Lexington Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in your visit to Lexington, Illinois.


Introduction to Lexington

Nestled in the heart of Central Illinois, Lexington is a small town that offers a blend of rich history and natural beauty. It is a perfect destination for travelers who are looking for a quiet and peaceful getaway. The town has a population of approximately 2100 and covers an area of 0.93 square miles. Lexington is a historic town, and visitors can enjoy exploring its historical landmarks, museums, and parks. It also offers exciting outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing.

List of Places to Visit in Lexington

When visiting Lexington, there are plenty of attractions to explore. Here is a list of some of the top places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • David Davis Mansion State Historic Site - This is a beautiful 19th-century estate that was once the home of Supreme Court Justice David Davis. The house has been perfectly preserved and offers visitors a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the Davis family.

  • Route 66 Association Hall of Fame and Museum - This museum is dedicated to the famous Route 66 highway that passes through Lexington. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts, pictures, and documents relating to Route 66’s history.

  • The McLean County Museum of History - This museum showcases the rich history of McLean County, which dates back to the 19th century. Visitors can explore a range of exhibits that detail the region’s history, from the early settlers to modern-day McLean County.

Natural Attractions of Lexington: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lexington Community Park - This park offers visitors a range of recreational activities, including basketball, tennis, volleyball, and a playground for children. Additionally, the park’s walking trails provide an excellent opportunity to explore the town’s natural beauty and wildlife.

  • Meadowbrook Park - Located 7 miles south of Lexington, this park offers a serene and peaceful environment. The park has a 7-acre pond, a playground, a walking trail, and picnic facilities.

  • Lake Bloomington - This man-made lake is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. It is stocked with both warm and cool water fish species, including bass, catfish, and crappie. Additionally, the lake offers boat rentals and has a beach where visitors can swim and sunbathe.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lexington

For visitors who enjoy hiking and biking, Lexington offers several fantastic trails that take you through the heart of the town’s natural beauty.

  • Constitution Trail - The trail spans 24 miles and connects the cities of Normal and Bloomington. It is an ideal destination for visitors who enjoy biking, walking, or jogging.

  • Lake Evergreen Trail - This trail is a 4.5-mile loop around the picturesque Lake Evergreen. The trail offers visitors the chance to enjoy a peaceful hike surrounded by natural beauty.

  • Sugar Grove Nature Center Trail - This trail spans 2 miles and takes visitors through a nature preserve, offering stunning views of the area’s wildlife and natural beauty.

Best Things to Do in Lexington: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, Lexington offers plenty of activities and tours for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the best:

  • Visit the Historic Homes - Lexington is home to several historic houses, including the David Davis Mansion, which offers visitors an insight into the luxurious lifestyle of the Davis family.

  • Take a Guided Tour of Route 66 - Lexington sits along the famous Route 66 highway, and visitors can take a guided tour of the town and learn about the history and significance of Route 66.

  • Go Fishing on Lake Bloomington - Lake Bloomington is a popular fishing destination for visitors and offers a range of fish species to catch, including bass, catfish, and crappie.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lexington

For visitors planning to spend a week in Lexington, here’s a sample itinerary that covers the town’s best attractions:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive in Lexington, check-in to your accommodation
Day 2 Visit the David Davis Mansion and the Route 66 Association Museum
Day 3 Spend the day exploring the hiking and biking trails
Day 4 Go fishing in Lake Bloomington
Day 5 Take a guided tour of Route 66 and visit the McLean County Museum of History
Day 6 Spend the day at Meadowbrook Park, enjoying a picnic and outdoor games
Day 7 Relax at your accommodation before departing Lexington the next day

Food and Drink Scene of Lexington

In Lexington, visitors can enjoy a range of delicious dishes and drinks that are unique to the town’s culinary culture.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Horseshoe Sandwich - This famous Lexington sandwich is made with a thick slice of toasted bread and topped with a meat patty, fries, and a cheese sauce.

  • Pork Tenderloin Sandwich - This sandwich features a breaded and fried pork tenderloin served with lettuce, tomato, and a special sauce.

  • Corn on the Cob - Lexington is known for its sweet corn on the cob, which is served during the summer months.

Local Beverages

  • Beer from The Beer Nuts Brewery - The Beer Nuts Brewery is located in Bloomington and is famous for its delicious craft beers. Visitors can take a tour of the brewery and sample some of its signature beers.

  • Wine from the Mackinaw Valley Vineyard - This vineyard is located just outside Lexington and produces some of the best wines in the region. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyard and enjoy a tasting of some of its signature wines.

Where to Stay in Lexington: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

When it comes to accommodation, Lexington offers visitors a range of options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best:

  • Park Motel - This motel offers comfortable rooms at affordable prices. It is located near Lexington’s downtown area and is within walking distance of several attractions.

  • Days Inn by Wyndham - This hotel offers spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and a complimentary breakfast. It is located close to Interstate 55 and is a short drive from Lexington’s major attractions.

  • Vrooman Mansion - This bed and breakfast offers luxurious rooms with antique furnishings and a full breakfast each morning. The mansion is located in a quiet residential area of Lexington and is perfect for visitors who want a peaceful and relaxing stay.

What to Buy in Lexington: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Lexington, there are plenty of souvenirs and local products to take home. Here are some of the best:

  • Route 66 Memorabilia - Visitors can purchase a range of Route 66 memorabilia, including t-shirts, posters, and keychains.

  • Local Artwork - Lexington is home to several talented local artists, and visitors can purchase their artwork at local stores and galleries.

Local Culture and Customs of Lexington

Lexington is a friendly and welcoming town, and visitors should respect its local culture and customs. It is recommended to dress modestly and avoid smoking in public places.

Best Time to Visit Lexington

Lexington is a great place to visit all year round. However, the best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is warm and the outdoor activities are in full swing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lexington

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs

  • Try the local cuisine

  • Explore the town’s hiking and biking trails.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public places

  • Ignore the town’s historical landmarks and museums

Safety and Health

Safety in Lexington

Lexington is a safe town for visitors. However, they should follow common safety precautions, such as locking their doors and not leaving valuables in their cars.

Health in Lexington

Visitors should drink bottled or filtered water during their stay in Lexington and protect themselves against ticks when exploring the town’s hiking trails.

Getting to Lexington: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can easily reach Lexington by car or bus.

Airports Near Lexington

  • Central Illinois Regional Airport - located in Bloomington, 16 miles away from Lexington.

  • Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport - located in Springfield, 55 miles away from Lexington.

Bus Stations Near Lexington

  • Greyhound Bus Lines - located in Bloomington, 12 miles away from Lexington.

  • Amtrak - located in Normal, 11 miles away from Lexington.

Other Options

Visitors can also opt to rent a car or take a taxi to get to Lexington.

How to Get Around in Lexington

The best way to explore Lexington is by car, bike or walking. Visitors can also easily navigate the town’s major attractions on foot.

Where to Go Next from Lexington: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If visitors want to explore more of Central Illinois, here are some nearby destinations and excursions:

  • Bloomington-Normal - This is a larger city located just 11 miles north of Lexington. Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and visiting museums and art galleries.

  • Starved Rock State Park - This beautiful state park is located 85 miles northeast of Lexington and offers a range of hiking trails and stunning views of nature.

Conclusion

Lexington is a hidden gem of Central Illinois, offering visitors a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventures. With plenty of attractions, activities, and dining options, this small town is well worth a visit. Whether you are interested in exploring the historical landmarks, hiking and biking trails, or trying the local cuisine, Lexington is a destination that won’t disappoint.