The river that flows beside the thriving Virginia town served as its original boundary. The individuals who now live there are shaping it. Before learning about the things to do in Lynchburg, let’s know a bit about the city.
Which Kind of City is Lynchburg?
Virginia’s Lynchburg is a town in bloom. In spring, peonies bloom from front yards in historic areas, pansies cascade out of window frames at pubs and restaurants downtown, and occasionally a flowery plant will cheerfully and hospitably emerge from the roadway.
Thanks to a river service, Lynchburg, which is tucked away on the lower slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains alongside the James River, began as a tobacco town and trade hub. The city has seen several transformations throughout the years, including roles as a railroad hub, a Civil War supply station, and an industrial town with numerous enterprises.
These days, it’s a hub for entrepreneurship and a college town, with old buildings tastefully converted into boutiques, artisanal brewers, and art museums. Thanks to the hardworking residents who are committed to preserving the city’s rich history, promoting its development, and creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors, Lynchburg is also blossoming in the literal sense. Here’s a detailed list of things to do in Lynchburg and how to enjoy this emerging metropolis to the fullest while honoring those who make it possible for it to prosper.
Remain in Downtown
For a walkable expertise, choose one of the two privately owned hotels located downtown. The Virginian Hotel, a tastefully renovated structure from about 1910 with a breathtaking skyline view, is centrally located amid the activity. It houses one of the city’s few rooftop bars and restaurants.
Visit the open-to-animals Craddock Terry Hotel to see a slice of Lynchburg’s history. On the Bluffwalk, where visitors can enjoy the views of the James River, it is housed in a historic tobacco storage and shoe manufacturer.
Proceed to the Country
Travel roughly 8 miles outside of the city and reserve one of Irvington Spring Farm’s three luxurious Airbnb properties—which include a historic farmhouse that can accommodate fourteen guests and an area that sleeps four—for a more peaceful stay.
Taste the Food and Drink Buzz
Here’s how you can enjoy eating and drinking(one of the enjoyable things to do in Lynchburg).
Have Coffee in the Morning
Nomad Coffee Co. is a hidden gem within Gilded, a boutique that sells thoughtful presents, funny card sets, and an outstanding selection of wines from across the world. Start the morning with a refreshing beverage or cappuccino there.
Savor Craft Beers
Drink locally brewed beer at Starr Hill, Virginia’s second-oldest artisan brewery. Charitable types can drink The Love, a delicate wheat beer that benefits nonprofits in Lynchburg. In neighboring Bedford, oenophiles may satisfy their cravings at the family-run Peaks of Otter Winery, which was Virginia’s inaugural all-fruit vintner.
Make plans for Dinner and a Sweet Treat
Take a seat at a table at The Water Dog for a seafood meal, and then go over to the nearby MayLynn’s Creamery for a chocolate-dipped ice cream scoop for a sweet treat.
Exciting Things To Do In Lynchburg
You can’t afford to miss the following activities in this blooming city
Have fun outside
Explore the 3.5-mile cemented RiverWalk, a former railroad track turned hiking and bicycling route that provides many access locations to the James River for fishing and paddling, by visiting Percival’s Island Natural Area.
Visit the Bluffwalk, an urban route lined with several restaurants, for a bird’s-eye perspective of the river and the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Go Shopping
Visit Meanwhile, explore locally produced items and artwork at Lexie and Lee, and pick up a memento at Mosaic Collective. Return to the Farm to select your new favorite bag and see it manufactured in action.
Examine an artistic Scene
The James River Art & Culture District is the greatest place to see Lynchburg’s significant assortment of public art, which includes artworks and mosaics.
Check to see if you can locate every component mentioned here. Visit Art Alley on Commerce Street, which showcases the creations of artists from Central Virginia.
Take in the Roses’ Scent
Discover the biggest open exhibition of antique roses in the country by meandering around the 27-acre park, historic location, and arboretum known as Old City Cemetery. If you’re particularly fond of these blossoms, consider visiting in April or May to take advantage of the annual Antique Rose Fest.
If you’re looking for more flowers, you may explore author and activist Anne Spencer’s house and garden and discover more about her biography and achievements.
Go Look for a Home
Next, take a trip to the Rivermont Avenue Historical District, which has a ton of curb charm. Being one of the oldest developed towns in the nation, the region is home to an amazing variety of architectural plans.
Lynchburg Individuals To Meet
Meeting famous and influential personalities might be one of the coolest things to do in Lynchburg.
The Water Dog Owners: Henderson Brothers
The Henderson brothers, Chris and Dave, claim that they had no intention of opening a dining establishment in their native town. Dave stated, Growing up, we never really thought downtown Lynchburg could become an attraction for it.” But nowadays, the area is completely different.
Now that you are here at night, everything is lively and bustling. There are dining options, fountains, lovely hues, and happy children frolicking around all over the place.
Christina Davis & her Creative Studio
It’s difficult to stroll around downtown without coming across the artwork. Building walls are covered in murals that splatter color and painted pianos positioned throughout the city entice you to indulge your sweet tooth.
But things weren’t always like this. Painter Christina Davis, who was raised in this town and now instructs adults and children in painting, says, “Even since ten years ago, the town has made flights and advances.”
According to Davis, Lynchburg’s growth has been greatly aided by the residents who donate their time and skills to making these places come to life as well as by the city’s support of freely accessible art.
In addition to being beautiful, the pieces convey a message. So, visiting this art studio has been one of the must-have things to do in Lynchburg for tourists.