Trying to maximize your cultural experience? With many museums throughout the Roanoke Region, there is plenty to be explored. Take a trip back in time at the Botetourt County Historical Museum. Learn about the influence of the railroads at the C&O Heritage Center. Enter a masterpiece at the Taubman Museum of Art which maintains a collection of contemporary 19th and 20th Century American Art. From ancient artifacts to the latest scientific developments, the Roanoke Region is an exhibition of human and natural wonders.

Art Museums 

As a major hub for the visual arts, the Roanoke Region is home to several prominent art museums. From regional to internationally renowned works, classical and modern, the region’s museums feature diverse collections exhibiting works multiple genres and historical periods.

• Taubman Museum of Art features of a permanent collection of 19th and 20th century American, modern and contemporary art. Presents exhibitions of both regional and national significance throughout the year. 
• Eleanor D. Wilson Museum, Hollins University collects, preserves, interprets, and exhibits the highest-quality original art in support of the mission of Hollins University. Provides a forum for art and the creative process. 
• Olin Hall Galleries, Roanoke College has exhibitions of contemporary emerging and established artists approximately seven times a year. 
• O. Winston Link Museum is world’s foremost collection of O. Winston Link’s black and white railroad photography. 
• Moss Arts Center at Virginia Tech has a variety of exhibitions, performances and experiences. 
• Radford University Art Museum showcases student, faculty and traveling exhibits from nationally and internationally renowned artists. 

History and Culture 

There is no better way to absorb the vast history and culture of the area than to explore the Roanoke Region’s history museums. Discover ancient artifacts left over from the American Indians and see how region developed from pioneer settlements into a bustling economic hub.

• Botetourt County Historical Museum features hundreds of artifacts reflecting the rich history of Botetourt County. 
• Booker T. Washington National Monument tells the story of how the African American educator and speaker began his life as a slave in Franklin County. 
• Blue Ridge Institute and Farm Museum documents the folkways of people living in and around the Blue Ridge Mountains. 
• C & O Heritage Center Clifton Forge highlights the history of the C&O railroad in Southwest Virginia.
• Franklin County Historical Society and Museum is staffed by volunteers and open five days a week. Learn about the rich history of Franklin County.
• Salem Museum and Historical Society maintains an important collection of local artifacts and mementos from the span of Salem’s history. 
• Harrison Museum of African-American Culture features history and art exhibitions, cultural programming, and performing arts presentations. 
• History Museum of Western Virginia maintains a permanent collection of artifacts representing the historical development of Western Virginia. 
• Vinton History Museum highlights the history of the Town of Vinton. Open three days a week. 
• The Crooked Road-Virginia’s Heritage Music Trail highlights how music is integrated into tradition in Southwest Virginia. 

Science and Technology 

From the formation of mountains to the evolution of transportation, the Roanoke Region serves an important role in scientific and technological progress.

• Science Museum of Western Virginia provides classes, exhibits and fascinating insights into the world of science. The Hopkins Planetarium is one of the most popular features. 
• Virginia Museum of Transportation celebrates the industry that has been a major driver in the region’s history, culture, and economic development. The museum boasts a large collection of locomotives and other rail equipment, as well as cars, trucks, buses, and planes. 
• Kids Square Children’s Museum provides and exciting place for adventures and allows kids to explore, play and learn. The museum is located in Center in the Square.
• Mill Mountain Zoo is a non-profit conservation zoo located at the top of Mill Mountain in the City of Roanoke. 

Entertainment 

• Roanoke Pinball Museum and STARCADE is an interactive space full of pinball machines and classic arcade systems.  These are located on the second floor of Center in the Square.
• Blue Ridge Nightmares is a haunted attraction that brings Hollywood level quality to Halloween-themed entertainment.