Lynchburg VirginiaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Lynchburg, Virginia.
1. Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest
JEFFERSON'S PERSONAL RETREAT
Poplar Forest is Thomas Jefferson's personal retreat home and plantation located just outside Lynchburg. This National Historic Landmark offers visitors the opportunity to explore Jefferson's life outside the public eye while learning about the free and enslaved people who built and maintained the site. Archaeology and restoration work is always in progress at this refined Federal-style estate.
2. Amazement Square
INTERACTIVE CHILDREN'S MUSEUM
Amazement Square is Central Virginia's first multidisciplinary, hands-on children's museum. Visitors can climb, slide and discover while making their way through four floors of exciting, interactive exhibits and activities. This family-friendly destination provides educational entertainment for children of all ages.
3. Old City Cemetery Museums And Arboretum
HISTORIC GARDEN CEMETERY
Old City Cemetery is an extraordinary 27-acre public garden and the oldest municipal cemetery in Virginia still in use today. Established in 1806 and listed as a Virginia Historic Landmark, it contains the stories of nearly 20,000 diverse individuals buried there. Five small museums on the grounds help tell the stories of the cemetery's residents and Lynchburg's history.
4. Point of Honor
HISTORIC RIVERSIDE MANSION
Point of Honor is a former plantation located in what is now the historic Daniel's Hill neighborhood of Lynchburg. This refined Federal-style main house was built in 1815 for the Cabell family and overlooks the James River. The home, once owned by Dr. George Cabell (a friend of Thomas Jefferson and physician to Patrick Henry), has been home to seven famous local families and is available for tours.
5. Percival's Island Natural Area
URBAN RIVER ISLAND
Percival's Island Natural Area offers a peaceful natural escape in the heart of Lynchburg. Visitors can enjoy walking across the bridge to access the island and explore its scenic paths along the historic James River. The area is part of Lynchburg's urban trail system and features a LOVE artwork installation perfect for photos.
6. Liberty Mountain Snowflex Centre
YEAR-ROUND SKI RESORT
Liberty Mountain Snowflex Centre provides year-round skiing, snowboarding, and tubing opportunities in Lynchburg. The facility uses innovative Snowflex technology to simulate snow conditions regardless of the weather or season. Visitors can enjoy outdoor adventure sports with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
7. Blackwater Creek Trail
SCENIC URBAN PATHWAY
Blackwater Creek Trail is part of Lynchburg's 40+ miles of urban trails winding through the city. This popular path connects to Percival's Island and crosses the historic James River, offering beautiful scenery for walking, running, or biking. Local bike shops like Bikes Unlimited and Blackwater Bike Shop offer rentals for those wanting to explore the trail on two wheels.
8. Lynchburg Museum & Visitor Services
CITY HISTORY CENTER
The Lynchburg Museum serves as both a historical repository and visitor center for the city. Exhibits showcase the rich history of Lynchburg from its founding through modern times. The museum provides an excellent starting point for visitors to learn about local attractions and plan their exploration of the city.
9. Lynchburg Community Market
HISTORIC FARMERS MARKET
The Lynchburg Community Market is the third oldest continually operating farmers market in the country. Saturday mornings offer the best experience when the market bustles with local artisans and farmers selling their goods. After shopping, visitors can head down 12th Street to the Bluffwalk for al fresco dining with a view.
10. Rise Up Climbing
INDOOR CLIMBING GYM
Rise Up Climbing offers an exciting indoor climbing experience in downtown Lynchburg. Climbers of all skill levels can enjoy walls and bouldering areas with varying degrees of difficulty. The facility provides equipment rentals and instruction for newcomers wanting to try this thrilling activity.
11. Riverviews Artspace
CONTEMPORARY ART CENTER
Riverviews Artspace is a vibrant cultural hub in downtown Lynchburg dedicated to contemporary art. The center features rotating exhibitions, artist studios, and regular events that showcase local and regional talent. Visitors can explore galleries, meet artists, and participate in art-related programming throughout the year.
12. Maier Museum of Art
AMERICAN ART COLLECTION
The Maier Museum of Art sits on the campus of Randolph College and holds a distinguished collection of American art. The museum specializes in American Impressionism and early 20th-century Realism pieces. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the quality and historical significance of the works on display.
13. Miller Claytor House
HISTORIC 18TH CENTURY HOME
The Miller Claytor House is Lynchburg's last remaining town house from the 18th century, now located in Riverside Park. Legend has it that Thomas Jefferson once ate a tomato from the garden to prove to a child that 'love apples' were not poisonous. Visitors can explore this well-preserved historic home and learn about early Lynchburg life.
14. National D-Day Memorial
WWII NORMANDY TRIBUTE
The National D-Day Memorial is located just 28 miles from Lynchburg in nearby Bedford. This powerful memorial commemorates the sacrifice and courage of American soldiers during the storming of Normandy Beach on June 6, 1944. The site features sculptures, educational exhibits, and architectural elements that honor those who participated in this pivotal World War II battle.
15. Appomattox Court House National Historical Park
CIVIL WAR SURRENDER SITE
Appomattox Court House National Historical Park preserves the site where General Robert E. Lee surrendered to General Ulysses S. Grant, effectively ending the American Civil War. The meticulously restored village includes the McLean House where the surrender took place on April 9, 1865. Visitors can tour various buildings, view artifacts, and learn about this pivotal moment in American history through ranger programs and exhibits.