The shape of this building is intriguing and, lucky for us, there is a very nice exhibit inside…read moredetailing how this came about. As you might expect, this museum is filled with of local artists. And instead of the usual cryptic information, most pieces have a brief biography of the artist and sometimes a bit more about the piece. It made each of these pieces come alive for me. The art placement seems very thoughtfully laid out. It's not a huge museum but it seems the perfect size for the art inside. Don't forget to check out the 3rd floor.

One of the required elements of a great city is to have a quality Art Museum. Here in the Star City…read moreof Roanoke that quality Art Museum is the Taubman Museum of Art. Art is what makes our lives ritcher and Art appreciation brings great joy to an otherwise boring life. For this reason is the important role that this Art Museum plays in our community. A couple of days ago I decided to become a member of the Museum, go visit it once more, and write this review for people to read, view my photographs and decide for themselves whether it's worth it to put aside some time to go visit it and what they could get out of it. First of all I would like to mention that the award-winning architectural design of the building by the internationally renowned architect Randall Stout is in of itself a Masterpiece work of art. At first sight it might look like a modern rendition of Noah's Ark. But if you look closer you can see that the architect took special care to honor naturalistic elements of the Roanoke region, such as its beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and the Mill Mountain Star. The building itself is something to admire and visually enjoy. Expensive gems come in small sizes. I consider this as one of the most beautiful and valuable assets of the City of Roanoke. As I entered its doors and introduced myself at the guest station in the entrance, simply as a new member who had just joined, I was warmly welcomed and given a ticket for the Special exhibition of Eternally New: The Art Nouveau World of Alphonse Mucha. The general admission to the public is free, but to see the Special exhibition there is a modest fee, unless you're a member. On the first floor they had everything set up for a wedding reception dinner. The area looked so elegant and inviting. I was amazed at how this Museum used some of its space for private or public gatherings and activities to involve members of the community. They also had a nice Museum Shop and a Cafe and patio on this floor. On the second floor they have eleven galleries to exhibit artworks from their respected permanent collection as well as a special space for rotating special annual exhibitions showcasing the best of the best. On the third floor they have the City of Roanoke Atrium and a wonderful Auditorium and other meeting and activities rooms. Besides all these spaces for exhibition and social events, the Museum has excellent programs for the community as well as hosts a yearly Sidewalk Art Show that is very popular to meet local artists, see their work, and be able to purchase some quality original art pieces. Art is wonderful, I remember the joy I had the time I purchased my most valuable painting by Mary K. Trotter, an American woman artist who studied in Philadelphia before moving to Paris. I highly recommend this wonder of an Art Museum in all aspects. Go visit it, appreciate its masterpieces, attend one of its tours, take one of its classes, get involved in one of its programs, learn to love and enjoy art. For art is a wonderful and splendid thing, that brings joy and flavor into our lives.

During this wonderful time of the year, I enjoy going to uplifting places that put you in the mood…read moreto celebrate the Holiday Season. So this Wednesday, that is precisely what I did. After being awarded the Yelp Triad Squad Yelper of the Year 2024 Award at the Yelpies Award Ceremony last year, an event that honored the highest-performing Yelp Elites, celebrating their contributions and accomplishments throughout the year, I decided that this year, as an All-Star Yelp Elite, I not only wanted to be the first to discover new restaurants, businesses, and entertainment venues, and bring them to the attention of the public, but also to uncover those found in hidden paths that for one reason or another have not reached the public in its totality. And Mill Mountain Theatre, in Roanoke, Virginia, is a perfect example. Located in the Center In The Square building, in the heart of Downtown Roanoke, Mill Mountain Theatre is a professional regional theater presenting musicals and plays year-round. It is the gem of the performing arts of the Star City of Roanoke. Ever since I was a kid and watched a Broadway Musical for the very first time at the young age of 12, in New York City, I was inspired by the acting, by the plot, and by the meaningfulness of the words of the songs. The musical was Pippin, with Pippin played by John Rubinstein, and featuring Ben Vereen as the leading player. Then while living in Boston and Cambridge, Massachusetts, I had the privilege of enjoying one of my favorite musicals, "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat," with the main character Joseph, played by Donny Osmond, with music by Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice. But even if this all sounds like a great experience, what is even greater is that I had the opportunity of visiting over 50 community theaters in New England while I was living there. From small theaters in farms where the seats were haystacks, to theaters in small towns in which the seats escalated upwards to be able to accommodate enough people to watch the show, to dinner theater where you were able to enjoy a meal in a cozy room with a stage, where the play was performed. Today, after having dinner at the Six and Sky Rooftop Grille, located in the same building as the Mill Mountain Theatre, I came down to the first floor to watch "A Christmas Story." As I arrived to the entrance of the theater, a very friendly and welcoming lady volunteer, scanned my front row, center ticket, and showed me to the entrance hall that led into the theater. Once there, another gentleman volunteer, took a look at my ticket and showed me the way to the front row seat. The stage was not the largest, but a perfect size to put on a great number of good plays. They did an excellent job building the set scenery with a nice collection of props. The actors did an almost flawless performance in which you were even able to see their character's personalities transformed into their own. It was a very impactful production. It effectively used humor to engage the audience while tackling the serious and important subject of bullying. This blend often helps make the serious messages more relatable and memorable. The intermission served as a time to relax and maybe visit the beautifully designed consecion stand for some refreshments. After the show, it was nice to find that a door led directly to the parking building where I had parked my Lexus. In conclusion, the Star City of Roanoke and its community is enriched by having this very unique little performing arts center. By bringing people together for shared learning and cultural experiences, this theater fosters social connections, community pride, and a greater sense of belonging.

