The largest city in Southwest Virginia, Roanoke, VA is an important commercial and cultural hub for the entire region, as well as an excellent base to explore the states of Virginia and neighboring North Carolina and West Virginia. If you’re planning a day trip or a weekend escape from the city, these are some great ideas and destinations that can be reached in less than a couple of hours’ drive.
1. George Washington and Jefferson National Forests
As one of the largest public land areas in the Eastern United States, the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests are a great destination for nature lovers who want to get away from the city and breathe some fresh air. The forests cover more than one million acres of territory, with designated wildness areas, viewpoints, hiking trails, and Mount Rogers, considered the highest point in the state of Virginia. One of the most fascinating places to visit within the limits of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests is the ghost town of Lignite, which was once an iron ore mining town owned by a private company. The industrial areas of the town were abandoned in the 1920s, but people lived in the area until the 1950s. Currently, there are only a few remains of the old churches, post offices, and schools that once existed in the town.
2. Smith Mountain Lake State Park
With camping facilities and several recreational areas, the Smith Mountain Lake State Park is a prime destination for day-trippers from Roanoke, Lynchburg, and other nearby cities in southern Virginia and North Carolina. The park opened its doors to the public in 1983, attracting thousands of visitors every year, most of whom come during the warmest months of the year to swim in the lake and perform water sports. The Smith Mountain Lake State Park is located less than 35 miles east of downtown Roanoke, a drive that usually takes a little under an hour in good traffic conditions. Once inside the park, there are lodging areas and designated picnic spots for visitors. Whether you’re planning a trip with friends, family, or solo, this is an optimal destination to get away from the city and enjoy the natural wonders of the area.
3. Greensboro, NC
The third most populous city in the state of North Carolina is a popular destination among visitors from Roanoke and other nearby towns across the state line in Virginia. Some of the most popular touristic attractions in the area include the International Civil Rights Museum, the Greensboro Science Center, and the historic houses in the College Hill area. From downtown Roanoke, Greensboro is a little under two hours away by car.
Before you set off to explore the surroundings of Roanoke and go on memorable day trips in the area, create a game plan to make the most of your time off! Who knows – try out a few and you may find a new favorite destination!
