Roanoke is not only home to roughly 100,000 residents, it is also an entertainment hub that draws locals and visitors alike. This mountain city is well known for its outdoor facilities and 100 miles (160.93 kilometers) of exceptional trails, making it a great biking destination. Nonetheless, the abundance of indoor activities available here makes this the perfect place to visit under any weather. It boasts a flourishing art scene, so it’s no surprise that you shouldn’t miss the theatrical performances and comedic acts at Berglund Center. You can make the most of your trip by visiting the fascinating boutiques and malls here. Downtown Roanoke is also dotted with museums and galleries, which are excellent locations to learn more about this place. This city is undoubtedly great for all types of travelers. For tips on its attractions, scroll down to see the top things to do indoors in Roanoke, Virginia.
1. Admire artworks in Taubman Museum of Art
Taubman Museum of Art is suitable for people of all ages and offers free general admission, making it the ideal spot for you and your loved ones to spend the weekend together. You may marvel at the amazing exhibitions that change regularly. It houses almost 2,000 remarkable works, including the 10-foot (3.05-meter) Art World sculpture and the 3,500-year-old Egyptian Ushabiti ceramic figurines.
The museum also includes a lovely collection of contemporary art created by local artists. The property offers exciting events and sidewalk art shows that keep everyone entertained!
Taubman Museum of Art
Address: 110 Salem Avenue SE, Roanoke, Virginia 24011
Website: Taubman Museum of Art
Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 12pm - 5pm (closed on Mon - Thu)
Price: Free
2. Meet adorable parakeets in Science Museum of Western Virginia
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
This museum, located on the fourth level of the Center in the Square building, strives to give an enriching educational experience. Science Museum of Western Virginia welcomes visitors of all ages to its excellent exhibits that promote learning through play and hands-on tasks.
The Eye, an enhanced planetarium, is a high-tech venue that allows visitors to be totally immersed in its digital environment. In the Dino Dig exhibit, children may try to be paleontologists and dig for fossils. If you’re a fan of birds, you will undoubtedly enjoy visiting The Parakeet Garden, where you may feed and interact with over 250 parakeets. However, note that this section might be temporarily closed, so it would be best to check with the museum on whether the exhibit is open or not before heading there.
Special ticket prices are available for children, students, and teachers.
Science Museum of Western Virginia
Address: 1 Market Square, Suite 4, Roanoke, Virginia 24011
Website: Science Museum of Western Virginia
Opening hours: Tue- Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 1pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 15.50 USD
3. Watch your favorite films in Grandin Theatre
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
The Grandin Theatre is a prominent movie theater devoted to film and cinematic art in Virginia, and it is one of the region’s gems in the arts and culture. Led by a non-profit organization, the theatre is known as Grandin Road Commercial Historic District's historic, geographical, and cultural anchor.
This location has been showcasing outstanding films and delivering incredible experiences to people since 1932. In its old yet opulent environment, you may watch both new and classic films. It also hosts special events and midnight screenings. The theatre is usually closed from Monday to Thursday, however, you can book it for a private screening or even ask for an appointment on these days.
Grandin Theatre
Address: 1310 Grandin Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24015
Website: Grandin Theatre
Opening hours: Fri - Sun: 12pm - 10pm (closed on Mon - Thu)
Price: Starting from 8.70 USD
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4. Enjoy classic video games at Roanoke Starcade
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
A visit to Roanoke Starcade will undoubtedly lift your spirits and transport you back in time. This non-profit establishment has a playable collection of arcade and video games, as well as vintage home consoles that you can enjoy for free! After obtaining a museum entry ticket, you are welcome to utilize all of the video games, including the iconic Guitar Hero, Pac-Man, Street Fighter, and others.
There are over 3000 games to enjoy here, so you’ll have plenty of options to make your trip unforgettable. Furthermore, you should try the virtual reality ride, which offers a truly immersive trip to various fantastical locations!
Roanoke Starcade
Address: 1 Market Square Southeast, Roanoke, Virginia 24011
Website: Roanoke Starcade
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 11am - 8pm; Sun: 1pm - 6pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 13 USD
5. Take a picture with the antique collections at Virginia Museum of Transportation
A trip to the Virginia Museum of Transportation will teach you more about the Commonwealth’s transportation heritage with exhibits being collected since 1963. This museum contains an enthralling collection of steam, diesel, and electric locomotives and rail cars that will offer you a glimpse into the past.
The museum’s interactive displays and artifacts are further made more enjoyable by the family-friendly ambiance. If you appreciate the appeal of vintage artifacts or are an antique collector, you should certainly check out the antique vehicles and aviation gallery here.
