Whether you're planning a quick getaway or a longer vacation, this Roanoke travel cost guide will help you understand the typical costs of a trip. Our Roanoke trip cost calculator is based on average spending from thousands of past travelers, including accommodations, meals, attractions, entertainment, and transportation. Roanoke is a scenic town known for its welcoming hospitality and convenient access to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and you don't want to miss out because you didn't plan the right budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Roanoke?
A typical traveler spends $199 per day on a trip to Roanoke. This is the average daily price for a vacation in Roanoke based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $83 on meals
- $23 on local transportation
- $191 on hotels
A one-week trip to Roanoke for two people costs, on average, $2,786. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from thousands of other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
Is Roanoke expensive to visit?
In Roanoke, budget travelers spend $87 per day on average, mid-range travelers spend $199 per day, and luxury travelers spend around $384 per day. These costs are calculated from the reported expenses of previous travelers to Roanoke.
Roanoke is a small yet inviting town that captivates travelers with a mix of travel preferences, spending habits, and budgetary ranges. You'll find a wide array of accommodation options, such as luxury hotels, mid-range places, or budget-friendly hostels.
You can find Roanoke to be very expensive if you're not careful, but methods like enjoying the free hiking trails and looking for discounts and coupons can help you save money.
Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, Roanoke is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Memphis or Chapel Hill.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Roanoke Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Roanoke?
The average Roanoke trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Roanoke travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Roanoke cost?
Roanoke on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$42
|
$96
|
$183
|
|
Local Transportation1
|
$10
|
$23
|
$44
|
|
Food2
|
$36
|
$83
|
$162
|
|
Entertainment1
|
$15
|
$35
|
$67
|
|
Alcohol2
|
$7-20
|
$15-45
|
$29-86
|
Accommodation Budget in Roanoke
Roanoke offers a broad range of hotel prices, from budget to luxury. Higher-end hotels come with more amenities and higher prices, particularly during peak season. Off-season, you'll find average rates around $128, but during peak summer or fall season, they can average $239. Prices range from $80 to $360, and hostels tend to be much cheaper. Save money by visiting during the low season or by taking advantage of early booking and special promotions.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Roanoke for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $191. For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $96 per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Roanoke? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Roanoke include:
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Roanoke North starting at $119
- The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center, Curio Collection by Hilton starting at $203
- The Liberty Trust starting at $142
- Residence Inn by Marriott Roanoke Airport starting at $134
- Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Roanoke, VA starting at $108
Visiting in the low or shoulder season, rather than during summer or fall, will give you cheaper lodging options and fewer tourists to navigate around.
Transportation Budget in Roanoke
Unfortunately, Roanoke does not provide a solid public transit network. There are buses as well as a free trolley service through the downtown, but you really do need a car to get most places.
Unfortunately, most of the town is not very walkable. The downtown area is the most walkable part of town, with sidewalks and more dense development styles.
Public Transit: 
(moderate)
Walkability: (moderate)
Calculated from travelers like you
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On average, past travelers have spent $23 per person, per day, on local transportation in Roanoke. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Roanoke is significantly more than public transportation.
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Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$23
By plane, the nearest airport is the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport with service to Washington, Detroit, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Charlotte, Chicago, Tampa area (St. Petersburg), and New York. It is located about 10 minutes from the downtown right next to Valley View Mall.
By bus, there is a Greyhound station located on Campbell Avenue in downtown Roanoke.
There is no train service directly to Roanoke, but the nearest Amtrak stops are in Lynchburg and Clifton Forge, both within a two-hour drive of the city.
By car, Roanoke is at exit 146 on I-81, about 40 minutes northeast of Blacksburg, and 40 minutes south of Lexington. It is about a 4-hour drive from Washington and 3 hours from Richmond.
Check that your hotel has convenient parking if you're planning on driving.
How much does it cost to go to Roanoke? Naturally, it depends on the dates. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all airlines.
The price of renting a car in Roanoke will depends on dates, the type of car, the location, and your age. We recommend Kayak because they can find the best deals across all car rental companies.
Food Budget in Roanoke
Dining options in Roanoke are quite limited and of mediocre quality. It's better not to waste too much money on meals when there are more valuable experiences to invest in. There are burger joints, pizza restaurants, and plenty of other casual eateries where you can grab a quick meal.
Calculated from travelers like you
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While restaurant and meal prices in Roanoke can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Roanoke is $83 per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
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Food2
Meals for one day
$83
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Roanoke is around $83 ($83) per person, with previous travelers spending from $36 to $162. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Roanoke are as follows:
- Breakfast: $8 to $25
- Lunch: $12 to $33
- Dinner: $25 to $58
- Coffee: $7
- Fast Food or Street Food: $12
As far as food goes, some of the more traditional meals in Virginia include dishes like barbeque pork, Brunswick stew, and peanut soup-which was especially popular during colonial times. Desserts like marble cake and shoofly pie come largely from the Pennsylvania Dutch, while fried peaches with vanilla ice cream is considered a more upscale dessert. And, of course, the closer you get to the coast, the more likely you will able to indulge in fresh seafood dishes. Being a city, Roanoke features restaurants that cater to all budgets and flavors of the world. Some of the more classic hometown eats can be found at places like Local Roots, Hollywood's Restaurant & Bakery, and Mission BBQ; finer dining options include Billy's or the Regency Dining Room, while Cedars Lebanese Restaurant Southern Comfort on the Market offer menu items that are internationally inspired.
Many hotels include breakfast in their price, while some add it on as an extra charge. The price and quality can vary depending on the hotel. Knowing ahead of time can help you decide if you need to spend even more money. Maybe it's worth your money for the delicious buffet at the hotel. Or, perhaps you should just go to a nearby bakery or cafe that's much cheaper.
Fill up a water bottle rather than buying drinks every chance you get. It's also kinder to the earth.
If you're planning to take a tour, make sure you know which meals are included beforehand. You might be on the hook to pay for some of the food yourself which can add to your budget.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Roanoke
It's no wonder that so many visitors make their way to Roanoke for its hiking, romance, museums and attractions, and nightlife.
Calculated from travelers like you
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Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Roanoke typically cost an average of $35 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
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Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$35
Roanoke is a city flourishing with culture, dotted with history, and surrounded by the beauty of the Appalachian Mountains just outside. Beginning in the Downtown district, some of the more historic sights one might come across include the Boxley Building, Campbell Avenue Complex, Colonial National Bank, First National Bank, Patrick Henry Hotel, and Fire Station No. 1 which was in operation from 1907 to 2007. There are also a handful of historic sub-districts in the downtown, plus museums dedicated to local and surrounding history. Center in the Square is one such museum and cultural center located on the City Market. Then there is the O. Winston Link Museum located in a former passenger rail station downtown, Taubman Museum of Art, as well as the Virginia Museum of Transportation which houses many Norfolk and Western Locomotives that used to run through Roanoke, and also features some aviation and automobiles.
As far as entertainment goes, some of the more notable venues include the Roanoke Civic Center, Jefferson Center, Grandin Theatre, and Mill Mountain Theatre. These centers host a variety of live performances, films, and shows throughout the year. You might also catch a movie at a local theatre, or enjoy the nightlife scene with live music in a handful of the downtown restaurants.
Taking a step back, Roanoke has some unique quirks on the grander scale. You might catch sight of a restored neon sign, Dr. Pepper H & C Coffee gleaming from the rooftops against the night sky. Or you might see the famed Mill Mountain Star, placed on a mountain overlooking the city in 1949. There is an accessible overlook nearby that offers beautiful views of the city, especially at night.
Roanoke offers opportunities for sight-seeing, shopping, dining, and entertainment to compete with any city. The culture is alive with museums, galleries, and performing arts, the streets are always bustling with visitors and locals enjoying the market scene and activities out on the town, and throughout the year, Roanoke hosts parades, festivals, and concerts for all to enjoy.
