A Message from Roanoke Outside…

Our trails, parks, open spaces, and rivers have seen anywhere from 50% to 200% increases in usage in recent weeks. People have turned to the region’s natural assets for rejuvenation and recreation during the pandemic; they offer a respite from Zoom calls and distance learning. Hikes, bike rides, and float trips are lifting our spirits, health, and one day soon … our economy.

Bill Gurley of Benchmark Capital predicts one of the biggest winners during the coronavirus pandemic will be companies in the outdoor space and less densely populated communities.

The Roanoke Region is well-positioned to capitalize on this due to our foresight and investment in the outdoors.

As Virginia moves into Phase 1 of Forward Virginia, we’d like to remind folks that although some of you are ready to get back out there, many more aren’t quite ready.

If you’re going to go, be smart, be safe, and be understanding.

It’s important that no matter your personal viewpoint that we’re unified in our desire to beat this virus, to get past this, and get back to living life to the fullest.

Please respect the shop owner that chooses not to open yet, and respect guidelines and rules they implement if they do; they’re doing it to protect you and their employees. If asked to wear a mask, do it. Now is not the time to create a division, it’s the time to create unity.

• Private campgrounds are able to reopen; state park campgrounds will open May 22.
• Retail stores can open at 50% occupancy.
• Restaurants and breweries can serve patrons at 50% occupancy in outdoor seating only.
• Roanoke is re-opening the greenways in the city limits.

As we begin to move around a bit more, it is vital to look out for each other by practicing safe distancing and modeling excellent hygiene habits.

If we all rush out and bombard businesses and recreational areas, we run the risk of seeing a spike in COVID cases and then everything being closed again. Please practice common sense – if a location is crowded, head somewhere else.

Please visit our COVID-19 Outdoor Resource page to see how outdoor businesses and the different recreation areas are adjusting.