Lexington

Lexington is a small city in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia, nestled in the Allegheny and Blue Ridge Mountains. Home to Washington and Lee University and the Virginia Military Institute (VMI), the town has a strong academic and historical character. The downtown features well-preserved 18th and 19th-century architecture, boutique shops, and restaurants.

Lexington played a significant role in the Civil War and is the final resting place of Confederate General Robert E. Lee, who served as president of Washington College (now Washington and Lee University) after the war. The town also claims Stonewall Jackson, who taught at VMI before the war and is buried here.

The climate is continental with warm summers (75-85°F/24-29°C) and cold winters (25-40°F/-4 to 4°C). Fall foliage in the surrounding mountains is spectacular. The town is small enough to explore on foot.

By Train

Lexington does not have an Amtrak station. The nearest stations are in Staunton (30 miles east) and Clifton Forge (35 miles northwest), both served by Amtrak's Cardinal route.

By Car / Road

Lexington is located at the intersection of I-81 and I-64. From Richmond, it is about 2.5 hours west via I-64. From Washington, D.C., it is about 3.5 hours southwest via I-66 and I-81. From Roanoke, it is about 40 minutes north on I-81.

Lexington is small enough to explore on foot. The downtown area is compact with most attractions within walking distance. Free parking is available on streets and in public lots. There is no public bus system.

• Washington and Lee University — Home to the Lee Chapel, where Robert E. Lee is buried. The campus features beautiful architecture and the Lee House.

• Virginia Military Institute (VMI) — The "West Point of the South," founded in 1839. The VMI Museum displays Civil War artifacts and the Stonewall Jackson House is nearby.

• Stonewall Jackson House — 8 East Washington Street. The pre-war home of Confederate General Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson.

• Lee's Last Home — The president's house at Washington and Lee, where Lee lived from 1865-1870.

• Natural Bridge — 15 miles south; a 215-foot natural limestone arch, a National Historic Landmark.

• Hiking — The Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Trail are accessible from the area. Humpback Rocks and McAfee Knob are popular nearby hikes.

• Historic Walking Tour — Self-guided tours of downtown's historic buildings and landmarks.

• Wine Tasting — Visit local vineyards in the Shenandoah Valley.

• VMI Parades — Watch the VMI cadets march in formation, a tradition since 1839.

Lexington offers a charming selection of restaurants, many in historic downtown buildings.

• Budget: Casual eateries and cafés in the downtown area, $10-20 per person.
• Mid-range: Established restaurants with Southern and contemporary cuisine, $20-40 per person.
• Upscale: Fine dining options in the historic district, $40+ per person.

Lexington has several bars, restaurants, and breweries serving local craft beverages. The downtown area has a lively bar scene popular with university students and visitors. Local wineries in the Shenandoah Valley are easily accessible by car. Tap water is safe to drink.

• Budget: Motels along the I-81 corridor, $60-100/night.
• Mid-range: Hotels in downtown and near the universities, $100-180/night.
• Upscale / heritage: The Robert E. Lee Hotel and other historic properties, $150-300/night.

Downtown Lexington features antique shops, bookstores, and specialty stores along Main Street and Washington Street. Local artisans sell handcrafted goods, and several shops offer Civil War memorabilia and Virginia-themed souvenirs. The Lexington Visitors Center can direct you to current shopping options in the historic district.

• Staunton, VA — 30 minutes east on I-64; charming Shenandoah Valley town with Shakespeare theater.
• Roanoke, VA — 40 minutes south on I-81; "Star City" with museums and Mill Mountain Star.
• Natural Bridge, VA — 15 minutes south; spectacular 215-foot natural limestone arch.
• Blue Ridge Parkway — Scenic mountain drive accessible from the area.
• Virginia Tech (Blacksburg) — 45 minutes southwest; major university with beautiful campus.