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Downtown Roanoke, Inc. (DRI) is a non-profit organization committed to enhancing the heart of Roanoke, Virginia, by promoting a thriving, dynamic downtown area. Since its founding in 1960, DRI has worked to improve economic development, beautify the area, and create engaging community experiences, making downtown Roanoke a must-visit destination for locals and tourists alike.
One of DRI’s key initiatives is organizing exciting annual events like the "Dickens of a Christmas" festival, featuring a parade, tree lighting, and street performers. Additionally, DRI hosts "Elmwood on Ice," a winter celebration with ice skating in Elmwood Park, and "Downtown Roanoke Restaurant Week," offering unique dining experiences at local restaurants. These events bring together the community and attract visitors, making downtown Roanoke a vibrant cultural hub.
Beyond event planning, DRI is focused on downtown beautification, fostering a clean, safe environment, and supporting local businesses. By preserving Roanoke’s rich history while driving innovative growth, Downtown Roanoke, Inc. plays a vital role in creating a welcoming atmosphere for all. Explore the best of Roanoke’s culture, shopping, and dining—Downtown Roanoke, Inc. has it all.
I-81 to Exit 143 onto I-581/Route 220 South to Exit 5 (Downtown). Follow signs.
Or Route 220 North to Exit 6 (Elm Avenue). Turn left onto Elm Avenue. Follow signs.
Wherever you’re headed downtown, you’re sure to find parking nearby. With more than 600 free on-street spaces and 6,000 parking options off-street, it’s easy to get close to your favorite place. All of our on-street parking is free and often unlimited after normal business hours. And many of downtown’s paid parking garages and surface lots are even free on the weekends or after 5pm on weekdays. We’re also proud to be a very pedestrian and bike-friendly area with lots to see along the way!
Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge 101 Shenandoah Avenue NE Roanoke, VA 24016 (540) 342-6025 (800) 635-5535
Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge is committed to cultivating an atmosphere that welcomes and celebrates the unique backgrounds, abilities, passions, and perspectives of our vibrant community. As our region’s only destination marketing organization, we have a responsibility to showcase the best the Roanoke Region has to offer, and those assets and strengths come in varied forms. We embrace differences in race, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, language, visible and invisible disabilities, and all the intersecting identities that make Virginians and visitors alike so unique. We believe our differences make us stronger– and better.