Leaf peeping adventures in Roanoke

Craving a unique new fall destination? The Roanoke Region of Virginia’s Blue Ridge fits the bill perfectly.

Over 75 miles of the Blue Ridge Parkway run through the Roanoke Region, and the entire stretch is fully open.

Experience the vibrant culture and food scene of Downtown Roanoke (just 20 minutes from the Parkway), complete a bucket list Appalachian Trail hike, drive the Blue Ridge Parkway, or take in fall colors from the water.

Signature fall features

Learn more about how to get involved in the outdoors this fall at downtown Roanoke’s GO Fest. The Go Outside Festival (October 17-19) offers the chance to explore a range of outdoor activities and connect with others with the same passions. The three-day event has vendors for everything outdoors, including large pools in the middle of Downtown Roanoke for fly rod casting demonstrations and testing out paddleboards, along with plenty of outdoor-related entertainment (lumberjack competitions, BMX shows and more).

New at GO Fest – “Adventure Outpost” at nearby Explore Park for even more fun beyond Downtown Roanoke. Take the GO Fest Shuttle or drive yourself for camping, a van life experience, bike demos, and a return of the fan favorite Ultimate Air Dogs show.

Hike a section (or all) of Virginia’s Triple Crown hikes on the Appalachian Trail to experience pristine leaf-peeping. Consisting of Dragon’s Tooth, Tinker Cliffs, and the famed McAfee Knob, each hike offers a unique view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Rocky Mount Scarecrow Trail is an annual fall tradition that takes place mid-September through the end of October. Individuals, businesses, clubs, and families from the Town of Rocky Mount and Franklin County decorate lamp posts along Main Street with imaginative and festive scarecrows. After strolling Main Street, catch a show at The Harvester or taste authentic moonshine at Twin Creeks Distillery.

Leaf Peeping

For a more unusual leaf-peeping excursion, try a paddling trip on the water. The Roanoke River has waters ranging from flatwater to Class II rapids, offering a wide variety of water exploration. The Upper James River Water Trail in the charming town of Buchanan also offers paddling adventures and riverside camping through Twin River Outfitters – paddlers may even spot an eagle.

Take a drive down Roanoke region’s 75+ miles of fully reopened Blue Ridge Parkway, aptly dubbed “America’s Favorite Drive.” Enjoy the beauty of the Parkway, while stopping at the popular overlooks like Cahas Mountain (MP 139), Purgatory Mountain (MP 92), and Rocky Knob (MP 167) for extra scenic views. For unique lodging and hiking, Explore Park (MP 115) is just 20 minutes from Downtown Roanoke and offers cabins and yurts, riverfront access, a zipline, and more. The Peaks of Otter (MP 86) also offers a lodge and the popular Sharp Top Mountain hike.

Coming this fall

Nate Sloan, chef of Roanoke hotspot, bloom restaurant, is opening a dual concept restaurant with business partner Thomas Ceddia. Located in Downtown Roanoke and occupying a former flower shop, both restaurants located inside are set to honor their history in their own ways.

Dorothy: Named after Sloan’s Jewish grandmother. Dorothy will occupy the lower level of the space and features a nostalgic menu anchored by the kitchen’s rotisserie. Lunch will be a big feature of this restaurant and will also be open for dinner.

Franks Wild Years: The upstairs venue features dim lighting, lounge vibes, late-night menu with dumplings and hand-held snacks. Ceddia plans to translate this into a hi-fi audio listening bar with a wall of vinyl curated from his personal collection and a DJ area.

New life is being given to what was once a historic bank (built in 1912) in the heart of downtown Roanoke October 2025. The Promissory Hotel transforms the historic space in to an upscale boutique hotel, featuring 27-rooms, a 1,200-person live music hall called the Exchange, and an authentic Spanish tapas restaurant.