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The Outdoors are Open

• Take advantage of the warming weather and spend some time getting reacquainted with the outdoors. Reopening for the season this March, hikers and sightseers can take advantage of a shuttle system ferrying guests to the McAfee Knob trailhead, one of the most popular spots in Virginia’s Blue Ridge. Hike to the Knob for sweeping views of the mountains and one of the most-photographed spots along the Appalachian Trail.
  • 2025 is the perfect year to check off this bucket list hike as the Appalachian Trail Conservancy celebrates its 100th
• Roanoke Mountain Adventures debuts two new tours this season. An immersive experience that takes you through the murals of the city, the Mural Tour of Roanoke showcases the story of the city through art and storytelling, while being guided by the local artists that created them. A new Carvins Cove e-mountain bike tour is coming as well, with miles of beginner-friendly gravel travels making this tour available for all skill levels.

Spring Celebrations in VBR

• Spend Saint Patrick’s Day in one of the 10 best St. Patrick’s Day cities in the United States at the Roanoke St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Festival, March 15. This free event includes a parade starting at 11 am, live music, and vendors, with local restaurants hosting their own block parties throughout Downtown.
• Roanoke’s premier multicultural festival, Local Colors, represents over 50 nationalities and has taken place for over 30 years. Featuring a plethora of authentic, international food and performances, this free event takes place May 17th in Downtown Roanoke’s Elmwood Park.
• Berry lovers will not want to miss the 45th annual Community School Strawberry Festival in downtown Roanoke on May 2 – 3. Over 20,000 people show up to enjoy fresh strawberries in all forms, including the ever-popular shortcake.
• The Salem Red Sox baseball team celebrates opening night on April 4th. Families can enjoy games and special promotional nights nearly every week through the spring and summer seasons.

Virginia’s “New” Ridge

• Historic Grandin Village in Roanoke, Virginia has two new restaurant concepts that have officially opened their doors. Gianni’s serves dishes inspired by the food traditions of Louisiana, Haiti, and Jamaica, in what the owner called “Southern Caribbean fusion.” Show Pony, specializing in “fine diving” features late night comfort food set in a bar-forward joint.
• For the first time ever, Virginia’s Blue Ridge comes together to unveil the vibrant culinary scene throughout the region during VBR Restaurant Week, taking place May 31 through June 8. Restaurants throughout the City of Roanoke and Salem, and the Counties of Botetourt, Roanoke, and Franklin come together to showcase all the region’s food scene has to offer.
• A new hotel is set to open in a former bank in Downtown Roanoke that will feature a concert hall, a Spanish tapas-style restaurant, and three bars within. While the name is still to be determined, it may include a nod to the old bank’s name – “First National ” It is anticipated to open in summer 2025. This boutique hotel will feature 27 rooms, with the concert hall having a capacity of 750.

About Virginia’s Blue Ridge 

Virginia’s Blue Ridge (VBR) is nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains and along the Blue Ridge Parkway, providing a metro mountain mix of exciting outdoor adventure with refined culture.  Visit VBR is the official destination marketing organization for Virginia’s Blue Ridge which includes the Cities of Roanoke and Salem and the Counties of Botetourt, Franklin, and Roanoke. The region is easily accessible via the Roanoke-Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA), Interstate 81, and Amtrak’s northeast regional route. For more information, go to www.VisitVBR.com. 

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“We are extremely thankful that much of the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia has reopened to the public following Hurricane Helene,” said Landon Howard, president of Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge. “Virginia’s Blue Ridge region (the Cities of Roanoke & Salem and the Counties of Botetourt, Franklin and Roanoke) was fortunate to have sustained minimal damage during the storm and our hearts go out to our neighbors who are still cleaning up from Helene.”

