples, often served with biscuits or bread.
Dessert
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly.
Roanoke's Famous Ham
A local delicacy, this smoked ham is seasoned with a special blend of spices and slow-cooked to perfection.
Main Course
Contains meat; not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains
Whitewater rafting on the New River
Picnicking at Mill Mountain Park
Visiting local spas and wellness centers
Exploring the Taubman Museum of Art
Attending performances at the Berglund Center
Kayaking or canoeing on the Roanoke River
Fishing at Smith Mountain Lake
Best Time to Visit
April to October
This period offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities, festivals, and exploring the city's attractions. The Blue Ridge Mountains are particularly beautiful during the fall foliage season.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
GMT-5:00 (Eastern Time Zone)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Roanoke is generally a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates in most areas. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight, especially in crowded areas.
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxi services, and agree on a price before starting your journey.
- • Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and trust your instincts.
Getting there
By air
- Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport • 10 km from city center
By train
Roanoke Train Station
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Valley Metro offers an affordable and convenient way to get around Roanoke. Buses are clean, frequent, and cover most major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Roanoke
West End
South Roanoke
Day trips
Natural Bridge State Park
30 km (18 miles) from Roanoke • Half-day to full-day
Natural Bridge State Park features a stunning natural limestone bridge and beautiful gardens. The park offers hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and a variety of outdoor activities.
Lexington
60 km (37 miles) from Roanoke • Full-day
Lexington is a historic town with a rich Civil War history and beautiful architecture. The town offers a variety of museums, shops, and dining options.
Smith Mountain Lake
50 km (31 miles) from Roanoke • Full-day to overnight
Smith Mountain Lake is a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains, offering a variety of water-based activities and scenic views. The area is perfect for relaxation and outdoor recreation.
Festivals
Virginia Film Festival • November
Festival in the Park • April
Pro tips
- Visit the Mill Mountain Star at sunset for a breathtaking view of the city and surrounding mountains.
- Explore the local food scene by visiting farmers' markets and trying regional specialties like apple butter and fried chicken.
- Take a scenic drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway for stunning views and outdoor activities.
- Check out local events and festivals, such as the Virginia Film Festival and the Festival in the Park, for a unique and memorable experience.
- Use public transportation or rent a bike to get around the city, as Roanoke is pedestrian-friendly and offers a variety of bike lanes and trails.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
