Posts from July 2022

There are many waterfalls in the greater Roanoke region that you can enjoy on a day trip. Whether you just want a quick jaunt to enjoy your lunch or you are up for a steep hike, there is a perfect waterfall adventure for you. Here are just a few of the beautiful waterfalls that you can find your way to on a short (less than 5 mile) hike. Access and parking fees are minimal and most are open year-round and during daylight hours, whether permitting. 

Roaring Run 

*accessible 1.5 mile hike

*easy for families

*features bridges, picnic spots, historic furnace to this 30 foot waterfall

*Jefferson National Forest in Botetourt County

*free

*sunset to sundown

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We are a month into summer and, boy, is the temperature turning up! School is getting ready to start back up for many and that tends to set a tone of summer vacation season coming to an end. It's not too late for a quick getaway, though! Fortunately, Roanoke is just a half-day road trip away from some delightful beaches where you can slow down and make a splash. Our proximity to the coast is a big factor in choosing Roanoke as home for many people. Here are four of our favorite coastal getaways within a half-day drive from home. 

Just a little over a 5 hour drive, Beaufort, NC is a coastal village with small town charm. Beaufort's wild horses can be reached by boat, where they have free run of the main area of Rachel Carson Reserve. The town boasts a historical site, unique boutiques, award-winning se...

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What's summer without some strange and unusual festivals? There's plenty to choose from around here and I'm happy to point you in the right direction. The fun starts this weekend, so be sure not to miss SML Pirate Days and mark your calendar for lots of curious exploration in the weeks to come.

Smith Mountain Lake Pirate Days takes place the 3rd weekend of July and includes a Gala, Kids Activities, a Water Balloon Fight, Pancakes with Pirate, Live Music, mermaids, vendors and much more. Home base is Crazy Horse Marina in Moneta but check out their Facebook page for more information!

Botetourt Tomato Festival will be ripe for pickin' on July 23rd from 8:30AM-Noon at the Daleville Town Center. Get your picture taken with the Oscar Meyer Weinermobile!...

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There are some things that you just have to do every summer! Here are 9 Roanoke Valley favorites that we don't want you to miss this year.

1. The Salem Fair: Between June 29 and July 10th, the Fairgrounds will see around 350,000 people. The food sure has changed over the years and you might be surprised at the wide array of "Fair Food" available. Rides, entertainment, and a petting zoo are just a few of the sights at this agricultural fair which is the largest in the state and is one of the top 100 fairs in the country!
2. Explore Park: There is something for everyone at Explore Park. No, seriously…everyone! Whether you're into mountain biking, kayaking, climbing trees, or grabbing a locally brewed beer at Brugh Tavern; you will certainly enjoy the serene...

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