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Engagement Scholarship Consortium International Conference Bridging Resources to Build Stronger Communities
October 8-9, 2025
Pre-Conference: October 6-7
Learn more
Hosted by Virginia Tech and the member institutions of the ESC East Region
Things To Do
Whether you’re arriving early or planning to stay after the conference, the Blue Ridge Mountains offer endless opportunities to explore, unwind, and discover. From vibrant downtown Roanoke to the scenic overlooks of the Blue Ridge Parkway, you’ll find no shortage of things to see and do. Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge has a full guide to the region, and we’ve also put together a few excursions just for conference attendees.
Historic Downtown Walking Tour
Experience our vibrant downtown at an easy walk and pace, all while enjoying iconic and historic locations, colorful history, and cultural influences. Plus, get a few treats along the way!
When: Monday, Oct. 6; 2-4:15 p.m. | Tuesday, Oct. 7; 10 a.m. - 2:15 p.m.
Where: The Hotel Roanoke & Conference Center main front lobby
Cost: $30/person - Space is limited
Questions? Call 540-309-1781
E-bike Tour
Meet Roanoke Mountain Adventures at Hotel Roanoke, where you will hop on an e-bike and enjoy a ride on the Lick Run Greenway with your bike guide. We will meet at the Wells Ave side of the hotel and spend ample time going over the operations of the e-bikes before we head out. The Lick Run Greenway is a paved trail with a 4.1 mile section from the hotel to Valley View Mall.
When: Monday, Oct. 6, 2-4 p.m.
Where: Meet Roanoke Mountain Adventures at the Wells Avenue entrance of the hotel.
Cost: $30/person
Enjoy the ride and the wonderful views of the Mill Mountain Star and surrounding mountains from Washington Park and the greenway bridge across I-581. Pricing includes e-bike rental, helmet, other safety equipment, and tour guide. Wear comfortable, weather-related clothing and closed-toed shoes. After returning from the greenway, we will stop at one of the downtown breweries where participants can purchase a drink of their choice and take in the Roanoke brewery scene.
Participants should be able to comfortably ride a normal bike, but no prior e-bike experience is necessary.
Please provide your height so we can bring the appropriate bikes.
Guided Mill Mountain Hike
Let Roanoke Mountain Adventures be your guide to the iconic Mill Mountain Star. Your guide will lead you along the mountain, introducing you to the trails that have made Roanoke famous!
When: Monday, Oct. 7; 12:30 p.m.
Where: Meet at the Wells Avenue entrance to The Hotel Roanoke and then shuttle to the top of Mill Mountain. Your guide will lead you from the iconic star down the Star Trail and back.
Cost: $30/person. A full refund will be issued if we do not meet our six person minimum.
Wear athletic, weather appropriate clothing and close-toed athletic shoes. Bring water and any snacks you may want on the trail.
Get more information on things to do in Roanoke from Visit Virginia's Blue Ridge!