The Roanoke Rapids center point is approximately 3 miles west of Halifax Community College and 19 miles south of Greensville Memorial Hospital.
Since Roanoke Rapids doesn't have a large tourist draw, it's easy to visit and enjoy the city any time of year. As far as weather, though, the best time to visit Roanoke Rapids is in the spring and fall. Both seasons offer comfortable temperatures and lovely foliage.
High temperatures range from 60 to 78 degrees from March through May, with lows dipping into the high 30s. If you're interested in the local history, check out the annual Halifax Resolves Day in early- to mid-April. This popular event celebrates the colony's first official action for independence against Great Britain. The event includes guest speakers, a reception, costumed re-enactors, and other fun activities.
Summers in Roanoke Rapids can easily hit 90 degrees, especially in July. If you're visiting on the Fourth of July, head to Historic Halifax for the annual Independence Day celebration. The event includes musket firing demonstrations, a special Declaration of Independence reading, an outdoor drama, and fireworks.
Temperatures start to cool down in Roanoke Rapids around September, making fall a great time to visit. Fall is also the best season to hike the Roanoke Canal Trail. In fact, organized hikes take place usually on the second Saturday of the month during the fall, which includes free admission to the Roanoke Canal Museum afterward.
Winters in North Carolina can be bitterly cold, so expect low temperatures dipping into the 20s around January. If you don't mind the frigid temperatures, however, you can save quite a bit of money on your accommodations. Hotel rates are at their yearly low, but you should remember that some area attractions might be closed for the season.
If you're trying to save money on your trip to Roanoke Rapids and you qualify for a special rate, take advantage of it!
AAA members can save an average of 10 percent off area hotels, such as Red Roof Inn Roanoke Rapids. This conveniently located hotel features 96 air-conditioned guest rooms with free wireless internet access. All rooms have been recently updated with modern, natural wood furnishings, comfortable beds, mini-fridges, microwaves, hairdryers, clock radios with alarms, work desks, ironing facilities, and flat-screen TVs. Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee or tea in the hotel lobby, play in the seasonal outdoor pool, or catch up on work in the business center. Best of all, pets stay free.
Military families and government employees can save up to 15 percent off hotels like Baymont Inn & Suites – Roanoke Rapids. Easily accessible from I-95, this pet-friendly hotel features a seasonal outdoor pool, well-equipped fitness center, ample parking, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a free continental breakfast. Rooms feature flat-screen TVs, hairdryers, coffeemakers, microwaves, mini-fridges, and homey interiors.
Seniors can also save money on regular room rates throughout Roanoke Rapids. Whatever special rate you qualify for, simply present proof of eligibility, such as an ID or membership card, at check-in.
Roanoke Rapids has many mid-range hotels priced to give you extra value for your dollar.
Situated off I-95, Quality Inn Roanoke Rapids provides guests with a complimentary hot breakfast each morning. Other amenities include a free weekday newspaper, an on-site business center, a seasonal outdoor pool, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. Guest rooms include microwaves, refrigerators, hairdryers, coffeemakers, ironing facilities, and beds with premium mattresses and fresh linens. Choose a room with a sofa sleeper if you need extra room for the family.
Another great option is Sleep inn Roanoke Rapids. This pet-friendly accommodation boasts an indoor heated pool, free Wi-Fi, and even a secretarial service for business travelers. The cozy guest rooms feature mini-fridges, microwaves, ironing facilities, flat-screen TVs, ample storage space for clothes, oversized walk-in showers, and thoughtful decor.
When visiting the area, you'll want to stop by the Roanoke Canal Museum & Trail. The Roanoke Canal itself is nearly 200 years old and served as a major trade and transportation route for the founding fathers. Museum exhibits showcase the canal's development and its later conversion from navigation to power generation. Admission to the museum is just $4 per person, and children 8 years old and younger get in free. Be sure to pick up a brochure with a map of the hiking trails and points of interest.
Check out the Roanoke Rapids Theatre for any events playing during your stay. The 1,500-seat facility is a premier tourist attraction in the region, housing major performances from nationally known R&B, rock, and country musicians, as well as other theatrical performances. You might even catch a production of a Broadway show!
History buffs should tour the Allen Grove Rosenwald School in Halifax. Located at the 4-H Rural Life Center, this well-preserved schoolhouse was used between the 1920s and 1950s to educate African-American students. Tours of the schoolhouse are available for free upon request.
Whether you're visiting Roanoke Rapids to see friends or family, you're passing through the area, or you're checking out the local history, this area offers plenty of Southern hospitality and noteworthy sites. From upscale accommodations to budget-friendly roadside hotels, Roanoke Rapids offers something for everyone. Book now to start planning your getaway.
Below are reviews of the city of Roanoke Rapids, NC from an actual visitor's perspective.
LKG family reunion in Henrico County.
Just stayed at hotel!
Free water and breakfast.
We stayed overnight at the hotel to get to work in NY. Next time we will stay longer.
A lot of restaurants!
Great town.
Foodlion store for other essential items which was nearby.
Visited Weldon Distillery which is in Weldon on the river.
Great service from Rosie at the front desk and the rest of the staff!
Lots of places to eat!
We love Roanoke Rapids, we come down there every year!
Easy to get around with lots of restaurants close by and shopping!
Great place for fishing!
We attended a comedy show in Littleton and stayed in Roanoke Rapids. Enjoyed Biscuitville and people were all very nice.
Convenient to restaurants, gas stations, and Walmart.
We didn't go into Roanoke Rapids. Just stopped for the night. Nice area.
Number of places to eat off 95. The waitress at Ruby Tuesday was personable and valued our meal experience
Nice area.
The beautiful scenery driving through.