Unique Sights Around Lynchburg Virginia

An Overview of Lynchburg

Found on the quaint edges of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Lynchburg is a city following the banks of the nearby James River. The city is steep, with many of its most notable features existing on hills and platforms overlooking the river area and historic downtown district. The city is especially well known for it’s relationship with higher education, as it’s home to five colleges and universities. Thanks to its long history, lush surroundings and unique culture, there are many unique sights around Lynchburg Virginia.

Unique Sights Around Lynchburg

Natural Bridge State Park

Found in Rockbridge county, this park contains a natural geological formation with a 215-foot-tall arch spanning over 90 feet. It’s found within a limestone gorge created by Cedar Creek, which eventually flows into the James River.

Thomas Jefferson’s Poplar Forest

This is a large plantation and plantation house designed and built by Thomas Jefferson.

Percival’s Island Natural Area

Easily accessible from downtown, the Percival’s Island and the surrounding natural area is a popular site for riverwalks, fishing and watching herons, migrating waterfowl and other river life. There are several paved trails and pleasant lounging areas.

Legacy Museum of African American History

This museum hosts a rotating series of exhibitions showcasing local African-American history, culture and influences in the region.

Point of Honor

This is a beautiful and historic home converted into a local history museum regarding Lynchburg’s varied histroy. The property is known for it’s excellent views of the city and overlooks of the James River. The building’s name is attributed to its history as a popular dueling site.

Riverside Park

This is a small greenspace overlooking the James River with nice walking trails and biking paths.

Monument Terrace

Monument Terrace serves as Lynchburg’s “Public Square” in a series of staircases and platforms leading higher into the city. The area is filled with pedestrian shops and serves as the major footpath connecting Lynchburg’s two main downtown streets. The most iconic feature found here is the “Doughboy Statue” which depicts a World War I infantry soldier alongside the names of the 43 dead.

Lower Bluff Walk

Often simply known as “The Bluffwalk,” this is a long pedestrian walkway with views of the James River and Blue Ridge Mountains. The pathway wanders alongside numerous public art displays, shops and small overlook points.

Art Alley

Iconic for its brightly-painted ground, Art Alley is a vibrant outdoor gallery showcasing numerous murals and street artworks.

Garland Hill Historic District

The Garland Hill Historic District serves as one of the national historic districts of Virginia. The area includes many beautiful preserved buidlings in a small residential neighborhood atop one of the hills found around downtown Lynchburg.

Awareness Garden

This is a unique, supremely peaceful garden space with an iconic bell and quiet seating areas. The garden is used as a communal healing space where visitors can reflect on the lives impacted by cancer.

Langley Fountain

Found in the James River, this is a large fountain easily visable in downtown Lynchburg.

Read more about unique sights around Lynchburg and seeing the world by checking out the Leftfade Trails Blog

Affiliate Disclosure: Leftfade Trails contains affiliate links, so using services or products through these links supports the website, at no extra cost to the user. All links are to tested services and products designed to aid travelers on their journeys. Some links specifically connect to Amazon. As an Amazon Associate this website earns from qualifying purchases.