Your Sunrise-to-Sunset Guide to Local Eats, Culture, and Fun

By: Olivia Carter

Whether you’re a longtime local or just visiting for the weekend, Lynchburg is bursting with charm, history, and hidden gems—especially in the summertime. From riverfront views and historic neighborhoods to top-tier local eats and family-friendly adventures, there’s no shortage of ways to spend a memorable day. This guide walks you through the perfect way to experience it all, from sunrise to sunset. So grab your sunglasses, some good walking shoes, and maybe a friend or two.

Morning: Rise & Dine

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at: The White Hart Café – Known for its cozy atmosphere and locally sourced menu, perfect for a relaxed morning meal.

Located at 1208 Main Street, don’t let the ongoing construction fool you, this block is still very much open for business! This place is known as “Lynchburg’s Living Room” for a reason. The cozy gathering space has been operating for nearly 20 years and prides itself on offering locally sourced food, freshly roasted coffee, and a relaxing atmosphere. The menu includes coffee, seasonal lemonade, matcha, various teas, and comfort food and bakery items.

The White Hart hosts events, live curated collaborations, and open mic nights, making it way more than just a coffee shop.

Owner Myke Barron has a mission of staying community-minded and has strategic partnerships with Lynchburg City Schools and Iron Lives, aiming to support education and community development. During the COVID pandemic, White Heart opened its space to the Lynchburg Community Kitchen, which helped keep the shop afloat. Support them so they can continue to support our community!

Mid-Morning: Explore Riverfront Park

Visit the newly opened Riverfront Playground – Lynchburg’s first fully accessible playground, designed for children of all abilities. Enjoy the splash pads, interactive play areas, and scenic views of the James River.

This playground, which just opened at the beginning of May, was a direct result of the partnership between Lynchburg City and the Kiwanis Club of Lynchburg. Located at 1000 Jefferson Street, this ADA-accessible playground is conveniently located between The Water Dog and the soon-to-be amphitheater (opening in 2026).

The playground features equipment such as sensory play areas, swings, and wheelchair-accessible merry-go-rounds.

Before it opened, the downtown area had no playground for children, so this addition is another great asset for families visiting Jefferson Street. Bonus: there’s also a fountain for kids to splash around in on hot days.

The park is also used for various events throughout the year such as the upcoming annual fireworks show put on by the Downtown Lynchburg Association.
The park connects to the Riverwalk trail and is great for walking, running, or biking.

Lunch: Local Flavors

Choose from these local favorites for lunch: Hit Bedford Avenue to dine at The Dahlia, Taco Jesús, or Truss – Over the past several years, this connector road from Rivermont Avenue to downtown has grown exponentially and now has a number of shops and restaurants, so be sure not to miss this secret gem that’s sure to expand even further in the future.

Head to Depot Grille – A riverside restaurant known for its American fare and historic ambiance.
At 10 9th Street, this is one of Lynchburg’s OG lunch spots downtown. They offer indoor and outdoor dining and spots to lock up your bike if you’re stopping for a bite after a ride on the trails.

Grab a Bite After the Bike Trail at Trailhead – A newer concept for downtown that offers relaxed vibes where you can seat yourself and order via QR code, is Trailhead at 1312 Jefferson Street.

The owner of Bikes Unlimited, John Seinar, opened this cool new spot right off the Riverwalk trail last year and it’s been a huge success so far. This laid-back joint has corn-hole, a firepit, and relaxed seating all over the deck and yard.

No judgement here, come as you are!

They offer a loaded menu of brews, ciders, and nonalcoholic drinks, as well as sandwiches and pizzas.

Afternoon: Culture & Nature

Engage in one of these activities:
Anne Spencer House & Garden Museum – Explore the historic home and gardens of Harlem Renaissance poet Anne Spencer at 1313 Pierce Street.

Inside the preserved home of Anne Spencer, a distinguished Harlem Renaissance poet and civil rights activist, the house remains intact with 95 percent
of its original furnishings, providing a glimpse into early 20th-century life.

The legacy lives on as the home continues to be run by Spencer’s granddaughter, Shaun Spencer Hester.

Percival’s Island Natural Area – Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along this scenic trail with views of the James River located at 1600 Concord Turnpike.

For bike rentals, stop by Bikes Unlimited at 1312 Jefferson Street. It’s a stone’s throw from the trails. Start at the LOVE sign, snap a few photos to capture your visit and hop on the trail which offers side hikes, viewing decks of the James River, and picnic spots. The entire trail spans about one and a half miles long.

Lynchburg Museum – Discover the city’s rich history through exhibits and artifacts at 901 Court Street.

