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Free Things To Do
Saunter through VMI and W&L: With ancient oaks and grand historic buildings, the campuses of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and Washington & Lee University (W&L) are lovely places to enjoy an antebellum stroll. The VMI campus also offers The VMI Museum, which chronicles the creation and development of VMI and the amazing contributions of its alumni to American history.
Experience the Virginia Horse Center: One of the finest equestrian centers in the United States, the 600-acre Virginia Horse Center is a beautiful facility for state, national, and international horse competitions and events. Visitors can tour the stables, show rings, and view steeplechase, timber, and carriage courses. Note: Entrance is free, but some events may have a minimal charge. (540) 464-2950
Watch the Cadet Parade: Most Friday afternoons in spring and fall, the cadets at the Virginia Military Institute march in full dress uniform on the school's parade grounds. This much-loved tradition of patriotic pomp and circumstance is a great spectacle and a truly unique Lexington experience.
Visit the George Marshall Museum: Located adjacent to the to the Virginia Military Institute, the fascinating George C. Marshall Museum chronicles the life and achievements of George C. Marshall, organizer of victory in World War II and author of the Marshall Plan. Note: The museum does ask for a donation. (540) 463-7103
Visit Lee Chapel & Museum: The great Confederate general, much of his family, and even his trusted horse, Traveler, are all buried here in this lovely little chapel on the Washington and Lee campus. The chapel museum houses many items that belonged to Lee and his family, as well as the famous Edward Valentine statue portraying General Lee resting on the battlefield. (540)458-8768
Tour Rockbridge Vineyard: Just 20 minutes north of town is beautiful Rockbridge Vineyard, home to many fine, award-winning Virginia wines. Open May through October, the vineyard's tour takes you through the fermenting area, barrel cellar, and, of course, the tasting room. (888) 511-9463
See the Stonewall Jackson Memorial Cemetery: Buried in this historic cemetery on the south side of town are Stonewall Jackson, 144 Confederate veterans, two Virginia governors, and Margaret Junkin Preston, the Confederate's Poet Laureate.
Hike the Chessie Nature Trail: Six miles of wildlife and wildflowers await you along this former railroad bed of the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad. Glorious limestone formations mark the path along the scenic Maury river.
Tour Wade's Mill & Buffalo Springs Herb Farm: Just a quick drive down the highway, these two historic sites are well worth a visit. Wade's Mill, a historical 1750s grist mill, still produces flour today and offers a truly unusual outing. You can see the behind-the-scenes workings of a mill - and shop for gifts all in one spot. (800) 290-1400. Buffalo Springs Herb Farm is an 18th-century farmstead offering herbs, botanicals, dried flowers, plants, and garden tours. (540) 348-1083.
Stroll downtown Lexington: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Lexington is a small, bustling city full of history and commerce. With period architecture, historical buildings, and exceptional shops, it's a great place to stroll the day away. Don't miss the many wonderful antique shops and Cocoa Mill Chocolate Co., our award-winning chocolate shop.
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