The best things to do in Roanoke

Brookside Par 3 Golf Course keeps the game approachable with a par-3 course, plus FootGolf for a soccer-meets-golf changeup. It’s a good Roanoke spot to sharpen your short game, bring a less golf-obsessed friend along, or enjoy a round without making a whole day of it.

From the Roanoke newsletter, September 23, 2026

When the humidity hits like a wall this week, Splash Valley has exactly what your inner kid ordered. Two 34-foot slides for the thrill, a current river for the chill, plus a children's sprayground so everyone gets soaked and comes home happy.

From the Roanoke newsletter, September 29, 2026

Starcade is Roanoke’s interactive retro game museum with 140 machines and 3000+ games, from classic cabinets and consoles to racing simulators. Everything’s on free play once you’re in, great for after-work button mashing, friendly rivalries, or booking a party room when nostalgia needs snacks.

From the Roanoke newsletter, November 4, 2026

Long-running chain of recreation centers for mini-golf; some feature arcades & other attractions.

Mountainous course featuring challenging holes and friendly staff.

Snack bar in the clubhouse of the Westlake Country Club, offering burgers, hot dogs & sandwiches.

Hunting Hills Country Club blends a course designed by Raymond F. Loving, Jr. with tennis, a pool, and The Hills Restaurant led by Executive Chef Charles Brissett, recipient of the Silver Award for Top Chef in Roanoke.

From the Roanoke newsletter, October 18, 2026

Family activity center featuring go karts, laser tag, batting cages & mini-golf, plus an arcade.

Whether you’re up for a seriously scenic round, Ballyhack Golf Club brings 50 to 70 feet of elevation change, massive 150-yard fairways, and a resident Boer goat crew near the 14th green. If you can snag a Dormie Network invite, cap it with the Goat Trak par-3 and some bragging rights.

From the Roanoke newsletter, October 10, 2026

Mill Mountain Star is the 100 ft neon-lit beacon watching Roanoke from Mill Mountain, and it’s an easy local reset. Drive up or take the trails, soak up the view, then remind your friends that Roanoke’s skyline literally has a star.

From the Roanoke newsletter, November 8, 2026

When you want more than another Netflix scroll, 540 Social Roanoke stacks arcade hits with real-deal axe throwing and a solid lineup of food and drinks. It’s the kind of spot where friendly trash talk turns into bragging rights, whether you're with coworkers or your favorite chaos gremlins.

From the Roanoke newsletter, October 21, 2026

Since 1899, Roanoke Country Club has been the private hub for golf days, racquet play and poolside hangs, with dining that turns post-round into actual plans. Thinking about membership this week? The golf academy, pickleball and junior programs make it easy to plug in fast.

From the Roanoke newsletter, October 13, 2026

Whether you’re sneaking in nine after work this week or chasing a personal best, Blue Hills Golf Club gives you an 18-hole, par-71 track that’s friendly but still bites. Warm up at the Toptracer Range, then reward yourself in the bar and grill because hitting greens deserves celebrating.

From the Roanoke newsletter, October 7, 2026

Members-only country club with a golf course, tennis courts, and pool, as well as a fitness center, bar, and grill.

When you need a no-drama workout and a place the kids won’t hate, Green Ridge Recreation Center delivers with a big wellness floor, indoor walking track with mountain views, an indoor pool with water features, and a double-sized gym with six hoops. Drop in daily or grab a membership.

From the Roanoke newsletter, October 28, 2026