We went to see the production Annie last night and it was an absolutely amazing performance. They…read morereally have a well-produced performance and the facility was great. My only complaint was the spacing between the rows of seating in which had there would have been anyone sitting in front of me they would have had my knees pushing against the back of their chair, making both of us uncomfortable. However, the performance and venue itself were 5 star all the way. It's an amazing theater organization offering acting classes and really have a great presence in the area. Last year they did a production at the Bent Mountain Center of James and the Giant Peach and it was a phenomenal production as well. Some of these actors and actresses were in Annie as well and it is great to see their growth since the last performance we saw them in. The acting and choreography was excellent and exceeded my expectations - the talent and ability of our hometown theatrical group here is amazing! We loved it! You have to check them out. They have a nice list of productions for 2025 which we plan on being regulars to support them. Such an enjoyable time! Please check them out!

Such a wonderful museum! They focus on both local history and the stories of people associated with…read moreSalem. I really appreciate how well they handle important topics like race and integration; in their America 250 section, they did a fantastic job highlighting how the Revolutionary War would have impacted people from different backgrounds, races, and sexes, and they have a wonderful display on Black history in the area. I love how niche and grounded the museum can be; they really show pride in Salem and its history, and honor both recent and distant history. I've visited museums across the state, and this one is a true gem!

I love visiting museums because they take us back in time and through real objects of the time and…read moreexhibits of such, we get to better understand the period and the significance of that time period. The Salem Museum and Historical Society is a local history museum located in the historic 1845 Williams-Brown House, in Salem, Virginia. The museum features exhibits across five floors that trace the area's history from early Native American settlements to the Civil War and modern era. It features permanent and rotating exhibits, such as "The First People of the Roanoke Valley," and offers educational programs, the Logan Library & Archive Room, and a gift shop. Admission is free but donations are gratefully accepted. Also, ample free on-site parking is available for the convenience of all those who visit the museum. When I arrived a very knowledgeable and friendly museum staff member greeted and welcomed me. The young gentleman quickly explained a little bit about the museum and some of the exhibits located on each floor. I was particularly interested in the Roanoke College History. I had the opportunity of visiting the college last year when I was invited to attend the Sister Cities dinner there, and was very impressed with its buildings and landscaping layouts. Garrett Channell, the Museum's Executive Director, came out of his office to personally greet me and also welcome me to the museum. After visiting the museum I had and opportunity to see him again and complement him for the well organized and clearly labeled exhibits. I then visited the Gift shop, which had lots of books and framed prints for sale, among other things. I invite you to view my photographs accompanying this review to get a better sense of the place and its exhibits. And I highly recommend that weather you're a local or a tourist passing by, you stop and give them a visit. I can assure you that you'll be glad you did.

Such a fun place! The Roanoke Pinball Museum has a great variety of pinball machines, and it's easy…read moreto lose track of time playing. Super fun for both casual players and pinball fans. Definitely worth a visit!

Is there anything to dislike about over 75+ pinball machines at one price as long as you like? Had…read morea ball for hours going from machine to machine that looked appealing. The one time admission for adults is $15. They offer senior discounts. The museum is on the second floor wgich is accessed by stairs, or elevator. Restrooms are on the first floor as well as a candy shop. I found all the machines that I played in good working order. Thankfully it was not too busy on a Saturday afternoon and had no wait for anything. I took a photo of everything I played, around fifteen pinball machines in around two hours and had a ball. Unfortunately my childhood machine "Time Warp" was not in their collection. A few favorites were Star Wars, Elton John, Mandalorian and Fun House which pastas there most popular. Easy recommendation and full 5 stars. My wrist got a workout, but was fun!

