Pros & cons
PROS
- Solid exhibits and a short Parkway film
- Well-stocked shop with local crafts and memorabilia
- Knowledgeable staff with tons of maps and trip-planning help
CONS
- Hours vary seasonally—easy to find it closed if you don’t check
- Not NPS-ranger staffed, which some travelers expect
Overview
Right off Milepost 115, this is the Roanoke area’s gateway stop for the Parkway. It’s a partnership-run center (operated by Roanoke County) with exhibits, an orientation film, and a legit park store—exactly the kind of place that helps your trip click into place.
What You’ll Find Inside
- Two small but useful exhibit galleries covering Parkway history and regional settlement.
- A short film about the Blue Ridge Parkway shown in an onsite theater.
- An information desk with a deep rack of maps and flyers for nearby sights, trails, and towns.
- A Park Store carrying regional arts and crafts, Parkway memorabilia, and grab-and-go snacks.
Why Stop Here
If you’re cruising the Virginia stretch, this is one of the best places to get your bearings, pick up printed maps, and ask a human where your time is best spent. The store is stronger than most—good for meaningful souvenirs instead of generic trinkets.
Wildlife & Setting
Explore Park is part of the Virginia Birding and Wildlife Trail, so keep an ear out for woodpeckers and songbirds. Around the Roanoke River you may spot waterfowl and turtles; deer often browse the woodlands nearby.
Planning Notes
- Location: Blue Ridge Parkway MP 115. If the Parkway is closed, you can still reach the center via Rutrough Road.
- Amenities: Restrooms, plenty of parking, exhibits, theater, and a solid gift shop. Picnic areas are nearby, and snacks are sold inside.
- Fees: If you plan to use the Roanoke River access, bring cash for posted day-use fees.
Best Time to Visit
- Weekdays or early in the day for the calmest experience and easy parking.
- Shoulder seasons are pleasant; holiday periods and special events can draw crowds.
- If you’re a planner, pop in early in your trip—catch the film, then tailor your route with staff advice.
Where it is
37.2383, -79.8520Explore Park Visitor Center and Park Store
Tips for Explore Park Visitor Center and Park Store
- 01Check seasonal hours before you go—they change throughout the year.
- 02Use Rutrough Road for access if the Parkway is closed at MP 115.
- 03Watch the short Parkway film first, then plan your stops with staff help.
- 04Pick up free maps and brochures—there are hundreds on hand.
- 05Bring cash if you plan to use the Roanoke River access area.
Amenities
Near Explore Park Visitor Center and Park Store
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayExplore Park CampgroundGlamping-to-primitive campground with trails, river access, and brewpubCampground · Restroom
1.5 mi awayRoanoke River TrailQuick riverside leg stretcher with dam and river views.Easy · 0.4 mi · 30 min
1.5 mi awayRoanoke River OverlookQuick river-and-dam views with a short, choose-your-effort trailTrailhead · Pullout
4.2 mi awayStewart Knob TrailQuick, quiet leg-stretcher with Blue Ridge views near RoanokeEasy · 0.5 mi · 18 min
5.4 mi awayChestnut Ridge Loop TrailShady hardwood loop with easy grades and great birding near RoanokeModerate · 5.4 mi · 2.5 hr
5.4 mi awayRoanoke Mountain Woodland TrailMini summit loop with big Roanoke Valley views.Easy · 0.4 mi · 15 min
5.4 mi awayRoanoke Mountain Picnic AreaShady picnic hub with grills and quick access to Roanoke viewsTrailhead · Restroom
12.7 mi awayRoanoke Mountain OverlookSummit views over Roanoke via a quiet, one-way mountain loopPullout · Parking
