Things to do in Lexington, Virginia
- Lexington serves as the final resting place for both Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson, two of the most prominent Confederate generals of the American Civil War.
- The city is one of the few places in the United States where two major institutions of higher learning, VMI and Washington and Lee University, are situated directly adjacent to one another.
- The local downtown area was recognized as one of the first nationally registered historic districts in Virginia, maintaining a high density of 19th-century architecture.
- Despite its small size, the city acts as the county seat of Rockbridge County, a region named for the massive natural limestone arch located nearby.
- Lexington’s local economy and culture are uniquely shaped by the 'Rat' culture and strict traditions of the Virginia Military Institute cadets, which influence the social rhythm of the town.
About Lexington, Virginia
Lexington is a historic Virginia city defined by its dual identity as the home of both the Virginia Military Institute and Washington and Lee University. Visitors can explore the preserved residence of Confederate General Thomas 'Stonewall' Jackson at the Jackson House Museum or view the final resting place of Robert E. Lee at the University Chapel & Galleries. The city's academic landscape is further anchored by the VMI Museum, which chronicles the history of the nation’s oldest state-supported military college. Beyond its academic corridors, residents and travelers enjoy outdoor recreation at Jordan's Point Park along the Maury River. The community also reflects deep roots in local history, exemplified by the heritage preserved at the First Baptist Church.
Highlights of Lexington, Virginia
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Museums
Tour the only home ever owned by Stonewall Jackson to see his personal artifacts and family history.
Museums
Examine military artifacts spanning over two centuries of cadet history at the nation's oldest state military college.
Museums
Visit the mausoleum of Robert E. Lee located in the lower level of this historic university chapel.
Parks
Access the Maury River for fishing and walking trails in this scenic riverside municipal park.
Temples
Learn about the significance of this congregation in the local African American community's history.
Top things to do in Lexington, Virginia
The 8 highest-rated places in Lexington, Virginia, ranked by travellers.
1
Parks
Natural Bridge State Park features a 215-foot-tall limestone arch carved by Cedar Creek. The bridge is a registered Nati...
2
Parks
Douthat State Park is one of the original six Virginia state parks, opened in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps. I...
3
Places of interest
Warm Springs Pools features two historic, mineral-rich soaking pools located within 19th-century octagonal wooden bathho...
4
Zoos
Natural Bridge Zoo is a privately owned animal park situated in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. The facility is pr...
5
Parks
Glen Maury Park is a 315-acre municipal park located along the Maury River in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. The...
6
Parks
7
Zoos
8
Temples
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Lexington, Virginia on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Lexington, Virginia
Autumn, specifically October, for the fall foliage in the Shenandoah Valley and comfortable temperatures for walking tours.
2 days, as the core historic district and major university sites can be thoroughly explored within a weekend.
The downtown area is highly walkable, though a personal vehicle is necessary for navigating the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains and rural Rockbridge County.
Stay in the downtown district to remain within walking distance of the historic sites and university campuses.
Mid-range; local hotels and inns cater to academic visitors and tourists, with costs reflecting the area's popularity during university events.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 8 curated attractions in and around Lexington, Virginia, ranked by traveller ratings.
Natural Bridge State Park is the highest-rated place to visit in Lexington, Virginia right now.
The largest category is parks, with 4 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Downtown Los Angeles, Bayonne, New Jersey, Washington, D.C..
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