Roanoke, capital of the Blue Ridge, is the southern gateway to the Shenandoah Valley. It's the largest metropolitan area in western Virginia, and it offers beautiful surroundings and myriad restaurants.

If you plan to shop, stop by the region's largest mall, Valley View. Hunt for antiques and visit unique shops in the Historic Farmer's Market.

For recreation, how about taking in a Salem Avalanche baseball game, or a Roanoke Express hockey game?