Often known as “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway showcases the natural beauty of the region, especially during this time of year when fall foliage is nearing its peak (anticipated peak: end of October). Roanoke, the largest city on Virginia’s Blue Ridge Parkway, is an ideal home base for those looking to explore the area. Local businesses, including accommodations, restaurants and attractions, are open and welcoming visitors. Popular festivals and events, such as Roanoke Go Outside Festival (Oct. 18 – 20) and the Blue Ridge Folklife Festival (Oct. 26) will be taking place. The metro mountain adventure of Virginia’s Blue Ridge offers outdoor and city-life experiences alike, including arts and culture, vibrant culinary and craft beverage offerings, biking, paddling, hiking and more.

The Blue Ridge Parkway in N.C. remains closed as crews continue emergency stabilization and damage assessments following Hurricane Helene. Updates will be posted on the Blue Ridge Parkway website at www.nps.gov/blri and on the park’s social media platforms at @BlueRidgeNPS.

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The evaluating criteria includes the following categories: architecture and interior design, service quality and consistency, distinctive personality and character, value proposition, and meaningful contributions to the guest journey within their unique settings. Each Key symbolizes a distinct level of excellence: One Key denotes a remarkably memorable stay, Two Keys signify an unparalleled experience, while Three Keys epitomize an unmatched level of luxury and service.

“We are incredibly proud of our members’ exceptional achievement in being selected for the prestigious MICHELIN Key Hotels Guide,” said Jennifer Barnwell, President of Curator Hotel & Resort Collection. “This recognition showcases their unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled service and experiences to travelers. Having four of our members be part of the first ever MICHELIN Key Hotels Guide is a true honor. “

Curator Hotel & Resort Collection members recognized in the MICHELIN Key Hotels Guide include:

1 Hotel San Francisco – One Key (San Francisco, CA): Discover the essence of Northern California’s stunning landscape intertwined with sustainable design and unparalleled hospitality at 1 Hotel San Francisco. Pioneering as the city’s inaugural mission-driven hotel, 1 Hotel San Francisco is a sanctuary celebrating the Bay Area’s natural beauty while offering an oasis in the bustling heart of the city. Experience laid-back luxury amidst reclaimed wood, indigenous foliage, and organic elements, all thoughtfully curated to immerse guests in a harmonious environment. This pet-friendly retreat features top-notch amenities including a fitness center, wellness classes, and proximity to key attractions such as the Financial District, SoMa, Union Square, cultural landmarks, and Oracle Park.

Chamberlain West Hollywood Hotel – One Key (West Hollywood, CA): Situated just moments away from Sunset Boulevard, Chamberlain West Hollywood offers an intimate escape, boasting a selection of 115 newly renovated suites and an exquisite rooftop terrace that showcases the city’s most captivating vistas. With its glamorous ambiance and breathtaking panoramas, this hotel provides an unparalleled retreat for guests seeking luxury and sophistication in the heart of West Hollywood.

The Crawford Hotel – One Key (Denver, CO): More than a hotel in Denver, The Crawford Hotel is the best place to meet, shop, eat, drink, and sleep — right above the iconic Denver Union Station. Guests enter through the railway station, where they are welcomed with an immediate sense of wonder and excitement. With historic details such as 65-foot ceilings, soaring windows, and stunning chandeliers, this landmark is a portal to the best of Denver, complete with acclaimed restaurants, shops, and gathering places loved by locals and visitors alike.

Bernardus Lodge & Spa – Two Keys (Carmel Valley, CA): Nestled amidst 28 acres of secluded beauty in Carmel Valley, Bernardus Lodge & Spa stands as an epitome of luxury and tranquility. Embraced by verdant vineyards and breathtaking vistas, the boutique sanctuary promises an unmatched escape into serenity and indulgence. Boasting 73 opulent rooms and suites, a world-renowned spa, and a Forbes 4-star restaurant, every aspect of the resort is meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of refined relaxation. With an unwavering commitment to hospitality and the allure of its picturesque surroundings, Bernardus Lodge & Spa beckons travelers seeking an unforgettable and revitalizing retreat.

For more information on Curator Hotel & Resort Collection, visit www.curatorhotelsandresorts.com.

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