Nestled in the vibrant downtown district, Amazement Square stands as Lynchburg’s premier destination for families seeking hands-on learning and unforgettable fun. This award-winning children’s museum has earned its reputation as a must-visit attraction, captivating visitors of all ages with its innovative exhibits, dynamic programming, and unwavering commitment to inclusivity and creativity.
A Four-Story Playground of Discovery
Amazement Square is not your typical museum—it’s an immersive, four-floor adventure designed to spark imagination and curiosity at every turn. The museum’s layout encourages exploration, with each level offering a new world of interactive exhibits that blend education with play. At the heart of the building is the Amazement Tower, an ingenious indoor play structure that connects all four floors through a network of slides, ladders, tunnels, and even a zipline. This vertical playground challenges kids to climb, crawl, and zip their way through the museum, ensuring that every visit is filled with excitement and movement.
Interactive Exhibits for Every Interest
From budding artists to future engineers, Amazement Square offers something for everyone. Children can paint directly on the walls in the Kaleidoscope Gallery, experience life on a farm, create a rainstorm over downtown Lynchburg, float boats down a model of the James River, and even take center stage in a rock band. Each of the eight multidisciplinary galleries is thoughtfully designed to encourage hands-on learning, creativity, and teamwork. The museum’s approach ensures that learning is not only fun but also accessible to a wide range of ages and abilities.
A Commitment to Accessibility and Inclusion
Amazement Square takes pride in being Virginia’s first Certified Autism Center. The museum provides sensory guides, quiet areas, and “distract packs” to support visitors with sensory sensitivities. Its “Everyone is Special” (EIS) program offers free, curriculum-based programming tailored for families with children on the autism spectrum and other sensory needs. Quarterly sensory-friendly events create a welcoming environment for all, ensuring that every child can enjoy the museum’s offerings at their own pace.
A Hub for Community and Lifelong Learning
Beyond its exhibits, Amazement Square is a cornerstone of the Lynchburg community, serving more than 90,000 guests annually through general admission, school programs, outreach, workshops, and special events. The museum’s mission centers on cultivating an engaged community of lifelong learners by sparking imagination and curiosity. Special events and rotating programs keep the experience fresh, making it a favorite destination for both locals and tourists.
Planning Your Visit
Amazement Square is located in historic downtown Lynchburg, making it easily accessible for families exploring the area or traveling along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Admission is $13 per person for visitors over 12 months old, with discounts available for seniors and online purchases. The museum’s policies ensure a safe and enjoyable environment for all—adults must be accompanied by a child unless part of a pre-arranged tour, and secure storage is available for bags and backpacks.
Families can easily spend several hours at Amazement Square, and the surrounding downtown area offers plenty of options for lunch, treats, and additional activities. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend adventure or a visitor exploring Lynchburg’s family-friendly attractions, Amazement Square delivers a memorable experience that blends fun, learning, and community spirit.
