How to get to Roanoke

Located in a picturesque valley amidst the Blue Ridge Mountains in the state of Virginia, Roanoke attracts travelers with its unique atmosphere as the "Star City of the South" and its proximity to the natural beauties of the USA. When planning a trip to Roanoke, you will discover that there are various ways to get here: from a direct flight or a comfortable train to a scenic road trip through the mountains.

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the region is to take a flight to Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA). This modern aviation hub serves over 750,000 passengers annually and is well-connected to the city center, allowing you to start your holiday almost immediately after landing.

If direct tickets are unavailable, you can consider flying to neighboring cities with a subsequent transfer. The nearest alternatives include airports in the city of Lynchburg (73 km) or Lewisburg (74 km), as well as a slightly more distant option via Beckley (123 km).

Traveling by rail is an excellent way to reach the city in comfort. Roanoke is served by the national rail network Amtrak: trains on the Northeast Regional route arrive directly in the city center, connecting it with Washington, New York, and Boston.

Thanks to direct connections, tourists no longer need to make transfers in neighboring cities such as Lynchburg, although this option is still possible when planning complex itineraries. A train journey allows you to enjoy the scenic views of Virginia from the carriage window.

Bus services are suitable for those looking for a budget-friendly transport option and wishing to enjoy views of the American countryside. One popular route is the trip from the city of Lynchburg: the bus covers the distance of 93 km in just 1.4 hours.

This method allows you to get to Roanoke without the hassle of driving and immediately immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the region.

Traveling by car will give you complete freedom of movement and the opportunity to stop at the most beautiful points along the route. A trip from neighboring Lynchburg will take only about 1.2 hours (90 km), and the road from the city of Lewisburg will last approximately 1.7 hours (146 km).

For those making their way from the city of Beckley, the distance will be about 200 km, which will require just over two hours behind the wheel. Car rental will be the optimal choice for exploring the surroundings on your own schedule.

To ensure your trip to Roanoke is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations considering local specifics.

1. Clothing and Climate. The weather in the mountains is changeable, so even in summer, it is worth bringing a windbreaker or sweater for cool evenings. Comfortable footwear is mandatory for walking through hilly terrain and parks.
2. Transport. Although the city center can be explored on foot, renting a car is highly recommended for a full acquaintance with the region and trips along the Blue Ridge.
3. Finance and Tipping. The main currency is the US Dollar. Bank cards are accepted everywhere, but some cash is useful for tips and small purchases. In restaurants, it is customary to leave 15–20% of the bill amount.
4. Safety. The city is considered calm and safe for tourists; however, standard precautions should be observed, and belongings should be watched in crowded places. The emergency number is 911.
5. Plugs and Electricity. The USA uses 110V voltage and Type A and B sockets. International travelers will need an adapter to charge their devices.
6. Local Etiquette. Residents of Virginia value politeness and friendliness. Greetings and a smile when interacting with staff or passersby are considered a norm of good manners.

By following these simple tips, you can avoid minor inconveniences and fully focus on exploring the culture and nature of this wonderful region.