Roanoke is an independent city in the western part of Virginia. It covers 43 sq mi (111.1 sq km) and has a population approaching 100,000 people.
Roanoke, VirginiaSource: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Grandin_Road_Commercial_Historic_District.jpg
Author: Patriarca12

Roanoke was originally named Big Lick. It was established in 1852 and incorporated in 1874. The name refers to a salt link frequented by wildlife in the area. As it is located on the Roanoke River, the town was renamed Roanoke when it was incorporated as a city in 1884. During colonial times it grew into an important rail and road transport hub.
Roanoke is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains area. It is in the transitional zone between the humid subtropical and humid continental climates. The city experiences four distinct seasons. July is the warmest month, with average high temperature of 87.5°F (30.8°C). January is the coldest month, with average low temperature of 26.6°F (-3°C). May gets the most rain at 4.24 in (107.7 mm).
Visiting Roanoke
Roanoke is served by Interstate 81. Take Exit 143 and head down Interstate 581 to reach the city.
Places of Interest in Roanoke
- Center in the Square
Facility in downtown Roanoke with a number of museums and performing arts venue.
- Harrison Museum of African American Culture
Museum promoting and showcasing African American culture, art and history.
- History Museum of Western Virginia
Museum celebrating the history of southwestern Virginia.
- O. Winston Link Museum
Museum showcasing the photography of 20th century railroad photographer O. Winston Link.
- Science Museum of Western Virginia
Museum at Tanglewood Mall with interactive exhibits on science.
- Taubman Museum of Art
Formerly called the Art Museum of Western Virginia, it was renamed after Ambassador Nicholas F. Taubman and his wife, who were its largest donors.
- Virginia Museum of Transportation
Museum devoted to documenting the history of transport, both rail and road, in the state.
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