22 BEST Things To Do In Lynchburg, Virginia: Ultimate Guide

A heartfelt thank you to the Craddock Terry Hotel for hosting me during my recent visit. While my stay was hosted, all opinions shared are entirely my own. I only write about experiences I genuinely believe in and would confidently recommend.

Lynchburg, Virginia, is a fantastic town that holds a special place in my heart. I was born and raised in the area and lived there until shortly after my husband, and I got married and moved away for our careers. 

Every time I return to my hometown, I’m amazed at how much it has grown. From exciting new activities to long-standing attractions that have been revitalized and are still thriving, there’s always something to enjoy.

If you’re looking for the ultimate guide to the best things to do in Lynchburg, written by someone who lived there for over twenty years and visits multiple times a year, keep reading for year-round highlights that’ll have you falling in love with this city!

The Best Things To Do In Lynchburg, Virginia

Continue reading down below as I highlight the very best things to do in Lynchburg, VA, year-round.

1. Stay At The Craddock Terry

During a recent romantic getaway with my husband, we stayed at the Craddock Terry Hotel and quickly fell in love with its charming details and warm hospitality. The hotel staff truly goes above and beyond, creating a cozy enviornment that feels like a home away from home.

What makes the Craddock Terry even more special is its thoughtful nods to its history as a former shoe factory. Throughout the hotel, you’ll find unique touches like vintage shoe displays, an old shoe stand, historic photographs, and art pieces centered around shoes—small details that beautifully honor its past. The exposed brick and historic architecture transport you back in time, adding to the hotel’s distinctive charm.

One of the standout experiences was the delightful breakfast service. At night, you fill out a breakfast card and place it in a wooden box outside your door. In the morning, your breakfast is delivered in the same box. This tradition pays homage to the shoeshine service of the past, where shoes were left out overnight to be polished—a thoughtful and unique touch that adds to the experience.

The entire stay was nothing short of incredible, from the breathtaking views from our room to the hotel’s prime location. Being within walking distance of excellent restaurants, bars, and shops made it easy to enjoy everything the city has to offer. The Craddock Terry is truly the perfect place to stay, offering a little bit of everything for an unforgettable visit.

2. Walk (Or Bike) The Blackwater Creek Trail

Escape into nature on this beautiful trail that winds along the James River. Whether you’re up for a leisurely walk or a casual bike ride, this trail offers stunning views and peaceful surroundings. My favorite part is that it’s super dog-friendly!

Plus, if you stay at the Craddock Terry, you’ll have access to bicycles, making it incredibly convenient to explore the trails and experience even more of what Lynchburg has to offer.

3. Eat Lunch At Waterstone Pizza

Famous for its delicious wood-fired pizzas and relaxed vibe, Waterstone is a must-visit for a casual yet flavorful meal. It’s an excellent choice whether you’re stopping by for lunch or dinner. 

When my husband and I visited, we shared a Caesar salad, a pepperoni pizza, and a warm Oreo brownie with ice cream for dessert. Every bite was unforgettable, and we couldn’t stop raving about the meal. Plus, if you’re staying at the Craddock Terry, it’s just a few steps away, making it an incredibly convenient and tasty option.

4. Visit The Old City Cemetery

Take a step back in time at this historic cemetery, a serene resting place that also appeals to nature enthusiasts. While visiting a cemetery might seem unusual, it’s actually a popular destination in Lynchburg. 

Many visitors come to admire the beautiful gardens, take pretty photos, or simply appreciate the peaceful natural surroundings. It’s especially worth exploring when the flowers bloom during the vibrant spring and summer months.

5. Enjoy Dinner At Shoemakers American Grille

Indulge in an elegant dining experience at Shoemakers, where expertly crafted dishes are served in a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere. With dim lighting, tasteful decor, and attentive service, it’s the perfect spot for a special occasion, a romantic date night, or simply an unforgettable meal. 

During our visit, it was our favorite dining experience. We began with the she-crab soup and flavorful Korean ribs, followed by a perfectly cooked ribeye for my husband and a tender filet for me. To top it off, we shared the tasty bread pudding for dessert. It’s conveniently located just steps from the Craddock Terry Hotel, making it a must-visit when in Lynchburg.

6. Stroll Along The Bluffwalk To Take In City Views

Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Bluff Walk, a pedestrian-friendly path that showcases stunning views of the James River while leading you past charming shops and restaurants. 

Interestingly, the Bluff Walk is a relatively new addition to Lynchburg, built in recent years, and has very quickly become a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. It’s especially magical during the holiday season, with countless light displays and festive decorations that create the feel of a bustling city right in the heart of small-town Lynchburg.

7. Grab Drinks At Water Dog

Head to this popular downtown spot for craft beer, cocktails, and a relaxed vibe. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring. This should be on your radar if you are looking for a late-night spot to enjoy some beverages.

8. Shop At Meanwhile Back On The Farm

Explore this local shop’s curated selection of unique goods, celebrated for its high-quality leather and canvas bags alongside other delightful finds. 

