The Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon will attract visitors and runners from around the world to Virginia's Blue Ridge this weekend.

As runners are pushing themselves through over 7,400 feet of elevation change in what's been labeled "America's Toughest Road Marathon," the streets will be full of fans cheering them on to the finish line.

However, the fun doesn't stop once the race is over!

There are a variety of great activities and events happening in Downtown Roanoke this Saturday that you can enjoy after catching the action of the Blue Ridge Marathon.

Thanks to the convenience and layout of Downtown Roanoke, the following things are just a short walk away from the marathon finish line.

Historic Roanoke City Market

Historic-Roanoke-City-Market

Saturday morning is a fantastic time to experience the Historic Roanoke City Market. As one of the oldest farmers markets in Virginia, this iconic piece of Downtown Roanoke serves as a great way to partake in the local flavors and characters of Virginia's Blue Ridge. Stroll along Market Street and browse through the rich collection of unique items, ranging from specialty foods to handmade crafts.

Live Music in Elmwood Park & Down by Downtown Music Festival

Elmwood-Park-Downtown-Roanoke

In addition to serving as the finish line for the Blue Ridge Marathon, Elmwood Park will also be hosting live music as part of the Down by Downtown Music Festival. In the morning, guests can enjoy great tunes from Seph Custer & the Papa Tom Band and John McBroom & Kris Hodges. In the evening, we'll be getting down with a headline performance by Lotus!

Center in the Square

There's something fun for the entire family at Center in the Square in Downtown Roanoke. Whether it's marine life, pinball, or historic artifacts, each experience can be part of a visit to Center in the Square! Don't forget to also take in the incredible view of Downtown Roanoke and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains from the building's breathtaking rooftop patio.

American Impressionism in the Garden Exhibition at the Taubman Museum of Art

See the amazing work various impressionist artists on display at the Taubman Museum of Art! "American Impressionism in the Garden" is a special exhibition that's showing at the museum this spring and it features many unique garden scenes that were instrumental in the American Impressionism movement. The exhibition also features a sketching gallery with fresh flowers where you can create your own unique work of art. Click here to get more information about how you can get tickets to the exhibition.

Downtown Roanoke Food & Cultural Tour

 

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Taste the rich history and flavors of the region by participating in a Downtown Roanoke Food & Cultural Tour. This informative walking tour through the downtown Market District incorporates a variety of the city's local restaurants, while also highlighting special types of architecture and key spots that played a role in the development of Downtown Roanoke. Book your tickets now as weekend tours often sell out!


Find more ways to enjoy Virginia's Blue Ridge by checking out our section on Things to Do and our Calendar of Events. You can also subscribe to our e-newsletter to get more information about the region.