TRANSPORTATION
Nearby Airports and Transportation Options
By Plane:
Blacksburg does not have a major commercial airport, but several regional and international airports provide convenient access:
Roanoke–Blacksburg Regional Airport (ROA)
Located approximately 45 miles (about 45 minutes) from Blacksburg, this is the closest and most convenient airport. ROA offers direct flights to major hubs including Charlotte, Atlanta, and Washington, D.C. with rental cars available on site.
Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT)
About 170 miles (3–3.5 hours) from Blacksburg. CLT is a major international airport with extensive flight options and offers more direct routes.
Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
IAD is located approximately 270 miles (4.5–5 hours) from Blacksburg.
By Train:
The closest passenger rail service is Roanoke Amtrak Station, served by Amtrak’s Northeast Regional line.
The station is approximately 45 miles from Blacksburg, and travelers will need to arrange transportation via rental car, shuttle, or rideshare.
By Car:
Blacksburg is accessible by several major highways and is a manageable drive from many nearby cities:
Approximately 4 hours from Washington, D.C.
About 3.5 hours from Charlotte, NC
About 3 hours from Richmond, VA
Roughly 2.5 hours from Greensboro, NC
About 45 minutes from Roanoke, VA
Primary routes include US-460 and I-81, which connect the region to major interstate corridors throughout Virginia and the Southeast.
Car Rentals
For attendees flying into the region, renting a car is often the easiest option for traveling to Blacksburg. The town is approximately 45 minutes from the nearest commercial airport, and having a rental car provides the most flexibility and convenience during your stay.
Major airports serving the region offer on-site rental car services.
At the Airport
Enterprise Rent‑A‑Car – ROA Airport
Hertz Car Rental – ROA Airport
National Car Rental – ROA Airport
Budget Car Rental – ROA Airport
Rideshare & Car Services (Uber, Lyft)
Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft are available in the Roanoke and Blacksburg areas and may be a suitable option.
Rideshare or cab service is a reliable option for transportation between the Roanoke–Blacksburg Regional Airport and Blacksburg, though availability can vary depending on time of day and local demand.
B Early Cab Service - 540-389-3222
Mountain Valley Transportation – 540-679-0223
Point of Departure - 540-750-5902
Within Blacksburg, rideshare services can be useful for short trips between hotels, conference venues, restaurants, and downtown areas. However, service may be limited late at night or during peak conference times.
Attendees who plan to rely on rideshare services are encouraged to allow extra time for pickups and consider availability when planning their travel. For maximum flexibility during the conference, renting a car remains the most dependable option.
Guests staying at The Inn at Virginia Tech will have access to conference shuttle service throughout the week, including transportation to primary conference locations.
Remember, Blacksburg is a small town with a small population and Uber and Lyft services are sometimes limited.