Summer in Lynchburg is all about fun, adventure, and making lasting memories! Whether you’re planning a family outing or hosting friends from out of town, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the city’s five urban trails and take in scenic views, local wildlife, and outdoor experiences you won’t forget. Dive into Lynchburg’s rich history and vibrant arts scene with visits to local museums and galleries that showcase everything from historical artifacts to contemporary exhibits. Check out our Summer Bucket List in LYH:
Outdoor Adventures
Hit the Trails
Lynchburg is home to a vast network of scenic urban trails that are perfect for biking, walking, jogging, or just enjoying nature. With over 40 miles of connected trails, including the popular Blackwater Creek Trail and Percival’s Island, there’s always a path to explore!
Lynchburg has a diverse network of trails and parks that welcome outdoor activities like biking, hiking, walking, and fishing.
- Bikes Unlimited: Rent, buy, or repair your bike before hopping over to the trails. Located on Jefferson Street.
- Riverside Runners: Your go-to for footwear, training tips, and running gear. Located on Rivermont Avenue next to Magnolia Foods.
Visit the James
Get out on the river with opportunities to go tubing or canoeing down the James River. Book a tour with James River Adventures and enjoy exploring the beauty of Lynchburg’s riverfront. Fish for smallmouth bass and other fish species at Hollins Mill, Percival’s Island, or Clemmons Lake at Ivy Creek Park.
- James River Adventures: Located in Amherst across from Lynchburg’s downtown in Madison Heights. Book a tour online or rent kayaks to experience the James River today!
- Angler’s Lane: Located in Forrest at Graves Mill Shopping Center. They have various fly-fishing equipment and guided trips to the James River.
Disc Golf
Did you know Lynchburg hosted the 2024 PDGA Professional Disc Golf World Championships last summer? Lynchburg has 10-disc golf courses within and in the surrounding area.
- Peaks View Park: Host of the 1998 Disc Golf Championships, with both beginner and advanced 18-hole courses. Includes 3 main entrances: 1175 Ardmore Drive, 1400 Tenbury Drive, and 298 Ivy Creek Lane. This park has nine amenities, including tennis courts, a Playground, and access to the ADA-compliant Ivy Creek Greenway.
- Sandusky Park: A 21-acre park and historically Lynchburg’s wildflower park. It has athletic fields, a picnic area, a paved pathway, and an 18-hole disc golf course. The park is located at 5805 Rhonda Road, Lynchburg, VA 24502.
Historic Discoveries
Visit a Museum
Lynchburg is rich in history! Explore our history through guided tours, preserved homes, and peaceful gardens.
- Lynchburg Museum: Located on Court St and at the top of Monument Terrace, this museum shares the city’s local history and evolving story through exhibits, On the first Friday of every month, explore Lynchburg’s local arts and culture scene at First Fridays. Stop by the Lynchburg Museum for extended hours, live music, or rotating exhibits. Then stroll to nearby galleries or grab dinner downtown.
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Poplar Forest: Visit Thomas Jefferson’s serene retreat home, a stunning National Historic Landmark.
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Point of Honor: Tour this elegant riverside mansion with ties to Lynchburg’s Civil War and medical history.
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Anne Spencer House: Explore the home and garden of one of the Harlem Renaissance’s most influential poets.
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Old City Cemetery: With 27 acres of gardens, five museums, and the second-oldest funeral home in the U.S., this is not your typical cemetery.
Get Inspired with Local Art
Lynchburg is alive with colorful murals and public art! And don’t miss First Fridays, a monthly downtown celebration of local art, music, and culture. For a deeper dive, stop by:
- Art Alley on Bluffwalk – A vibrant outdoor gallery featuring large-scale murals by local and regional artists. Tucked between Jefferson and Commerce Streets, this colorful corridor is the perfect backdrop for a stroll
- Patricia Harrington Gallery (Main Street): Open Monday–Saturday, this gallery showcases rotating visual arts exhibitions.
- Riverviews Artspace (Jefferson Street): A modern gallery with contemporary exhibits, open Wednesday–Sunday 12:00pm-4:00pm
- Findings Art Gallery: A charming gallery, located in Boonsboro Shopping Center, that features locally made art, jewelry, pottery, and gifts. It’s a great place to find one-of-a-kind pieces and support local makers.
- Steven Francis Art (SFFA): Exhibiting contemporary work by both emerging and established artists, SFFA is a space dedicated to powerful, thought-provoking art. The amount of incredible work coming through this gallery is truly phenomenal.
Unique Experiences
There is always something happening in Lynchburg, from classes to captivating shows and special events like the Virginia 10 Miler. Check out this list of unique experiences, from indoor to outdoor activities:
Cool off from the Heat
Cool down at the Riverside Park Sprayground or the splash pad at Riverfront Park—a favorite for younger kids looking to beat the heat.
Explore & Learn
- Amazement Square: This interactive children’s museum offers four floors of colorful exhibits that inspire creativity and curiosity.
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Lynchburg Community Market: Start your Saturday with local produce, handmade crafts, coffee, and live music at one of the country’s oldest markets.
Mini Golf & More
Keep things lighthearted with classic mini golf fun:
- Putt-Putt Fun Center: A colorful and nostalgic spot for families and friends.
- Tiny Town Golf: A charming course full of fun obstacles and summer charm.
Take in a Show
Catch an incredible performance at:
- Academy Center of the Arts: Located in a beautifully restored theater, this venue hosts concerts, plays, art classes, and more.
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Wolfbane Productions: Enjoy high-energy outdoor theater performances in nearby Amherst, offering a truly unique night out.
Cheer on the Hillcats
Grab your glove and head to Bank of the James Stadium to watch the Lynchburg Hillcats, our beloved Minor League Baseball team. Enjoy classic ballpark snacks, theme nights, and fireworks after select games.
Indoor Escapes
When the temperatures rise, head indoors for family fun and cool adventures:
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River Ridge Mall: Shop, dine, and catch a movie at Regal Cinemas all in one place.
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Hill City Aqua Zoo: This indoor zoo is perfect for kids, with reptiles, amphibians, and educational experiences.
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Rise Up Climbing: Challenge yourself on indoor rock walls—great for all skill levels.
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FunQuest Family Entertainment: Skate, play arcade games, or let the kids loose in the soft play zone.
No matter the season, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in LYH. Looking for something specific? Head to our events page to see what’s happening around LYH!