A Travel Price Comparison for Virginia Alexandria vs. Roanoke for Attractions, Couples, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Alexandria or Roanoke?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Alexandria and Roanoke. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Alexandria

Alexandria is a charming, quaint, and historic city. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and food.

Roanoke

Roanoke is a scenic, outdoorsy, and laid back town. It's also popular because of the museums, nightlife, and hiking.

Alexandria and Roanoke: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Alexandria or Roanoke?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Alexandria than Roanoke. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. Alexandria is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, shopping, small town charm, and impressive beauty, while Roanoke attracts visitors for its hiking. Alexandria is more touristy than Roanoke and is known for its long-running history, beautiful architecture, and small town atmosphere. It is also well known for Mount Vernon. Roanoke is famous for its welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

How is Alexandria different from Roanoke?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Roanoke and Alexandria. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Alexandria or Roanoke?

Alexandria is a great city for its historical sights. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its sights and museums.

Alexandria offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. George Washington's Mount Vernon home is an iconic destination in Alexandria. There are also many other museums in town that focus on the region's history. The Alexandria History Museum at the Lyceum and the Gadsby's Tavern Museum are both interesting. There's Gunston Hall and the Carlyle House, as well as an archeology museum and many historic landmarks around town.

Roanoke is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums and sights around town such as the Living-Coral Reef Aquarium, the Science Museum of Western Virginia, and the Taubman Museum of Art. There's also the Harrison Museum of African American Culture and even the Roanoke Pinball Museum.

Is the Food Better in Alexandria or Roanoke? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Alexandria is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Roanoke is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Alexandria is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The food, like the city itself, reflects the area's history. There are many southern classic dishes as well as a lot of seafood. You'll find lots of local restaurants that serve high quality dishes and a quaint atmosphere.

Roanoke offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are burger joints, pizza restaurants, and plenty of other casual eateries where you can grab a quick meal.

Is Alexandria or Roanoke Better for Nightlife?

The vibe at night is nice in both Alexandria and Roanoke.

If you're looking for night time activities Alexandria has a few options to choose from. There's a great bar scene, as well as tons of restaurants that make for a relaxing night out.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Roanoke. There are local venues in the area that have drinks and often live music. You'll find jazz, country, rock, and bluegrass, particularly along Crooked Road in Franklin County.

Is Alexandria or Roanoke Better for its Old Town?

Alexandria is renowned for its historic old town charm. However, Roanoke does not have a historic old town.

The old town of Alexandria is one of the most recognized in the world. At the heart of the city is the historic old town. Its lined with townhomes that date back to the 18th century. There are many historic sights that have stories from the early days of the country. There are also cobblestone streets and a great waterfront.

Roanoke does not have a historic old town.

Is Alexandria or Roanoke Better for Hiking?

Roanoke is great for hiking. However, Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Roanoke for the hiking trails. The surrounding countryside is filled with mountain hikes. The Blue Ridge Mountains are crossed by trails that take you to waterfalls, scenic viewpoints, and through serene forest. McAfee Knob, Sharp Top Mountain, and Roaring Run Trail some of the best hikes in the area.

Alexandria is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Alexandria or Roanoke?

Alexandria is a great city for its shopping areas. Also, Roanoke is not as popular, but is still a nice town for shopping.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Alexandria. King Street is the main shopping street in town and it offers the largest concentration of independently owned boutiques in the Washington D.C. area. It's the perfectly place to spend an afternoon shopping.

Roanoke is a great destination for shopping. Market Street in Downtown Roanoke is lined with local vendors, particularly at the Historic Roanoke City Market. The town also has a mall and several shopping centers.

Is Alexandria or Roanoke Better for Families?

Roanoke is a good destination for its kid-friendly activities. However, Alexandria is not a good destination for its family-friendly activities.

Roanoke offers lots of family activities. The Blue Ridge Parkway is filled with kid-friendly hiking trails and fun outdoor activities. You can visit the Blue Ridge Institute & Farm Museum or Smith Mountain Lake Farm. There's also Virginia Children's Theater.

Alexandria is not the most family-friendly destination. The waterfront area is nice to walk around. You can break up the history with an ice cream shop and kids will also enjoy taking a boat tour.

Is Alexandria or Roanoke Better for Couples?

Alexandria and Roanoke both superb destinations for a couple.

Alexandria is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. The charm of the old town makes this a quaint and romantic destination. There's a waterfront area and many historic buildings. There are also romantic restaurants and plenty of places to grab brunch.

Roanoke is a very popular place to visit for couples. Staying at a quaint bed and breakfast, tucked into the beautiful mountain setting is the perfect romantic getaway. Nearby there are vineyards and wine cellars, as well as gardens, hikes, and other outdoor activities.

