Let’s say you’ve only got a day to spend in Lynchburg, VA. How should you spend it?

While our charming little city can be best enjoyed over a long weekend or week-long vacation, sometimes schedules only allow for that quick overnight. So if that’s the case, you’ll want to head straight to Lynchburg’s historic downtown.

While the word “downtown” may conjur up all kinds of ideas based on experience in other cities, it may help to know that Downtown Lynchburg is the best kind of downtown. There’s still options for free, accessible parking, lots of great dining options, tons of architecturally gorgeous buildings that have been renovated, plus miles and miles of nature trails that make you feel as though you’re anywhere but downtown.

What to Do

Start at the LOVE sign. (note: there’s a free parking lot) It’s a great place to take a keepsake picture of your trip. You’ll notice each letter of the L-O-V-E sculpture represents a popular activity downtown: hiking, bicycling, kayaking, & skateboarding.

Take the paved sidewalk/trail about a ¼ mile and once it turns sharply to the right, you’ll find yourself walking across the James River and catching some of the neatest views that downtown Lynchburg has to offer!

If you’ve got time and energy, you can plan this as a longer nature walk or rent bikes nearby for a nice workout on Percival’s Island with options to go off-road, throw rocks, or fish in the river. Another mile or so later, you’ll reach a second bridge crossing the James River followed by more trail before it eventually dead ends and you decide to turn back.

Once you’ve returned to the LOVE sign, either walk or drive to nearby Jefferson Street and start your city exploring here. If you’re hungry, try Waterstone Pizza (I love the Greek pizza and my husband swears they’ve got the best gluten free crust in the city), or the Water Dog.

After your meal, check out the Reserve Wine Lounge or May Lynn’s Creamery (also on Jefferson Street).

If you’ve got kids with you, head straight down Jefferson St to our incredible children’s museum, Amazement Square, and let the kids burn off steam for a few hours. 4 stories of slides, ladders, and interactive exhibits that you’ll love, too! This place is a MUST with little ones.

If you *don’t* have little ones and you’re ready to explore downtown, head up the stairs or ramps off Jefferson St near the Glass House called the Bluffwalk. Some of our favorite places to check out are:

Art Alley: outdoor murals and photo opps at 1100 Commerce Street

White Hart: coffee house and diner using local ingredients

Mrs. Joy’s Absolutely Fabulous Treats: she’s been on the food network twice!

Lexi & Lee: locally curated goods and gifts

Threaded: stylish thrift shop!

Lynchburg’s Community Market: community vendors, artisans, and restaurants

Cinn City: gourmet cinnamon rolls (including gluten free!)

Is it time to eat again yet? Make a dinner reservation at Skyline Grill (rooftop city views!) or the Glass House. (awesome ambiance)

Where to Stay

Depending on your taste and preferences, we’ve got several recommendations on where to stay around downtown…

• We have 3 luxe downtown townhomes (3 BD 2.5 BATH) in the same modern complex that will blow you away. Just pick which one suits you the most: the Jameson, Artist House (pet friendly), or Courtside.

• If you only need a 1 BD 1 BATH, The River House Apt is located in one of Lynchburg’s neatest historic neighborhoods adjacent to downtown and has one of the best views you’ll find of the James River.

• A charming historic 2BD 2.5 BATH is Park Place. You’ll love the romantic primary suite, brick paved road, and close proximity to downtown AND nature trails.

• If you’re looking for the MOST unique stay in the city, look no farther than James Station, a renovated train caboose overlooking the James River and fittingly, a train track!

• For larger groups, check out the MLK Dream Home, the Candy Apple, or the Colonial Gem. (Both the Candy Apple and Colonial Gem are pet-friendly!)

Even with just one day, you can still get a quick taste of our cool little city!  Be on the lookout for a future post, “What to Do With 2-3 Days in Lynchburg” coming soon!

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