How to do Winter Dining Right in Downtown Lynchburg

Unlike trendy diets and sun-kissed skin, the need to support small businesses doesn’t die down in the winter months. In fact, restaurants and retail shops statistically see less sales after the holidays, which is why we’ve created the How to do Winter Dining Right in Downtown Lynchburg blog. We hope these tips and tricks will encourage you to enjoy your time in Downtown Lynchburg this winter while you continue to support local.

The temperature outside may be currently keeping you indoors, but below we have shown you exactly how to beat the cold weather and make the most of your outdoor dining experience– whether that be fireside, wrapped in a blanket, sipping on a hot latte, or wearing a cozy cardigan. We all have the opportunity this winter season to do our part in supporting the community, so happy reading and may the bravest of you enjoy a nice fireside cocktail very soon.

⇩⇩ Scroll down for all of our pro-tips on how to do winter dining in style ⇩ ⇩


Dress in warm layers

Layers are a must. If you get too hot, you can always take something off. Start off shopping for the perfect layers at the awesome shops right here in Downtown Lynchburg!

A Selection of Sweaters at Live Trendy or Die

1101 Church Street - Downtown Lynchburg Gift Cards accepted here!

Cardigans Galore at Ayven Ave

409 Fifth Street

Snarky Socks at Gilded

1103 Church Street - Downtown Lynchburg Gift Cards SOLD and accepted here!

Fuzzy Faux Fur at Lexie & Lee

1220 Main Street - Downtown Lynchburg Gift Cards accepted here!

Genuine Alpaca Scarves at Spearman Artisanry

919 Main Street and 1219 Main Street (in the Lynchburg Community Market) - Downtown Lynchburg Gift Cards accepted here!

Stylish Men’s Hats at Heritage Connection Gifts & Tailoring

915 Main Street - Downtown Lynchburg Gift Cards accepted here!


Block the wind

You’d be surprised how much longer you can enjoy your drinks when you are shielded from the breeze. Cozy up with your inner circle while still social distancing from strangers in a canopy.

A Glass of Red at Reserve Tasting Room

1101 Jefferson Street - Downtown Lynchburg Gift Cards accepted here!

A Mug of Spiked Hot Cider at Skyline

712 Church Street - Rooftop of The Virginian Hotel


A hot drink hits the spot

Wrap your hands around a hot mug. Breathe in the delicious smell before you take your first sip. It’s a multi-sensory experience! What could be better than that on a brisk morning?

A Honey Cinnamon Latte from The White Hart Cafe

1208 Main Street - Downtown Lynchburg Gift Cards accepted here!

A Pour-Over from Dublin 3 Coffehouse

1001 Jefferson Street

Herbal Tea from Mission House Coffee

722 Commerce Street - Downtown Lynchburg Gift Cards SOLD and accepted here!


Find a fire 🔥

There’s something about an open flame that makes you want to stay outside for a while. Whether it’s a tabletop heater or a bonafide wood fire, the combination of heat and ambience get a 10/10 in our book.

A Pint of Honey Brown Ale at Three Roads Brewing Company

1300 Court Street

Mules and Martinis at Shoemakers American Grille

1312 Commerce Street- Downtown Lynchburg Gift Cards accepted here!

Fire Pit Fridays at {RA} Bistro

1344 Main Street - Downtown Lynchburg Gift Cards accepted here!


Warm up from the inside out

When it comes down to it, order something that will give you the warm fuzzies.

Soup du Jour at Crisp

1124 Church Street - Downtown Lynchburg Gift Cards accepted here!

Spicy Wings at Badger on Main

1118 Main Street

Hot & Fresh Cinnamon Bun at Cinn City

1344 Main Street - Downtown Lynchburg Gift Cards accepted here!

Bourbon Flight at Bootleggers

50 Thirteenth Street

A Hot Slice of Pizza at Benny Scarpetta’s

1019 Main Street


BYOB: bring your own blanket

You don’t have to be a boy scout in order to be prepared. Come ready to wrap up in a blanket. We won’t judge (in fact, we’ll be slightly impressed).

Cozy up at Waterstone Pizza

1309 Jefferson Street - Downtown Lynchburg Gift Cards accepted here!

Bring a Furry Lap-Warmer at My Dog Duke’s Diner

1007 Commerce Street

Borrow a Throw at The Water Dog

1016 Jefferson Street - Downtown Lynchburg Gift Cards accepted here!


All of the restaurants and coffee shops listed have outdoor dining options. So, grab your gloves, pack a parka, and don’t be scared by the cooler temps!