Virginia Museum of Transportation
Address: 303 Norfolk Avenue SW, Roanoke, Virginia 24016
Website: Virginia Museum of Transportation
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 1pm - 5pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 12.66 USD (for adults)
6. Test your skating skills at Berglund Center
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
TONIGHT! Join us for the Rail Yard Dawgs Nickelodeon Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle Night! Bring your family and...
Posted by Berglund Center on Saturday, January 21, 2023
This prime attraction in downtown Roanoke offers entertainment as well as great customer service. Berglund Center is a full-service entertainment facility with specific venues for various events, making it an ideal location for major trade shows, conventions, consumer shows, and banquets. It has a 10,500-seat Coliseum, a 2,150-seat Performing Arts Theater, and 60,000 square feet (5,574.19 square meters) of exhibition space.
Aside from these features, Berglund Center also boasts an ice rink for people who want to hone their skating skills. The facility provides dates for open skate sessions since public skating is one of the most popular activities here. Skate rentals are also available and only cost 2 USD.
Berglund Center
Address: 710 Williamson Road, Roanoke, Virginia 24016
Website: Berglund Center
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 6pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
Price: 6 USD
7. Enjoy excellent performances at Jefferson Center
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Jefferson Center looks straight out of the 1920s and radiates a grand charm that is alluring to everyone. It presents world-class live acts including plays and pop concerts. The 121,000-square-foot (11,241.28-square-meter) structure serves as a multi-purpose cultural space for enriching the community. Guests of all ages are also invited to come here to participate in the transformative classes offered.
You may see spectacular acts here, including tribute concerts for your favorite artists such as Elvis Presley, stage plays such as Sunday Morning, and the famous Nutcracker Ballet during the Christmas season.
Jefferson Center
Address: 541 Luck Avenue, Suite 221, Roanoke, Virginia 24016
Website: Jefferson Center
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 2pm (closed on Sat & Sun)
8. Check out the latest trends in fashion at Valley View Mall
Bring your family and friends to Valley View Mall for some quality time together. This mall offers several possibilities to make the most of your visit. It features numerous stores and chain restaurants, as well as a play area for children! Check out the apparel stores in this area to discover which outfits meet the latest fashion trend. You may also visit the shops here, which sell accessories and presents that your loved ones would love.
Furthermore, there are stores here that provide discounts and deals for a more pleasant shopping experience. You may also take a break from shopping and dine at your favorite eatery.
Valley View Mall
Address: 4802 Valley View Boulevard NW, Roanoke, Virginia 24012
Website: Valley View Mall
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 8pm; Sun: 12pm - 6pm
9. Invite your friends to a fun game at Roanoke Pinball Museum
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
One of the most entertaining interactive museums in Roanoke is located on the second level of the Center in the Square. Roanoke Pinball Museum welcomes all visitors to have a fun time with its almost 60 playable pinball machines, some of which date back to 1932. When you buy an admission ticket, you may play at your leisure and relive your childhood.
This museum highlights the importance of pinball in American history as well as the science behind it, so you can learn as well as play. You will also understand better the history, aesthetics, and general composition of pinball. You are welcome to celebrate social events here. For additional information, check out their official website.
Roanoke Pinball Museum
Address: 1 Market Square SE, 2nd Floor, Roanoke, Virginia 24011
Website: Roanoke Pinball Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 11am - 8pm; Sun: 1pm - 6pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 15 USD
10. Escape the creepy hallways of Terror Manor
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
This commercial haunted house in Roanoke is not for the faint of heart. Terror Manor, with its scary décor and strong visual effects, offers a one-of-a-kind terrifying experience. If you want to put your bravery to the test, you may go through its more than 40 smoky and gloomy halls of pure terror. Clowns, witches, ghosts, serial killers, and more creatures are all waiting for you!
The extreme audio, strobe lights, and poor visibility of the area heighten the fear. Nonetheless, Terror Manor takes efforts to ensure your experience is as secure as possible. Please keep in mind that the location is physically demanding, thus children under the age of 16 should be accompanied by their parents. The experience is not recommended for children under 13.
Terror Manor
Address: 805 Norfolk Avenue Southwest, Roanoke, Virginia 24016
Website: Terror Manor
Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 7:30pm - 10pm (closed on Sun - Thu)
Price: 25 USD
Explore Roanoke's excellent indoor attractions for a fun getaway
Roanoke has excellent indoor attractions and activities that will make your getaway memorable. You are invited to return as much as you like with its many options! This mountain city never fails to fascinate its residents and visitors, so have a look at the attractions mentioned above for a flawless experience!
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