Making Family Memories in Roanoke, VA

August 1, 2017

Looking to create some for exciting family memories this summer in Roanoke, VA? From museums and parks to farms and zoos, locals have several options for a special day out with the family.

Top 4 Places to Make Family Memories in Roanoke, VA

1.  Mill Mountain Zoo

Mill Mountain Zoo in Roanoke provides an interactive experience that will surely provide lifelong memories for the whole family. Mill Mountain Zoo has committed to care for for endangered and vulnerable animal species. Over 90 different species of animals live in the zoo, creating a wide variety of attractions and exhibits for families to enjoy together. Available for birthday parties or private events, the zoo provides a great setting for any family celebration.

Plan to come on the third Saturday of any month between May and October, and you can sign up to have Breakfast With the Animals. This special event includes a breakfast buffet with one of the animals, a chat with a zookeepe,r and ends with a child-parent learning project.

2. The Roanoke Star

Roanoke, VA is known as the Star City of The South , and the 88-foot star on top of Mill Mountain holds the city true to that name. Also known as the Mill Mountain Star , the illuminated display is the largest of its kind in the world, with over 2000 feet of neon tubing. The Roanoke Merchants Association erected the star in 1949 as a holiday season celebration and has since been lit every night until midnight. The star sits on Mill Mountain, overlooking a gorgeous city park complete with biking and walking trails. As one of the most photographed sites in the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Roanoke star is sure to become a family favorite.

3.  Virginia Museum of Transportation

The Virginia Museum of Transportation provides an educational experience for parents and children alike. Interactive attractions within the museum create an exciting, fun-filled experience for families to learn more about the history of U.S. transportation. The museum’s location near modern railroad tracks allow children to watch today’s trains zip by as they walk around locomotives from centuries before their time. Planes, trains, and automobiles abound in this museum, and every member of the family will find something of interest.

4.  Roanoke Pinball Museum

This museum is dedicated to the art, science and fun of pinball machines. Pay a flat fee (free for children under 5) and play all day on the 50 machines dating back to the  1930s. Before or after your visit, make it a family project to learn more about pinball machines and the science behind them.

March 31, 2026
Planning ahead isn’t always something we naturally gravitate toward—especially when it comes to end-of-life decisions. It’s easy to put off, to say “someday,” or to assume there will always be more time. But preplanning your funeral or cremation arrangements is one of the most thoughtful and meaningful gifts you can leave behind for the people you love. What Is Preplanning? Preplanning is simply the process of making your final wishes known ahead of time. This can include decisions about burial or cremation, the type of service you’d like, music, readings, and even the small personal touches that reflect your life. It doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, even a simple plan written down can provide clarity and comfort when it’s needed most. Why More Families Are Choosing to Plan Ahead 1. It Relieves Emotional Burden When a loved one passes, families are often faced with dozens of decisions in a very short time, many of them while navigating deep grief. By preplanning, you remove that weight. Your family won’t have to wonder what you would have wanted, they’ll already know. 2. It Protects Your Family Financially Funeral costs can add up quickly depending on services selected. Preplanning gives you the opportunity to guarantee certain services and merchandise, avoid future inflation, and prevent overspending during emotional decision-making. 3. It Ensures Your Wishes Are Honored Every life is unique and every service should reflect that. When you plan ahead, you can choose burial or cremation, select meaningful music or readings, and include personal touches that tell your story. 4. It Gives You Time and Control Planning in advance allows you to make decisions thoughtfully and without pressure. There’s no urgency. No rushed decisions. Just clarity and confidence. 5. It Brings Peace of Mind Knowing everything is taken care of allows you to focus on what matters most: living fully and spending time with loved ones. Preplanning Doesn’t Have to Mean Prepaying You have options: document your wishes, set aside funds gradually, or explore pre-need plans or insurance options. Families are guided through these choices with no pressure—just support and information. A Simple Step Today Can Make All the Difference Tomorrow Preplanning is about easing the path for those you love. It gives them space to grieve, remember, and heal—without added stress. Ready to Learn More? Click here to get started. Whether you’re ready to start a plan or simply have questions, speaking with a preplanning specialist can help you explore your options in a comfortable, no-pressure setting. Because the greatest gift you can leave behind isn’t just memories—it’s peace of mind.
By Missy Hardenburg February 9, 2026
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