Welcome to Downtown Lynchburg, Virginia
Nestled east of the Blue Ridge Mountain, Downtown Lynchburg is a thriving hub of culture, creativity, and community. From vibrant street art to charming historic architecture, Downtown LYH offers a unique blend of the old and new. Locally owned shops, cozy cafes, art galleries, and restaurants fill our historic Main Street and beyond. Downtown LYH is the perfect backdrop for any occasion or event, from a concert to movie nights or weddings.
Downtown Lynchburg
Known as the ” City of Seven Hills,” LYH is built upon various neighborhoods that shape the history and founding of this city. The seven hills are College Hill, Daniel’s Hill, Diamond Hill, Federal Hill, Franklin Hill, Garland Hill, and White Rock Hill.
the history of Lynchburg
In the early years of Lynchburg, tobacco and iron were the primary outputs. Through John Lynch’s ferry system on the James River, Downtown Lynchburg quickly became one of the largest tobacco markets in the United States. The James Calloway Furnace, which operated from 1770 until 1779, and the Davie Ross Furnace, which operated from 1781 until 1837, supplied the Continental Army with pig iron and cannonballs during the American Revolution. Lynchburg served as a major storage depot during the Civil War, as well.
What you can explore in downtown Lynchburg
Over the last 20 years, Downtown Lynchburg has experienced a vibrant resurgence. Through historic efforts, once-dormant buildings have come back to life. From the luxurious Virginian Hotel and Craddock Terry Hotel, to the beautifully restored Academy Center of the Arts and modern loft apartments, Downtown LYH continues to evolve! Check out what you can explore in Downtown LYH:
Main Street
Main Street is the heart of Downtown Lynchburg. Boutiques, restaurants, cafes and other shops reside in unique, historic buildings with large front windows. There are over a dozen food options on Main Street alone.
Market at Main on Main Street
The Academy Center of the Arts
The Academy Center of the Arts theatre, formerly The Academy of Music Theatre, was opened on February 1, 1905. It became one of the most prominent theatres. After a fire and a closure, the original historic theatre was renovated decades later and reestablished its splendor on Main Street in Downtown Lynchburg.
Academy Center of the Arts
Jefferson Street
The iconic Jefferson Street is home to top attractions, Instagrammable sights, and some of the best restaurants in town—some with views of the James River and iconic Bluffwalk.
Maylynns on Jefferson Street
The Lynchburg Community Market
The Lynchburg Community Market was established in 1783 and played a key role in the development and growth of downtown Lynchburg. The market is both an open-air and indoor shopping experience with booths filled with local produce, artisans, and makers.
Lynchburg Community Market
Historic Fifth Street
One of the more historic streets in downtown Lynchburg, Historic Fifth Street was once known as the city’s African American business district. Today, 5th Street is home to various restaurants, shops, museums, and historic sites.
Fifth Street Cherry Blossoms
Explore The Bluffwalk
The Bluffwalk is a pedestrian walkway providing views of the James River and the Blue Ridge Mountains in the distance. Located between Jefferson and Commerce Streets, a stroll along the walkway leads you to restaurants with outdoor dining opportunities, public art displays, shops and fantastic views. Occasional events are held on Bluffwalk and specified spaces can be rented.
The Bluffwalk
What are some things to do in Downtown Lynchburg?
History
Learn the history of Lynchburg by taking a walking tour of downtown Lynchburg neighborhoods. These prosperous neighborhoods sprang up in LYH during the 19th Century when tobacco tycoons, doctors, and attorneys made Lynchburg the wealthiest city in the nation for its size. A self-guided walking tour brochure is available at the Lynchburg Visitor Information Center located inside the historic Old Court House. Downtown Lynchburg’s architecture also represents the historic richness and beauty of downtown.