One of my personal favorites is their hats—I wear mine all the time and adore the stylish designs. With a wide range of products for both men and women, this shop is perfect for anyone looking to support local businesses or pick up a special keepsake to remember their time in Lynchburg.

9. Get Outside At Liberty Mountain’s Snowflex Centre

At this unique outdoor recreation center, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or tubing year-round, no matter the season. If you’re wondering if that’s a typo, it’s not! 

This incredible experience features synthetic Snowflex material designed to mimic the feel of real snow, allowing outdoor skiing even in the summer. I vividly remember when the Snowflex Centre first opened during my childhood—it was a big deal back then and remains one of the top attractions in Lynchburg today.

10. Visit The Historic Point of Honor

Tour this beautifully preserved Federal-style mansion to learn about Lynchburg’s history and take in views of the surrounding area. It’s the perfect spot to visit for history buffs and those wanting to learn more about the city.

11. Go Climbing At Rise Up Climbing

For adventure seekers, this indoor climbing gym offers a fun, challenging, and exciting experience for all skill levels.

12. Enjoy Art At Riverviews Artspace

Immerse yourself in Lynchburg’s vibrant art scene at this downtown gallery, featuring rotating exhibits and creative events.

13. Shop Local At The Lynchburg Community Market

Support local farmers and artisans at one of the oldest markets in the city. The market offers fresh produce, crafts, and delicious food.

14. Kayak The James River

This activity is generally catered towards the warmer months, but one of my favorite things to do in the city is to get out on the water and explore the James River by kayak, taking in the area’s natural beauty and serenity.

I love kayaking the James River with my husband and our friends. It’s one of my favorite summer activities and one of the best things to do in Lynchburg, Virginia.

Best Things To Do In Lynchburg, VA With Kids

Lynchburg is a wonderfully kid-friendly city, which I absolutely love as a mom! If you’re searching for activities your little ones will enjoy, keep reading for some great suggestions.

15. Spend Time At Amazement Square

This interactive children’s museum is packed with hands-on exhibits and fun and educational activities. It’s a great place for elementary school-aged kids to visit. 

16. Get Creative At All Fired Up

Let your kids unlock their creativity by painting pottery, making mosaics, or crafting at this colorful studio.

17. Visit FunQuest

Perfect for a family day out, FunQuest offers roller skating, arcade games, and laser tag for kids of all ages.

18. Enjoy Time With Animals At SeaQuest

Interact with a variety of animals at this indoor aquarium and zoo, where kids can learn and have fun.

Things To Do Beyond Lynchburg

Although Lynchburg has grown and offers plenty of fantastic activities, if you’re up for a short drive, I’ve also included some top attractions just a little farther out.

19. Hike The Peaks of Otter

Take in stunning views and explore well-maintained trails at this nearby mountain destination, ideal for a day hike. My personal favorite is Sharp Top, which holds a special place in my heart—it was not only my first date with my husband but also where he proposed a year later. 

Beyond its sentimental value, Sharp Top offers some of the most breathtaking views in the region, no matter the season. It’s the perfect spot for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying a rewarding workout.

20. Explore The National D-Day Memorial

Located in Bedford, this powerful memorial pays tribute to those who served during the D-Day invasion of World War II. If you enjoy history, especially military history, you’ll find this memorial both moving and informational.

21. Visit Thomas Jefferson’s, Poplar Forest

Step into history at this beautifully preserved retreat home of Thomas Jefferson, offering guided tours and fascinating insights into his life.

22. Spend Time At The American Civil War Museum In Appomattox

Dive into the history of the Civil War at this comprehensive museum located near the site of General Lee’s surrender.

FAQs About The Best Things To Do In Lynchburg, Virginia

Keep diving in below as I answer a handful of frequently asked questions about the city of Lynchburg.

What is Lynchburg, Virginia famous for?

Lynchburg is known for its rich history, scenic location along the James River, vibrant arts and culture scene, and for being the home of Liberty University.

How far is Lynchburg, VA from the beach?

Lynchburg is about a three-hour and forty-five minute drive from Virginia Beach, making it a manageable trip for a weekend getaway.

Is Lynchburg, VA a walkable city?

No, Lynchburg, VA, is not a walkable city. You will need a car to explore the entirety of the city. However, downtown, where you’ll find many attractions, restaurants, and shops, is pretty walkable. 

Does Lynchburg have a downtown?

Yes, Lynchburg does have a downtown filled with unique shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks.

Is Lynchburg, VA expensive?

No, Lynchburg, VA, is not expensive. Compared to larger cities, Lynchburg is quite affordable, has a lower cost of living, and has reasonably priced attractions.

Final Thoughts On The Best Things To Do In Lynchburg, Virginia, From A Local

Lynchburg may be a small town, but it’s full of fun activities and continues to grow with new things to enjoy. To make the most of your visit, I suggest staying downtown at the Craddock Terry Hotel, where you’ll be within walking distance of many attractions.

In addition to activities, downtown is also a great spot for dining. While there are plenty of options, two standout recommendations are Waterstone for lunch and Shoemakers for dinner.

I hope this guide helps you explore the best things to do in Lynchburg, Virginia year-round!