Which Roanoke Tours To Choose? We Rank The 14 Best

Roanoke, Virginia, is a city that packs a surprising punch for travelers eager to explore outdoors, arts, and local flavor. Unlike many small cities, Roanoke is a hub of activity with a vibrant downtown scene, scenic mountain vistas, and outdoor adventures that cater to all interests and fitness levels. We particularly enjoy the Downtown Roanoke Food, History & Cultural Tour, which offers an engaging way to sample local cuisine while uncovering the city’s colorful past. Whether you’re into biking, kayaking, or arts, Roanoke has a tour for you. The following list captures the best options for exploring this charming city in authentic and practical ways.

1. Downtown Roanoke Food, History & Cultural Tour

Rating: 5.0/5 (88 reviews) | Price: $80.00 | Duration: approx. 3 hours

This guided walking tour offers a perfect introduction to Roanoke’s lively downtown. Over three hours, you’ll sample food and beverages from local restaurants and specialty shops, all while strolling past iconic landmarks like the Taubman Museum of Art and Center in the Square. The tour’s small-group setting makes it intimate and allows for personalized stories about Roanoke’s history and architecture. Reviewers highlight the delicious food—shrimp and grits at Billy’s being a standout—and the knowledgeable guide, Larry. It’s a great option if you want a relaxed pace with plenty of local flavor, history, and culture.

Bottom Line: A fun, flavorful, and educational way to explore Roanoke’s downtown—perfect for food lovers and history buffs alike.

2. 3-Hour E-Bike Sightseeing and Breweries Tour in Roanoke

Rating: 5.0/5 (52 reviews) | Price: $109.00 | Duration: approx. 3 hours

For the active explorer, this e-bike tour combines city sights with local craft beers. Starting at a central location, you’ll pedal along the Roanoke River Greenway, enjoy views of the Blue Ridge mountains, and visit two top breweries—Starr Hill Pilot and Golden Cactus. Helmets, bikes, and beers are included, making it easy to hop on and enjoy. Reviewers find it “a fantastic way to see the city” and appreciate the fun, relaxed pace with minimal exertion. The guide, Sean, is praised for his friendly and informative style, making it suitable for beginners and experienced bikers alike.

Bottom Line: This tour combines scenic riding with excellent local brews—ideal for those who want a lively, social experience without intense physical effort.

3. Roanoke River Greenway E-bike Rental

Rating: 5.0/5 (11 reviews) | Price: $50.00 | Duration: approx. 2 hours

If you prefer to explore at your own pace, renting an electric bike along the Roanoke River Greenway is a terrific choice. The Greenway follows the river through scenic woods and parks, offering a flat, paved trail suited for all skill levels. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors without the worry of steep inclines, and you can customize your route to include views of the reservoir or quiet neighborhoods. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely ride or a quick workout, this flexible option helps you see the city’s natural beauty comfortably.

Bottom Line: Perfect for families, casual cyclists, or anyone wanting a scenic, self-paced adventure along Roanoke’s riverfront.

4. Mountain Bike Tour from The Roanoke Star

Rating: 5.0/5 (7 reviews) | Price: $139.00 | Duration: approx. 2 hours 30 minutes

This guided mountain bike tour takes you from the iconic Roanoke Star for a spin through the local trails. Led by a certified guide, you’ll ride on singletrack and scenic paths suited for various skill levels. The guide assesses your experience and tailors the ride accordingly. The tour includes high-quality Marin bikes and helmets, so all you need to bring is your enthusiasm. Reviewers note the professional guidance and the opportunity to see beautiful mountain views, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Bottom Line: A solid choice if you want a guided mountain biking experience with quality equipment and tailored trail options.

5. 3-Hour Guided Mountain Biking in the Blue Ridge Mountains

Rating: 5.0/5 (4 reviews) | Price: $235.00 | Duration: approx. 3 hours

For those craving a more immersive mountain biking experience, this guided tour offers a deeper dive into the Blue Ridge Trails. Led by a professional guide, you’ll explore trails suited for your skill level, with bikes and helmets provided. The focus is on safety, fun, and discovering some of the most scenic ridges in the area. While the price is higher, reviews suggest it’s worth it for the personalized instruction and access to premier trails.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for mountain bikers ready for a more challenging ride with professional guidance.

6. Kayaking on the Roanoke River

Rating: 5.0/5 (1 review) | Price: $65.00 | Duration: approx. 3 hours

Kayaking on the Roanoke River offers a relaxing way to see the city’s natural side. The trip features gentle Class I rapids and abundant wildlife like blue herons and bald eagles. This 3-hour trip is suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers alike, with all gear included. It’s a peaceful experience that connects you to the water and local wetlands, perfect for nature lovers wanting a quiet escape amid the city. Reviewers mention the scenic views and the thrill of spotting wildlife.

Bottom Line: An ideal outing for a calm, scenic paddle with a touch of wildlife spotting and outdoor serenity.

7. Roanoke River Greenway Bike Rental

Rating: 5.0/5 (1 review) | Price: $25.00 | Duration: approx. 2 hours

This bike rental service offers a flexible way to explore the Roanoke River Greenway. Choose from comfort cruisers, hybrids, or electric bikes, and enjoy the 14-mile paved trail that passes parks, neighborhoods, and scenic river views. It’s perfect for families or travelers who want to avoid the logistics of bike ownership. You can also rent tow-behind trailers or kid’s bikes for a family-friendly outing.

