Roanoke, VA Nightlife Guide
Bars, Live Music & Entertainment in the Star City
When the sun sets behind Mill Mountain, Roanoke's nightlife awakens with craft cocktail lounges, Appalachian music venues, and historic dive bars. From speakeasy-style mixology to line-dancing honky-tonks, discover why locals call this "the biggest little nightlife town in Virginia."
Downtown Hotspots
The Cornerstone
507 Jefferson St • Craft Cocktails • $$
Roanoke's premier mixology bar in a restored 1880s building. Their "Blue Ridge Mule" with local moonshine and ginger beer is legendary. Live jazz Wednesdays and vinyl DJs on weekends.
Secret Order: Ask for the "Star City Sour" (off-menu bourbon cocktail with blackberry shrub).
Live Music Venues
Martin's Downtown
413 1st St • Blues/Rock • Cover $5-20
Intimate venue hosting national touring acts since 1975. The exposed brick walls and killer sound system make every show memorable.
5 Points Music Sanctuary
1217 Maple Ave • Eclectic • Non-profit
Former church turned music venue with stained glass windows. Features indie bands and donates proceeds to hearing charities.
Breweries & Distilleries
Twin Creeks Brewpub
Wasena District • 20+ taps
Industrial-chic space with seasonal brews like "Mill Mountain IPA" and "Star City Stout." Thursday trivia draws crowds.
Try: Flight of their Blue Ridge Trail Series (hiker-inspired beers).
Late-Night Eats
Texas Tavern
114 Church Ave • 24/7 since 1930
Post-bar ritual for generations. Order a "Cheesy Western" burger and bowl of chili (ask for it "all the way") at this 10-stool diner.
Grace's Place Pizza
Open until 2am • Cash only
NY-style slices the size of your face. The "Star City Special" with local sausage and mountain honey is perfect after last call.
Roanoke Nightlife Know-How
- • Free downtown trolley runs until 1am Friday/Saturday
- • Most bars close at 2am, but breweries shut down by midnight
- • First Fridays bring extended hours and street performers
- • Check @DowntownRoanoke for weekly event listings
