For many Louisianans, a trip to Lexington, Virginia, may involve students attending the Virginia Military Institute, the oldest state-run military college in the nation, or the equally historic Washington & Lee University, founded in 1749. But this pre-American Revolution hamlet nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia offers a glimpse back in time complemented by a vibrant culinary and arts scene, making it an ideal destination.
Take a tour
You’ll get to know the horses driving the carriage tours through downtown Lexington with Lexington Carriage Company. Tour guides introduce their equines like friends as they explain the unique history of this 19th century college town that includes the house where Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson lived and the Oak Grove Cemetery that contains two Virginia governors and American poet Margaret Junkin Preston.
Stay
Naturally, Lexington accommodations veer toward the historic, from The Georges luxury guest rooms in renovated downtown buildings to Hampton Inn on seven acres that features an historic mansion with 10 restored manor rooms. A short drive from downtown Lexington is the Inn at Brierley Hill with its stunning views and Herring Hall Bed and Breakfast that’s a feast for the senses, from owner Anne Herring’s love of cows and Virginia history, art and plants to her delicious breakfasts and treats.
Dine
A love of sustainable farming and providing nutritious foods for their kids led Daniel and Fawn Shear to start Seasons’ Yield Farm outside Lexington. Visitors may enjoy their fresh-baked breads, seasonal dishes and locally roasted coffee at their new restaurant in town, Seasons Bakery & Café. For dessert, don’t miss a stop at Sweet Things Ice Cream Shoppe, a Lexington
landmark serving homemade gourmet — and unique flavored — ice cream in their hand-rolled waffle cones for more than 30 years.
Drink
Heliotrope brews small-batch, artisan ales and lagers with Virginia and North Carolina malt and in-house culture of locally foraged, native microflora. We loved those tasty craft brews that made an excellent complement to Heliotrope’s wood-fired pizzas, which also utilized in-season local ingredients.
Hike
Nearby Natural Bridge State Park naturally showcases the incredible rock formation twice the size of Niagara Falls but what makes the 215-foot-tall bridge equally fascinating is the fact it was once owned by Thomas Jefferson. The limestone gorge carved out by Cedar Creek is also home to rare north white cedars and six miles of hiking trails, including Cedar Creek Trail from the bridge to Lace Falls with its 30-foot cascade.
Don’t Miss
Take a short road trip through the countryside to pause at the oasis that’s Tantivy Lavender Farm. Peruse the 54-acre lavender farm with its hiking trails and peaceful places to enjoy lavender ice cream among the blooms or bring some home from the Lavender Gift Shop. If you’re feeling creative, The Workshop at Timber Ridge in Lexington is home to artists Judd Jarvis and Cary Oliva, who offer classes and workshops in a variety of art styles, including spinning your own pottery.
We were amazed at how well our amateur bowls came out, perfect for our lavender blossoms.
