Living in Lexington July 15, 2025

The Best of Lexington, SC

🍽️ Restaurants & Cafés

  • Libby’s of Lexington – A local favorite for lunch, garnering praise for its cozy atmosphere. Great for casual midday meals.
  • Cafe Strudel – Perfect for brunch or a light lunch, with art-lined walls and perhaps the best bloody Mary in town.
  • Hudson’s Smokehouse – Classic Southern BBQ that hits the spot for hearty, smoky comfort food.
  • Old Mill Brewpub – A historic mill turned brewpub with local beers, comfort food and a warm, laid-back vibe.
  • Cork & Cleaver Steakhouse – For that upscale, white‑tablecloth steak dinner with award‑winning cocktails.
  • Bodhi Thai Dining – A charming spot offering well-reviewed Thai cuisine in a cozy, low-key setting.

 

🎭 Entertainment & Culture

  • Village Square Theatre – Catch community theater productions. Think musicals and dramas, ideal for a cultured night out.
  • Icehouse Amphitheater – Outdoor concerts and festivals under the stars; relaxed yet lively.
  • Lexington County Museum – A living history experience of Colonial and Antebellum South Carolina, complete with historic homes and guided tours.
  • Historic David Rawl House / 210 Shoppe + Studio – Browse local art and unique gift items in a charming 1850s home.

🌳 Outdoor & Recreation

  • Lake Murray & Saluda Dam – Over 700 miles of waterfront; perfect for walks, fishing, boating or just driving across the dam.
  • Dreher Shoals Dam & Fourteen‑Mile Creek Trail – Great for scenic strolls or casual biking.
  • Lexington County Recreational Complex & Gibson Road Park – Facilities include sports fields, walking trails, playgrounds and plenty of room to stretch your legs.

🍻 Brewery & Nightlife

  • Hazelwood Brewing – A local brewery with craft beer and live bluegrass on Thursdays, plus a cozy vibe.
  • Old Mill Brewpub – Already on the list but worth emphasizing for its relaxed beer-and-bites setting.

🛍️ Shopping & Local Finds

  • 210 Shoppe + Studio (David Rawl House) – Unique artful gifts in a historic setting .
  • Lexington Town Centre – A variety of shops from boutiques to practical stores and good for a casual stroll and some browsing.

📅 Noteworthy Events

  • Seasonal concerts and festivals at the Icehouse Amphitheater that often featuring familiar artists and family-friendly energy.
  • Local parades, community events, church fairs—Lexington has a tight-knit, community-first vibe .
  • Fireworks nights, car shows, occasional local showcases—check Eventbrite listings for up-to-the-minute happenings.

✅ Quick Tips

Experience Why It’s Great for You
Start your day at Cafe Strudel for brunch/lunch and art, culture, and a barista’s touch. It’s got that urbane feel with local flair.
Evening out? Choose Cork & Cleaver or a show at Village Square Theatre. Classic Sophistication meets laid-back Southern charm.
Weekends by Lake Murray or strolls on the dam/trail. Feels like a mini retreat without the travel.