Noke News explores parts of Roanoke by foot, equipped with a camera and a notepad, in hopes of learning something new. Perhaps you will too.

When it comes to the Downtown Roanoke area one of the most recognized buildings, if not the most recognized, is the Wachovia Tower.

The building is tall and stately, and easily seen when approaching downtown from almost any direction, or simply passing by on Route 220/I-581.

Yet, beyond it just existing as a tall building, I think it’s purpose may help to bring close to home a humbling aspect of Roanoke.

The Approach

I came in from the West direction traveling via Salem Avenue, parallel parked across the street from Warehouse Row, and covered the rest of the distance on foot.

Late day sunshine causes the Tower to give off a faint glow at this distance.

Ground Level

Standing on the sidewalk and looking up at this building leaves me in awe, and l feel a sense of being swallowed whole in its presence.

But, I welcome the feeling.

It reminds me that Roanoke, for its size, does have at the very least a modest and sustainable downtown atmosphere. We do have a downtown.

Eye Level

After walking a short distance, over to the Shenandoah Avenue entrance of the Hotel Roanoke, I gain a little better footing to view.

The Tower’s dominance in height is clear in comparison to other nearby buildings.

But the, the tables are set to turn a bit.

From the Top

The view seen on an overlook at Mill Mountain causes a change in roles completely, with myself being the thing that is looked up to from below.

And Roanoke, with its natural landscape, permits this entire circle of experiences to take place.

From city to country, bottom to top, and back, in mere minutes.

Now, that’s pretty cool.

As for the Wachovia Tower itself, I know it hardly holds a candle to some of the skyscrapers in New York, Chicago, or even Richmond.

But, to me and to Roanoke it’s just the right size I think.