Lynchburg
Lynchburg, located just east of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is a little more than an hour from Roanoke or Charlottesville and two hours from Richmond. On the banks of the James River, the independent town offers stunning vistas, outdoor activities, and a wide range of attractions, including historical monuments and kid-friendly museums. Lynchburg is a great place to see history, architecture, and the outdoors if you enjoy all three. You can stop into the little coffee shops to unwind and explore small-town Virginia between seeing the stunning outdoor experiences.
Point of Honor, the Old Court House and Lynchburg Museum, Patrick Henry's Red Hill, the National D-Day Memorial, the Appomattox Court House National Historical Park, and the history and architecture of Thomas Jefferson's Poplar Forest and private retreat are just a few of the historical sites in the small town that are worth visiting. With the Blue Ridge Mountains as its backdrop and the town's location on the James River, it is no surprise that Lynchburg has some incredible outdoor options. The James River is followed by a popular walking, hiking, and bicycling trail that is a great way to experience the area. Very popular in Lynchburg are its bluegrass and music festivals held in nearby parks. The historic Craddock Terry Hotel, a former shoe factory converted boutique hotel, is one of the nicer locations to stay in Lynchburg.