Have you heard the news? Reviews.org has named Lynchburg the number one place for Millennials to move in 2019! I think all of us here already assumed that Lynchburg was the best place to live, but it’s nice to have some proof ;)
This article was quick to mention that Lynchburg has great trails, a Symphony Orchestra, and the Academy Center of the Arts- all of which are found Downtown. So really, if you're looking to move to Lynchburg, you should look to Downtown Lynchburg!
But if you still don’t believe me, here’s 8 more reasons why you this is the place for you:
1. Get There Quick
Downtown is filled with trendy lofts and apartments. Midpoint Apartments is right on the Bluffwalk, where you can enjoy a Sunday stroll with your pup, try a new restaurant, or explore new hobbies. Parkview on the Bluff is also coming soon and will feature luxury condos and upscale retail locations. With other apartments like these just minutes from major attractions, restaurants, and retail spaces, you’ll experience the fullness of downtown and be anywhere in just 15 minutes or less.
2. Music
WOW, Lynchburg has a thriving music scene, and venues like The Glass House and City Auditorium help make that possible! The Glass House is an urban multi-purpose space on Jefferson Street, and they have just lined up concerts through August with the help of City Auditorium, which is working to improve Lynchburg concerts in a big way-- like getting Steve Miller Band and Ben Harper and the Innocent Criminals for some local shows. Kind of a big deal. Also, visit Speakertree, Lynchburg’s only record shop, and snag a record or two from their expansive new & used vinyl selection and check out their schedule for local shows in their laid back space.
3. Cultural Hub
Reviews.org made sure to mention that Lynchburg is culturally savvy, citing our theaters and orchestra, but we still have so much more. Spend a day touring the Lynchburg Museum, seeing the memorials (and city views) at Monument Terrace, or checking out First Fridays. It’s a night filled with art galleries, musical performances, museum exhibits, and more scattered across Downtown, and it’s always held on the first Friday of the month. This is also a great time to start looking for shows at the Renaissance Theater, Academy Center of the Arts, or the Lynchburg Symphony Orchestra!
4. #Foodie
Lynchburg is known for, if nothing else, having great food. You can find almost any kind of food here, and on almost any budget. Benny Scarpetta’s serves giant slices of pizza for the wild & free (& on a budget). Cinn City, a top-notch cinnamon roll cafe, and Mrs. Joy’s Absolutely Fabulous Treats are perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth. Crisp and Urbavore are delicious options for more plant-based and health-conscious options. Step things up a bit and head to El Jefe for tacos and tequila, Bootleggers for gourmet burgers, fries, and shakes, or check out Waterstone Pizza for some award winning pies! If you’re celebrating something really special then you’ll want to test out Shoemakers American Grille, a local favorite!
5. It’s 5 o’clock somewhere!
Lynchburg happily welcomed The Virginian Hotel’s Skyline Grill last year, which is the only rooftop bar in the city. It has a stunning view of the city and the James River. Enjoy comfortable seating, delicious foods, and an assortment of wines, beers, and cocktails.
The newest addition to the bar scene is Third Street Brewing, coming soon to the old Babcocks Auto Service building on Court Street. They have one location thriving in Farmville, but this will be their first Lynchburg branch. Renovations on their building start this summer, and once they’re finished the brewery will have 4 signature beers, along with several other seasonal brews. Local food trucks will arrive on site to sell food and Third Street will set up picnic tables for outdoor seating. We can’t wait for them to join our downtown family!
6. For the kiddos, too
Downtown isn’t just for adults! Your little ones can have fun (and learn a little) at Amazement Square, an interactive children’s museum. Afterward, you can treat them to rolled ice cream or a milkshake at MayLynn’s Creamery Downtown, or let them burn some energy walking the nature trails, speaking of which...
7. Get Outside
...Let me tell you about them! Even in the hustle-and-bustle of downtown living, you can enjoy nature’s serenity in your own backyard. Percival’s Isle is right off of Jefferson Street and has a great view of the James River. You can picnic near the water, bike the trails, or stroll down the pavement. You can also follow the Riverwalk Trail or Blackwater Creek Trail. Each path is different from the last, so try and walk them all!
Another outdoor spot we adore downtown is the Bluffwalk, featuring our NEW CHAIRS! Aren’t they amazing?! We’re just a little (*really really*) excited to have these colorful additions in our area. Sit down and take a break, then explore all the Bluffwalk has from end to end. If you post any pictures while you’re here be sure to tag us @DowntownLynchburg so that we can share your pictures!
8. Finding your place
Downtown also features more personal groups that revolve around faith and beliefs, and we love it! We believe that everyone should be represented, and many faiths are expressed here through Holy Cross Catholic Church, First Baptist Church, and First Unitarian Church of Lynchburg. If church isn’t your thing, or maybe if it is, you can also check out the Lynchburg Diversity Center, which works to promote LGBTQ+ rights and strengthens this community in our city.
Well, there ya have it. Downtown Lynchburg is a pretty stellar place to live, work, and play. From culture to housing to food, the city has everything in a quaint urban hub. So thanks Reviews.org for the shout out in your Top 10 list! With a list like this, who wouldn’t want to live in Lynchburg?
