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.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.8 · 4,756 reviews
Type
Cultural landmark
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.
"A wonderful place to catch a great view especially during sunset!! Decent parking, bathroom, and nice walking paths. A must check out please for you to see!
👍 If you enjoy my reviews please give me a thumbs up and feel free to follow me for constructive reviews."
L Molle
"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
"We were staying for the night with friends who live nearby and they suggested we visit The Star because of the great view.
And they were right about that. It was late dusk when we arrived, and the view over the city was pretty.
We would have preferred to go there in daylight so we could see the hills in the background, but it was pleasant enough.
My only question is, "Why?"
The star may be illuminated at night, but other than that, it's an eyesore that detracts from the natural beauty."
Mark Farrar
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit