Having lived in Virginia for over 18 years now, I think it's high time I got around to visiting the Museum in Roanoke. I will be there next Saturday, and figure I will have from opening at 10:00 AM to about 3 PM to see what I can. For those that live in the area or have visited the museum I'd like to know what parts of the museum do I NOT want to miss and those part(s) that may wait for another visit with more time.
Replies sorted oldest to newest
Paul,
The VMT is not so big that you are going to miss anything there in your time allotment. I would think most of your time will be spent outside where the locos are. Inside is a toss up. There is a nice model train layout, the gift shop and there is a diesel cab you can sit in. Depending on how hard core you might be about antique cars, I wouldn't think a lot of time would be spent on them.
I would make sure you saved time to go look through the O.Winston Link Museum which is very close by in the old passenger station, right in front of Hotel Roanoke.
Thanks for the answers so far gentlemen, and I didn't realize that they had automobiles there also, if I find the time, I would definitely like to see what they have on display there also. The Velocity Channel is highly watched and enjoyed here.
When I visited, there was everything from covered wagons to a rocket. I think Curt gave you the best advice, but agree that you should be able to see it all in your allotted time. Have fun - it's great!
Sounds like one of those detours you could easily skip, but DON'T miss the O. Winston Link Museum. It's around the corner from the VMT in the former N&W passenger Station. Link is probably the greatest RR photographer of the 20th century. You will recognize his photos when you see them. Watch the introductory documentary film. It is excellent...all about him and N&W steam. There is some rare footage that Link himself shot. You won't regret it!
The station itself is worth a visit. It is a building remodeled by Raymond Loewy, designer of PRR's Broadway Limited, and other PRR stuff (as well as many items you probably didn't realize were his, like the Studebaker. The old train info board has been left in tact.
Hope you enjoy Roanoke,
Joe Silien
Thanks guys looking forward to finally getting to seeing the museum.
Access to this requires an OGR Forum Supporting Membership
