There are quite a few pretty amazing neighborhoods, architecture, and gardens in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. Oh, if these sidewalks could talk, the tales they’d tell! 

Please saunter along with us along some of our favorite stroll-along streets. You’ll be glad you did.

1. Main Street - Salem

Start your stroll of Salem’s Main Street from South College Avenue. The reason? The view, of course! As you walk down Main Street, the mountains in the distance are breathtaking. Take the time to notice as you also appreciate the architecture, church steeples, quaint shops, and delicious eateries.

Macado’s has a patio, Mac and Bob’s is a local favorite, and Champloo Desssert has tasty hand-crafted rolled ice cream. The Salem Farmers Market is a Saturday morning draw for anyone downtown. If that’s you, you’ll find it on the corner of Broad and Main. You can also refer to this self-guided walking tour of Salem.

- Read More: Must-See Main Street: Salem

2. Market Street - Roanoke

At just three blocks long, Market Street is an easy stroll but packs a big punch. From Salem Avenue at Fork in the Market, Market Street serves up an exciting array of food and shopping, not to mention historic buildings complete with nostalgic, authentic, painted-on signs. 

Al fresco dining is the name of the game, so pull up any patio seat and enjoy the people. Inside the City Market Building you’ll find an international food court full of unique flavors. Be sure to see the ceramic mosaics at each entrance.

The Historic Roanoke City Market is a daily magnet in downtown Roanoke. Farmers and artisans gather on the Market to share their fresh produce, flowers, seeds, eggs, cheeses, meats, jams, and preserves.

- Read More: Must-See Main Street: Downtown Roanoke

3. Grandin Road - Roanoke

Through Grandin Village, a treasured Roanoke neighborhood and gem on the National Register of Historic Places, runs Grandin Road. This strollable street has much to offer, including food, of course. From the fresh baked goods at On the Rise Bakery, to the farm fresh menu at Local Roots, cuisine is top-of-mind and easy to find. Shopping here is fun, too. Definitely check out Urban Gypsy and Starlight Bicycles.

If you care to stroll at dusk, you’ll be treated to the beautiful neon lights of The Grandin Theatre, a 1930s art deco delight.

- Read More: Must-See Main Street: Grandin Village

4. Main Street - Buchanan

From the Swinging Bridge Café to the actual swinging bridge at the bottom of Main Street, strolling Buchanan’s Main Street is a breeze. Your key items of interest are the Buchanan Theatre (a National Register of Historic Places site), and the authentic soda fountain experience at Buchanan Fountain & Grille. If you have the kids with you, the latter is a must!

- Read More: Must-See Main Street: Buchanan

5. Main Street - Fincastle

Off of Botetourt Road, Main Street in Fincastle starts off steep, but immediately rewards with a stop at the Wysong Blacksmith Shop and Museum. Venturing farther up the hill, the architectural beauty that awaits is worth the effort. More than 50 structures in Fincastle date to the 1700s. For the best overview and understanding, secure a guide through Historic Fincastle Inc. Walking Tours. You can also utilize this self-guided walking tour of the historic town.

- Read More: Must-See Main Street: Fincastle

6. Franklin Street - Rocky Mount

Start your Franklin Street stroll from the Visitor Center, located in the town’s Historic Train Depot. The Artisan Center along the Crooked Road should be your next stop to find some unique collectibles and works of art. From there, it’s a downhill stroll to the Harvester Performance Center with plenty of things to see along the way.

- Read More: Must-See Main Street: Rocky Mount

7. Pollard Street - Vinton

South Pollard Street between Lee and Washington Avenues is a great stroll for getting to know a little about Vinton. Locally-owned shops, a spinning barber pole, a new public library, and the iconic clock greet you along the way, as does the smell of food. Enjoy craft beer at Twin Creeks Brewing Company and delicious burgers at FarmBurguesa.

- Read More: History of Vinton

8. Crystal Spring Avenue - Roanoke

This tree-lined street in south Roanoke features quaint cottages, beautiful pink dogwoods, well-manicured lawns, and really great food at the end. A stroll down Crystal Spring Avenue must always include a stop at The River and Rail, a farm-to-table delight with craft cocktails, too. You can also make some new friends at Fork in the Alley, a quaint neighborhood pub with an awesome outdoor patio space.

9. Avenham Avenue - Roanoke

If you love huge old houses with incredible architecture, towering century-old trees, and lush landscaping, Avenham Avenue in south Roanoke is for you. Park the car and admire the view with each step.

10. Locust Street - Floyd

Have you ever heard of The Floyd Country Store? There’s a very good chance that if you’re strolling Locust Street on a Friday or Saturday evening, you won’t stroll far. The Floyd Country Store is the main draw in town. Indeed, folks drive hours (maybe even days!) to get a glimpse of rarity: impromptu, epic jam sessions and flat-footin’ royalty. Here, it’s like you’re looking through a crystal ball and seeing “the way things used to be” during a simpler time. But know that if you can pick a tune (or even carry one), there will always be room for you to join in.

To help you find your way beyond the Floyd Country Store, swing by the Visitor Center nearby. The knowledgeable staff will equip you with a map and even book a room for you, if you need it. In Floyd, you’re family.

Map of Locations

For more ideas on strolling through Virginia’s Blue Ridge communities, subscribe to our monthly e-newsletter and request your free copy of our Visitor’s Guide.

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