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Road Trips 3 Hours or Less from Roanoke

By Jamie Clark, Publisher Macaroni Kid Roanoke July 11, 2017

There is so much to do in Roanoke but sometimes it's good to get out of town for the day, too. We are so lucky to have a ton of awesome options an easy drive (most under 2 hours) away. Whether you are looking for a little history or outdoor fun there is something for everyone and for all ages.


  1. Frontier Culture Museum: Located in Staunton, this is a living history museum telling the stories of the thousands of people who migrated to Colonial America. You can visit different villages starting back as far as the 1600s and see how people from England, Ireland, Germany and Africa used to live. This is a really fun walk through history.
  2. Natural Bridge State Park: Natural Bridge recently became a State Park in Virginia and is now more affordable than ever to visit. In addition to the 215-foot tall bridge you can also explore Monacan Indian Village and the Lace Falls. Perfect way to enjoy nature and explore history at the same time. 
  3. Thomas Jefferson's Monticello: Located in Charlottesville, Monticello is the home of Thomas Jefferson. When you visit you can explore the house as well as the gardens and grounds. There are special programs happening throughout the summer so be sure to see what's happening and plan your visit accordingly. 
  4. Peaks of Otter: If you are in the mood for a breathtaking hike, Sharp Top Trail at Peaks of Otter, located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, is a must. It's not an easy trail but it's well worth it!
  5. Green Valley Book Fair: If you love visiting bookstores than I highly recommend a day trip to the Green Valley Book Fair. It is a discount book outlet store running several times during the year. So be sure to check to see if they are open before heading up I-81. They have over 500,000 new books at fantastic prices. You can truly spend hours browsing. 
  6. Massanutten Resort: Known for skiing in the winter, Massanutten has a lot to offer in the summer, too. There is an indoor waterpark, family adventure park (think ziplining and ropes course), mountain biking, golf, an escape room and more! 
  7. Adventures on the Gorge: Located in Lansing, WV this one is a little further away but well worth the drive. This is the place to go for outdoor fun. There is a little bit of everything here from white water rafting to ziplining to kayaking to fishing to SUP and more. For all ages! 
  8. Wet'n Wild Emerald Point: Located in Greensboro NC this waterpark has over 36 rides and attractions and is super family-friendly with 2 large children's areas. It's a great way to cool off and have fun on a hot summer day.