Roanoke, located in the heart of Southwest Virginia, is a city with deep historical roots and surrounded by the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Situated along the Roanoke River, the city’s scenic landscapes have long attracted outdoor enthusiasts, while its rich cultural heritage makes it a vibrant place to live. Roanoke's history dates back to the 17th century, when it was originally inhabited by the Siouan-speaking Tutelo tribe. European settlers, particularly Scotch-Irish and German farmers, began to arrive in the 18th century, gradually developing the area into a farming and trading community.

The city truly came into its own in 1882, when the Norfolk and Western Railway (N&W) established Roanoke as its headquarters. This transformed Roanoke from a small, rural town into a booming industrial hub, growing its population by 2,300% in just a decade. Known as "The Magic City" due to its rapid expansion, Roanoke flourished through the early 20th century as it became the economic center of Southwest Virginia. However, the city's fortunes shifted when N&W relocated its headquarters in the 1980s, prompting Roanoke to diversify its economy, transitioning into a service-oriented city focused on healthcare, education, and outdoor tourism.