20 Best Things to Do in Lynchburg VA
Lynchburg, VA is one of the most underrated cities with many things to do like historical landmarks and outdoor activities. Close to Natural Bridge and Roanoke, this beautiful college city has endless places to explore.
This city in Virginia is quite unusual for the number of universities and colleges in the area like the University of Lynchburg, Liberty University, Central Virginia Community College, and Randolph College.
Plan your weekend getaway to Lynchburg with a few hours of rock climbing, soaking in views of the James River, or stopping by one of the many museums.
Is Lynchburg Worth Visiting?
Lynchburg might not stick out to you as a popular place for a weekend getaway if you’re not a college student. However, you will be surprised by the number of landmarks, history, and nature nestled within every part of this Virginia city.
If you love to explore old churches, delicious food, and spend time outdoors, I would recommend spending a few days in this stunning college town.
Best Things to Do in Lynchburg
1. Percival’s Island Natural Area
A great opportunity to ride a bike outdoors and capture wildlife, Percival Island is a spacious nature area with views of the James River and the famous red LOVE sign.
I recently wrote about this place in my most instagrammable parks in Virginia because I loved the inviting atmosphere when going in the early spring. One of the most popular activities to do here is ride a bike on the trails and bridge.
Address: 1600 Concord Turnpike, Lynchburg, VA
Travel Tip: There is a parking lot near the natural area in downtown Lynchburg. After exploring the park, try one of the restaurants alongside the cobblestone streets.
2. Lynchburg Community Market
One of the oldest markets in Virginia, this community-based market is located downtown with a number of local vendors selling fresh bread and produce. The market is closed on Sunday and Monday, so I would recommend visiting on Friday or Saturday.
Usually, open-air markets don’t contribute to the growth of a town, but the Lynchburg Community Market has greatly revitalized downtown Lynchburg since its first appearance in the area around 1783. The Lynchburg market is now a gathering place for all ages to celebrate regional food traditions.
Address: 1219 Main St, Lynchburg, VA
Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the market early in the morning for the best selection from the vendors.
3. Legacy Museum of African American History
Learn about one of the most intricate parts of American history with an in-depth collection of African American exhibits from the first arrival to the local culture. You can also check out the special events that take place during Black History Month.
Once you step inside the charming museum, you will feel like you stepped back in time to when African Americans were involved in slavery.
The majority of the museum features informative panels, artifacts, and powerful art showcasing people and events that helped shape the local culture and the United States. The museum offers walk-ins but is open to reserve at certain times.
Address: 403 Monroe Street, Lynchburg, VA
Business Hours: Wednesday-Saturday: 12-4 pm, Sunday: 2 pm-4 pm, Monday & Tuesday: Closed
4. Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest
If you have ever been to Monticello in Charlottesville, Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest is another great historical landmark worth visiting! Poplar Forest is a plantation house by the 3rd president of the United States.
For Thomas, this place served as a retreat and an escape from the British during the Revolution. Buy tickets here for a self-guided tour or docent-guided tour.
Seasonal Business: March 15th- December 30th
Address: 1776 Poplar Forest Parkway, Lynchburg, VA
Here are the directions to the historical landmark depending on where you are coming from.
5. Amazement Square Children’s Museum
Located in downtown Lynchburg right near a bridge, the Amazement Square Children’s Museum is the best place for kids who love learning new things and participating in fun activities. The museum is constantly changing its exhibitions, galleries, and programs, and is one of the best things to do in Lynchburg!
The current changing galleries at the museum are Native American and Egyptian exhibits. Depending on how old the child is, there are different themed rooms for interactive play like the Shipwreck Cove.
You can also sign your children up for the Summer Wondercamp for an in-depth exploration of robotics, science, art, and more.
Address: 27 9th St, Lynchburg, VA
Business Hours: Wednesday-Saturday: 10 am – 4 pm, Sunday- Tuesday: Closed
6. SeaQuest Lynchburg
Seaquest is unlike most aquariums in Virginia or the United States with not just unique animals from around the world but animals that you can interact with despite age.
Although Lynchburg is not the only Seaquest, this exotic adventure is worth exploring. Take a safari, snorkel with stingrays, and feed otters! The sea is your pearl! Buy tickets and book interactions with several animals here!
Address: 3405 Candlers Mountain Rd, Lynchburg, VA
7. Liberty Baseball Stadium
Don’t miss the opportunity to see a college baseball team hit a home run at the Liberty Baseball Stadium!
Although I haven’t seen Liberty play baseball at the stadium, the stadium can hold up to 2,500 spectators with standing room and chairback seats.
The one thing to keep in mind is that admission is for early birds otherwise you might not find a seat.
Refer to this website for the official address and the parking lots.
Hidden Gems of Lynchburg, VA
8. Old City Cemetery
One of the more extraordinary sites in Lynchburg, the Old City Cemetery is not just one of the oldest graveyards in the US but a place to slow down and take in nature.
You can also hold your wedding at the Chapel on the grounds.
You will come across a church, beautiful monuments, and a serene gateway as if you’re walking into another world.
There might even be a surprise for the kids with just the perfect dosage of history, gardens, and animals.
Address: 401 Taylor St, Lynchburg, VA
9. Maier Museum of Art at Randolph College
Immerse yourself in a masterful, artistic world at the Maier Museum of Art.
Although the museum is part of Randolph College, it doesn’t mean the general public can’t visit with several fascinating exhibitions that constantly change.
Study art in various mediums and periods with spacious rooms. Maier Museum brings contemporary American art to life that evolves to make room for the young generation of today.
Check out the current exhibitions here!
