E-newsletters

The beauty of Virginia's Blue Ridge is receiving worldwide recognition with the premiere of Lake Effects on the Hallmark Movie Channel on Sunday, May 6. The movie, which was filmed at Smith Mountain Lake, tells the story of a girl who reconnects with her family after the loss of her father at the lake where she grew up. more>

Come start your own tradition unlike any other by experiencing the outstanding golf courses in the Roanoke Valley. The comfortable weather and scenic backdrop of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains combined with challenging fairways and undulating greens will make for a memorable golf getaway. To help plan your trip, we encourage you to take advantage of our Golf Packages. more>

In the mood for a special trip to the Roanoke Valley in Virginia's Blue Ridge? There is still time to sign up for our Blue Ridge Mountain Getaway Sweepstakes. The winner of the sweepstakes will receive: 4 weekend passes to the Blue Ridge Bike Fest, 4 attractions passes valid for (10) regional attractions, $100 dining gift card to Corned Beef & Co., and up to two rooms for two nights at the Coun... more>

The Roanoke Valley now offers a mobile website to help meet your travel needs. This new site is your go-to resource for information on dining, shopping, accommodations, attractions, outdoor adventures, events and more. Now, with the touch of a button, you can look up listings, hours of operation and directions, link directly to websites, and download special offers and packages. more>

Looking for somewhere to visit over the holidays? Virginia’s Blue Ridge will deck the halls with special experiences and magical memories. Whether you have been naughty or nice, the Roanoke Valley has a variety of reasons for you to visit this holiday season. Come enjoy Virginia’s Blue Ridge and everything it offers: delicious dining, vibrant entertainment, fantastic local shopping, affordable ... more>

With the sound of sleigh bells ringing and the scent of chestnuts roasting on an open fire, it really is the most wonderful time of the year in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. Beginning next week, you'll find plenty of holiday activities to fill your Blue Ridge Days and Nights. more>

After a fun-filled Blue Ridge Day, pull up a chair and enjoy the many flavors of the Roanoke Valley. With more restaurants per capita than any place in Virginia, the Roanoke Valley has a delicious choice to satisfy every taste. We have everything from down home Southern cooking to exquisite international cuisine and everything in between. Many area chefs choose locally grown products to bring y... more>

Fresh mountain air, endless views and blazing colors of autumn are what you'll find around every glorious curve on the famous Blue Ridge Parkway. Consistently named one of America's favorite drives, the Blue Ridge Parkway is the most visited unit of the National Park Service. There are numerous access points throughout the region, so make the Roanoke Valley your hub as you explore the one-and-o... more>

There is something special about old-fashioned downtowns. The buildings, shops and eateries reflect the very best of the community and its people. When you visit the Roanoke Valley, you'll discover several charming and pedestrian-friendly downtowns, including vibrant downtown Roanoke with its museums, galleries and eclectic shopping. Cruise over to Salem for great restaurants, antique shops and... more>

It's summer in the Blue Ridge Mountains and everyone is looking for a way to relax and have fun. You're in luck because the Roanoke Valley has lots of ideas for how to fill your Blue Ridge Day with fun and adventure. As the recreational, cultural and business hub of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, we have more festivals and cultural opportunities than any place west of Richmond. And the m... more>

Last fall, Golden Globe Award-winning actress Jane Seymour spent some time in the Roanoke Valley filming her newest movie Lake Effects. What did she think of the region? The breathtaking beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the serenity of Smith Mountain Lake and the charm of Roanoke all made a lasting impression on the Hollywood star. She talked about her experiences on a recent return to visit... more>

12,000 Acres of Outdoor Fun At 12,700 acres, Carvins Cove Natural Reserve is the second largest municipal park in the United States. Not only is the reservoir the primary water source for the City of Roanoke, it's also a treasure trove of outdoor adventure. Carvins Cove offers opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Over 40 miles of trails means the... more>

Festival Time When spring rolls around, festival season kicks into high gear. We have upcoming festivals celebrating chili, strawberries and shrimp, not to mention Local Colors, a major event honoring diversity in our communities. The cities and towns that make up the Roanoke Valley have more festivals and unique special events than any other place in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Co... more>

Leave the winter season behind and get outdoors for some fresh mountain air. One of the best ways to explore the region is by bike. If you like to cruise the open road, hit the famous Blue Ridge Parkway, the TransAmerica Trail or any one of the many scenic byways in the Roanoke Valley. If you prefer the fat-tire experience, Carvins Cove is renowned by mountain bikers for its variety of terrain.... more>

Romance is in the air It's true that Virginia is for Lovers. And the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains offer the most romantic place in the state to spend Valentine's Day weekend. With beautiful scenery, fresh mountain air and charming cities and towns, the Roanoke Valley provides the magic for a great getaway with someone special. There are Valentine's Day packages at several hotels and inns t... more>