Historic downtown Lexington is listed on the Virginia and National Register of Historic Places. The population in Lexington was 7,456 in 2022 and the city serves as the seat of Rockbridge County. The architecture in downtown, as well as the surrounding residential district, is fascinating and well preserved. So much so that Sommersby, the film starring Richard Gere and Jodi Foster, was filmed there.
Downtown Lexington offers great shopping, including unique, locally-owned boutiques and a makers shop, handmade chocolate and home-made ice cream, locally-roasted coffee, works by local artisans, book stores, clothing shops, and a wide variety of restaurants, all within walking distance as Lexington is a very walkable city. Enjoy a unique combination of history, 2 large University campuses (Washington & Lee University and The Virginia Military Institute) – (tip: both Universities are open-campuses with great walking opportunities and include multiple museums and gift shops). There are also nice inner-city parks and hiking trails.
Thomas U. Walter, designer of the U.S. Capitol dome, also designed the Lexington Presbyterian Church and the former Rockbridge County jail, which now serves as Kappa Alpha’s national headquarters.
Stop by the Visitor Center at 106 E. Washington Street for a map of Lexington and also a number of rack-cards which highlight surrounding area experiences and amenities. (tip: experience a horse-drawn carriage ride thru the city) (tip: Seasonal ghost tours offer an even more interesting perspective) (tip: find several unique and historical places; e.g. Lee’s tomb, Stonewall Jackson’s house, research the Patton family history at VMI – yes, General George S. Patton – our famous 3-Star WWII General). Finally, note that Lexington is a very clean and safe city. For More Information click here https://lexingtonvirginia.com/ (24-minute drive from OBS)