2014 Lynchburg, VA (Richmond, Roanoke, Charlottesville: apartment, low crime, house)

[LionLady]

Since the "other" Lynchuburg" thread had gotten to 8 pages and was old, I thought I'd start a fresh thread.

Just joined to find out as much as possible about LIVING in/near Lynchburg. We're about to relocate (in the next 4-6 months) and are empty nesters. Hubby worked on a long term contract in Lynchburg and had an apartment there a couple years ago. I love visiting the area, and its proximity to such beautiful countryside. We're both avid motorcyclists so the beautiful roads are another plus for us.

We currently live just outside Baltimore, so are accustomed to a good range of grocery store options, as well as an assortment of casual and fine dining places, and movies, etc. I grew up taking day trips to Skyline Drive and all up and down the Potomac River shores and Shenandoah Valley for hiking, biking as well as water activities. Currently, I can take a scenic walk from my house or drive to a range of parks and other places to do the same.

For things not available in Lynchburg, what can then be found in Richmond or what nearest city?

THANKS!!

[roanoker 4]

You will love the area if you are outdoor enthusiasts. One of my favorite drives is the Blue Ridge Parkway, it is called Skyline Drive in the northern part of Va, for some reason. As you travel down this unbelievable road stop at Peaks of Otter. There is a lodge there (closed in winter) and a restaurant (check their winter hours). I visited there last week and the lake was frozen and there was a dusting of snow. Lynchburg is a short 25 minute drive from the Peaks, as is Roanoke. In the summer the picnic grounds are popular with the bikers, hikers, campers all enjoying the environs. The walking trails were popular with Thomas Jefferson where he would camp and bring his horses. At Poplar Forest in Lynchburg on a clear day one can see the Peaks from
His summer home. Just like Monticello, he was big on the scenery. Also visit Natural Bridge , 30 minutes north of Roanoke to
Visit George Washingtons' hangout where he carved his name in the bridge. Btw, the bridge is in the process of being sold, I think the state wants to take it over for it to stay the same.

[Fenway65]

Skyline drive was a very nice drive, and free if you have the annual pass from the Natl. Park Service. Poplar Forest was worth a quick look, and Monticello is a must-see if heading near Charlottesville. Also, WWII buffs like my husband will like the D-day memorial in Bedford, close to Roanoke. We considered stopping at Peaks of Otter on our latest trip, but hesitated due to the poor reviews on Tripadvisor. Perhaps we will stop for lunch on our next trip through.

[LionLady]

Skyline Drive is the highlight of Shenandoah National Park. If I'm not mistaken, the Drive is one of the reasons FOR the park. The Blue Ridge Parkway runs along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the northern end of which is near Waynesboro. I grew up taking day trips up and down Skyline and the Blue Ridge Parkway. I consider it "home" but it has been many years since I really spent time exploring, except for a few trips by motorcycle. Thanks for the suggestions. Keep them coming!

[R0ADRUNNER]

For things not available in Lynchburg, you have Roanoke to the west, Charlottesville to the North, Richmond to the East and Greensboro to the South. Roanoke and Charlottesville 1Hr drive. Richmond and Greensboro 1.5 to 2 hr drive.

And Va Beach is just 4 hours east for a great weekend get-a-way.

Forgot to mention that there is a North East Regional train that originates from Lynchburg daily. Less than four hours to Washington and a little longer to Baltimore. Great way to spend a day in DC without the hassle of traffic. Buy tickets 2 weeks in advance and get a 25% discount. Return that evening on the southbound NER.

[headnsouth]

From Baltimore to Lynchburg you're in for a culture shock. It's a small town, and very vanilla. (not race-wise, but culture-wise) Anywhere down here you're near a good ride. What else are you looking for in a home/community?

[sregorat3]

Originally Posted by headnsouth

From Baltimore to Lynchburg you're in for a culture shock. It's a small town, and very vanilla. (not race-wise, but culture-wise) Anywhere down here you're near a good ride. What else are you looking for in a home/community?

That would be true of anywhere in VA south of DC and west of Richmond, though most would consider communities like Bedford or Front Royal to be small towns- not Lynchburg.

[headnsouth]

Compared to charm city Lynchburg is a small town.

[sregorat3]

Originally Posted by headnsouth

Compared to charm city Lynchburg is a small town.

Charm City.... Whatever. I like Balto., headed there next weekend. I guess we could say that it is a small town compared to NYC, but is it even worthwhile to make such silly comparisons about either?

[badger74]

Some of came to L because it is NOT a large city. With LA, NY, Chicago, Seattle, Austin, Atlanta on my resume I am done with big city life. Give me low COL, low crime and 1 of everything I really need within 15 minutes. I saw every big group I'll ever need to see live from the Stones in the 60's to Adele. If I get the desire most come to Cville anyway. Yet I am as close or closer to some things I still like like big time sports car racing and college football. I can even find a passable pho and great Thai food close to town. I really have no need for fancy clothing shops as most of kine come from LL Bean anyway.1 good BB blazer takes care of my formal needs.