Day Trips from Roanoke
← All Roanoke day tripsDay Trips from Roanoke: Scenic Drives & Road Trips
The most beautiful scenic drives and road trip routes within reach of Roanoke, VA. Winding back roads, dramatic overlooks, and picture-perfect byways that make the drive itself the destination. Drive times and route info included.
12 scenic drives near Roanoke
Grandview Overlook
Boone, NC 28607
Just 2 hrs 53 min from Roanoke, rated 4.9 stars by 294 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Peaks of Otter Viewpoint
Montvale, VA 24122
Just 38 min from Roanoke, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
The Great Valley Overlook
Blue Ridge, VA 24064
Just 27 min from Roanoke, rated 4.9 stars by 290 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Ravens Roost Overlook
Lyndhurst, VA 22952
Just 1 hr 44 min from Roanoke, rated 4.9 stars by 982 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Scenic overlook
Afton, VA 22920
Just 1 hr 32 min from Roanoke, rated 4.9 stars, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
20-Minute Cliff Overlook
Vesuvius, VA 24483
Just 1 hr 31 min from Roanoke, rated 4.9 stars by 309 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Signal Knob Overlook
VA 22630, USA
Just 2 hrs 56 min from Roanoke, rated 4.8 stars by 466 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Dan Ingalls Overlook
Mountain Valley Rd, Warm Springs
Just 1 hr 34 min from Roanoke, rated 4.8 stars by 209 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Afton Mountain Scenic View
Afton, VA 22920
Just 1 hr 31 min from Roanoke, rated 4.8 stars by 982 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Blue Ridge Parkway Scenic Point
Deep Gap, NC 28618
Just 2 hrs 51 min from Roanoke, rated 4.8 stars by 130 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Lovers Leap Overlook
Stuart, VA 24171
Just 1 hr 28 min from Roanoke, rated 4.8 stars by 1,042 visitors, packed with outdoor activities and adventure.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Scenic Overlook
Lansing, WV 25862
Just 2 hrs 34 min from Roanoke, rated 4.8 stars by 148 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scenic Drives Day Trips from Roanoke
What are the best scenic drives near Roanoke, VA?
The best scenic drives near Roanoke include national scenic byways, state route back roads, and lakefront highways with dramatic views. Check the destinations above for top-rated scenic stops along these routes.
How long are the scenic drives from Roanoke?
Most scenic drives near Roanoke range from 1-4 hours one way. Many can be done as a loop or combined with stops for hiking, dining, or small-town exploring to fill a full day.
What is the best time of year for scenic drives near Roanoke?
Fall (mid-September through October) is peak season for scenic drives near Roanoke, with spectacular foliage. Spring wildflower season and summer green are also beautiful. Winter drives can be dramatic but check road conditions first.
What should I bring on a scenic drive from Roanoke?
Bring a full tank of gas, snacks, water, and a camera. Cell service is unreliable on many scenic routes, so download maps beforehand. Pack layers since temperatures at overlooks can be cooler than in the city.
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