Lynchburg Museum and Visitor Information Center
Restaurants & coffee Shops
Downtown Lynchburg is a foodie’s dream. Local restaurants are everywhere you look in downtown Lynchburg. From authentic middle eastern cuisine to pizza, to fresh oysters, there is delicious something for everyone. You’ll definitely want to check out the over 40 different dining options available downtown.
Food from Dish
Shop
Just like food, there’s no shortage of local boutiques and stores where you can shop for unique gifts, trend-setting clothes, local art pieces and so much more. Start planning your next shopping trip to downtown Lynchburg and take a look at all of the shopping options.
Riverview Vinyl on Fifth Street
Outdoor Activities
Riverfront Park is located along the James River, it includes a large open field suitable for concerts, festivals and other special events for up to 4,000 people. It also has a large fountain/ splash park perfect for kids to play and cool off in on hot summer days. For a little taste of adventure, you can rent bikes from Bikes Unlimited on Jefferson Street and follow one of the many biking paths around LYH. There are two different entrances to the miles of bike paths located right in downtown. Find yourself biking, walking or running on the Blackwater Creek Trail or Percival’s Island.
Biking on Percival Island Trail Downtown
Stay in Downtown LYH
The Virginian Hotel
The Virginian Hotel is a historic AAA four-diamond luxury stay that first opened as a grand Beaux-Arts-style hotel in 1913. The hotel has three on-site restaurants, beautiful rooftop views, and elegant event spaces.
The Virginian Hotel
The Craddock Terry Hotel and Event Center
The Craddock Terry Hotel and Event Center was once a turn-of-the-century shoe factory and is now a residential-style boutique hotel blending the urban architecture of two landmark brick warehouses with the fashionable styling of a modern hotel. Onsite is the delicious Shoemakers Restaurant, serving steaks and fresh seafood in an elegant atmosphere.
The Craddock Terry Hotel and Event Center
Annual Events in Downtown LYH
Blooms and brews
Blooms and Brews at the Lynchburg Community Market
International Festival
The International Festival is hosted by the City of Lynchburg Office of Economic Development & Tourism, the City of Lynchburg, and Downtown Lynchburg Association. This festival welcomes over 1,000 festival-goers to the heart to Riverfront Park. The festival celebrates the international community and visitors with Downtown businesses, makers, artisans, performers, and food. This annual event typically takes place in May.
International Festival on Main Street
Hill City Slide
Slide into Summer is a two-day event hosted by United Way of Central Virginia in partnership with the City of Lynchburg. Taking place along Church Street between 12th and Washington Streets, this one-of-a-kind event features a massive 700-foot water slide right in the heart of Downtown. Produced in collaboration with Urban Slide, the event invites families and thrill-seekers alike to cool off and enjoy an unforgettable summer experience.
Hill City Slide on Church Street between 12th and Washington Streets
books & brews
Books and Brews is a free, family-friendly event hosted at the Lynchburg Community Market and presented in support of the Friends of the Lynchburg Public Library. Held each October, this lively evening features local vendors, food trucks, craft brews, kids’ activities, and more—all in celebration of community and literacy. Proceeds from the event help support programs and resources at the Lynchburg Public Library.
Books & Brews at the Lynchburg Community Market
Bright Nights on the Bluffwalk
Bright Nights on the Bluffwalk is hosted by the Downtown Lynchburg Association and the City of Lynchburg. This festive holiday event transforms the Bluffwalk into a glowing wonderland with dazzling light displays and seasonal cheer. Taking place nightly throughout the holiday season until, Bright Nights offers a magical downtown experience for families, visitors, and locals alike.
Bright Night on Bluffwalk
What’s Near downtown Lynchburg?
Downtown Lynchburg is centrally located and only a short drive away from many other unique small towns and larger cities. Check out what’s close by!
- Blue Ridge Parkway entrance: 42.6 miles
- Bedford: 27.6 miles
- Roanoke: 56.0 miles
- Richmond: 113 miles
- Appomattox: 20.1 miles
- Danville: 69.5 miles