Whether you’re here for adventure or relaxation, you’re going to love Lexington. Our small city of 7,000 is a vibrant hub for history, education, and the arts, making it the ideal destination for families, couples, teams, and solo travelers alike.
Nestled amid 78,000 acres of national and state parkland in scenic Rockbridge County, Lexington makes a great base for exploring Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley and the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains. Not in the mood to move? There are plenty of fun things to do, see, eat, and drink within walking distance of The Gin Hotel.
Things to do in Lexington, Virginia
There’s a lot to do in our little city!
Welcome to Lexington. Now, let’s go!
In Lexington, simply viewing the scenery counts as an activity. Situated at the intersection of two historic routes and two modern highways, Lexington offers easy access to tons of gorgeous sites.
Got a car? Enjoy “America’s Favorite Drive,” the Blue Ridge Parkway, stopping to see the beautiful overlooks, fall colors, seasonal wildflowers, and Statons Creek Falls along the way. Catch a flick at Hull’s Drive-In, one of the only drive-in theaters still operating in America, and get a taste of Virginia at Ecco Adesso Vineyards, Rockbridge Vineyard, Great Valley Farm Brewery and Winery, or Halcyon Days Cider Co. — all nestled in Rockbridge County.
Got the kids? Take them to fun Virginia Safari Park or explore the play trail at Boxerwood Nature Center and Woodland Garden. You can even take a guided horse carriage tour with the Lexington Carriage Company right here in Lexington!
Scenic attractions near Lexington
Go gaga over the views
Your options for recreational activities in Lexington are limitless. Our convenient location in rugged Rockbridge County is nationally renowned by hikers, cyclists, kayakers, campers, hunters, fly fishermen, and other outdoor enthusiasts.
Love to hike or bike? Don’t miss the many trails on the Blue Ridge Parkway or Natural Bridge State Park, where you can bring a picnic and marvel at the geological wonders. Other hiking and bicycling opportunities include the Chessie Trail, Woods Creek Trail, House Mountain Trail, and Glen Maury Park.
Adrenaline junkie? Visit the Upper James River Water Trail for paddling, fishing, and wildlife viewing, or check out The Caverns at Natural Bridge. Other outdoor activities near Lexington include tubing the Maury River, fly fishing the local rivers and streams, and touring the Virginia Horse Center, one of the finest equestrian centers in the United States.
Outdoor activities in Lexington
Go on an adventure
If you’re done with all that touring around — or if you decide you don’t want to venture out of town at all — you can find plenty to do in downtown Lexington. Main Street Lexington and the surrounding blocks are completely walkable, with 65+ indie-owned shops and eateries to choose from.
Hungry? Eat your fill at humble diners, coffee shops, farm-to-table restaurants, or finer establishments. Local hot spots include the Pronto Caffe, Heliotrope Brewery, The Red Hen, and of course the Juniper Lounge right here at The Gin Hotel.
Thirsty? Head to the popular Devil’s Backbone Brewing Company or the award-winning Rockbridge Vineyard, and keep the craft beverages flowing along the Shenandoah Beerwerks Trail (with a solid DD, that is!).
Bored? Stay entertained at the outdoor Lime Kiln Theater, enjoy Music in the Garden during Summer Fridays at Boxerwood Nature Center, peruse the exquisite Cabell Gallery of Virginia Art, or even the wacky Dinosaur Kingdom II. And when you’re ready for some souvenirs, hit up Layne’s Country Store for local goodies you’ll love to take home.
Restaurants, bars, and shops in Lexington
Go out on the town
A visit to Lexington isn’t complete without a trip to at least one of our many historical sites. Founded in 1778 and named for the place where the first shot was fired in the American Revolution, Lexington has a rich history and deep connections to our country’s Founding Fathers and the Civil War.
Education nut? Don’t miss two of the city’s most significant historical attractions: the Virginia Military Institute, where uniformed cadets take classes, train for service, run tours, and even march in parades; and Washington and Lee University, one of the country’s oldest colleges.
History buff? Consider visiting the Jackson House Museum, where “Stonewall” Jackson lived, and the Oak Grove Cemetery, where Jackson and 296 other Civil War veterans are buried. For something a bit more lighthearted, take a free tour of Wade’s Mill or the Cyrus McCormick Farm.
Historical sites in Lexington
Go back in time
Go to Sleep
When you’re tired from all those fun things to do in Lexington, come rest your head at The Gin Hotel. As downtown’s largest, most convenient hotel with an elevated atmosphere, we’ve got everything you need for a relaxing yet sophisticated stay.
Plus, our staff loves to help. Whether you need extra pillows, a late check-out, or personal recommendations on what to do in the area, we can’t wait to make your stay in Lexington one you’ll always remember.
The best place to stay in Lexington
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