Things to do
- Stroll through the museum exhibits, featuring the development and construction of the Roanoke Navigation Canal and other canals like it on the fall line and the conversion from navigation to power generation
- Watch an oral history DVD in which 10 people share their research and reminiscences about the Roanoke Canal and the Roanoke River
- Peruse locally donated artifacts portraying life along the Roanoke River during the lifetime of the canal
- Learn about local wildlife found along the Roanoke Canal Trail and the Roanoke River, including the infamous striped bass
- Angle for magnetic fish, construct an aqueduct, dress in animal costumes, draw on the chalkboard or play with blocks or animal magnets in our children’s area
- Have a picnic with family, friends or civic group in our picnic area
- Walk portions of the 7.5 mile Roanoke Canal Trail, on your own or with a guide, to observe wildlife, view historic canal structures and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Roanoke River
- Guided tours are complimentary for school groups and non-profit organizations
Hours and Admission
- Open Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.
- General Admission 9 years and older: $4.00 per person
- General Admission 8 years and younger: Free
- Halifax County Residents receive a $2.00 per person discount on General Admission rates.
- Guided Tours: $2.00 per person, requested minimum of 10 people per group. Groups of less than 10 people will be charged a minimum of $20. Children 4 years and younger in a group tour are free. See the Educational Tours page for additional information.
The Roanoke Canal Museum Gallery
The museum utilizes traditional and interactive exhibits to explain how the original canal – with its locks, culverts, and massive aqueduct – was built and turned the Roanoke River into a superhighway of commerce during the early 19th century. The story continues by explaining how the canal was transformed from a trade route into a hydroelectric power resource just over a century ago before becoming the greenway and historic site of today.
