The Roanoke Star sits atop Mill Mountain, the small peak that rises directly behind the city. At 88.5 feet tall and visible from most of the valley, it is the world's largest free-standing illuminated man-made star and the source of the city's nickname, "Star City of the South." A short driving access road climbs the mountain from the south, and a walking trail from Riverland Road climbs it from the river side.
The star itself is the main draw at night, but the platform around its base is also a serious viewpoint. The overlook gives a panoramic view across downtown Roanoke and the Blue Ridge Mountains beyond, with a small plaque identifying the major peaks. The star changes colour for special occasions — red, white and blue on the 4th of July, all red on certain memorial days. The viewing platform stays open round the clock.