Mill Mountain Star Roanoke
A 100-foot neon star atop Mill Mountain, offering iconic views of Roanoke and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Star and city lights shine bright
Mill Mountain Star Roanoke
Best Time
Star and city lights shine bright
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 100-foot neon star atop Mill Mountain, offering iconic views of Roanoke and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
"The star is truly amazing along with the view is unbelievable."
🌅 Catch the Sunset Magic
Arrive before sunset to witness the transition from day to night, with the star and city lights coming alive.
🚗 Drive or Hike Up
You can drive directly to the star, or take one of the scenic hiking trails for a more active experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Roanoke Star
Summit of Mill Mountain
A massive, neon-lit star that's a beloved regional landmark, visible from miles around.
Panoramic City Views
Mill Mountain Overlook
Breathtaking vistas of downtown Roanoke and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, especially stunning at sunset.
Mill Mountain Park Exploration
Mill Mountain
Enjoy walking trails, wildflowers, a playground, and the historic charm of this mountain park.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Star
Accessing the Roanoke Star
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset Magic
Arrive before sunset to witness the transition from day to night, with the star and city lights coming alive.
🚗 Drive or Hike Up
You can drive directly to the star, or take one of the scenic hiking trails for a more active experience.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The overlook offers incredible photo opportunities, especially with the star and city as your backdrop.
💡 Star's Special Colors
The star sometimes changes colors for holidays or special occasions, adding to its charm.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset Magic
Arrive before sunset to witness the transition from day to night, with the star and city lights coming alive.
🚗 Drive or Hike Up
You can drive directly to the star, or take one of the scenic hiking trails for a more active experience.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The overlook offers incredible photo opportunities, especially with the star and city as your backdrop.
💡 Star's Special Colors
The star sometimes changes colors for holidays or special occasions, adding to its charm.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
If you plan to explore the trails or walk around the overlook, comfortable footwear is a must.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Mill Mountain Star for its iconic status, breathtaking panoramic views of Roanoke and the Blue Ridge Mountains, and its accessibility. It's considered a must-see landmark, especially beautiful at sunset and night when the star is illuminated. Some visitors note that facilities like the zoo and restrooms have limited hours, so planning ahead is advised.
"This place is a wonderful piece if Roanoke's past, present, and future. With a enormous lit up star at the top of Mill Mountain that can be seen easily from across town, to the beautifully crafted overlook which leads way to the so many beautiful lights across the city, it's definitely worth visiting. If you come early in the day you can visit the Mill Mountain Zoo, and by the time you go grab dinner (possibly take out) and come back, if you're returning around the time the sun sets, you're in luck. The views at sunset are amazing and just continues to impress as the day goes on leading to nightfall. From a beautiful sun set to a gorgeous view of so much of the city, and to be free to visit, you just can't go wrong."
Doug Smith
"Very cool and super unique to Roanoke. The star is truly amazing along with the view is unbelievable. It lights up every night and even changes colors on special holidays. It definitely gets packed so good luck actually being to see the star during the holidays it changes colors."
Brandon Ochoa
"The Mill Mountain Star is absolutely beautiful and a must-see when visiting Roanoke! The star itself is iconic, and the view from the overlook is just as impressive stunning panoramic scenery of the city and mountains.
There’s also plenty of interesting information about the history of the star and its significance to the area, which makes the visit even more meaningful. It’s a great spot to visit during the day or evening, especially if you enjoy scenic views and a touch of local history.
Easy to access, well-kept, and perfect for photos definitely worth the stop!"
Theresa N.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive directly to the Mill Mountain Star via the scenic road up Mill Mountain. Parking is available at the overlook. For hikers, there are trails that lead to the star, such as the Mill Mountain Trail.
Yes, the Mill Mountain Star is easily accessible by car. The road leading to the overlook is well-maintained and offers beautiful views as you ascend.
Absolutely! Several trails lead to the Roanoke Star, including the Mill Mountain Trail, which is a popular choice for a moderate hike.
