10 Fun Things To Do Near Lexington, South Carolina
Looking for fun and relaxed things to do around
Lexington, South Carolina? Whether you live in Lexington County or you’re road-tripping through the Columbia area, this small-town spot packs in a surprising amount of sunshine, scenery, and Southern comfort.
Below are
10 easy, enjoyable things to do near Lexington that work for families, couples, or solo explorers. Most of these are within a 20–30 minute drive, so you won’t spend your whole day in the car.
1. Spend a Lazy Day at Lake Murray
If you do only one thing in Lexington, make it
Lake Murray. Locals treat this huge lake like their backyard, and it really is the heart of the area.
You can:
- Rent a pontoon boat or jet ski
- Go swimming at a lakeside park
- Cast a line for bass or catfish
- Enjoy a sunset cruise with friends
Lake Murray stretches for about
50,000 acres, so there’s always a quiet cove waiting for you. I once spent an entire afternoon anchored in a little corner of the lake with nothing but snacks, music, and the sound of splashing water—it felt like I was hours from any city, even though I was only about 20 minutes from downtown Lexington.
If you don’t have a boat, don’t worry. Several marinas near Lexington offer
boat rentals, fuel, and snacks, so you can still enjoy the lake life.
2. Walk the Dam at Lake Murray (Dreher Shoals Dam Walk)
Just a short drive from downtown Lexington, the
Dreher Shoals Dam offers one of the best free things to do in the area—a long, wide walkway along the top of the dam.
The path is about
1.7 miles each way, and it’s:
- Flat and paved
- Great for walking, running, or pushing a stroller
- Perfect for sunrise or sunset views
On one side, you see the wide open waters of Lake Murray. On the other, you’ll catch views of the Saluda River and, off in the distance, the Columbia skyline. On breezy days, it can feel a bit like walking along the ocean.
Parking tends to fill up during peak times (especially summer evenings), so try to arrive a bit earlier. If you like taking pictures, this is one of the most Instagram-friendly spots near Lexington.
3. Explore Virginia Hylton Park in Downtown Lexington
Right in the heart of town,
Virginia Hylton Park is a little green escape that feels surprisingly peaceful even though you’re close to Main Street.
Here’s what you’ll find:
- Shaded walking paths
- Playgrounds for kids
- Bridges and a small creek
- Benches and picnic tables
It’s a nice stop if you’re already downtown grabbing lunch or coffee. I like to swing by with a to-go drink and just stroll around for 20–30 minutes. If you’re traveling with kids, this is also a good place to let them burn off energy between activities.
In the spring, the trees and flowers add a splash of color that makes the park feel extra charming.
4. Enjoy Family Fun at Gibson Pond Park
Another local favorite is
Gibson Pond Park, tucked just a short drive from Lexington’s main roads. This park centers around a calm pond and offers:
- A walking trail with water views
- Fishing spots along the shore
- Picnic tables and shelters
- Plenty of space to slow down
It’s not a huge park, but that’s part of the appeal. It feels quiet and personal—almost like a neighborhood secret. If you’re the type who likes to sit with a book while ducks glide by, this is your place.
Couples often come here for simple, low-key dates: a walk, a picnic, and maybe some photos near the water.
5. Hit the Water at Lake Murray Public Park & Boat Ramps
Lexington County keeps outdoor life simple and accessible with several
public parks and boat ramps on Lake Murray.
One popular option near Lexington is:
- Lake Murray Public Park (Lexington side) – typically offers a swimming area, picnic spots, and lake access during warm months.
These spots are ideal if you:
- Don’t own a boat but still want to swim
- Want a budget-friendly day outdoors
- Love picnics with a water view
Pack a cooler, bring some folding chairs, and you’re set for the day. Just keep in mind that holidays and sunny weekends can get crowded, so arriving earlier often means better parking and shoreline space.
6. Discover Historic Lexington & Local Eats Downtown
Lexington may not be a huge city, but its downtown area has grown into a cozy hub with
local restaurants, coffee shops, and small businesses.