Perched atop Monument Terrace in downtown Lynchburg, the Lynchburg Museum at the Old Court House offers a journey through Central Virginia’s rich past. Housed in a historic 1855 Greek Revival courthouse, the museum showcases the city’s evolution from its founding days to the present.

Evening: Dinner

Conclude your day with dinner at:
Skyline – Located atop The Virginian Hotel, offering panoramic views of downtown Lynchburg along with a menu of seafood and craft cocktails. Skyline is one of Lynchburg’s two downtown rooftop bars (also check out 7 Rooftop Bar at 1208 Commerce Street!) At 712 Church Street, Skyline sits at the top of the historic Virginian Hotel and offers captivating views of the downtown scenery. Their menu offers chef-inspired seafood dishes, local beers, craft cocktails, and international wine selections. This is the perfect spot to feel snazzy and snap a few pics of the Lynchburg skyline!

William & Henry Steakhouse – Known for its upscale dining experience and views of the James River. Downstairs, you’ll find elevated fine dining on the ground floor of the hotel.

The menu at William & Henry Steakhouse showcases USDA prime steaks, premium seafood, and a selection of appetizers and unique salads. Signature dishes include the 30 ounce porterhouse, dry-aged beef, and seafood towers. Don’t forget the world-class wine selection! The bar features a fabulous happy hour at surprisingly affordable prices in a cozy lounge space.

Optional Evening Activity:
Catch a performance at the Academy Center of the Arts or The Music Hall.

Last year, the Academy opened a new venue, The Music Hall (see page 25)! Located at 722 Commerce Street in Downtown Lynchburg. The space fosters local music and talent with a reasonable cover charge. With a 100-person capacity, this intimate space is designed to provide a much-needed home for local musicians and music enthusiasts.

In the much larger historic Academy Center of the Arts, located at 600 Main Street, performances of all kinds are found. Ranging from professional and community theater productions to concerts, dance performances, and comedy shows, there’s something for everyone.

Hot. Cold. Lounge. Repeat.

By: Megan L. Horst | Photos By: Ashlee Glen

You may have seen the viral cold plunge videos on social media where people jump into freezing water. But what you may not know is that dunking into cold water in combination with the heat from a sauna actually has a variety of health benefits.

Sam Foster, a physical therapist at Rehab Associates, and her husband, Robb, opened Frostfire after having a healing experience at a similar spa in North Carolina.

“We fell in love with sauna and cold plunge when we participated in sauna cold plunge in Asheville, North Carolina,” Foster said. “We were sitting there, it was a community experience, we were sitting with people we barely knew. We used it as recovery after a jujitsu camp. We felt so much better and felt more united with the people we were experiencing it with that we said, ‘We need to bring that to Lynchburg.’”

Since October 14, 2024, when they opened as part of Launch LYH—a Downtown Lynchburg Association program that supports entrepreneurs who are ready to start a new business, relocate their business, or expand their existing business—Frostfire has sought to promote both community and wellness.

“We’ve always felt that Lynchburg is truly community-oriented…very supportive people,” she said.

“We knew that Lynchburg would like the community wellness aspect of sauna and cold plunge.”

While promoting community engagement, Frostfire’s mission is to empower people to take control of their health through education, support, and personalized care. Although they are most known for their traditional sauna and cold plunge, they offer additional services, such as red-light therapy and Normatec leg compression.

They offer one- or two-hour sessions, during which people alternate between the sauna and cold plunge, a technique known as “contrast therapy.” Typically, they spend 10 to 15 minutes in the sauna, rest to let their heart rate return to normal while enjoying a provided beverage and then take a dip in the cold plunge for 20 seconds to three minutes.

“We have two cold plunge tubs,” Foster explained. “One is set at 42 degrees; one is set at 50.

They run as individual pools, so they are treated with chlorine, just like a pool would be, and run twenty-four/seven on a pool filter.”

Sauna and cold plunge therapy—contrast therapy—has numerous health benefits, both short-term and long-term.

“There’s nothing that makes my body feel the endorphin release that sauna mixed with cold plunge can,” Foster said. “It literally lasts for six hours afterwards. You feel invigorated.”

Although muscle recovery, in a sense, is a short-term benefit, she explained that it also has long-term health benefits. People who sauna for about nine times a month for fourteen minutes or more, at a minimum of 176 degrees, reduce the likelihood of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

“There’s also research about cardiovascular health improvement and reducing the risk of death from cardiovascular events,” she said. Since traditional saunas are so hot, which opens the pores to help flush out the body, they are also used for detoxification.

“We’ve had people come here to help with detox of mold exposure,” she said. Firefighters also utilize the sauna to help eliminate environmental toxins from their bodies.

Between contrast therapy sessions, guests may enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of their lounges and also experience other wellness therapies. Red light therapy is used to stimulate collagen production, reduce inflammation and puffiness in the face, and enhance cell metabolism. You may also lean back in an anti-gravity chair and relax while enjoying a Normatec massage on your legs.

Aside from their contrast therapy sessions, Frostfire offers other activities to promote community. Every Wednesday at 6 p.m., they host a book club. They are currently reading Positively Wealthy by Emma Mumford.

“It’s all about manifesting positivity into your daily life,” Foster said.

“Ways to bring a more positive spin on the daily stressors of life.”

After the book club meeting, they do a sauna and cold plunge session.

Additionally, they host “Sauna & Stretch” on Tuesdays and Thursdays, where participants can sauna and then lie on mats and stretch for about twenty minutes.

“Since I’m a physical therapist, I gather all the stretches that I often give my patients and we work through them together,” Foster said. Twice a week, they also offer classes that focus on hip and core strength in their lounge, which is uniquely decorated with local art.

“We have a wonderful space here,” she said. “It’s a really nice lounge area.” With plants scattered throughout the facility and overhead strung lights, they have worked to create a serene, tranquil, and supportive vibe that promotes relaxation and community. Foster said that we cannot take away the stress of each day, but we can improve how we respond to it, and that is what they are all about.

“The whole vibe is community-based,” she said. Although you can participate individually, most people go in groups or even organize a “wellness party.” Their wellness parties last two hours; within that time, participants are given robes and slippers, and they can go back and forth between the sauna and cold plunge, enjoy other wellness activities, drink hot tea, and relax together, seeking wellness.

“It’s a shared experience,” Foster said. “We need more time together to form these bonds and relationships. It’s so much fun! It’s an experience unlike
any other.”

Foster encourages the community to visit their facility and take advantage of a complimentary tour.

“Our motto is you deserve to relax and feel good,” she said. “We feel that people deserve it.”

Light and Fresh Summer Soups

When the Virginia heat settles in for the season, the last thing you want is a heavy meal—or a hot kitchen. That’s where chilled summer soups shine. Refreshing, hydrating, and often bursting with produce at its peak, these spoonable delights are more than just an appetizer—they’re a celebration of the season itself. From the bold bite of gazpacho to the soothing calm of cucumber-dill, these light soups offer a fresh way to beat the heat while still savoring every bite.

Here are four chilled soup recipes perfect for a breezy lunch, a make-ahead dinner starter, or even a garden party centerpiece.

Chilled Cucumber-Dill Yogurt Soup

This cooling, creamy soup pairs beautifully with grilled fish or a slice of seedy bread.

Ingredients:
2 large cucumbers, peeled and seeded
2 cups plain Greek yogurt
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 garlic clove, minced
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: diced avocado or radish for garnish

Directions:
1. Blend cucumber, yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, and dill until smooth.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Chill for at least 1 hour.
4. Serve topped with avocado cubes or thinly sliced radish.

Classic Andalusian-Inspired Gazpacho, photo at top of page

Bright, bold, and bursting with flavor, this tomato-based soup is summer in a bowl.

Ingredients:
6 ripe tomatoes, chopped
1 cucumber, peeled and chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1/2 red onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: crusty bread cubes for blending or topping

Directions:
1. Combine all ingredients in a blender. Blend until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust salt, vinegar, or olive oil as needed.
3. Chill for at least 2 hours before serving.
4. Garnish with crusty bread or a drizzle of olive oil.

Watermelon-Mint Soup

Equal parts sweet and savory, this vibrant soup is a conversation starter.

Ingredients:
4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
1 tablespoon lime juice
6 fresh mint leaves
Pinch of salt
Optional: crumbled feta or a swirl of Greek yogurt

Directions:
1. Blend watermelon, lime juice, mint, and salt until smooth.
2. Chill for at least 1 hour.
3. Serve in small bowls or glasses. Garnish with feta or yogurt.

Chilled Sweet Corn and Coconut Soup

A subtle and silky soup that captures the essence of corn season with a tropical twist.

Ingredients:
3 ears of fresh corn, kernels removed
1 cup coconut milk
1 cup vegetable broth
1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
Juice of 1/2 lime
Salt to taste
Optional: chopped scallions or chili oil for garnish

Directions:
1. Simmer corn kernels in broth for 10 minutes. Let cool slightly.
2. Blend with coconut milk, ginger, and lime juice until smooth.
3. Strain for a silkier texture (optional). Season with salt to taste.
4. Chill for at least 2 hours. Garnish as desired.

Whether you’re hosting a summer soirée or simply trying to stay cool, chilled soups are a delicious way to showcase local produce and treat yourself to something that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Grab a spoon—and a fan—and dig in.

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Pictured:
Coach Rebecca

Endless adventures await on the Gold Medal Wine Trail – a free mobile passport experience that unlocks perks at Virginia’s top wineries.

Celebrating the results from the 2025 Virginia Governor’s Cup, this annual trail tells the story of Virginia’s evolving wine scene, spotlighting the producers and wines shaping its future.

This year’s trail features over 80 gold medal-winning producers that span the state. While more than half of the winners are located in Central Virginia, making the Monticello AVA—Wine Enthusiast’s 2023 “Wine Region of the Year”—a fantastic home base, there are also must-visit destinations in Northern Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley.

How the Trail Works:

Signing up is easy. After registering, you’ll receive a link to your passport via text or email. Use your phone to check in at participating wineries and cideries using your location. Then, sip and enjoy as you taste the best of Virginia.

Passholders who check in at participating locations will receive 100 points with each check-in to put towards Virginia Wine prizes. Cashing in offers and discounts will unlock extra points, and trail users can visit their favorite wineries monthly for even more points. Prizes up for grabs include Virginia Wine notepad, tote, sweatshirt and blanket!

Taste the Best: Governor’s Cup Case Winners

Not sure where to begin on the trail? Consider visiting one of the Governor’s Cup Case winners—12 standout wines that earned the highest scores in the 2025 competition. Among them is Barboursville Vineyards, which took home the Governor’s Cup for their 2023 Vermentino.

2025 Virginia Governor’s Cup Case winners: 

• 50 West Vineyards, 2021 Aldie Heights Cuvée
• Barboursville Vineyards, 2023 Vermentino
• Barboursville Vineyards, 2017 Octagon
• DuCard Vineyards, 2023 Cabernet Franc Vintners Reserve
• King Family Vineyards, 2021 Mountain Plains Red
• Michael Shaps Wineworks, 2022 Chardonnay
• Paradise Springs Winery, 2023 Cabernet Franc, Brown Bear Vineyard
• Potomac Point Winery, 2023 Albariño
• Trump Winery, 2018 Sparkling Rosé
• Valley Road Vineyards, 2023 Petit Manseng
• Veritas Winery, 2023 Monticello White
• Winery at La Grange, 2023 Petit Manseng

Calling all Cider Lovers

The trail also includes gold medal-winning cideries, like Daring Wine & Cider Company, which earned Cider of the Year for its Crab Apple Blend. If you fall in love with cider along the way, consider continuing the journey on the Virginia Cider Trail.

About the Virginia Governor’s Cup Competition

In 2025, more than 620 wines were evaluated by a panel of world-class judges. The competition awarded 155 gold medals to 87 wineries, cideries, and meaderies throughout Virginia.

Each entry must be made with 100% Virginia-grown fruit, showcasing the dedication, quality, and authenticity of the Commonwealth’s wine producers. The Virginia Governor’s Cup not only celebrates excellence—it captures the ongoing story of Virginia’s winemaking evolution.

Get out and celebrate the 2025 competition today with a taste of the best on the Gold Medal Wine Trail!

Experience Lynchburg Restaurant Week
June 14-21, 2025!

Get ready to indulge in the culinary delights of Lynchburg during this year’s Lynchburg Restaurant Week, brought to you by Lynchburg Living magazine. From June 14 to June 21, nearly thirty of our city’s best restaurants will open their doors, offering specially crafted three-course menus that showcase the local flavors and talent that make our food scene so exceptional. Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or trying something new, this is the perfect opportunity to savor the hard work and creativity of our local chefs.

From innovative appetizers to mouthwatering entrees and decadent desserts, Lynchburg Restaurant Week invites you to enjoy delicious meals, all while supporting our community’s vibrant restaurant culture.

And don’t forget—if one of our participating restaurants leaves you wowed, you can cast your vote at lynchburgrestaurantweek.com!

The winning restaurant will receive well-deserved recognition and exciting prizes. We hope you’ll join us in celebrating the flavors that make Lynchburg unique.

A Lynchburg Woman Learns to Forgive After Being Kidnapped as a Child

By: Megan L. Horst | Photos By: Ashlee Glen

In the small rural village of Kakinada, India, lived a young girl. Born into poverty, captured, and trafficked before she was even eight years old, Devi reflects on her hardships and faith in Christ that has not only sustained her but allowed her to forgive those who kidnapped and abused her.

When Devi was a young girl, her mother ended up living on the streets and, out of necessity, turned to a life of prostitution.

“[At the brothel] we lived in one bedroom with six people,” Devi said. Her two brothers also lived with them. Devi worked a number of jobs, as do many children in India who are born into poverty. She recalls cleaning houses, selling snacks at the theater, and her favorite job—selling spices at the bazaar.

“Child labor is very common in India,” Devi said.

When the brothel was eventually shut down, Devi and her family ended up on the streets. Her mother became ill, and she was taken to a hospital with horrendous living conditions. Regardless, Devi did not want to leave her mother’s side.

“I slept under her bed on the floor,” Devi said.

“I just wanted to be with her.” After nearly a month of taking care of her mother in the hospital, a man who noticed their situation approached them, offering to take Devi to find work.

“Again, child labor is common in India,” Devi said. He promised to take Devi to a workplace and bring the money Devi earned back to her mom, assuring Devi she could come back to visit. Although she did not want to go, she knew her wages would help with her mother’s medical care. She never imagined that her mother would pass away that same night, and that would be the last time she saw her.

The man took Devi on a nine-hour train ride to an orphanage, where he was compensated for bringing her.

“He sold me to that orphanage,” Devi said.

“I remember them exchanging money in front of me.” At that moment, Devi knew she had been trafficked.

Devi soon discovered that she was not alone.

There were many other children who had been trafficked. The “orphanage” had a valid license; however, it was, in fact, a front for child trafficking. All the children at the orphanage had been kidnapped and were held until someone overseas wanted to adopt them.

“Every kid in that orphanage had a story to tell,” Devi said. When a child was brought to the orphanage, their hair would be cut, their names would be changed, and they would be told that their families were dead. Changing their identity and leading them to believe there was no family to be reunited with was a deterrent to running away.

Devi explained that they were not treated well and were put to work in the rice field, on the farm, and in charge of caring for the younger children. The girls were physically, sexually and mentally abused, but whenever prospective parents came from overseas to visit the orphanage, they would “put on a show.”

“They’d get all these workers to come and pretend they were working there,” Devi said. “We put on nice clothes, and they fed us. It was like a showcase.” Although the children were all kept in one room, there were other rooms in the orphanage, such as a dining room, that were kept nice and only used when prospective parents came to give the illusion that the children were well cared for.

“It was all a lie,” Devi said. “Behind the curtains, no one knew what was happening.” Most of the children were eventually adopted. The international parents who paid high adoption fees had no knowledge that the child they adopted had been a victim of human trafficking.

Like many of the children, when Devi learned she was going to be adopted and taken away from India, she tried to run away with other girls from the orphanage. Their plan did not work, and they were caught, brought back to the orphanage, and badly beaten.

In 1998, after being in the orphanage for two years, Devi was adopted by a family in Virginia.

“I didn’t want to be here,” Devi said, remembering the days following her arrival. “I hated it here.” Aside from dealing with the trauma she had endured, without knowing any English, coming to the U.S. was challenging for Devi, and she struggled to communicate with her new American family.

“She [adoptive mom] labeled everything in the house to teach me,” Devi said.

Once she was able to communicate, Devi told her adoptive parents what had happened to her and explained she was not even an orphan; however, they were skeptical of what she claimed.

“Who would believe a kid?” Devi said. Her adoptive parents were given death certificates of Devi’s biological parents, however, the certificates were fabricated. Around the same time Devi was trying to convince them of her story, there were two other girls from the same orphanage who had been adopted by a family in Alabama, and they were speaking out about their story. Their adoptive dad worked to bring awareness to the child trafficking ring that was fronting these adoptions. The orphanage was eventually exposed, and the owner was arrested.

When Devi was in high school, she returned to India and was reunited with her family.

“When we got there the first day, to my hometown, the streets where I grew up, everyone was still there,” Devi said.

She discovered that her town and family had looked for her after she disappeared, but with limited resources, they could never find her and assumed she was dead.
Although Devi’s parents were Hindu, she had heard about Jesus as a young child. While in the orphanage, she did not know Jesus as her Savior yet, but there were times as a child when she felt the Lord’s presence and comfort.

“I didn’t become a believer until I came to my U.S. adoptive parents,” Devi said.

“It came easy to accept it because I was aware of it. It clicked.”

Trying to heal from her experiences, in 2012, Devi again returned to India for a visit and decided to find the location of the orphanage, which had been converted into a glass business. Upon visiting the location, she came face-to-face with one of the people who had run the orphanage. He claimed not to remember her, but she remembered him.

“You don’t have to remember me,” Devi told him. “I was just a number to you. You were making money out of us.”

When Devi was about to leave, he asked if she hated him, and she said no, but she hated the system and what was done to so many children. She explained that the only reason she was able to forgive him and the others who abused her was because of the Lord.

There are still times that Devi strives to feel close to her Indian heritage by cooking Indian food, watching a movie, and crying over the memories of her past, but then she can let go of the hurt and move forward, giving it “all to the Lord.” She said you must decide how you allow your past experiences to affect you.

“You have to make that decision,” she said. “It can eat you up; let the poison get the best of you, or you can make peace with it and move forward.”

The Milams’ Craftsman Home Filled with Love, Laughter, and Good Food

By: Megan Williams | Photos By: Ashlee Glen

On a warm Spring Wednesday night, the red door on a cozy 1920’s Craftsman swings open. Warm light spills onto the porch and the sounds of a ruthless game of Clue pierce the otherwise quiet street. Amidst the squeals of a guess-gone-wrong, you hear chips clanking into a bowl, ready to be served alongside freshly made onion dip. If a neighborhood kid were to pass by at this moment, they’d surmise their own clue: Game night at the Milam’s is on and all are invited.

“If the red door is open, you’re welcome to come in,” said Hart Milam, who has lived in the charming one-and-a-half story home since 2019 alongside her husband Nick, their two children Wesley (11) and Cora (8), and their dog Mojo, who joined the family a few years after they moved in. “This is a very close-knit street. My kids are always included in neighborhood activities, and we always do the same.”

Hart and Nick met in 2012 while they were both living in DC. Neither had any intention of leaving the Northern Virginia area but a job opportunity relocated the Milams to Lynchburg in July of 2019.

“We had no intention to staying for more than a year and were actively seeking rental opportunities,” Hart recalled. “We decided that purchasing a home might be a better option because of the interest rates at the time. We did not like a single house we looked at, and we searched for about two months until I was told about our current home. It sat vacant, so I reached out to the owner in late September, and we walked through it the next day. Nick and I remained silent during the walkthrough with the owner, but as soon as we got in the car, we knew it was the house for us. We put the offer in, and it was officially ours in October 2019. It’s hard to believe it will be almost 6 years.”

Hart had always had an affinity for Craftsman-style homes, gravitating toward the timeless functionality that the homes have.

“I love the characteristics and charm,” she said. “When we were house hunting, we looked at a few homes for sale on Norfolk Avenue. Having lived in Washington, DC, then eventually when we lived in Winchester, and our suburb in Northern Virginia, I loved the ability to walk to restaurants and shops. When we were walking the sidewalks of Norfolk Avenue, knowing how convenient businesses on Rivermont are to the street, it was a no-brainer for me. I was determined to live on Norfolk.”

The Milams immediately got to work transforming the home into a space that worked for their family, and that would continue to work well as their children grew.

The original kitchen had a peninsula countertop that was, according to Hart, “perfectly workable and fine,” however the counter height was six-inches higher than standard height and needed to be adjusted. They were able to retain most of the overhead cabinets but renovated the base cabinets to a more accessible height.

“We renovated the kitchen with Ikea cabinets!” Hart said. “It took over 250 boxes being delivered to our home and a lot of manpower from our family to help build out. My father-in-law, Mike, would leave his day job as a pulmonologist to help Nick build cabinets after work. We subcontracted the work in the kitchen to gut, place tile, but the rest of it was a lot of DIY. We had moving boxes everywhere in the middle of renovations, refinishing floors, building kitchen cabinets, and we eventually moved in December 2019 with a lot of work still to be done. I was determined to have Christmas breakfast in our new home, so we had to have our granite countertops installed on Christmas Eve!”

For the Milams, the kitchen is the heart of their home and family. After Hart returns home from work, where she is in Admissions at Randolph College, just a three-minute walk away, she can be found in the kitchen, doling out snacks for her kids or assessing the ingredients in the fridge for dinner.

“Coming from a strong Filipino and Italian background, I was taught not to waste,” she said.

“If all you have is rice and eggs, in Asian culture, that’s a meal in and of itself.”

Go-to meals on busy weeknights while the Milams navigate work schedules, their daughter’s dance practice schedule, and both children’s lacrosse schedules include pasta, salmon rice bowls, and even charcuterie platters where the kids can graze while catching up on homework after a practice.

“I try to incorporate as many of the same ingredients as possible across the week to avoid waste. But if I walk by a full lobster tank at the Boonsboro Kroger, I will make an impulse purchase for lobster rolls,” she laughed.

While the Milams keep meals simple during weeknights, Hart will go over the top for certain occasions or meals.

“One afternoon this winter, all of the neighborhood kids came in from playing outside. For snacks, I brought out the Brookstone S’mores Maker and they made s’mores in the dining room. Nick and I love to have people over, planned or unplanned—anywhere from pizza parties with the Ooni to me forcing everyone to watch Duke Basketball—and everyone knows we will always have some snacks or a cocktail waiting for you whenever you come over! I love to be a little over the top in parties and themes, and I’m so glad my family and friends indulge my sometimes-unhinged behavior,” she smiled. “Last year, I threw my daughter a [Taylor Swift] Eras themed birthday party complete with t-shirts, koozies, and a ‘merch table’ with glasses and tattoos!”