The road up Mill Mountain is stroller and wheelchair accessible, making it a great option for families or those with mobility concerns.
Many visitors enjoy combining a drive up for the views with a short walk around the overlook or a hike on one of the park's trails.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to visit the Mill Mountain Star or the overlook. It's a free public attraction.
The Mill Mountain Star is illuminated every night, and the overlook is generally accessible during daylight hours. However, facilities like the zoo and discovery center have specific operating hours.
Yes, visiting at night is highly recommended to see the star lit up and enjoy the city lights. It's a magical experience.
No advance booking is required as there is no admission fee. You can visit anytime.
While the star is always lit, access to the park and its facilities may vary. It's best to check local listings for specific park hours if you plan to visit the zoo or discovery center.
🎫 🌟 Onsite Experience
Mill Mountain Park offers a playground, picnic areas, wildflower gardens, walking trails, and the Mill Mountain Zoo and Discovery Center.
Sunset and evening are popular for the illuminated star and city lights. Daytime offers clear views of the mountains and valley.
Absolutely! The panoramic views of Roanoke and the Blue Ridge Mountains are stunning and a major highlight for visitors.
Restroom availability can vary. While permanent restrooms might be closed seasonally or after hours, porta-potties are sometimes available.
Yes, there are picnic areas available at Mill Mountain Park, making it a great spot for a family outing.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The main overlook provides the classic shot of the star with the city in the background. Various points along the trails also offer unique perspectives.
Yes, night photography is excellent here. Consider a tripod for sharper images of the illuminated star and city lights.
Golden hour (just before sunset) and twilight offer beautiful lighting for both the star and the cityscape.
Generally, photography is allowed and encouraged. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid using flash directly at the star if it might be disruptive.
For daytime, a standard aperture like f/8 works well. For night shots, use a longer exposure and a lower ISO, and a tripod is essential.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day to explore the zoo and enjoy the playground, then stay for sunset to see the star light up. It's a memorable experience that combines fun, education, and stunning scenery, making it a top choice for families visiting Roanoke.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Outdoor Enthusiasts
+1Combine your hike with a visit to the star and the overlooks for a complete experience. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially on warmer days. The trails provide a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
📸 Photographers
Bring a tripod for low-light conditions to capture the star and city lights with clarity. Experiment with different angles from the overlook and along the trails to find unique compositions. The changing colors of the star for special occasions also offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of the Roanoke Star
The star has evolved over the years, with updates to its lighting and occasional color changes for special events and holidays, further cementing its place in the community's heart. It's more than just a landmark; it represents the spirit and resilience of Roanoke, visible from across the valley and serving as a guiding light for residents and visitors alike.
In recent times, there have been discussions and honors associated with the star, including naming it after community figures, highlighting its deep connection to the people of Roanoke. This enduring landmark continues to be a source of pride and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the area.
Exploring Mill Mountain Park
+1For those who love to hike, Mill Mountain offers a network of trails catering to different fitness levels. The Mill Mountain Trail is a popular choice for a moderate hike that leads directly to the star. The road that was once drivable is now a walking path, offering a pleasant, albeit uphill, stroll.
+1In addition to the natural beauty and recreational opportunities, the park is home to the Mill Mountain Zoo and the Discovery Center, providing educational and entertaining experiences for all ages. These attractions add another dimension to a visit, making Mill Mountain a comprehensive destination for a day trip.
The Unforgettable Views from Mill Mountain
As dusk settles, the city lights begin to twinkle, creating a magical atmosphere that continues into the night. The star itself, illuminated and often changing colors for special occasions, adds to the enchanting scene. It's a perfect spot for reflection, photography, or simply soaking in the beauty of the region.
Even on a cloudy day, the views from Mill Mountain retain a certain peaceful charm. The expansive scenery offers a sense of tranquility and a moment to appreciate the natural grandeur of Virginia. The accessibility of these views, whether by car or hike, makes them a highlight for nearly every visitor.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit