Lexington: A Town on the Rise

Lying southwest of South Carolina's capital, Lexington is a city rich with history and offerings. Established in 1735 by the colonial government of King George II, Lexington was called Saxe-Gotha for its first 50 years until the name was changed to honor the site of one of the first battles of the Revolutionary War.

Lexington’s early setters came from regions of Germany and Switzerland, but Native American influences also contributed much to the landscape and history. The Cherokee and Occaneechi paths went on to serve as the routes of modern U.S. highways and the Columbia and Augusta Railroad following the Civil War. These important corridors contributed to Lexington’s growth and development. To learn more about the history of Lexington and its German and Swiss heritage, visit the Lexington County Museum.

Today, Lexington continues to grow independent of neighboring Columbia by offering visitors a unique destination with small-town charm. While walking through the town’s picturesque Main Street, take a moment and stop at Lexington Square Park to view the Lexington Clock located at the intersection of old and new Lexington. It serves as a symbol of the town’s character.

With fine dining at Bodhi Thai, fresh-brewed joe at Haven Coffee, and down-home cooking offered inside a historic cotton mill at Creekside Restaurant, there’s no longer a reason to leave Lexington to experience local dining. For some family fun, try Flight Deck Restaurant, an aviation-themed diner with a "Top Gun" atmosphere and belly-filling food.

The true highlight of Lexington is the outdoor and recreational offerings that allow visitors to experience and explore nature. Walk the trails of Virginia Hylton Park and enjoy a butterfly garden, Koi pond and playground for the family. Or spend the day at Lake Murray, where you can swim, fish, tube, canoe or take a walk along the dam. The Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve is another fascinating area to explore. It features an inverted pyramid stone standing on its point and fossils of ancient marine life.

Lexington is also home to numerous boutiques like Aiden Lane and Southern Blu Boutique. If you’re looking for something with more of a local flavor, visit the Market at Icehouse, a farmers market featuring the produce and wares of local artisans and farmers.

Enjoy live music? Be sure to catch a concert at the Icehouse Amphitheater or Lexington Live, a spring concert series that won the Municipal Association of South Carolina's 2017 Achievement Award.

With its neighborly vibe and all the local dining and shopping options, Lexington will have you feeling right at home.