Known as the Unique Dining Capital of Texas, Downtown Roanoke has long attracted visitors with its restaurants, local businesses and community events. Now, major investments are preparing the Oak Street district for its next chapter.
From a new hotel and convention center to expanded parking and gateway signage, the City of Roanoke is working to create a more connected destination for residents and visitors.
What's coming downtown?
Several projects are underway or planned to support Roanoke's growing tourism and entertainment district. Key investments include:
The Cade Roanoke: Located at 600 S. Oak St., the 205-room hotel, part of Hilton's Curio Collection, will feature a restaurant, lobby bar, outdoor patio, courtyard pool and other amenities.
Convention center: The 61,268-square-foot, city-owned facility will include a ballroom, meeting rooms, a boardroom and shared event space for conferences, celebrations and other gatherings.
Downtown parking garage: Under construction at 102 S. Highway 377, the garage will provide more than 400 parking spaces within walking distance of Oak Street. The hotel and convention center development will include approximately 300 additional spaces.
Oak Street transformation: New gateway arches and monument signs at the district's north and south entrances, along with refreshed branding, will help establish a more recognizable downtown identity.
Although each project serves a different purpose, the city is coordinating their designs to create a cohesive downtown experience. By working with the same signage partner across multiple developments, Roanoke aims to establish consistent design elements throughout the district.
Why invest in downtown now?
As North Texas continues to grow, Roanoke is preparing for increased demand rather than waiting for challenges to arise. More visitors to Oak Street's dining and entertainment venues create opportunities to expand parking, improve accessibility and provide overnight accommodations.
The hotel and convention center will also allow Roanoke to accommodate conferences, multiday events and overnight visitors that its existing facilities could not fully serve.
"Roanoke is choosing to prepare for growth rather than chase it," City Manager Cody Petree said. "We're thinking not only about what Downtown Roanoke needs today, but what we want it to look and feel like for the next generation."
How will businesses benefit?
The hotel and convention center are expected to create opportunities for local restaurants, retailers and entertainment venues by encouraging visitors to spend more time downtown.
The development could transform Roanoke from a day-trip destination into an overnight getaway, giving hotel guests and conference attendees more time to explore Oak Street's businesses.
Ahead of the opening, the city is expanding tourism marketing to promote local dining, shopping and entertainment while attracting new business investment. Roanoke also added two events in the fourth quarter of 2026, bringing its annual city event calendar to 13.
"Our local businesses are an important part of what makes Roanoke special, and the City has a responsibility to help create an environment where they can thrive," Mayor Scooter Gierisch said.
Together, these efforts aim to increase customer traffic and attract businesses that complement the district's existing character.
What about Roanoke's character?
While attracting visitors remains a priority, city officials emphasize that downtown's transformation also focuses on improving residents' experiences.
Additional parking, clearer signage and expanded gathering opportunities are intended to make Oak Street more convenient for everyday visits, family outings and community events.
Preserving the district's architecture, walkable atmosphere and local businesses also remains central to the city's plans.
"Growth doesn't have to mean losing the things people already love about Downtown Roanoke. In fact, we want these investments to strengthen those qualities," Sandy Pettigrew, Public Engagement manager said.
Ultimately, the city hopes these investments will support a downtown where businesses thrive, residents feel connected and visitors return.
Rather than marking a final destination, the projects represent another step in Roanoke's evolution, building on its identity while preparing for future growth.
Looking ahead
Residents and visitors can follow the city's official channels for project updates, parking information and upcoming community events.
Website: roanoketexas.gov
Facebook: @CityofRoanokeTexas
Instagram: @cityofroanoketx
Frequently asked questions
What new developments are coming to Downtown Roanoke?
Downtown Roanoke is adding The Cade Roanoke hotel, a 61,268-square-foot convention center, a public parking garage with more than 400 spaces, Oak Street gateway arches, monument signage and refreshed downtown branding.
What is The Cade Roanoke hotel?
The Cade Roanoke is a 205-room, full-service hotel at 600 S. Oak St. Part of Hilton's Curio Collection, it will feature a restaurant, lobby bar, outdoor patio, courtyard pool and other guest amenities.
Where is the new Downtown Roanoke parking garage?
The public parking garage is under construction at 102 S. Highway 377, between Main Street and Bowie Street. It will provide more than 400 parking spaces within walking distance of Oak Street's restaurants, shops and entertainment venues.
What will the new Roanoke convention center offer?
The 61,268-square-foot, city-owned convention center will include a ballroom, meeting rooms, a boardroom and shared event space. It will accommodate conferences, business meetings, celebrations and other gatherings.
How will Oak Street improvements benefit residents and businesses?
New gateway arches, monument signage, expanded parking and coordinated branding aim to improve accessibility and attract more visitors. The improvements are designed to support local businesses while preserving Downtown Roanoke's historic character and community atmosphere.