With the 2022 Movies in the Park series about to kick off, we’re here to provide you with the ultimate pre-movie guide to your day in Downtown Lynchburg. We’ve created 5 unique itineraries—one for each movie screening.
Whether you’re looking for an action-packed plan before watching ‘The Incredibles,’ or you want to travel back in time for ‘Back to the Future,’ we’ve made you the perfect list of downtown restaurants, shops, and attractions for each of these beloved films.
Lights, camera, ACTION!
In The Heights
Movie Screening: June 10 @ 8:30pm
Get your feet moving by salsa dancing at Mission House Coffee or 3 Roads Brewing Company. We think this is the perfect way to meet new friends and embrace the increasing summer heat.
Does someone “owe you a bottle of cold champagne?” Reserve Wine Tasting Room has a variety of quality beverages—and they’re just a stone’s throw away from Riverfront Park.
Finally, embrace the color and vibrancy of the movie by snapping some photos in Art Alley, a placemaking project by Downtown Lynchburg Association.
The Incredibles
Movie Screening: July 8th @ 8:30pm
The first stop for any action-packed day in Downtown Lynchburg has to be a coffee shop to fuel up! Lucky for you, we have plenty to choose from, including: The White Hart Café, Grains of Sense, Mission House Coffee, Marigold Cafe, 5th Street Grind or Nomad Coffee Company (located inside Gilded or at the movie event!).
Amazement Square is the perfect place for kids to flex their hero muscles by exploring the fascinating ‘Amazement Tower,’ an indoor play structure that spans all four floors of this interactive children’s learning museum. They even have a ‘League of Healthy Heroes’ exhibit to teach about healthy lifestyle choices.
You may not be as fast as Dash, but you can increase your speed by hopping on a bike at Bikes Unlimited.
To cool off from all that summer fun, you’ll find some icy treats inspired by one of the film’s most beloved characters, Frozone, at Rolled Cold Creamery on Main Street or Maylynn’s Creamery at the movie event.
Back to the Future
Movie Screening: July 22 @ 8:30pm
Hanging out in a historic downtown makes for easy time travel! Step back in time at one of our local antique shops, like Buzzard’s Roost, Enchanted, Estates & Consignments, Estates Revisited or Scarlet’s Main Street Antique Mall. Or, head over to RiverView Vinyl for some old school tunes.
It will take some time to develop Marty McFly’s sick guitar skills, but you can surely get started by checking out the impressive selection of instruments at L. Oppleman, America’s oldest pawn shop.
It may not be a DeLorean, but you can still cruise around McFly-style when you stop into Scene 3 Boardshop to get yourself a new skateboard.
Even though The Texas Inn opened way back in 1935, the restaurant today still gives all the vibes of a classic 1950s diner. This downtown establishment is tasty in any decade!
Tangled
Movie Screening: August 5 @ 8:15pm
For the best ‘Tangled’-inspired time in Downtown Lynchburg, we recommend starting your royal escapade by having afternoon tea at The Ploughcroft Tea Room on Commerce Street.
Next, find the the perfect ‘lost princess’ dress at Ayven Avenue Boutique, Lexie and Lee, or Live Trendy or Die. Or, even get a classic vintage piece at Empire Fleet Vintage.
When you think Rapunzel, you think hair! Head over to The Wig Center or Fashion Plus for the latest trends in luscious locks. Don’t forget to grab some gorgeous flowers from The Hip Tulip to adorn your hair.
Looking for something more adventurous? Have your own romantic (or daring) boat adventure as you kayak or canoe on the James River with James River Adventures.
Spiderman: No Way Home
Movie Screening: August 12 @ 8:15pm
Peter Parker gets a view of the city like no other as he swings from building to building. Perch yourself high atop the city and enjoy a Spiderman-worthy view at one of our fabulous rooftop dining establishments: 7 Rooftop Bar or Skyline Rooftop.
If you’re craving one of the donuts from MJ’s coffee shop in the film, get downtown early to grab some crepes at Batter Bar, cinnamon rolls from Cinn City or donuts from Father’s Café & Bakery (located in the Lynchburg Community Market).
Test your spidey skills at Rise Up Climbing on Church Street. This place isn’t just for experienced climbers; they have rock walls for all skill-levels.
Who knew you could replicate Hollywood movies right here in Central Virginia? Be sure to share your favorite move-inspired adventures with us by tagging @downtownlynchburg.
Movies In The Park are brought to you with generous support from: Innovative Wireless Technologies, Ryan Homes, Mustaches for Kids, and the Lynchburg Office of Economic Development and Tourism, as well as our media partners WSET ABC13 and iHeart Radio's 1079 WYYD.