Hart and Nick’s children are front and center in their home, from the snacks they love to the hobbies they are cultivating. It’s a space of warmth, joy, and color, and it creates a beautiful background where their children can experiment and thrive.

The built-ins in the living room, original to the home, are brimming with family photos, assembled Lego projects, records their daughter is enjoying, and books that the kids can quickly grab and tuck into. It’s the home of a family who loves being together and loves to be at home.

“On a Saturday morning, Cora will wake up first and turn on the record player—usually Taylor Swift. That’s what we will wake up to,” Hart shared. “If it’s a warm morning, we will take out the flat top grill and make breakfast outside.”

The Milams’ home is more than just a place to live—it’s a hub of connection, creativity, and community. Whether it’s a spontaneous game night, a themed party, or simply sharing a quiet breakfast outdoors, Hart, Nick, and their children have built a space that reflects their love for each other and the neighborhood they’ve come to call home. It’s a place where the door is always open, and everyone is invited to join in the warmth and joy that fills their home.

Making a Difference

A local artist uses her skillset to create beautiful works and foster Lynchburg’s growing art scene

By: Christian Shields | Photos By: Ashlee Glen

Tucked away on the third floor of the Bailey Spencer Hardware building on Lynchburg’s main street, the Studio 3 Art Gallery provides patrons with a wide range of artistic expertise, all courtesy of owner JoAnne Becker.

From woodworking to abstract paintings, portrait photography, family history books, and more, Becker has a self-described “compulsion to create things.” This desire to create beauty causes her to try her hand at many different art disciplines with a high level of success. This often leads to unique combinations of photography intertwined in other art forms, such as her custom cigar boxes.

“It’s a good day when I create something interesting,” she said with a smile.

Becker originally moved to Lynchburg from Maine eight years ago. During a conversation with Bailey Spencer owner Michael Pearl five years later, she was offered the chance to rent the third-floor studio space and she jumped at the opportunity.

While Becker places high value on her creations and takes pride in her work, she refuses to hoard these treasures or over price them for her own personal gain. She instead keeps her prices reasonable and also features low cost items to ensure everyone who walks into her studio can take something home if they choose.
“Really the impetus for this is I love what I do, and I want to share that with people,” she said. “It makes people feel good to have their portraits done.
I get satisfaction taking photographs, but it’s also really rewarding to see them go somewhere where people will enjoy them. Whether I give them away or sell them, it’s the same feeling.

It’s not about the money, it’s about sharing what I do.”

This heart for the community extends beyond Becker’s approach for selling her own products. On Saturdays, she hosts a maker’s market in which local artists of any age can set up a table in her gallery to sell their wares. Rather than seeing other artists as competition, she sees them as fellow craftsmen.

“Art is very personal, so it’s hard for some artists to put their work out there for everyone to see, it definitely was for me,” she said. “I am grateful to be able to help young artists at Studio 3 and watch them gain the confidence and fortitude they need for success.”

This summer, Becker will hold her first solo art show, “Beauty of the Unexpected,” at the Up Front Gallery at the Academy Center of the Arts, with an opening night on June 6 from 5 to 8 p.m. The show will run through July 26.

Explore JoAnne’s paintings and photography at joannebecker.com and connect with Studio 3 Art Gallery on Instagram at @studio3lynchburg.

You can find JoAnne’s custom cigar boxes online at creativecigarboxes.com.

A New Chapter for Danville

Photos by: Ashlee Glen

Imagine stepping into a world of bright lights and anticipation, where the thrill of the roulette wheel competes with the high-energy sounds of slot machines. Every step you take brings you closer to the electric buzz of excitement—a buzz that encapsulates the new heart of Danville, where Caesars Virginia reigns as a beacon of both luxury and possibility.

For those unfamiliar with the region, Danville has long been known for its industrial past, primarily tied to tobacco and textiles. Yet in recent years, the city has reinvented itself. Once a hub of manufacturing, Danville has begun to flourish as a small city of innovation, bringing in new businesses, restaurants, and attractions. The arrival of Caesars Virginia, located on the site of a historic textile mill, is both a testament to this transformation and a catalyst for even more development.

The Building: Merging History & Modernity

Caesars Virginia’s location—just off the Dan River—has been carefully chosen to reflect both the city’s industrial heritage and its bright future. The casino sits on the same grounds that once housed a textile mill, with the iconic smokestacks still standing tall as a symbol of the city’s past. This historical integration is particularly meaningful in Danville, where old factories are being repurposed into trendy restaurants, breweries, and offices. Caesars preserving these smokestacks during construction was part of a broader effort to honor the city’s roots while building for its future.

