From Big Lick to ‘Star City’: This Virginia mountain town shines
From Big Lick to ‘Star City’: This Virginia mountain town shines
From Big Lick to Star City – Roanoke, a city in southwestern Virginia, is a place where history and modern charm intertwine. Known as the “Magic City” and the “Star City of the South,” its reputation is rooted in a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial legacy. The town’s transformation from a sleepy settlement to a thriving commercial center in the 1880s was largely driven by the railroads, which brought rapid development to the Roanoke Valley. Its other nickname, “Star City,” stems from a giant illuminated star that has become a lasting symbol of civic pride.
A Legacy of Rails and Natural Wonders
Roanoke’s location between the Blue Ridge and Allegheny mountains offers breathtaking scenery, making it a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts. Just off the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Appalachian Trail, the area’s landscapes inspire both awe and adventure. Ryan Wagoner, an Appalachian Trail volunteer, often runs near McAfee Knob, a trailhead that provides sweeping vistas and a thrilling vantage point. “Our access to the outdoors is unparalleled,” he remarked, highlighting how the city’s proximity to these natural landmarks enhances its appeal.
Wagoner, who resides in Blacksburg, noted the convenience of the trail’s location, just a 20-minute drive from Roanoke’s regional airport. The airport itself is situated near Interstate 81, making it a gateway for visitors and locals alike. The McAfee Knob hike, a 8-mile round trip, is one of three standout trails in the “Triple Crown” cluster north of the city. These hikes draw nature lovers and adventurers, offering a mix of rugged terrain and serene beauty. Meanwhile, the Blue Ridge Parkway, stretching 469 miles through the region, continues to provide scenic overlooks and trails that showcase Virginia’s diverse landscapes.
From Transportation Hub to Cultural Destination
Roanoke’s history as a transportation hub is deeply embedded in its identity. The city’s evolution was propelled by the arrival of the Virginia and Tennessee railroad in 1852, but it was the establishment of the Norfolk & Western railroad headquarters in the 1880s that truly reshaped its destiny. “It grew like a Western frontier town,” said Ken Miller, a rail historian at the Virginia Museum of Transportation. “Massive construction happened overnight, with people flocking here for housing, jobs, and opportunities.” The railroad’s influence left an indelible mark, with relics of its era still visible today.
Visitors can explore this heritage by walking from the Tudor-style Hotel Roanoke, a stately building constructed by the Norfolk & Western in 1882, to the Virginia Museum of Transportation. The journey crosses a glass-enclosed bridge over historic train tracks, where informational panels detail the city’s rail past. Among the highlights are the old Norfolk & Western passenger station, now home to two museums, and the East End Shops, which crafted some of the world’s most iconic steam locomotives. The O. Winston Link Museum, housed in part of this station, preserves the final days of the steam era through striking photographs and audio recordings.
Modern Vibrancy and Outdoor Adventures
Today, Roanoke is a city of nearly 100,000 people, with a growing array of locally owned businesses and cultural attractions. While the railroad’s prominence has waned, its legacy persists in the form of historical sites and the continued hum of freight trains. The city’s downtown area, though compact, is walkable and brimming with life, offering everything from boutique shops to trendy eateries. “Roanoke didn’t used to be cool,” said Rainey Alvarez, a bartender at Sidecar, a downtown bistro that opened in 2020. “We’ve always had the mountains, so it’s always been beautiful,” she added, crediting the city’s recent food scene as a key factor in its revitalization.
Outdoor activities remain a cornerstone of Roanoke’s appeal. Beyond the Appalachian Trail, the region is a mountain biking capital, with trails that cater to all skill levels. Fishing and kayaking opportunities abound in the nearby rivers, which wind through the scenic foothills. The Triple Crown hikes, including McAfee Knob, are a testament to the area’s natural allure, but the town also embraces its historical roots. The Virginia Museum of Transportation, housed in a century-old freight station, now showcases not only rail history but also aviation and classic automobiles, with its outdoor railyard featuring preserved locomotives and railcars.
Preserving the Past, Embracing the Present
Roanoke’s ability to balance its industrial past with contemporary culture is a hallmark of its character. The city’s rail history is still visible in the daily operations of Amtrak, which stops at the downtown platform four times a day. These trains pass by the Hotel Roanoke, a historic landmark that overlooks the tracks. The museum’s exhibits include a collection of steam engines, such as the sleek Norfolk & Western J Class No. 611, which was built in the early 20th century. This locomotive, now preserved, represents the era when Roanoke was a vital link in the nation’s transportation network.
Though the Norfolk & Western eventually merged with other railroads to form Norfolk Southern, its legacy in Roanoke endures. The company’s former headquarters, once a bustling hub, now stands as a reminder of the city’s historical significance. In 2015, Norfolk Southern relocated its offices, but the city has since found new ways to honor its rail heritage. Alvarez, who grew up just south of Roanoke in Franklin County, sees the revitalization as a natural progression. “The city’s charm has always been in its setting,” she said, “but the energy it’s gained in recent years has made it even more special.”
Roanoke’s transformation from a small town to a dynamic destination reflects its adaptability. The combination of accessible nature, rich history, and a thriving community makes it a standout location. Whether exploring the Appalachian Trail, savoring the vibrant food scene, or stepping back in time at the Virginia Museum of Transportation, visitors find a city that honors its roots while embracing the future. As the clackety-clack of train tracks continues to echo through the streets, Roanoke remains a place where the past and present coexist in harmony.
“Our access to the outdoors is unparalleled,” said Ryan Wagoner, an Appalachian Trail volunteer, who often runs near McAfee Knob. “The city’s proximity to these natural landmarks makes it a unique place to live.”
“The city didn’t used to be cool,” noted Rainey Alvarez, a bartender at Sidecar. “But the food scene exploded about a decade ago, and that’s what brought new energy to Roanoke.”
