The town of Lexington is full of personality and charm with a mix of old and new, and a traditional yet quirky vibe. Here are a few must visits while you’re in town.

Start with Sips

Second Wave Coffee and Books definitely fits into the unexpected category. With freshly brewed coffee, sweet treats, book nooks and human-sized chess boards outside, one would think they were Alice in Wonderland. It is open daily and is a great meet-up spot for coffee, beer and wine with quiet rooms for studying or private space. The outdoor area features a wooded area, seating and a stream – and plenty of games! Second Wave also offers the opportunity for full community life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, which makes it all the more special.

Café Strudel Lexington is a great spot for breakfast, lunch, early dinner and everything in between. The recently renovated space has plenty of indoor, outdoor and bar seating. The menu features unique twists on breakfast items, Southern favorites and sandwiches. The Famous Hangover Hash browns are a must try and we have a special affinity for our Pimento Cheese Passport-featured Lowcountry Hash Browns – hash browns topped with grilled shrimp, fried green tomatoes, bacon and pimento cheese. Who does this?

Pro tip: If you are a plant based eater (like me) ask them to veganize the Hangover Hash Browns for you. It’s do delicious!

Explore Main Street

I think every town should have a park smack dab in the middle of it. Virginia Hylton Park, named after a former Town Council member, is just that in Lexington and offers a space where children can play – the playground is impressive – and where families can gather for concerts and events. There’s a paved walking trail with an expansion in the works, special needs playground Twelve Mile Creek with an overlook and waterfall, butterfly garden, koi pond, picnic spaces and more. Be sure to look down when entering the Pat Jeffcoat Serenity Park for inspirational quotes embedded in the walkway.

There’s some bold yet divine about a man with Sugar Pusher tattooed on his arm. Joe Cribb comes into his business built in the late 1880’s at 1:30 a.m. to bake cakes, cookies and all things in between – just like grandma made. Cribbs Sandwich & Sweet Shop, easily recognized due to the huge rooster out front, has been in downtown Lexington for 24 years and is full of charm. From homemade sandwiches, soups and salads – I heard on good authority that the chicken and egg salad are unbeatable – to cakes, pies and homemade pimento cheese, this restaurant will fill you up in more ways than one.

Across the street is the Icehouse Amphitheater, the once ice plant that is now a 900-seat venue that hosts a variety of concerts and events. Stop by on Saturdays for the Market at Icehouse under the new Icehouse Pavilion for fresh fruits, vegetables and other locally made products.

Pro Tip: Virginia Hylton Park, Cribbs Sandwich & Sweet Shop and the Icehouse Amphitheater are all walking distance from each other so park and visit all three!

Last Call

For a casual end to the evening, peruse the shops at Lexington's Old Mill. From home goods at Wood and Fabric to trendy clothes at Kindred Boutique. Head over to enjoy some bites and brews at Old Mill Brewpub. Visitors can unwind with pub food and over 20 drafts on tap. 

Those looking for fancier affair should head to Private Property. No, you won't be trespassing. This chef-driven establishment welcomes guests with elevated Southern dishes. Enjoy the charming home renovated into a restaurant or dine on the twinkly-light laden patio. 

Before bidding the town of Lexington good night, make one last stop at Hazelwood Brewing Company. Take your pick from sours, IPAs and stouts while reminiscing on the fun you've had in Lexington.