The hidden treasures of the Roanoke Valley go far beyond the
outdoor splendor of our Blue Ridge Mountains. Whether you're on the hunt for
fine antiques or fine wines, fashionable trends or inspiring artwork, let our
bounty of boutiques and specialty shops lure you inside for an array of
one-of-a-kind finds.
Begin your tour at the Historic
Roanoke City Market where you'll find a shopper's paradise of locally grown
produce, enticing homemade goods, hand-crafted jewelry and other artistic treasures.
The market is a local favorite that boasts a storied tradition as the heart and
soul of downtown Roanoke, and a coveted recognition as a "Great American Public
Place" by the Lyndhurst Foundation. The market is open year-round.
While you're downtown, journey into the Binaba Shop to peruse one-of-a-kind finds from throughout Africa. You'll
find fabrics, masks, carvings and statues celebrating the continent's ancient
cultures, in addition to signature items from area artisans. Grab a colorful, handcrafted
handbag at Claire V., also located on
Market Street, or choose a tote to fill with the goodies you've collected. But
save room for a few sweet treats from chocolatepaper,
which sells a selection of tempting chocolates and other candied creations.
Take home a Roanoke basket complete with a sampling of Star City treats,
including a chocolate Roanoke Star and Stardust - a peanut butter and powdered
sugar perfection.
If you seek antiques, delve into Southwest Virginia's
architectural past at Black Dog Salvage
in Roanoke's Grandin Village neighborhood. The store specializes in a variety
of elements and fixtures including salvaged mantles, doors, stained glass,
wrought iron, period lighting, art tile and much more. Venture outside of
downtown to the Roanoke Antique Mall
where 120 dealers showcase plenty of pottery, furniture, vintage clothing, toys
and other unique wares.
Just a short drive south of Roanoke, the Blue Ridge Antique Center in Rocky Mount
features numerous collectibles and consignment merchandise in its ever-changing
inventory. Headed east of Roanoke, Bedford is home to Emerson Creek Pottery, which has been churning out American pottery
since 1977. Find your favorite, from dishes to bathroom sets, among traditional
and elegant hand-painted pieces or choose from the eco-friendly Go Green Earthware line.
Give-in to nostalgia with a visit to the Paint Bank General Store in Craig County.
Situated in the heart of Paint Bank, the small-town gem maintains the old
wooden floors and tin ceiling of the past, and touts an abundant selection of
merchandise from grocery and gift items to hardware and sporting goods. You'll
find their own, locally-raised Hollow Hill Highlander beef and buffalo meat and
homemade jellies and jams, along with a host of handmade items such as
handbags, pillows, quilts and aprons. Take a break from shopping at their cozy Swinging
Bridge Restaurant, located inside the store.
If you're buzzing for big-box bargains, Tanglewood Mall is
within minutes of downtown Roanoke and houses national retailers, restaurants
and a Carmike Cinema. For the outdoor fan, Orvis
has you covered with a variety of clothing and gear to have you prepared when
nature calls.
Come discover what makes the Roanoke Valley a shopper's
delight. With so many options, you may just need to pack an extra bag. For more information about shopping in the
Roanoke Valley, visit our website at www.visitroanokeva.com/things-to-do/shopping/,
call (800) 635-5535 or stop by the Roanoke Valley Visitor Information Center
located in Downtown Roanoke open 9am - 5pm daily.
Find Treasures in the Roanoke Valley: A Shopper's Delight
Thursday, December 1, 2011 2:00 AM by Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge