By Guest Blogger Amalia Nappo
Looking to spend the day or a whole weekend exploring and enjoying the rich heritage and authenticity of locally owned businesses? Lexington is in the Piedmont, just 20 miles south of Winston-Salem at the intersection of US 29/70 and US 52. Lexington is also accessible off Business and Interstate 85 between Greensboro and Charlotte. You can find specialty gift shops and outstanding restaurants, as well as unique home furnishings and hard to find antiques. Everyone is sure to find something that pleases.
During your day or weekend trip here are some places or things you may want to see and do:
Edward C. Smith Civic Center
smithciviccenter.org
Lexington’s premier historical theatre located in the heart of uptown Lexington on Main Street.
The Civic Center is available to rent as a special events venue for private parties, business meetings and conferences, weddings, receptions, corporate events, benefits and more. Sit back and enjoy a variety of shows for all ages, be sure to check their events for scheduled shows or enjoy a free self-guided tour of the building and view the community Art wall and learn about the history of the building.
Army Navy Store
Army Navy Store isn’t just your typical department store in Lexington, NC. The store offers a range of high-end merchandise at a low price point. Hunting and fishing takes a lot of gear, and this store has it all!
Lanier Hardware
lanierhardware.com
“The Place to Find What You Want Since 1940”
Ever seen a massive family-owned Hardware Store? They have everything from housewares to outdoor living, sporting goods to crafts and everything in between. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff will make you feel right at home. I guarantee you will find something that will make you smile.
Candy Factory
lexingtoncandyfactory.com
Located under the red & white striped awning in the heart of historic Lexington, NC. (photo at top of blog)
There’s no outing sweeter than a trip to the candy store. With colorful treats from floor to ceiling, candy stores bring out the kid in every shopper. Whether you’re shopping with kids or just satisfying your own sweet tooth, these candy stores are the perfect spot to indulge. The Candy Factory is the delicious destination for nostalgic candies, chocolates, Red Bird peppermint puffs, stick candy, licorice, sugar-free hard candies and chocolates, and hundreds of old-fashioned candy favorites. And don’t forget the fresh creamy fudge made right in their store!
Conrad & Hinkle Food Market
conrad-hinkle.com
Local produce and the “must have” homemade pimento cheese.
Pimento Cheese is a staple in the Lexington, NC community. They have been making their Pimento Cheese since the 1940’s. Conrad & Hinkle also offers a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. They offer fresh local products purchased directly from local farmers (Davidson County and the surrounding areas) and are they restock all their produce every other day.
Lexington Farmers Market NC – at the Depot
Located in the Historic Train Depot, the farmers market hosts freshly harvested fruits and vegetables, and sustainably raised meats, eggs, and dairy products. You’ll also find baked goods, plants, and handmade crafts! Farmers market also hosts special activities and entertainment throughout the season.
Bob Timberlake Gallery
Visit the fine art and home furnishings collection. Bob Timberlake is an internationally acclaimed realist painter and designer.
Davidson County Historical Museum
davidsoncountyhistoricalmuseum.com
Learn about local history! Free Admission. Find various collection highlighting the natural and cultural history of Davidson County. Check out their Uptown Lexington Wayfinding map, there are streets signs will help you find shops, places to eat, and places of interest.
Pick & Paint Plus
Pick & Paint Plus is Lexington’s premier walk-in multimedia Do It Yourself studio. Choose from Ceramics or wood as a walk in. There is something for everyone. They offer birthday parties, mom’s night out, parent’s night out and many special outings for all ages. You can sign up for a class. Check out their events calendar for evening and daytime events and summer camps. They also do large groups fundraisers. They travel to day cares and schools for events with ceramics, wood or canvas.
Everyone knows that summers get hot! Want to cool off?
Photo courtesy of Lexington Parks and Recreation
Lexington Aquatic Park
lexingtonnc.gov/Home
A competition-size swimming pool with a zero-depth entry and splash features, open throughout the summer!
Phone during operating hours: (336) 242-1121
Outside of operating hours: (336) 249-2177 (J. Smith Young YMCA)
Admission is $1 for ages 0-17, $2 for 18+ (Y Members get in free)
Photo courtesy of Lexington Parks and Recreation
Washington Park Splash Pad
facebook.com/washingtonparklexington
Recently renovated in 2016, the park has a 4000 sq. ft. splash pad, updated playground, basketball court, walking trail, and three shelters! Located at 100 Bookington Drive. Open from 5:00am to 10:00 pm and is run by Lexington Parks and Recreation. The Splash Pad is open daily in 2019 from May 18 – September 29. Hours are 10:00am – 7:00pm. Admission is FREE!
Photo courtesy of Lexington Parks and Recreation
Finch Park
visitnc.com/listing/tNbz/finch-park
Finch Park offers a spectacular variety of features and activities. Features include the Kimberly Clark playground, picnic shelters, basketball court, baseball, softball and soccer fields, fishing, gazebo, amphitheater, and walking trail a theater which host musical entertainment and festivals.
Got more ideas for fun in Uptown Lexington? Comment below with your favorites!
Click HERE to see more Day Trip ideas, and HERE for our Summer Bucket List. For notifications on local events and happenings, subscribe to our free weekly newsletters here.
Don’t forget the best shaved ice in town at Snow Days Snoballs 5 East 1 street
Last but not least, try some Lexington style BBQ with endless hush puppies and sweet tea!
Stop by Lexington Tourist Association, right beside Conrad & Hinkle, for maps and insider, local tips!
Thanks for highlighting Lexington, and the awesome things we have here! Check out Lexington Parks and Rec on Facebook and Instagram for more info on the 20+ parks and facilities we have here! (FB – colparksandrec • IG – @lexparksandrec
Don’t forget about the Backyard Retreat for all your Patio Decoration Idea And Supplies. Great place with the most courteous owners.
For a coffee stop. The Perfect Blend or The Black Chicken are great. Also consignment stores too!
Yes! There is a fantastic consignment right on main that is sure to find a awesome treat for littles.
Antique stores and boutiques are where I like to spend Saturdays in Lexington. Missions Pottery is a must see. We also have several nice coffee shops and restaurants for lunch. The Black Chicken has nice porches for reading. For those who are enjoying Lexington without the kiddos, a tasting at Childress winery is also a nice stop.