Roanoke region recognized for best living and outdoor attractions in Virginia

Thad Randazzo
·2 min read

ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) – With spring months and warmer weather just around the corner, many people, and outdoor enthusiasts in the Southwest and Central Virginia might already be thinking ahead to the next adventure.

Whether you’re from the area, new in town, or just visiting, according to worldatlas.com and Blue Ridge Outdoors, some of the best living and activities in the state can be found right here.

According to worldatlas.com, Roanoke and Lexington Virginia boast a low cost of living and some of the best hiking and biking in the country.

Take a break at Smith Mountain Lake

Roanoke:

Tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains, Roanoke has a cost of living 8% lower than other cities in the state and around the U.S. and is home to 50 parks, including Mill Mountain, Elmwood, Sunrise, and the Blue Ridge Parkway. The city also has a rich art and cultural presence with great food, museums, and music venues, as well as being close to Smith Mountain Lake, which is less than an hour’s drive away.

Lexington:

If an escape from city life is what you’re after, Lexington has a population of about 7,000, one of the lowest crime rates in the state, and a cost of living around 12% lower than the rest of Virginia and the nation. Close to Natural Bridge, historic outdoor activities include the Chessie Nature Trail.

The Roanoke region has also been named by Blue Ridge Outdoors as “Best of the Blue Ridge 2024” by readers. The lists below highlight the winners and runner-ups from the area.

What is the history of Roanoke’s Mill Mountain Star?

DESTINATIONS:

  • Best Public Lands: Blue Ridge Parkway

  • Best Hike: McAfee Knob, Roanoke County, and Jackson River Scenic Trail, Alleghany County (Runners Up)

  • Best Waterfall: Falling Spring Falls, Covington, VA (Runner Up)

  • Best Lake: Smith Mountain Lake, Franklin County, VA

  • Best Fishing Spot: Philpott Dam, Franklin County

  • Best Fishing Spot: Upper James Water Trail, Botetourt County (Runner Up)

  • Best Overlook: McAfee Knob, Roanoke County

  • Best Campground: Douthat State Park, Alleghany County

  • Best Place to Raise an Outdoor Family: Roanoke, VA

  • Best Raft Guide Company: Twin Rivers Outfitters, Buchanan (Runner Up)

BUSINESSES:

  • Best Disc Golf Course: Mayflower Hill Park, Roanoke County

  • Best Gym or Training Facility: River Rock Climbing, Roanoke

  • Best Running Shop: Fleet Feet (Runner Up)

  • Best Bike Shop: Cardinal Bikes, Roanoke (Runner Up)

  • Best Outdoor Store: Mast General Store, Walkabout Outfitter (Runners Up)

  • Best Lodging: Roanoke Boutique Hotel, Roanoke (Runner Up)

McAfee Knob featured in ‘Google Doodle’ of the day

FOOD AND DRINK:

  • Best Drink: Get Bent IPA from Parkway Brewing, Salem

  • Best Brewery: Parkway Brewing, Salem (Runner Up)

  • Best Distillery: Twin Creeks Distillery (Runner Up)

  • Best Dish: Greg Brady Burger at Jack Brown’s Beer and Burger Joint, Roanoke (Runner Up)

EVENTS AND RACES:

  • Best Running Event: Blue Ridge Marathon, Roanoke

  • Best Triathlon: Carilion Clinic IRONMAN 70.3 Virginia’s Blue Ridge Triathlon

  • Best Triathlon: Smith Mountain Lake Triathlon, Franklin County (Runner Up)

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFXRtv.