Why not take a stroll around the campus where it all started? You can tour the gallery in the fine arts building, Olin Hall (where we first met!) or visit the brand new athletic building, the Cregger Center (which was not there while we were students) or simply walk through the front and back quads. Don't forget to kick the post between the Admin building and Trout Hall for good luck! Photo courtesy of roanoke.edu
See the world's largest man-made, free-standing, illuminated star! Take a drive up Mill Mountain to the site, or take a moderate 3-mile hike to the top. From the overlook you also have access to picnic areas and the Mill Mountain Zoo. Visit the overlook during the day for an incredible view of downtown Roanoke, or go at night to see the lights of the city. Fun fact: the Star was first illuminated on November 23, 1949 -- exactly 70 years before the date of our wedding! Photo courtesy of visitroanokeva.com
We went to Macado's in Salem on our first "official" date. There's another location in the city of Roanoke, but no matter which one you visit, you'll get extremely delicious food. Liesl recommends the Molly Brown and Bert is partial to the Dirty Harry. Photo courtesy of macados.net
Mac and Bob's, founded by Roanoke College alumni, is a favorite spot of current and former students! While the restaurant is known especially for their amazing calzones, Bert and Liesl really love their four-cheese macaroni. Photo courtesy of macandbobs.com
Do you like trains? This museum is inside of Roanoke's 100-year-old freight station, near current-day train tracks. You can climb aboard an old steam engine, check out some model trains, and also visit some automotive and aviation exhibits! Photo courtesy of visitroanokeva.com
We frequented the Salem location often during our college days, but there's another location in the city of Roanoke. Delicious coffee, tea, and seasonal drinks -- as well as some pretty tasty breakfast food! Photo courtsey of visitroanokeva.com
Roanoke is right off of the Appalachian Trail, which means there is a lot of great hiking to do. Some recommendations include Sawtooth, Dragon's Tooth, and the famous McAfee Knob (pictured above). Or, if you'd like to venture a little further out, Devil's Marbleyard in Natural Bridge is a personal favorite of Liesl's! For more information, visit the website on this page. Photo courtesy of visitroanokeva.com