Lexington

Lexington is a charming town known for its military museums and universities. It features an intriguing historic downtown district and plenty of outdoor activities in the surrounding Shenandoah Valley. Chat with locals in the Old Town area for a glimpse of the community’s friendly nature.

Learn about regional history with a trip to the Virginia Military Institute, which has a college and the VMI Museum. Explore the impressive buildings and notice cadets walking purposefully across this stunning campus. See the firearms collection and find out about the military history of the area. At the George C. Marshall Museum, inspect the Nobel Peace Prize he received for creating the Marshall Plan that helped restore Europe’s economy after World War II.

Among the most notable figures in Lexington’s history is Stonewall Jackson, a Confederate general who taught at the military institute. Visit the solemn Stonewall Jackson Memorial Cemetery and see the Stonewall Jackson Grave, which features a statue of the military leader.

Enjoy a summer road trip around the picturesque countryside. Taste the reds, whites and rosés at the Rockbridge Vineyard in nearby Raphine. Farther northwest is Douthat State Park in the Allegheny Mountains. Go fishing, swimming and boating on its large lake and stay overnight at a campsite.

Travel south for the Foamhenge replica of the iconic British Stonehenge ruins. Nearby are Butterflies at the Bridge and the Virginia Safari Park. Drive through the park to spot zebras, elk and deer. Feed giraffes, observe Bengal tigers and pet a mob of kangaroos. In winter’s cold, the nearby Toy Museum at Natural Bridge of Virginia is an ideal place to bring your family.

Lexington is the county seat of Rockbridge County in northwestern Virginia. It is about 60 miles (90 kilometers) east of the West Virginia border. Arrive at Washington Dulles International Airport and drive west for about 3 hours to find the town.

Enjoy Lexington’s fascinating military history, scenic surroundings and many family-fun activities.