Is Alexandria or Roanoke Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Alexandria and Roanoke are nice places to visit.

Plenty of backpackers visit Alexandria. There aren't any true hostels in town, but you will find some cheap motels.

Plenty of budget travelers visit Roanoke. There are several campgrounds in the area as well as great hiking trails.

Is Alexandria or Roanoke Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Alexandria is renowned for times when you don't have a car. However, Roanoke is not known for its public transit.

Alexandria has a great public transit system. DASH is the local bus system, but the city is also connected into the Washington DC metro system.

Public transit is generally limited in Roanoke. There are buses as well as a free trolley service through the downtown, but you really do need a car to get most places.

Is Alexandria or Roanoke a more walkable city?

Alexandria is renowned for its ease of walking around. However, Roanoke is not known for its walkability.

Alexandria is a very easy city to get around on foot. It's a very easy city to walk around, particularly in the historic heart where most tourists spend their time.

Roanoke is generally not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, with sidewalks and more dense development styles.

For even more information, also check out Is Alexandria Worth Visiting? and Is Roanoke Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Roanoke or Alexandria?

How long in Alexandria or Roanoke?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Alexandria and Roanoke. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Alexandria than in Roanoke. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Alexandria, and 1-3 days is enough time in Roanoke.

Couples should spend more time in Alexandria than Roanoke. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Alexandria that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alexandria than Roanoke if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Alexandria.

One day in Alexandria or Roanoke?

In Alexandria, you'll find nightlife and food. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This city offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

With museums and nightlife around the laid back town of Roanoke, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Roanoke, one day is sufficent for most.

A weekend in Alexandria or Roanoke?

In Alexandria, you'll find food and shopping. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Alexandria has to offer.

With nightlife and shopping around the destination of Roanoke, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Five days in Alexandria or Roanoke?

Alexandria is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

Roanoke, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Alexandria or Roanoke?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Alexandria. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Alexandria. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.

Roanoke is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Alexandria and Roanoke, we can see that Roanoke is more expensive. And not only is Alexandria much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Alexandria would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Alexandria and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Roanoke would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Roanoke than you might in Alexandria.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Alexandria Expensive? and Is Roanoke Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Alexandria or Roanoke?

Alexandria has a larger population, and is about 40% larger than the population of Roanoke. When comparing the sizes of Alexandria and Roanoke, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Alexandria or Roanoke?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Alexandria or Roanoke in the Summer?

Both Roanoke and Alexandria are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Alexandria this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Roanoke for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Alexandria is around the same temperature as Roanoke in the summer. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 79°F (26°C) in July, and Roanoke fluctuates around 79°F (26°C).

It's quite sunny in Roanoke. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Alexandria. Alexandria usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Roanoke during summer. Alexandria gets 278 hours of sunny skies, while Roanoke receives 273 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Roanoke. In July, Alexandria usually receives less rain than Roanoke. Alexandria gets 3.5 inches (88 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 4.2 inches (106 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Alexandria or Roanoke in the Autumn?

Both Roanoke and Alexandria during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Alexandria for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Roanoke in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Alexandria is around the same temperature as Roanoke. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Alexandria in October average around 60°F (15°C), and Roanoke averages at about 60°F (16°C).

In Roanoke, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the autumn, Alexandria often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Roanoke. Alexandria gets 197 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Roanoke receives 210 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets less rain in October than Roanoke. Alexandria gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 3.7 inches (94 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Alexandria or Roanoke in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Alexandria and Roanoke. Many visitors come to Alexandria in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Roanoke for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Roanoke can be very cold during winter. Alexandria can get quite cold in the winter. In January, Alexandria is generally much colder than Roanoke. Daily temperatures in Alexandria average around 35°F (1°C), and Roanoke fluctuates around 38°F (3°C).

Alexandria usually receives less sunshine than Roanoke during winter. Alexandria gets 139 hours of sunny skies, while Roanoke receives 165 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Alexandria usually receives around the same amount of rain as Roanoke. Alexandria gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Alexandria or Roanoke in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Alexandria as well as Roanoke. Most visitors come to Alexandria for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

Alexandria is cooler than Roanoke in the spring. The daily temperature in Alexandria averages around 56°F (14°C) in April, and Roanoke fluctuates around 59°F (15°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Roanoke. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Alexandria this time of the year. In the spring, Alexandria often gets less sunshine than Roanoke. Alexandria gets 228 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Roanoke receives 246 hours of full sun.

Alexandria usually gets less rain in April than Roanoke. Alexandria gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Roanoke receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Roanoke and Alexandria