Metro Mountain Road Trip through Virginia’s Blue Ridge View All ItinerariesGet to know the mountain towns that make up the Roanoke Valley in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. Experience the charm, craft artisan trailsetters, and vibrant flavors that make each community in Virginia’s Blue Ridge so worth visiting year-round. Day 1: Begin your metro mountain road trip in Botetourt County, with small towns each connected by hiking, mountain biking, and winery trails creating a journey you won’t want to miss. Roam historic streets once walked by Thomas Jefferson and Lewis and Clark through the Historic Fincastle Walking Tour. Pick up a treat from the Fincastle Café, browse local art galleries, and admire rich Appalachian craftworks. Head to the Town of Buchanan to paddle the mighty Upper James River, a Virginia Scenic Designated River, or enjoy an easy waterfall hike to the nearby Roaring Run Falls and historic Iron Furnace. Relax in good company at local wineries like Blue Ridge Vineyards and Virginia Mountain Vineyards then enjoy fabulous cuisine and views at the 1772 Rooftop on Main restaurant before turning in at a local B&B for the evening. Day 2: Rise and shine in the Star City of the South. Grab a coffee from RND Coffee and head up to the Roanoke Star as the sun wakes up over Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Hike or mountain bike the trail system atop Mill Mountain and explore the Mill Mountain Zoo. Head toward the Blue Ridge Parkway for outdoor adventure along the river, on the ground, and in the trees at Explore Park (milepost 115). Plan a day walking the vibrant streets of downtown Roanoke, packed with local shops and boutiques, a daily farmers market, and can’t-miss attractions like Center in the Square, Taubman Museum of Art, and the Virginia Museum of Transportation. Visit many stops along the VBR Cheers Trail right in downtown then head to Grandin Village for shopping and dining at local favorites like Local Roots, Taaza, and Scratch Biscuit Company. Round off the day in the Small Town of Salem. Complemented by an impressive collection of craft breweries, local restaurants, antique shops, and outdoor amenities. Don’t miss the Dilly Dally Neighborhood Store for Virginia-made products or a stop in the Salem Museum which offers free admission. Catch the action with a Salem Red Sox minor league baseball game then recap the fun over local eats and drinks at Mac and Bob’s and El Jefe. Choose the Lofts at Downtown Salem to relax and recharge in historically renovated lofts, tastefully decorated with exposed brick and cozy vibes. Day 3: Finally, head to The Moonshine Capital of the World in Franklin County for craft artisans, moonshine, and water adventures. Uncover the spirit of a town, and surrounding region, once known as the wettest county in the world, first-hand by stopping at Twin Creeks Distillery and Franklin County Distilleries. Be sure to check out Blue Ridge Institute and Museum’s online moonshine exhibit for the full story behind the region’s moonshine history. Next, find adventure on the second largest lake in Virginia, Smith Mountain Lake. Boat, paddle, fish and soak up the sun with the help of local marinas and guides. Meet the Smith Mountain Lake Alpacas on a guided tour then treat your sweet tooth at the Homestead Creamery, a local dairy and creamery, that also offers farm tours. There are many ways to be a #Trailsetter in Virginia’s Blue Ridge! Plan the perfect metro mountain road trip this season at VisitVBR.com.