By Lucy Collins
With the fall season almost to a close, it may seem that there aren’t any more fun fall activities to do around Roanoke College, the Salem area, or Roanoke. Well, that is not the case! The area that we are fortunate enough to go to school in has a vast array of activities and outings that anyone can embark on.
One activity that is most common among students and residents of this area is hiking. Roanoke College is in a fantastic location where hiking is easily accessible. Hikes like McAfee Knob, Bottom Creek Gorge, Sharp Top Mountain, Roaring Run, or Tinker Cliffs are among numerous hikes that are just a short drive away and gives incredible access to the beautiful scenery that is close by.
The city of Salem also holds numerous events around town. One that specifically draws attention of residents is the Salem Farmers Market. This is a great place to interact with a variety of people and a place to purchase natural produce, foods, amenities, etc., and is held seasonally, typically falling on Saturdays. The Salem Farmers Market is located just down the road from campus, and it also is used for concerts and other various gatherings throughout the year.
The city of Roanoke is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, breweries, etc., that offers numerous types of activities to embark on during a weekend or weeknight. Some local restaurant favorites are Bread Craft, Morning Brew Coffee Company, and On the Rise Bread Company. It is always fun to go out and experience a new place to eat and various types of foods.
There are multiple museums to go to in downtown Roanoke, which can serve as a fun and thought-provoking activity. Some of the museums that Roanoke has to offer are Harrison Museum of African American Culture, Roanoke Pinball Museum, the Taubman Museum of Art, and the Science Museum of Western Virginia. There is also excellent shopping at local stores and boutiques in the downtown area. Instead of feeling enclosed on campus or in the dorm rooms, try and go out and adventure around this area before the fall season goes away and the weather gets even more chilly!
