Frequently Asked Questions
Information about Center in the Square
What is Center in the Square?
Center in the Square is a nonprofit cultural complex in downtown Roanoke, VA. It serves as a hub for arts, science, and history by housing museums, theaters, aquariums, and event spaces that enrich the region’s quality of life.
What are the Center in the Square's hours?
Center in the Square is generally open:
- Monday: 10 AM – 5 PM
- Tuesday – Saturday: 10 AM – 8 PM
- Sunday: 1 PM – 6 PM
Note: Hours for individual museums and venues may vary.
Do I have to pay to visit the aquariums in the atrium?
No – the atrium aquariums, including the 8,000-gallon coral reef tank and themed exhibits like Predators of the Amazon and Turtles of Virginia, are free and open to the public during regular hours.
What museums are inside Center in the Square?
- Science Museum of Western Virginia
- Kids Square Children’s Museum
- Roanoke Pinball Museum
- Roanoke STARCADE Arcade Museum
How do I purchase tickets?
Tickets for museums and special exhibits can be purchased online, at Center in the Square’s box office, or at each museum’s entrance. Some attractions may also offer phone reservations or group rates.
Is Center in the Square accessible?
Yes – Center in the Square is ADA-compliant and offers features such as elevators, accessible restrooms, and sensory-friendly spaces (especially in Kids Square) to ensure an inclusive experience for all guests.
Can I host an event at Center in the Square?
No, we currently do not have any spaces available for events.
Where is Center in the Square located, and where can I park?
The Center is located at 1 Market Square SE in downtown Roanoke. Parking is available in the Center in the Square garage, on nearby streets, and in surrounding public lots.
More information available at DowntownRoanoke.org
Does Center in the Square offer educational programming or field trips?
Yes – through partnerships with the museums, the Center supports SOL-aligned educational experiences, interactive STEAM exhibits, and field trips coordinated through Center in the Square’s educational program, Center Adventure.
How can I support Center in the Square?
You can donate, volunteer, sponsor programs, or become a member. Community support helps keep attractions like the aquariums free and allows the Center to continue offering enriching experiences for all ages.
Directions to Center in the Square
From I-81 North:
Richmond, VA – 193 miles; Charleston, WV – 178 miles; Washington DC – 251 miles
I-81 South to I-581 South to Exit 5 (Williamson Rd.) Turn right on Campbell Ave. (3rd light)
From I-81 South:
Charlotte, NC – 194 miles
I-81 North to I-581 South to Exit 5 (Williamson Rd.) Turn right on Campbell Ave. (3rd light)
From US 220 South:
Greensboro, NC – 104 miles. US 220 to I-581 North to Exit 6.
Turn left on Elm Ave., turn right on Jefferson St. (2nd light), turn right Campbell Ave. (4th light)
From the Blue Ridge Parkway:
At milepost 121.4, Parkway junction with US 220 North to I-581 North to Exit 6.
Turn left on Elm Ave., turn right on Jefferson St. (2nd light), turn right Campbell Ave. (4th light)
From the Roanoke Regional Airport:
I-581 South to Exit 5 (Williamson Rd.). Turn right on Campbell Ave. (3rd light)