A Day on Jefferson Street in Downtown Lynchburg
Before you head out, check out How to Get Around Lynchburg for parking locations, trail maps, and directions to downtown.
Jefferson Street captures the spirit of Lynchburg — where river views, art, and local flavor meet in one walkable stretch. Whether you’re here for a full day of exploration, an evening out, or just a leisurely stroll along the Bluffwalk, Jefferson Street is the heartbeat of Downtown LYH.
Day. 1
Begin your day with a little love — literally. Snap a selfie at the LOVE sculpture located near the entrance to the Percival’s Island Riverwalk Trail. Installed in 2013, this large-scale public art piece has become one of Lynchburg’s most beloved photo spots. Don’t forget to tag your shot with #LYHLovesYou!
📍 1600 Concord Turnpike
Rent a bike from Bikes Unlimited and set off on the Riverwalk Trail, an urban pathway that winds along the James River and connects to the Blackwater Creek and Point of Honor trails. Stop at Riverfront Park for a quick break, or keep going until you reach Rotary Centennial Riverfront Skatepark.
📍 Bikes Unlimited – 1312 Jefferson Street
Pack a light picnic or grab takeout downtown and head to Rotary Centennial Riverfront Skatepark. Enjoy lunch while watching skateboarders and BMX riders show off their skills against the backdrop of Blackwater Creek and the riverfront skyline.
After lunch, stroll back toward downtown and look for the Langley Fountain bubbling up in the James River. It marks the historic landing of the original Lynch Ferry, where founder John Lynch began ferrying goods and people across the water — laying the groundwork for the city’s growth as a tobacco and shipping hub.
📍 Jefferson Street at Riverfront Park
Make your way down Jefferson Street to see some of Downtown’s most colorful public art:
- The CityArts Mosaic Mural – 4,800 square feet of intricate, hand-placed tiles.
- The “Lynchbug” Sculpture – a bold, modern landmark near Amazement Square.
📍 Corner of Jefferson Street & 9th Street
Families can spend the afternoon at Amazement Square, Lynchburg’s National Medal-winning children’s museum. Kids will love the hands-on exhibits, arts stations, and the four-story Amazement Tower, the tallest indoor climbing structure in the U.S.
📍 27 9th Street
Walk or ride a few blocks to Riverviews Artspace, a hub for contemporary art, live performances, and poetry readings. If your visit aligns with a Wolfbane Productions show, catch one of their immersive theatre performances for a creative afternoon experience.
📍 Riverviews – 901 Jefferson Street
As golden hour sets in, choose your perfect dinner spot along Jefferson Street:
- Depot Grille – American fare in a restored freight station.
- The Water Dog – oysters, burgers, and craft brews with river views.
- Waterstone Pizza – brick-oven pies and cocktails in a stylish space.
- Reserve Winery & Lounge – upscale wine bar with small plates.
- Trailhead – a relaxed neighborhood favorite for modern Southern fare.
📍 Jefferson Street Dining District
Finish your evening with dessert from MayLynn’s Creamery — soft serve and hand-dipped ice cream that’s practically art in a cone. Take your treat to the Bluffwalk and watch the sunset over the James River and Blue Ridge Mountains.
📍 1016 Jefferson Street, Suite 1
If you’re not ready for the night to end, wander a few blocks to Reserve Winery & Lounge for cheese and wine before turning in.
From morning coffee to sunset views, explore the best of Downtown Lynchburg all in one walkable stretch.
Before you head out, check out How to Get Around Lynchburg for parking locations, trail maps, and directions to downtown.
Jefferson Street captures the spirit of Lynchburg — where river views, art, and local flavor meet in one walkable stretch. Whether you’re here for a full day of exploration, an evening out, or just a leisurely stroll along the Bluffwalk, Jefferson Street is the heartbeat of Downtown LYH.
Begin your day with a little love — literally. Snap a selfie at the LOVE sculpture located near the entrance to the Percival’s Island Riverwalk Trail. Installed in 2013, this large-scale public art piece has become one of Lynchburg’s most beloved photo spots. Don’t forget to tag your shot with #LYHLovesYou!
📍 1600 Concord Turnpike
Rent a bike from Bikes Unlimited and set off on the Riverwalk Trail, an urban pathway that winds along the James River and connects to the Blackwater Creek and Point of Honor trails. Stop at Riverfront Park for a quick break, or keep going until you reach Rotary Centennial Riverfront Skatepark.
📍 Bikes Unlimited – 1312 Jefferson Street
Pack a light picnic or grab takeout downtown and head to Rotary Centennial Riverfront Skatepark. Enjoy lunch while watching skateboarders and BMX riders show off their skills against the backdrop of Blackwater Creek and the riverfront skyline.
After lunch, stroll back toward downtown and look for the Langley Fountain bubbling up in the James River. It marks the historic landing of the original Lynch Ferry, where founder John Lynch began ferrying goods and people across the water — laying the groundwork for the city’s growth as a tobacco and shipping hub.
📍 Jefferson Street at Riverfront Park
Make your way down Jefferson Street to see some of Downtown’s most colorful public art:
- The CityArts Mosaic Mural – 4,800 square feet of intricate, hand-placed tiles.
- The “Lynchbug” Sculpture – a bold, modern landmark near Amazement Square.
📍 Corner of Jefferson Street & 9th Street
Families can spend the afternoon at Amazement Square, Lynchburg’s National Medal-winning children’s museum. Kids will love the hands-on exhibits, arts stations, and the four-story Amazement Tower, the tallest indoor climbing structure in the U.S.
📍 27 9th Street
Walk or ride a few blocks to Riverviews Artspace, a hub for contemporary art, live performances, and poetry readings. If your visit aligns with a Wolfbane Productions show, catch one of their immersive theatre performances for a creative afternoon experience.
📍 Riverviews – 901 Jefferson Street
As golden hour sets in, choose your perfect dinner spot along Jefferson Street:
- Depot Grille – American fare in a restored freight station.
- The Water Dog – oysters, burgers, and craft brews with river views.
- Waterstone Pizza – brick-oven pies and cocktails in a stylish space.
- Reserve Winery & Lounge – upscale wine bar with small plates.
- Trailhead – a relaxed neighborhood favorite for modern Southern fare.
📍 Jefferson Street Dining District
Finish your evening with dessert from MayLynn’s Creamery — soft serve and hand-dipped ice cream that’s practically art in a cone. Take your treat to the Bluffwalk and watch the sunset over the James River and Blue Ridge Mountains.
📍 1016 Jefferson Street, Suite 1
If you’re not ready for the night to end, wander a few blocks to Reserve Winery & Lounge for cheese and wine before turning in.
