Top 10 Historic Places in Virginia To Visit

Virginia, often called the “Mother of Presidents” is a state full of rich history spanning over four centuries. From historic Presidential homes to Civil War battlefields, Virginia offers history enthusiasts plenty of sites to visit. Today we’ll explore the top historic places in Virginia to visit:

1. Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello
   

   68 miles from Lynchburg
   

   

   Photo credit from virignia.org.

Monticello, located in Charlottesville, was Thomas Jefferson’s mountaintop home and plantation. A variety of tour options ranging from 45 minutes to 3 ½ hours are available depending on your unique interests. Tickets are needed to enter the historic home.

2. Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest

10 miles from Lynchburg

Located less than 10 minutes from the heart of Lynchburg, Poplar Forest was Thomas Jefferson’s private retreat. Now a National Historic Landmark, the building is currently undergoing preservation, restoration, and archaeology — don’t worry though, it’s still open to the public for tours and special events.

3. Appomattox Court House National Historical Park

20 miles from Lynchburg

Located 20 miles east of Lynchburg, the Appomattox Court House National Historical Park tells the story of the heroic acts of April 1865 that ended the Civil War. The park features all buildings original to the site that have been restored to their original condition, including the McLean House where Generals Lee and Grant crafted and signed the terms of surrender that ended the Civil War. During warmer seasons, the park offers guided talks led by park rangers and living history staff. The park is free to visit and free parking is located on-site.

4. Mount Vernon

170 miles from Lynchburg

George Washington’s home, Mount Vernon, is located about 15 minutes south of Washington, D.C. The house is open 365 days a year and is currently the most popular historic estate in America. The estate features Washington’s Mansion as well as the tomb of George and Martha Washington. Tickets are required to enter the home, but on-site parking is free.

5. Montpelier

93 miles from Lynchburg

Located about two hours from Lynchburg, Montpelier is the lifelong home of founding father James Madison and is located in Montpelier Station. At Montpelier, guests are able to attend tours that tell of James Madison’s history as well as visit the Madison family cemetery. The property also includes the Annie duPont Formal Garden and more than eight miles of walking trails. Tickets are required to enter the property, but on-site parking is free.

6. Lynchburg Museum

Located in Lynchburg

Explore LYH’s rich history at the Lynchburg Museum, located at the Old Court House. The museum features antique toys, military items, fine art, historic photographs and more that come together to tell the story of Lynchburg. The Lynchburg Museum also offers guided walking tours in different locations throughout the city. Admission to the museum is always free and free street parking is located nearby on Court Street.

7. Virginia State Capitol

110 miles from Lynchburg

The Virginia State Capitol, located about two hours away in Richmond, Virginia, was designed in 1785 by Thomas Jefferson. The building was restored, renovated, and expanded from 2004-2007 and is still used by lawmakers today. The Capitol offers free guided and self-guided tours throughout the week.

8. Colonial Williamsburg

187 miles from Lynchburg

The historic area of Colonial Williamsburg not only tells the story of Virginia’s colonial capital city but recreates it. The area includes 89 original 18th-century buildings as well as hundreds more that have been reconstructed. Be sure to check out the Governor’s Palace, Capitol, and Courthouse while you’re there! Walking the streets of Williamsburg is free, but you’ll need a ticket to enter most historic buildings.

9. Natural Bridge State Park

35 miles from Lynchburg

Located less than an hour from Lynchburg, Natural Bridge State Park is home to one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The bridge was once owned by Thomas Jefferson and stands 215 feet tall. However, the park has more to offer than just the bridge itself. Visitors can enjoy more than 10 miles of hiking trails, including Cedar Creek Trail which leads to a waterfall with a 50-foot cascade. There is a small admission fee to visit the park.

10. National D-Day Memorial

30 miles from Lynchburg

Located in Bedford County, the National D-Day Memorial shares the stories and pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of D-Day’s Allied troops. The memorial also features the Richard S. Reynolds Sr. Garden which parallels the design of the Supreme Headquarters of the Allied Expeditionary Force (SHAEF) shoulder patch, worn by those tasked with planning the invasion. Visiting the memorial does include a small admission fee.

Stay in Lynchburg for your next Virginia history tour.

If you’re planning a trip to visit some of Virginia’s historic sites, Lynchburg is the perfect home base for your adventure. LYH offers a central location with local and statewide historical sites nearby. And, the fun doesn’t stop at Lynchburg’s historical sites—from world-class restaurants to outdoor activities and sporting events, LYH has something for everyone.