Amazement Square

Amazement Square is a multi-award-winning interactive children's museum located in the heart of Lynchburg. This unique space occupies four floors of the historic J.W. Wood Building, constructed in the mid-19th century, and invites visitors to dive into a world of creativity, science, and history through play.

The museum in the USA is renowned for its inclusivity; it was the first museum in Virginia to be designated a Certified Autism Center. Inside, there are permanent galleries dedicated to the arts and humanities, with the Amazement Tower serving as the centerpiece—a massive play structure with tunnels, ladders, and a zip line that spans all floors of the building.

Today, this venue attracts tens of thousands of guests from across the country every year, offering active participation in the learning process rather than just viewing exhibits. The combination of historic architecture and cutting-edge educational methods makes it a must-visit for families.

To clarify details before your visit, you can contact the museum administration directly or find its location using navigation services.

The main rule here is: hands-on exploration is mandatory! Visitors can express their creativity in the Kaleidoscope Gallery by painting on the walls or try their hand at being a farmer. Science enthusiasts will love the chance to create artificial rain or build a real electrical circuit, while young music lovers can perform on stage in a rock band.

The ultimate challenge for the brave is conquering the Amazement Tower. This giant vertical labyrinth, consisting of endless slides, climbing nets, and secret passages, pierces through every floor. For those who prefer a quiet exploration of history, you can sail a boat down an imaginary James River or view CityArts — one of the largest outdoor mosaics in North America.

Special inclusive programs are available for families with special needs, and the Genworth center regularly hosts creative workshops and educational sessions. Regardless of age, every guest will find an activity that sparks curiosity and a sense of discovery.

Amazement Square is conveniently located in the historic center, at the intersection of 9th Street and Jefferson Street, just steps away from the James River waterfront. Thanks to its central location, the museum is easily accessible on foot from most points in downtown.

For those who prefer public transportation, the Lynchburg Transit System bus routes pass nearby. If you are planning to arrive by car, there are parking areas around the museum. The historic railroad, which runs in close proximity to the building, can serve as a landmark.

Travelers arriving from other parts of the city can use taxis or popular ride-sharing services. The museum is highly accessible, making the visit as comfortable as possible for families with children.

The walls that now ring with children's laughter hold memories of the past: the J.W. Wood Building was constructed in the mid-19th century. Originally, it served as a vital trade and industrial hub for the city, closely linked to the development of the James River and the railroad. Today, it is rightfully included in the National Register of Historic Places.

The transformation of the old warehouse into a modern educational center began in the 1990s. The restoration, which lasted from 1995 to 2001, preserved the authentic red brick, massive wooden beams, and stonework, into which the modern steel structure of the central tower was masterfully integrated.

One charming historical detail is an old sign found during renovations that read "Death to all bugs." Instead of discarding it, the museum's founders reimagined the slogan as "Respect for all bugs." This inspired the creation of the museum's mascots—the quirky LynchBugs.

Since opening in 2001, Amazement Square has received numerous prestigious awards for its contribution to downtown revitalization and inclusivity. In 2012, the unique CityArts mosaic mural was added—the largest in North America, created from thousands of pieces of broken tile brought by local residents.

To fully enjoy all the interactive zones, visitors are recommended to set aside 2 to 4 hours for their visit. This is usually enough time for children to try out all the play structures and for adults to explore the themed galleries and historical exhibits.

If you plan to participate in special workshops or visit the Genworth Education Center, it is better to plan for a half-day visit. Given how packed the space is with attractions, time flies by quickly here, especially for young explorers.

The museum welcomes guests from Wednesday to Sunday, offering a convenient schedule for both weekday and weekend visits. Please note that Amazement Square is closed at the beginning of the week (Monday and Tuesday).

Current opening hours:

• Wednesday – Saturday: 10:00 – 17:00
• Sunday: 13:00 – 17:00
• Monday – Tuesday: Closed

A walk around the neighborhood after visiting the museum will allow you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of the historic center. Many iconic sites reflecting the region's rich architectural heritage are within walking distance.

Special attention should be paid to the historic quarters, famous for their picturesque streets and unique monuments. Below is a list of interesting sites located nearby: