If you are in search of family fun, head on over to the Salem Civic Center (www.salemciviccenter.com). The Salem Civic Center is the largest convention facility in the Roanoke Valley, with a 6,820-seat multi-purpose arena. Built in 1967, it is part of the James E. Taliaferro Sports and Entertainment Complex (named after a former mayor of Salem), which also includes the Salem Football Stadium and the Salem Memorial Baseball Stadium. In addition to sporting events, the Salem Civic Center also hosts concerts, circuses, conventions and trade shows. In the summer, the Salem Civic Center hosts the 11-day-long Roanoke Valley Horse Show and Salem Fair, the second largest state fair in Virginia.
For a night out on the town, visit Roanoke. There you will be able to enjoy the Mill Mountain Theatre, Opera Roanoke, the Roanoke Symphony Orchestra and Chorus. You could also head to the Jefferson Center where you could catch a concert.
If you are after a quieter evening, stay close to home and catch a new release at the Salem Valley Movie Theater.
Blue Ridge Parkway
Information Center • 540-586-4496The Blue Ridge Parkway is ranked America’s most scenic drive and is an easy drive from Salem. James River Trail/Overlook, at mile post 63.6 features picnicking, fishing and a restored canal lock used during the Kanawha Canal’s heyday. This self-guided trail tour is open during daylight hours, weather permitting.
(434) 299-5496
National D-Day Memorial
3 Overlord Circle • Bedford, VA 24523 • 540-586-3329 • 1-800-351-DDAYThe National D-Day Memorial is located in Bedford, VA. This location was chosen because Bedford had the largest loss of life at D-Day per capita of any city in the United States. Charles Schultz was the principal fundraiser for this memorial. Upon his death, his widow Jeanie succeeded him in this role. Steven Spielberg has also been a major contributor through his donation for a theater to be named for his father. Daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission. U.S. Route 460 Bypass and Route 122 Interchange, Bedford.
Natural Bridge
15 Appledore Lane • Natural Bridge, VA 24578 • 540-291-2121 • 800-533-1410The Natural Bridge of Virginia is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Carved by a river from 36,000 tons of limestone and soaring 215 feet in the air, Natural Bridge was purchased by Thomas Jefferson in 1774. Admission. US 11 and Route 130, Natural Bridge, open daily 8 a.m.-Dark.
Smith Mountain Lake
Information • 540-721-1203Spend the day on or around the water, with boating, fishing, swimming and a State Park at your disposal. Smith Mountain Lake is so accessible, vacationers come from all over the world to enjoy the 500 miles of shoreline.
Wintergreen Resort
Route 664 • Wintergreen, VA 22958 • 1-800-296-3723Golf courses, skiing, snowboarding, tennis, spa services, hiking, fly fishing, and mountain biking are just some of the features of this resort located in the Blue Ridge Mountains.