Blueridge Parkway First Stop
 

We will be driving the Blueridge Parkway in October and was wondering where would be he best place for our first stop? We would like to visit Natural Bridge along the way and were considering either Peaks of Otter or Roanoke. Peaks of Otter seems to fit more with the "feel" of the BRP, whereas it sounds like there is more to do in Roanoke. Also, the next day we will be heading to Blowing Rock, NC, which would be less traveling from Roanoke. Any suggestions?

You're departing from the north then?

Yes, we will be coming from Charlottesville.

Peeks of Otter is very nice.I prefer nature to towns.PAul

Peaks of Otter is much more the "feeling" of the BRP; there's more to "do" in Ranoke but is it stuff you like to do?
Eg- I usually think of Roanoke's Center in the Square with a bit of shopping, etc; the Sciende Museum; and restaurants. It's some stuff but not a ton. There's also a theater/arena/concert hall. If what Roanoke offers sounds appealing stay there but my preference would be Peaks of Otter--more nature/outdoorsy.