Jefferson Street in Downtown LYH
By Jodi Helmer
Blog Updated August 2025
Jefferson Street is one of Downtown Lynchburg’s most iconic thoroughfares. With its mix of river views, public art, cultural destinations, and some of the city’s best restaurants, the street perfectly captures the energy of LYH. Whether you’re here for a day of exploring, an evening out, or just a scenic stroll along the Bluffwalk, Jefferson Street offers something for everyone.
Outdoor adventures & river views
Start the day by showing LYH a little love by posing for a selfie in front of the LOVE sculpture. The large scale art project was installed in 2013 and has become a favorite photo spot—be sure to tag #LYHLovesYou on social media.
LOVE Sculpture at Percival’s Island Riverwalk Trail – 1600 Concord Turnpike
Rent a bike from Bikes Unlimited and ride along the Riverwalk Trail. The urban trail passes Riverfront Park and connects the Riverwalk Trail to the Blackwater Creek and Point of Honor trails. Pedal to Rotary Centennial Riverfront Skatepark and enjoy a picnic lunch. The park, located on the banks of Blackwater Creek, is home to a popular skatepark. Eat lunch and watch the skateboarders navigating the quarter pipes and kicker ramps on wheels.
Look for the Langley Fountain in the river. The fountain marks the spot where the Lynch Ferry used to land when Lynchburg was a budding town. Local businessman John Lynch started a ferry service to move tobacco across the James River; the service transformed the city into a bustling commercial hub for tobacco shipping (and many of the warehouses that once stored tobacco are now residential lofts with magnificent views of the river and downtown Lynchburg).
Langley Fountain – Downtown LYH
Art, Culture, & Family Fun
This end of Jefferson Street is also known as an epicenter of arts and culture. You’ll spot the “Lynchburg” sculpture outside of Amazement Square and the CityArts Mosaic Mural, a 4,800-square-foot installation of colorful tiles celebrating Downtown LYH.
CityArts Mosaic Mural
Step inside Riverviews Artspace, which showcases contemporary art, poetry slams, and live performances. Families won’t want to miss Amazement Square, the city’s National Medal-winning children’s museum, where kids can climb, zipline, and create.
Adding to the cultural vibe, Wolfbane Productions, known for its bold and innovative theatre, has a presence on Jefferson Street, bringing dynamic performances and immersive experiences to Downtown.
Food, Drinks, & Sweet Treats
Exploring Jefferson Street will definitely work up an appetite. For a taste of history, stop by Depot Grille, housed in an old freight train station along the James River. It’s a favorite spot for sandwiches, seafood, and hearty entrees with a side of waterfront views.
Round out your evening with casual riverside dining at The Water Dog or Waterstone Pizza, both beloved local hangouts. Still hungry? MayLynn’s Creamery has you covered with soft serve and hand-dipped ice cream that tastes (and looks) like art in a cone.
Other Restaurants on Jefferson Street:
- The Glass House – 1019 Jefferson St.
- Reserve Winery & Lounge – 1101 Jefferson St. Suite 100
- El Mariachi – 1001 Jefferson St. Suite B
- Trailhead – 1312 Jefferson St.
Maylynn’s Creamery – 1016 Jefferson St. #1
Spending the day taking in the sights and attractions on Jefferson Street is a great way to get to know—and fall in love with—Lynchburg.
Jodi Helmer writes about food, drink and travel for National Geographic Traveler, Hemispheres, Huffington Post, AARP and Our State. She lives and works on a hobby farm near Charlotte, North Carolina.
Learn more about Jodi HERE