From the outside I never expected to see such an amazing variety of quality exhibits highlighting…read moreour nation's transportation history. Located in downtown Roanoke's historic freight station, The Virginia Museum of Transportation does a great job in preserving Virginia's transportation history with a major focus on rail, featuring iconic locomotives like the N&W Class J 611 and Class A 1218. It houses a vast collection of steam, diesel, and electronic locomotives, including famous Roanoke-built engines. The museum offers interactive family-friendly exhibits covering trains, automobiles, and aviation, featuring over 30 antique automobiles, aviation displays, an outside railyard with historical locomotives on the rail, and a U.S. Army Jupiter Rocket. In 2025 it also launched the Maritime Gallery, with the Naval History of Virginia, located on a second floor. There they also have an interesting exhibit of the Circus and America's Railroads. I invite you to view my photographs accompanying this review to get a better sense of the place and its amazing exhibits. The museum also houses the Traveler's Treasures Gift Shop with lots of desired item for sale, such as pins, posters, apparel, wooden trains, hats, toys, books, and tumblers, among other items. These can be also purchased from their website vmt.org Free parking is available for guests immediately adjacent to the museum. Also, cross from the museum is located the award winning Valley Metro Third Street Station, providing convenient bus transportation. Admissions prices are reasonable at $14.77 for adults, and discounted to $12.66 for Youth (13-17), Seniors, and Students with ID (17-59). Children (3-12) pay $10.55, and 2 & under are Free. I highly recommend you visit this museum if you have not yet done so. It is definitely an enriching experience.

Ever see the movie planes, trains and automobiles? Well that's exactly what the Virginia Museum of…read moreTransportation has all under one roof in Roanoke, Virginia. The displays are well done and offer some interactive features. The kids can have a ball getting up close too! Even the gift store was excellent! Made a few purchases. It's a one off for me, but was worth the visit to see the rich history of the railways the Roanoke community has. 4.5 rounding up. I can understand why it's a beloved local attraction.

Loved this place! It's a 15 per person flat rate to get in and everything is free play. Lots of…read moredifferent vintage arcade games to choose from. We spent a few hours here and had a great time.

It is always a great time to hang out with friends or family, amazing way to kill time or an…read moreafternoon.

Welcoming spirit, comfortable surroundings with incredible views, great food. Every effort is…read moreextended by the staff to make your experience a pleasant one.

This is a private, members-only club situated on the upper levels of Virginia Tech's Lane Stadium…read more During Graduation Week, they open their Club for brunch and dinner reservations. The only way to contact them is by email. It literally took me weeks and some emails to get a reply back. I was finally able to lock in our brunch reservations about 2 weeks before our trip. The University Club has you sign an event contract and pay the full amount for the brunch or dinner in 4 payments prior to your reservation. The price was about $55/person + service fees, tax. Drinks, both soda and alcohol, are not included in the brunch price. With tip, it came out to about $75/person. The Club itself has a separate entrance inside the Stadium and you take an elevator up. As soon as you got out of the elevator, they had a step-and-repeat with decorations for families to take pictures before or after your event. The Club is quite spacious and modern. There were stadium seats in front of the large windows overlooking the football field for members to watch the game while enjoying the Club's amenities. The Graduation Brunch was buffet-style with salad, shrimp cocktail, potato salad, chicken and a prime rib carving station. All the staff there were very friendly and helpful, they went above & beyond to make our day special. I pre-ordered personalized wine bottles which were to be served during brunch but since we were driving back to the airport and others driving to D.C., I asked them if we could take them with us. Our server put them in white gift bags with balloons attached which really added a nice touch! The food was fine, nothing spectacular. But it's worth going through the trouble to go for Graduation celebration. They also offered a pre-order flower arrangements or VT cookies but I didn't get them. I gave them 4 stars instead of 5 only because how difficult it was to get a reservation. However, keep in mind that the members have priority booking and having thousands of students graduating over the course of 3 days make things very difficult. I definitely recommend University Club for your student's graduation! It's a memory that will last a lifetime!

Creepy, haunted building. It used to be a boys' boarding school, and then it was an institution for…read morethe mentally ill. Very organized and dedicated volunteers today. They host different events. I did one where you travel in groups of 7 or so throughout the bldg. You get time to divide up and go to different areas, if you'd like. You can bring your own equipment. I didn't bring any, but I tagged along with someone who did and we got some feedback and movement from objects. Highly recommend at least bringing a flashlight because it's pitch black in there. Worth a visit!