Inside, the property radiates modern luxury. The Caesars name brings with it a promise of world-class amenities, and the resort does not disappoint. With 320 hotel rooms, including 28 suites, the space offers a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors. Whether you’re a high-roller or someone just looking to unwind, the accommodations are designed for comfort and luxury. The hotel’s grand aesthetic extends to the casino floor itself, where 1,500 slot machines and numerous table games create a buzz of activity. The venue also features a World Series of Poker room and a state-of-the-art sportsbook, making it an exciting destination for both seasoned gamblers and those looking for a little thrill.

A New Experience for the Region

The allure of Caesars Virginia isn’t just in the gaming. The resort has a strong emphasis on providing a full experience for visitors, with something for everyone—whether you’re a foodie, a spa enthusiast, or someone looking for a relaxing weekend. The highlight for many is Ramsay’s Kitchen, by multi-Michelin-starred chef and television personality Gordon Ramsay—the first of its kind in Virginia—where diners can indulge in world-class dishes. Additionally, there’s Dan Dan Noodle Bar, where guests can enjoy Pan-Asian inspired dishes such as sushi or stir fry; Starbucks; and a variety of local eateries like those found at the 500 Block—managed by local restaurateur Steve Parry and local property developer Rick Barker—offering everything from pizza to BBQ.

For those looking to relax and unwind, the spa and pool areas provide serene retreats, while The Pantheon, a 2,500-seat entertainment venue with 30,000 square feet of showroom space, promises a variety of entertainment options. Scheduled to host headliners such as Wynonna Judd and ZZ Top, The Pantheon is poised to become one of the area’s premier venues for major acts. Visitors can expect performances ranging from country and rock to stand-up comedy, further establishing the casino as a vibrant cultural hub.

Despite its focus on gaming, Caesars Virginia also caters to those who might not be interested in placing bets. Families, couples, and even solo travelers can enjoy the resort’s non-gaming offerings, making it a versatile destination for a weekend retreat.

The resort’s integration with the Danville community is also a key element of its success. Partnerships with local businesses and attractions—such as wineries, breweries, and sports teams—allow visitors to experience the best of Danville beyond the casino walls.

Danville’s Revival

The impact of Caesars Virginia on Danville has been significant.

The casino’s opening has sparked a wave of new investment in the area, with construction cranes dotting the skyline and new businesses popping up regularly. The local economy has seen a noticeable boost, as more visitors are flocking to the region to experience the resort. Caesars has hired hundreds of local residents, injecting much-needed jobs into the community. It’s clear that the property’s success is tied closely to its relationship with the local community.

“We are not just a casino,” said Chris Albrecht, SVP & General Manager of Caesars Virginia. “We are part of the fabric of Danville’s growth, and we
want to be a positive influence for years to come.”

The casino’s offerings—ranging from gaming to dining and entertainment—are designed to complement the local economy, with a focus on collaboration rather than competition. By working with local partners, Caesars is helping to create a stronger, more diverse economy for the region.

Center Bar. Photo Courtesy Caesars Entertainment

A Weekend Experience at Caesars Virginia

A weekend at Caesars Virginia is an immersive experience. Whether you are drawn to the gaming floor, looking to indulge in fine dining, or seeking relaxation in the spa, there’s no shortage of things to do. For those staying overnight, the hotel’s luxurious rooms provide a quiet sanctuary after a day filled with activity. Guests can unwind with a drink at the casino bar, take in a live performance at The Pantheon, or simply enjoy the scenic beauty of the Dan River.

On Saturday night, the casino floor is bustling, and the excitement is palpable. Guests move from one machine to the next, trying their luck on everything from classic slots to the latest video games.

The energy is contagious, and for many, it’s the perfect way to spend an evening. For those less inclined to gamble, the live music and comedy acts
provide another form of entertainment. You can stroll through the casino, taking in the excitement of the environment, without feeling the pressure to place a bet.

For those looking for a slower pace, a visit to the spa is the perfect way to rejuvenate. The wellness offerings at Caesars Virginia are designed to provide guests with the ultimate relaxation experience, with massages, facials, and other treatments that focus on well-being. The resort’s commitment to offering something for everyone is evident in its diverse array of amenities.

Looking Ahead

Caesars Virginia is more than just a weekend destination; it’s a glimpse into the future of Danville, where history meets modern luxury and a city’s potential is being realized with each passing day.

As the casino continues to grow and evolve, one thing is clear: the best is yet to come for Danville—and for those who choose to make it their getaway.