Bottom Line: An affordable, convenient option for a self-guided ride along Roanoke’s most popular greenway.

8. Roanoke: Electric Bike Rental

Rating: N/A | Price: $58 | Duration: 2 hours to 1 day

Rent an electric bike to explore Roanoke at your own pace. Using a high-quality e-bike, you can comfortably cover the 14-mile Roanoke River Greenway, enjoying parks and neighborhoods as you go. It’s a flexible option suited for casual riders and those who want to extend their exploration without tiring. The bikes are easy to operate, making it accessible even for first-timers.

Bottom Line: A practical choice for a customizable, low-effort city ride with scenic views.

9. Blue Ridge Mountain E Bike Tour

Rating: 0/5 (0 reviews) | Price: $155 | Duration: approx. 3 hours

This guided e-mountain bike tour focuses on Carvins Cove, a highlight for mountain bikers. Over 17 miles of trails, you’ll get sweeping views of the mountains and reservoir. The guide provides instruction and ensures safety, while high-end Salsa e-mountain bikes help you tackle challenging terrain effortlessly. It’s perfect for experienced riders looking for a scenic ride with a bit of a workout.

Bottom Line: For seasoned cyclists, this guided ride offers stunning views and a chance to test your skills on diverse trails.

10. Blue Ridge Parkway Virginia Self-Guided Audio Tour

Rating: 0/5 (0 reviews) | Price: $12.99 | Duration: 8-9 hours

This self-guided audio covers the northern Blue Ridge Parkway, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Highlights include Peaks of Otter, Humpback Rocks, and Sherando Lake. It’s a full-day adventure that provides historical insights, natural beauty, and easy access to hiking trails. It’s best suited for travelers who like to set their own schedule, take photos, and enjoy scenic stops.

Bottom Line: An affordable, flexible option for a day of scenic driving, hiking, and sightseeing.

11. Blue Ridge Parkway Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle

Rating: 0/5 (0 reviews) | Price: $24.99 | Duration: 3 days

This bundle offers a multi-day experience across Virginia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to explore multiple regions at their own pace, with audio guides sharing stories and tips for each stop. Ideal for planning a more extensive road trip, it allows flexibility and detailed narration for each scenic stop along the route.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a comprehensive, multi-day audio-guided journey through the Blue Ridge.

12. E-Bike Mural Tour of Roanoke

Rating: 0/5 (0 reviews) | Price: $88 | Duration: approx. 3 hours

This mural tour provides a colorful look at Roanoke’s vibrant art scene. Led by local artists, you’ll ride through the city’s most striking murals, learning about their stories and the artists behind them. The tour combines creative exploration with a casual bike ride along the River Greenway, making it suitable for those interested in arts and urban culture. The focus is on fun, manageable riding, with plenty of stops for photos and insights.

Bottom Line: A creative way to see Roanoke’s street art scene while enjoying a relaxed bike ride.

13. Radical Roanoke Scavenger Hunt

Rating: 0/5 (0 reviews) | Price: $27 | Duration: approx. 2 hours

If you’re after a unique, interactive experience, this scavenger hunt turns sightseeing into a fun challenge. Using your phone and live host support, you’ll solve clues and discover Roanoke’s sights from a different angle. It’s a social and engaging activity, ideal for groups or families seeking a more playful way to explore the city.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a lively, interactive way to learn about Roanoke with friends or family.

14. Roanoke Ebike Food Tour

Rating: 0/5 (0 reviews) | Price: $150 | Duration: approx. 3 hours

This food-focused e-bike tour takes you through the Grandin and Wasena neighborhoods. You’ll sample local dishes, enjoy the lively atmosphere, and see vibrant murals and local shops—all while riding an e-bike. The tour is designed to excite your taste buds and provide a casual, scenic ride. Safety gear is included, and the route is suited for all fitness levels, making it accessible to many.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want to combine culinary delights with a fun, easy bike ride.

How to Choose the Best Tour for Your Roanoke Trip

When selecting the right experience, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you’re a foodie wanting to explore downtown, the Food, History & Cultural Tour offers a relaxed, educational experience. For outdoor lovers, mountain biking from the Roanoke Star or Blue Ridge Mountain E Bike provides scenic trail riding. The scavenger hunt is perfect if you prefer a playful challenge, while self-guided options like the Blue Ridge Parkway audio tour suit independent travelers.

Booking early is advisable, especially for guided tours in peak seasons, and check for any age or fitness restrictions. Whether you prefer a leisurely cultural walk or an adrenaline-filled mountain ride, Roanoke’s diverse tours ensure you’ll find something to match your travel style.

Final Thoughts

Roanoke offers a wide array of tours—from culinary strolls and scenic bike rides to mountain biking and wildlife kayaking—catering to many interests and activity levels. For a relaxed start, the Downtown Roanoke Food, History & Cultural Tour is highly recommended. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the mountain biking options, while those seeking a flexible adventure might opt for self-guided e-bike rentals. Remember, booking ahead guarantees a spot, especially during busy seasons.

No matter your style, Roanoke’s tour options bring its landscape, culture, and community to life in memorable ways. Ready to explore? Book early and enjoy your trip through this charming mountain city.