Roanoke, Virginia

[Dan Henderson]

I am contemplating a move to Roanoke, Virginia in the next year or so. I would like to hear from any Apuggers who live (or have lived) in the area. I am interested in learning about the general climate, cost of living, "art-friendliness" of the community, why you like (or dislike) living/having lived there, and anything else you would like to share with me.
Thanks in advance,
Dan

[Jeff L]

I have visited there- though only for a few days. I found a few good coffee shops and restaurants downtown- for me a good indicator of a decent place to be. Best info that I can offer.

[jgjbowen]

Never lived there, but it is pretty close to Smith Mountain Lake and has a 1st class railroad museum.

[RPippin]

Although I live in Charlottesville, (about an hour and a half from Roanoke), I have visited there from time to time. It's in a great location, near the Blue Ridge, and has a great art scene. There are great restaurants downtown, which is going through a massive renovation, and has great potential for getting in on the ground floor for gallery space or any other business. The cost are much lower than, say, Charlottesville, and if it were me I wouldn't hesitate to move there. Get in touch if you are planning on a visit, I'd be glad to show you around.

[keithwms]

Roanoke is nice! Richard (above) can give a great tour of all the surrounding areas, you should take him up on that. The man knows more places in the state than a congressional candidate.

The only knock against Roanoke, in my opinion, is lack of proximity to a big city... if you want that. You could check on air travel in the area, that'd be my concern (but not necessarily yours). Roanoke sure is pretty though, and if you are outdoorsy, you'll love it.

Michigan, brrr...!! Get down to Virginia with all due haste, you won't regret it.

[Sirius Glass]

Virginia has covered bridges in that part of the state.

Steve