Address: 1 Quinlan St, Lynchburg, VA
10. Riverside Park
A mix between downtown Staunton and Byrd Park in Richmond, Riverside Park is a fun way to spend the afternoon before dining.
This beautiful park features trains, a bridge, a playground, and a riverfront open space for gatherings.
The curvy trails make this place ideal for people who love to hike with views of the James River.
The most popular trail is the Alpine Trail with 1 mile of a steep hillside. As you take in nature, don’t forget to stop by the signs and learn a little about the park.
Address: 2238 Rivermont Ave, Lynchburg, VA
Best Restaurants in Lynchburg
11. The World Famous Stadium Inn
A classic American-style grill and bar, Stadium Inn is a sports lover’s ideal place to dine with outdoor seating, happy hour drinks, and a place to watch sports while indulging in a delectable burger.
This restaurant is also pet-friendly!
Choose from wings and fries, patty melt, a hot dog with sauerkraut, and more.
Address: 3007 Fort Ave, Lynchburg, VA
12. Rivermont Pizza
Only open for dinner, this quaint pizza place serves a variety of pizzas and offers a brick interior and low lighting to draw customers in.
This restaurant is popular with college students and vegetarians who need a quick bite in a casual atmosphere. Rivermont has live music and beer to bring the ambiance to life.
Tip: Parking is limited, arrive early.
Choose from the regular pepperoni pizza or try one of the more personalized pizzas like the chicken pistachio pesto pizza.
Address: 2496 Rivermont Ave, Lynchburg, VA
13. The T Room (Texas Inn Downtown)
Lynchburg’s oldest diner, “The T Room” is a budget-friendly dining place that offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The classic diner atmosphere not only draws in college students but also tourists visiting the area.
Except to be enveloped in a cozy atmosphere with good coffee.
Menu Items: Hot Dog All the Way, bacon cheeseburger, and homemade macaroni salad to name a few.
Address: 422 Main St, Lynchburg, VA
Cool Things to Do in Lynchburg
14. Anne Spencer House and Garden Museum
Starting April 26th, the Anne Spencer House and Garden Museum will be open for tours by appointment only. Anne Spencer is a famous poet, Civil Rights advocate, gardener, teacher, and mother who was involved in the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s.
Through a tour of the house and the stunning gardens, visitors can gain a better understanding of Anne and her influence on poetry and literacy as an African American. Book a tour here!
Address: 1313 Pierce St, Lynchburg, VA
15. The Pest House Medical Museum
While famous wars and gardens are interesting to learn about The Pest House Medical Museum is in a lane of its own with an in-depth history of contagious diseases and people who were quarantined in the 19th century.
Don’t let the little white house appearance fool you. While visiting the Old City Cemetery, make a stop at Lynchburg’s first hospital, which is now situated in the cemetery.
16. Liberty Mountain Snowflex Centre
While most people will spend the day visiting museums, landmarks, and parks in Lynchburg, you might want to spend the day skiing or snowboarding at the Liberty Mountain Snowflex Centre on the Liberty University campus.
What makes this winter sports place special is the resort is open year-round and is great for the whole family. The prices for rentals are also reasonable and are often not crowded. For more information on pricing and activities, visit the official Liberty Snowflex website.
Address: 4000 Candlers Mountain Rd, Lynchburg, VA
17. Monument Terrace
You won’t find a shortage of statues as you explore the Monument Terrace. Most of the statues on this historical landmark represent Confederate soldiers and others who fought in the World Wars, Civil War, Korea, and Vietnam.
You will also find the famous doughboy statue with markers that line the 139 steps. The best part about his landmark is that it’s open 24 hours, so you don’t have to plan your day around certain hours.
Address: 313 9th St, Lynchburg, VA
18. Blackwater Creek Trail
If you love the Blue Ridge Tunnel in Afton, the Blackwater Creek Trail is another place with a cool tunnel surrounded by lush greenery. Locals and visitors alike can enjoy this park by riding a bike, jogging, and hiking.
The extensive trail system is several miles long, so make sure to wear good shoes. You’re in for a treat if you visit in the spring and summer as you will most likely come across woodpeckers, a great horned owl, or a red fox.
The directions to the trail might be a little confusing, so here are the detailed instructions and a map.
19. Rise Up Climbing
This indoor rock climbing facility is perfect for both beginners and advanced climbers who want to spend a few hours downtown for a memorable adventure. If you don’t decide to hike at one of the many parks in Lynchburg, get a full-body workout at Rise Up Climbing!
Address: 1225 Church St, Lynchburg, VA
20. Givens Books & Little Dickens
Lynchburg’s oldest bookstore and toy store, Givens Books and Little Dickens is a great place to entertain young children to adults. Despite the bookstore opening its doors in 1976, it is well-stocked with trending books and new releases.
Instead of going to Books a Million or Barnes & Noble, consider supporting this local book and toy store. You can also shop on their website! But the magical experience of going in person is definitely worth it!
Address: 2236 Lakeside Dr, Lynchburg, VA
Places to Stay in Lynchburg
- Sugar Tree Inn
- North Creek Ridge B&B
- Craddock Terry Hotel
- The Carriage House Inn and Events
Things to See & Do Near Lynchburg
- Natural Bridge State Park (Natural Bridge, Virginia)
- Blue Ridge Parkway
- The American Civil War Museum – Appomattox
- Twin River Outfitters- Water Sports Equipment Rental (Buchanan, Virginia)
Just like many other cities in Virginia, visitors can get a healthy dose of nature, history, and delicious food. Lynchburg may seem intimidating with the number of colleges in the area, but there are so many cool and unusual things to do in this stunning place!
Check out more fascinating locations in Virginia below!