Renowned BBQ, Prizewinning Wines, NASCAR Icons, Exquisite Art, and a Historic Uptown – there’s a lot to love about Lexington, North Carolina.Lexington is known as one of North Carolina’s top attractions for indulging in world-class BBQ. This North Carolina town is the proud birthplace of the distinctive vinegar-based concoction that epitomizes the state’s BBQ heritage.
However, there is more to Lexington than bbq and NASCAR. Whether you’re in town for a day or a weekend, here are the best things to do in Lexington, North Carolina.
Best Things to Do in Lexington
Sample Depletable Wines at Childress Vineyards
- Address: 1000 Childress Vineyards Rd, Lexington (GPS)
- Hours: Monday -Sunday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
- Cost of Admission: For ticket info click here.
You’d be hard-pressed to find a winery in Lexington that can rival the class and ambiance of Childress Vineyards. Owned by NASCAR team owner Richard Childress, this establishment stands as the third-largest winery in North Carolina, boasting a diverse range of over 30 different types of wines.
It also features a bistro where you can savor delectable wines with mouthwatering cuisine, all while soaking in views that will transport you to the landscapes of Napa Valley right from Lexington.
Satisfy Your Sweet Cravings at The Candy Factory
- Address: 15 N Main St, Lexington (GPS)
- Hours: Monday – Thursday: 10: 00 am – 5:30 pm, Friday: 10:00 am -7:30pm,
Saturday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, Sunday: Closed
The Candy Factory is a bona fide haven for those with a sweet tooth and a fondness for vintage treasures. Despite the odd pairing, somehow the Candy Factory pulls it off, flawlessly too!
Once you step into this candy shop time capsule, it becomes a genuine challenge to leave. Adorned with vintage signs, the walls provide a nostalgic backdrop for the wall-to-wall shelves stocked with a massive collection of both contemporary and nostalgic confections.
Here, you’ll discover a wide array of chocolates, candies, and freshly made creamy fudge, all under one roof.
Dive into the Archives at the Davidson County Historical Museum
- Address: 2 S Main St, Lexington (GPS)
- Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm, Saturday: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
- Cost of Admission: Free
Venture into the heart of the Uptown Lexington Historic District, and you’ll find yourself utterly mesmerized by a Greek Revival structure that has stood tall and proud since 1858. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the vestige now serves as a historical museum.
It has a permanent collection that beautifully showcases Davidson County’s natural history and rich cultural heritage. Among its treasures, an impressive array of local artifacts and photographs are proudly displayed. As you ascend to the second floor, you’ll step back in time to its courthouse history.
The original décor remains intact, complete with the judge’s bench, jury box, and even the prisoner’s cage.
Savor Artisanal Delights at Conrad And Hinkle Food Market
- Address: 6 N Main St, Lexington, (GPS)
- Hours: Monday- Saturday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm, Sunday: Closed
If you wander down North Main Street, you’ll stumble upon the legendary Conrad and Hinkle Food Market. It’s not just a grocery store but a cornerstone of the local community, drawing every visitor in town to explore this distinctive grocery store.
A family-owned business operating since the early 1990s, it stocks items that are often hard to find elsewhere. Don’t miss out on their freshly crafted pimento cheese, a real crowd-pleaser made from scratch daily.
Alongside meats and local produce, the store also offers a variety of homemade specialties, including flavorful cookies and chicken salad.
Go Strawberry Picking at Berrier Farm
Nestled in the heart of Lexington, Berrier Farm offers an excellent opportunity for those who relish the experience of hand-picking their own strawberries when strawberry picking season in North Carolina comes around (around the end of April and beginning of May).
Spend time with the family outside choosing your own fruit. The ultimate reward are those vibrant, juicy gems in your baskets at the day’s end, becomes all the more gratifying when you’ve plucked them yourself!
Lose Yourself in the Wilderness at Boone’s Cave Park
- Address: 3552 Boones Cave Rd, Lexington (GPS)
- Hours: Monday- Sunday: 8:00 am – 8:00 pm
Outdoorsy folks in Lexington will have a grand time at Boone’s Cave Park. Named after the American pioneer Daniel Boone, this park is a breathtaking and secluded area that spans over 100 acres, boasting 6 miles of hiking trails winding through remote green forests of mixed hardwood.
In addition to hiking and observing wildlife and wildflowers native only to the Appalachian Mountains, the park also offers opportunities for fishing and biking. Other facilities at the park include picnic shelters, a playground, camping sites, and restrooms.
The highlight of this park is the 169-foot-tall cottonwood tree, which holds the record as the third largest in the state. The canopy alone spans 109 feet in width, casting such deep shade that even at noon, it feels like nighttime.
Browse Literary Gems at Pig City Books
- Address: 16 Court Square, Lexington (GPS)
- Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm
Pig City Books is a cozy and vibrant bookstore in Lexington, founded by local bibliophile Sedley Abercombie. One step inside the bookstore and you can sense Sedley’s profound passion for books and her dedication to fostering a reading culture in every nook and cranny. From fantasy and fiction to nonfiction and cookbooks, you name it, and Pig City Books probably has it.
Shop One-of-a-kind Earthenware at Missions Pottery
- Address: 3 N Main St, Lexington (GPS)
- Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm, Saturday: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
On the odds that you’re looking for handmade pottery to integrate into your daily routine, look no further than Missions Pottery on North Main Street. Whether you’re looking for kitchenware, home goods, birdhouses, or mugs, Missions Pottery has it all.
Additionally, all the products are designed and created by different artisans, so you have the option to pick and choose from a variety of artistic expressions. Should the pottery collection at Missions spark your interest in learning the craft, you’ll be pleased to know that they also offer pottery classes.
Join in the Festivities at Lexington Barbeque Festival
Almost everyone can agree that one of the best things to do in Lexington is try bbq. North Carolina is known for their bbq, and Lexington is affectionately known as the ‘barbecue capital of the world,’ and rightfully so. The city offers mouthwatering barbecue dishes with inventive combinations and flavors, all while maintaining its signature red sauce. Barbecue joints are practically around every street corner, sometimes even several in a row, each boasting its own unique popularity.
If you are a die-hard foodie, we suggest waiting until October to partake in the renowned Lexington Barbecue Festival, a beloved street festival up and running since 1984.
Lexington’s Barbecue Festival is a grand affair, spanning across 10 downtown blocks and featuring over 400 vendors. Live music adds to the festive atmosphere, with many up-and-coming artists taking the stage.
Find Peace at High Rock Lake
- Address: North Carolina (GPS)
Lexington offers a diverse range of entertainment options to its visitors, encompassing everything from tasty cuisines and historical architecture to the serene ambiance by the lake.
If you’re hungry for that blend of adrenaline rush and serenity that accompanies a lakeside getaway in Lexington, look no further than High Rock Lake—the second-largest manmade lake in North Carolina, and one of the best lakes near Charlotte.
Here, you can spend your days in water activities like paddling, kayaking, fishing, jet skiing, and boating. And when night falls, you can cozy up at the inviting lakefront camps and snug cabins. If you are looking for a relaxing day in nature, one of the best things to do in Lexington is head here.
Step into an Artist’s World at The Bob Timberlake Gallery and Museum
- Address: 1714 E Center St Ext, Lexington (GPS)
- Hours: Wednesday -Saturday: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
If you’re an artist or an art collector, then the name Bob Timberlake might be familiar to you. In Lexington, stepping into his gallery and museum means stepping into his life and seeing the world through his eyes. The gallery proudly showcases the artist’s original pieces, ranging from his grandest creations to his most intricate works.
Beyond his paintings, Timberlake has also created an exquisite furniture line and earned recognition for his philanthropic endeavors. This combination results in his gallery emanating a sense of homely warmth, reflecting the essence of the artist’s creativity.
The Riverwood Coffee Shop within the gallery enhances this ambiance, adding an extra layer of charm. You might even have the opportunity to meet Bob Timberlake himself, as he’s a local resident who frequently visits the gallery.
Experience the Thrill of Wakeboarding at Elevated Wake Park
- Address: 220 Bryant Rd, Lexington (GPS)
- Hours: Monday – Sunday: 12:00 pm -7:00 pm
If you’re an expert wakeboarder seeking the ultimate ride, a novice eager to learn the art of wakeboarding, or simply a curious spectator, then plan a day at the Elevated Wake Park. Nestled within the picturesque Piedmont Triad Area, this sprawling full-size cable park in Lexington promises an unforgettable experience and is one of the best active things to do in Lexington.
This attraction in Lexington will fill you with exuberance as you rent out the equipment and take your first expert-guided wakeboarding lessons. Sure, it’s a little scary in the beginning, but once you get the hang of it, the trepidation falls away under North Carolina’s clear blue skies as the backdrop of the expansive green grassy expanse rushes by.
The park also serves as an aquatic park, allowing everyone to enjoy its facilities and its overall beautiful ambiance.
Hang out with Friends and Family at Bull City Ciderworks
- Address: 599 S Railroad St, Lexington (GPS)
- Hours: Tuesday-Thursday: 3:00 pm – 9:00 pm, Friday – Saturday: 12:00 pm -11:00 pm, Sunday: 12:00pm, 8:00 pm
You can’t go to Lexington and not hang out at Bull City Ciderworks, where most of the locals are found sipping on an all-organic hard cider and chilling in its laid-back ambiance. Ciderworks is more like a weekday bar, with its cozy couches, barn-style tables, HD televisions, an array of board games, and inviting fire pits.
They have an impressive selection of sixteen cider taps with seven core ciders that remain constant, complemented by nine seasonal ciders that rotate, ensuring a fresh and evolving experience.
They also offer snacks to go with the cider, but you’re also welcome to bring along your own food to go with the delicious beverages. To add to its family-friendly and wholesome ambiance, leashed dogs and children are welcomed as well.
Spend a day at the Historic Barbeque Trail
As mentioned before, Lexington and barbecue go hand in hand, and there are enough barbecue eateries for you to try a new one every day for a month. But what if you’re in Lexington for only a few days?
You can make your merry way to the historic Barbecue Trail, where you embark on an amazing barbecue journey, sampling all kinds of barbecue along the trail. This trail starts at the Skylight Inn and ends at Herb’s Pit Bar-B-Cue, with barbecue galore in between.
Embrace the Rich Diversity at Multicultural Festival
For those who can’t travel the world, the world comes to them at the annual multicultural festival held at Davidson County Fairgrounds in Lexington.
There’s no charge for entry to the festival that features traditional food, apparel, and cultural exhibits aiming to introduce and share the cultural norms and values of African Americans, Europeans, Asians, Latinos, Native Americans, and many other nationalities.
Additionally, there are tons of entertainment options for kids and adults, such as music, dancing, inflatables, and much more.
Recharge at Lexington Golf Club
- Address: 200 Country Club Blvd, Lexington (GPS)
- Hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:30 am – 7:30 pm
Are you in the mood for a round of golf during your trip to Lexington? No worries, the Lexington Golf Club has you covered.
This prestigious club features bent grass greens, lush fairways, men’s, seniors, and ladies’ tees, and some of the finest facilities, making it a top-class golf club in the city.
You don’t have to be an expert player to avail yourself of this opportunity. The highly playable layout of the course is suited for levels, whether they are beginners or seasoned players.
Experience Iconic Racing Moments at RCR Museum and Gift Shop
- Address: 425 Industrial Dr building # 468, Welcome (GPS)
- Hours: Tuesday – Friday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Saturday: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
If you’re a NASCAR and Dale Earnhardt fan, you can’t miss this gem of a museum! Covering an expansive 47,000 square feet, the Richard Childress Racing Museum ranks among the racing world’s largest establishments and boasts an impressive history of 16 championships and 200 victories. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Lexington for racecar enthusiasts!
Inside this museum and its attached Gift Shop, you can witness the meticulous construction of racing cars from scratch. What’s more, you can visit the original No. 3 race shop dating back to 1989, and marvel at over 25 No. 3 GM Goodwrench Chevrolets driven by Dale. This experience offers an up-close view of the incredible career of the legendary Dale Earnhardt.
Learn the Power of Brush Strokes at Art 101
- Address: 25 E Center St, Lexington (GPS)
- Hours: Wednesday – Saturday: 10:00 am -5:00 pm
Aspiring artists and students can take their first steps into the realm of creativity at Art 101, located on East Center Street in Lexington.
This art studio offers expert lessons in canvas painting, teaching you to convey emotions and tell stories through brushstrokes and vibrant color combinations. You don’t need to be an artist to experience the joy of painting at Art 101 and individuals of all ages, including children, are welcome to join the studio.
Not only is it an art studio, but it’s also an art gallery that proudly showcases the works of local artists and their students.
Get your Caffeine Fix at the Perfect Blend Coffee Shop
- Address: 1 N Main St, Lexington (GPS)
- Hours: Monday -Saturday: 7:00 am -5:45 pm
Located on Main Street in Uptown Lexington, Perfect Blend Coffee Shop is a top-tier caffeine stop that just can’t be overlooked. Whether you are looking for a scrumptious breakfast or a place to stop by for a quick lunch, we guarantee you that Perfect Blend Coffee Stop won’t disappoint.
This cute café serves delicious coffee alongside freshly baked goods. The secret to their taste is their direct connection with the coffee bean suppliers, which allows them to have complete control over the quality of their products.
You also have a choice to order hot or cold beverages and get some work done while enjoying the unmatched café charm.
Explore Lexington’s Uptown District
- Address: 13 E 1st Ave, Lexington (GPS)
Uptown Lexington has such a diverse range of shopping facilities that you can spend a whole day shopping and still not get bored. Vintage items, luxury brands, culinary rarities, books, and so many options invite you to indulge in a day of retail therapy.
Not to mention, the streets are often used for festivals, big and small, so there’s always a bunch of niche vendors adding to the excitement.
Hang Out at The Depot District
The Depot District is an ideal rendezvous for a leisurely Saturday afternoon with friends and family in Lexington. The Depot District occupies the premises of a former furniture manufacturing plant, exuding an unmistakable industrial ambiance.
Norwadays, within this vibrant locale, you’ll discover establishments like Bull City Ciderworks, Goose and the Monkey Brewhouse, and Pour Folk Provision Co. There are indoor and outdoor areas to hang out and enjoy the lively atmosphere, especially on beautiful weekend days.
EXPLORE THE REGION
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Plan For Your Trip to the South!
- We like to use VRBO when searching for vacation apartment rentals and Hotels.com when searching for hotels.
- See our favorite cooler for the road!
- Get Around: We suggest renting a car for traveling the Carolinas. Check Prices on Expedia.com
- Our Favorite Brand of Shoes: Our answer to this question is always Keen. When hiking, enjoying the beach, or just needing a comfortable shoe for daily wear, this it it.
- Check out our favorite North Carolina Souvenir! Or for the coffee or tea lover in the family.
