Things To Do
Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains along the banks of the James River, Lynchburg is known as the "City of Seven Hills" or the "Hill City". Our quaint hometown offers a surprising number of things to explore from walking and hiking trails to historical monuments to general small-town charm. Below are some of our suggestions!
River Walk
Riverwalk is a 3.5 mile trail that begins downtown on Jefferson Street and travels the length of downtown beside Jefferson Street and through Riverfront Park. Using bridges originally created for the railroad, the trail crosses over onto Percival's Island, and then into Amherst County. This path is perfect for walking, biking, jogging, and a beautiful riverfront view. Bikes are available to rent from Bikes Unlimited, located near the start of the path.
Black Water Creek Trail
The Blackwater Creek Trail is one of the most popular trails in the city. Pick up this trail on the corner of Jefferson St. and 8th. street, where you will start your journey along the winding Blackwater Creek. This 3-mile paved trail and its many paved and unpaved tributaries are perfect for jogging, walking, or biking.
Lynchburg Community Market
Located on Main Street, the Lynchburg Community Market is the third oldest continuously running farmers market in the country. Shop for fresh fruits and vegetable and works of art, or grab some lunch at one of the restaurant vendors. Farmers come year-round on Saturdays offering locally produced fruit, vegetables, cheese, meat, baked goods, and other specialty items. Located inside the Market, the Gallery and Alley offer artists' handmade works.
Peaks of otter
The Peaks of Otter – Sharp Top, Flat Top, and Harkening Hill – have dominated the view in this region of Virginia for centuries, first attracting the attention of Native Americans who saw the area as a rich hunting ground. Famous naturalists and such notable historic figures as Thomas Jefferson and Robert E. Lee wrote about or visited the Peaks of Otter during their lives. The summit of Flat Top or Sharp Top offers a unique opportunity to enjoy spectacular scenic vistas and sunrises. Peaks of Otter is a 45 minute drive from downtown Lynchburg. These hikes are more strenuous than either of the walking paths but offers beautiful fall views!
Thomas Jefferson's Popular Forest
Just a short twenty minute drive to the west of Lynchburg, Poplar Forest is Thomas Jefferson’s secluded retreat, now a National Historic Landmark. A mature and innovative architectural masterpiece, Jefferson designed the octagonal house at Poplar Forest during his second term as President of the United States. Jefferson sojourned to Poplar Forest between the ages of 66-80 to rekindle his creativity, spend time with his grandchildren, and escape the crowds at Monticello.
Appomattox Court House
Just twenty miles east of Lynchburg, The Appomattox Court House National Historical Park commemorates the heroic acts which took place in April of 1865 in this village to bring about the end of the Civil War. The walking tour allows you to see all buildings which are original to the site and have been restored to their original condition. The highlight of the Park is the McLean House where Generals Lee and Grant crafted and signed the terms of surrender, bringing an end to the bloodiest chapter of U.S. history.
National D-Day Memorial
The Memorial honors the Allied forces who shared in the invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944 during World War II. The Memorial stands as a powerful tribute to the valor, fidelity, and sacrifice of D-Day participants. Visitors can expect both an educational as well as emotional experience, leaving with a clear understanding of the scale of sacrifices made during the largest amphibious landing the world has ever seen.