Historic 'Broad in Bloom' Tour Celebrates Salem's Architecture and Gardens

The annual Historic Garden Week event will feature five distinguished properties in Salem's North Broad Historic District on April 25.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 10:04pm

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The 'Broad in Bloom' tour, part of Virginia's statewide Historic Garden Week celebration, will showcase five historic homes and gardens in Salem's North Broad Historic District on April 25. The self-guided walking tour is hosted by the Mill Mountain Garden Club and Roanoke Valley Garden Club, with proceeds supporting the restoration of Virginia's historic public gardens and landscapes.

Why it matters

The tour offers a rare opportunity for visitors to experience Salem's picturesque historic architecture and spring gardens, while also contributing to the preservation of Virginia's rich cultural heritage. As part of the state's 250th anniversary commemoration, the event will feature the 'Kingsblood' tulip as the signature flower, honoring the Revolutionary era.

The details

The 'Broad in Bloom' tour will open five distinguished properties in Salem's North Broad Historic District from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on April 25. Featured locations include the O.D. Oakey House, Evans House, Rice House, Hockman House, and the former Salem Female Seminary. Visitors can also browse the Palooza spring market, watch plein air artists, and visit a photography exhibit during the event.

  • The 2026 statewide Historic Garden Week runs from April 18-25.
  • The 'Broad in Bloom' tour in Salem is scheduled for April 25, 2026.

The players

Historic Garden Week

An annual event that features tours of historic homes and gardens across Virginia, with proceeds supporting the restoration of the state's historic public gardens and landscapes.

Mill Mountain Garden Club

A local garden club in Roanoke, Virginia, that is co-hosting the 'Broad in Bloom' tour in Salem.

Roanoke Valley Garden Club

A local garden club in Roanoke, Virginia, that is co-hosting the 'Broad in Bloom' tour in Salem.

Whitney Leeson

A Salem resident, Roanoke College professor, and co-chair of Roanoke's Historic Garden Week tour.

O.D. Oakey House

A 1889 Queen Anne Victorian home that will be featured on the 'Broad in Bloom' tour, known for its three-story semi-octagonal tower, original fireplaces, English cottage-style gardens, a fishpond, and spring tulip displays.

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What they’re saying

“In celebration of the 250th, Historic Garden Week is featuring the 'Kingsblood' tulip as the signature flower for this year's statewide tour. The flower's deep red color is a nod to the Revolutionary era, and we are especially proud to welcome visitors to Salem's Broad Street for this special year.”

— Whitney Leeson, Salem resident and Roanoke College professor

“We are very proud that funds raised through Historic Garden Week have contributed to the restoration of historic gardens and landscapes across Virginia, many associated with the founding fathers and the earliest chapters of American history.”

— Whitney Leeson, Salem resident and Roanoke College professor

What’s next

Advance tickets for the 'Broad in Bloom' tour are available online at vagardenweek.org for $35. Local ticket sales are also available at the Salem Museum and Townside Gardens in Roanoke. Day-of tickets will be $45.

The takeaway

The 'Broad in Bloom' tour offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience Salem's historic architecture and spring gardens, while also supporting the preservation of Virginia's rich cultural heritage through the Garden Club of Virginia's restoration efforts.