Downtown Lynchburg may not seem like much from the outside, but it's actually one of the coolest places you'll ever visit during your time at school. This vintage city is absolutely overflowing with places to eat, drink (coffee) and be merry. Plus, it's only about a 10 minute drive from Liberty and almost all the parking, everywhere is free. If that isn't reason enough to grab your keys and jump in the car, then here are nine others to get you downtown.
1. The Depot Grille
Located about 15 feet from live railroad tracks, the Depot Grille has great food and an incredible, train-themed, atmosphere. They serve everything from burgers to pasta, all while respecting a college student's budget.
2. Ninth Street Parlor
Next time you're in need of a haircut, check out the Ninth Street Parlor. These phenomenal barbers take their time on your hair, making sure it looks absolutely fabulous. You'll probably end up paying a little more for you cut than you would at an established chain, but the certainly quality shows. Plus, it's an incredible experience all the way around. I mean, the place has an enormous fountain located right in the middle of the parlor. SportsClips can't beat that!
3. The Love Sign
If you go to Liberty University and don't take a picture at the world-famous Lynchburg love sign, do you really go to Liberty University?
4. The White Hart Cafe
White Hart is one the hipster-est, trendiest cafes you'll ever visit. They have fantastic, freshly-ground coffee, wonderful food at a reasonable price and an incredible atmosphere. Grab a book or magazine off one of the shelves to read while you eat or just sit back and enjoy a live performance from a local musician. For anyone who hasn't been to the White Hart before, make sure you order the bacon - it's unreal deliciousness has actually brought people to Christ.
5. Mama Crockett's Cider Donuts
A wise old man once said, "The best donuts come from small campers in downtown Lynchburg."
Listen to your elders, folks, and go to Mama Crockett's. Those little O's of delicious joy are likely to steal your heart and never let go. Every donut that comes out of that trailer is made fresh on the spot and has actual apple cider cooked into it! What a time to be alive.
6. Water Stone Pizza
Where would this world be without pizza? Seriously, can you imagine a life absent of those delicious circles of cooked cheese, sauce and dough? I dare not dream dreams that are so terrifying.
Fortunately, we don't have to live that reality thanks, in part, to the Water Stone. This restaurant is one of the most popular in downtown Lynchburg, and for good reason! Their pizzas are made fresh, hand-tossed and thrown into a fire oven just for you!
The only catches are price and time. Because the food is so amazing and it's a small restaurant, tables fill up super quickly. Instead of going during prime dinner hours (5:30-8:00), you can try to avoid the rush by going around lunch time. Or you can call and make a reservation for your party, whatever floats your boat. Additionally, it's worth noting that this meal is probably going to be a little more expensive than your average Domino's meal. That being the case, it may make sense for you to save this restaurant for a Valentine's Day dinner or a more classy event.
7. Lynchburg Community Market
Every Saturday from 7AM to 2PM Lynchburg throws an awesome farmer's market right in the center of the city. Vendors from all over the state drop by to sell everything from corn to jewelry at a price that'll keep your wallet nice and happy.
This market has been a thing in the city of Lynchburg for over 230 years... Yeah, you read that correctly. George Washington was still alive when the first Community Market happened.
8. Percival's Island Bridge
This fun little bridge walks about halfway across the James River and has a pretty awesome view. Also, there's this fun little tradition where couples go out onto the bridge and stick a lock onto the chainlink fence. It's sort of the same idea as the Pont des Arts bridge in Paris, just on a much smaller scale. Take a date out there sometime!
9. Cao Artisan Chocolates
If you're into chocolate or have a sweet tooth of any kind, Cao (pronounced "cow") is the place for you. This awesome coffee shop makes their own chocolate from scratch then blends it into pretty much whatever you would like, including some of the best hot chocolate you'll ever lay your lips upon. I'm not saying it's going to change your life... But it's probably going to change your life.
All in all, downtown Lynchburg is an incredible place to visit and it's basically right on the doorstep of Liberty. So wait until you're hungry, then grab some friends and let the city of Lynchburg do the rest.