Just outside city limits, there are also opportunities to get closer to nature. The Appalachian Trail is just minutes away, along which you can find opportunities for boating, camping, fishing, and hiking. Mill Mountain overlooking the city is surrounded by a regional park for outdoor recreation activities. There is also the Mill Mountain Zoo atop the mountain which is home to about 160 animals, and hosts programs and events regularly.
Hiking:
The hiking around Roanoke offers breathtaking views. 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.
A nice way to explore destinations in Roanoke is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Downtown Roanoke Food, History & Cultural Tour for $82 details
- 3-Hour E-Bike Sightseeing and Breweries Tour in Roanoke for $109 details
- Mountain Bike Tour from The Roanoke Star for $139 details
Nightlife Budget in Roanoke
In Roanoke, you can find some nightlife options, but it isn't as lively as in other more popular tourist spots. 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.
Calculated from travelers like you
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The average person spends about $30 on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Roanoke per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
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Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$30
Sure, nightlife is part of the adventure, but cutting down on cocktails can make a surprising difference in your travel budget.
Be aware of your surrounding and stay safe if you're out at night and drinking. You could become a target for pickpockets or other crimes. Stay in groups and with people you trust.
Travel cost data last updated: Jun 18, 2026
Traveling in Roanoke
Roanoke, Virginia
Roanoke is a charming city located in the western region of the U.S. state of Virginia. Sometimes called the "Star City of the South" or the "Magic City," Roanoke lies in the scenic Roanoke Valley with Mill Mountain as a local icon, topped with a lighted 100-foot star. The city itself is home to many museums and opportunities for shopping, dining, and entertainment.
Neighborhoods & Around
Downtown Roanoke is the central business district of the city, first beginning to grow with the completion of the Shenandoah Valley Railroad in 1882. Today, the downtown has evolved into a center of activity for just about everything with a handful of places on the National Historic Register, hotels, museums, parks, and plenty of options for shopping and dining. One of its focal points has become the City Market-a market for fresh produce, plants, crafts, gifts, arts, collectibles, and more open year-round 7 days a week. It is located in the heart of Downtown Roanoke at the intersection of Campbell Avenue and Market Street. Elmwood Park is the downtown's premier concert and festival venue, while smaller live music performances can be heard every night in several of the downtown restaurants. There are plenty of galleries and studios for those interested in the art scene, and a few theatres providing further entertainment in the performing arts.
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Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
Having realistic expectations for your travel expenses is important. While many assume they can visit Roanoke on a tight budget, the truth is that most people don't enjoy traveling that way. Think about what you prioritize on vacation. Do you prefer staying in resorts or hostels? Do you love exploring sights and attractions, or dining out? Your preferences will directly impact your budget and travel plans.
Roanoke on a Shoestring Budget?
You might think you're a budget traveler, but unless you're willing to sacrifice many comforts, expect to spend a lot more than the average of $87 per day that backpackers typically manage.
Younger budget travelers sometimes stick to a shoestring budget, which usually means staying in hostel dorms, eating at budget restaurants or fast food, relying on public transportation or walking, and limiting activities to free attractions.
Do You Fit the Profile of an Average Traveler?
If you're a family or couple enjoying a vacation, you'll most likely want to stay in a mid-range hotel, eat at trendy restaurants, and check out the main museums and attractions that charge for entry. Exploring the major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks is a must for most visitors to Roanoke. Keep in mind that most activities have costs associated with them. Hence, you should realistically expect your daily budget to hover around $199 per person, per day.
The range of hotels and vacation rentals in Roanoke is impressive. If you're traveling with others, sharing your hotel with a partner, friend, or kids allows you to split the costs and save money. Families will want to find hotels and restaurants that accommodate children. The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center, Curio Collection by Hilton is a solid choice for families, while Courtyard by Marriott Roanoke Airport also offers great options. For additional family and couple-friendly hotels, refer to our hotel guide for Roanoke here.
Looking to Travel in Luxury?
If you're looking for a luxurious getaway that offers top-notch amenities and exceptional service, you should budget around $384 per day. To enjoy a nicer hotel, dine at renowned restaurants, indulge in extravagant activities, and use taxis or private drivers to explore the town, prepare for a luxury price tag.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
