Before getting lost in the Southwestern Virginia wilderness or embarking down the Appalachian trail, travelers should stop over in one of Southwest Virginia's more urban locales. All offer family attractions, great eats, and robust night life.

Roanoke, Virginia - The Star City

Roanoke is Southwest Virginia's largest city, home to approximately 90,000 people. Roanoke is called the Star City because the city itself sits below a giant neon star perched atop a mountain. Take a drive up Mill Mountain to get an up close view of the star. One can stop by the Mill Mountain Zoo after checking out the tall, glowing star.

Roanoke also offers a host of cultural venues for tourists. Museum lovers should not miss the brand new Taubman Museum of Art located right off of Interstate 581 in downtown Roanoke. Also in downtown Roanoke is the Virginia Museum of Transportation and the Western Virginia History Museum.

If travelers visit the Star City in the Spring or Summer, be sure to check out Roanoke's Market Square, located in the Historic City Market. On weekends, the Market Square is bustling with local vendors selling homegrown fruits, veggies, folk art, and other wares. While browsing the local goods, do not miss the Science Museum, Theatre, and historic Market Building all on Market Square.

Downtown Roanoke is also home to several local eateries that do not disappoint. Corned Beef & Co. and Metro! are two local favorites. Roanoke is also home to plenty of affordable family dining and chain restaurants.

Blacksburg, Virginia - Home of the Hokies

An hour south of Roanoke on Interstate 81 takes travelers to the Blacksburg/Christiansburg area. One cannot mistake the presence of Virginia Tech and its impact on Blacksburg. If you do not mind a crowd, be sure to stop by on a Saturday during college football season. The Virginia Tech fans will be grilling en masse. Find some tickets and cheer on the Hokies.

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