Things to do downtown:
- Walk along Main Street and side streets
- Check out local boutiques and gift shops
- Try Southern comfort food, burgers, or barbecue
- Grab dessert or ice cream after dinner
If you’re into history, look for:
- Old courthouse buildings and small historic markers
- Displays that touch on Lexington County’s past
A nice way to spend an evening is to park once, explore on foot, have dinner, and then take a slow walk through
Virginia Hylton Park or nearby streets. The town feels safe, relaxed, and very “small-town South Carolina.”
7. Catch a Show at the Icehouse Amphitheater
Right near downtown, the
Icehouse Amphitheater has become one of Lexington’s most popular gathering spots. This outdoor venue hosts:
- Live music and concerts
- Community festivals and events
- Holiday celebrations
- Food truck nights and more
On warm evenings, you’ll often see people spread out on blankets and lawn chairs, kids running around, and local bands playing under the stars. It has that friendly, “everybody knows everybody” feel—even if you’re just visiting.
If you’re planning a trip, check their event calendar ahead of time. A simple concert here can turn an ordinary night in Lexington into something memorable.
8. Visit Riverbanks Zoo & Garden in Nearby Columbia
While not in Lexington itself,
Riverbanks Zoo & Garden in Columbia is close enough (about a 20–25 minute drive) that many locals treat it as their backyard zoo.
Why it’s worth the short trip:
- Well-maintained exhibits with lions, giraffes, zebras, and more
- A large botanical garden with seasonal flowers
- Interactive areas for kids
- Extra attractions like ropes courses and special events
If you’re visiting Lexington with family, this is an easy day trip that keeps everyone entertained. I’ve seen more than one grown adult light up like a kid when a giraffe leans down right in front of them.
Plan at least a half day, especially if you want to see both the zoo and the gardens.
9. Explore the Congaree River & Riverwalks
For more outdoor adventure near Lexington, head toward Columbia’s
Three Rivers Greenway and riverwalk areas, about 20–30 minutes from downtown Lexington.
Here you can:
- Walk or bike paved paths along the river
- Watch kayakers and tubers drift by
- Enjoy views of the Congaree, Broad, and Saluda Rivers
- Take photos with scenic bridges and city skyline views
These paths are mostly flat and easy, which makes them great for all ages. If you like the idea of being outdoors but don’t want a tough hike, this is a nice middle ground.
Some local outfitters offer
kayak and tube rentals on the Saluda River, so you can get out on the water if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous.
10. Take a Day Trip to Congaree National Park
If you’re willing to drive around 40–50 minutes from Lexington, you’ll reach one of South Carolina’s quiet gems:
Congaree National Park.
This park protects some of the tallest hardwood trees in the Southeast and offers:
- A flat, kid-friendly boardwalk loop
- Longer hiking trails through the forest and along creeks
- Canoeing and kayaking opportunities (when water levels allow)
- Incredible firefly displays on certain early-summer nights
Walking the boardwalk can feel like stepping into another world—towering trees, birds calling, and the kind of deep quiet you just don’t get in town. It’s a refreshing break after more “busy” trip days.
Because it’s a national park, entrance is typically
free, which makes this a great budget-friendly adventure from Lexington.
Tips for Planning Your Lexington, SC Getaway
To make the most of your trip to Lexington and Lexington County, keep these quick tips in mind:
- Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and pretty scenery. Summers are hot but perfect for Lake Murray.
- What to pack: Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, a refillable water bottle, and a light jacket for cooler evenings by the water.
- Getting around: You’ll want a car. Most attractions are spread out, but the drives are short and simple.
- Food & drink: Try local Southern dishes—barbecue, fried chicken, pimento cheese—and don’t skip dessert.
If you’re coming from out of state, Lexington makes a nice, calmer base compared to staying right in downtown Columbia. You get small-town charm with big-city options just down the road.
Ready to Explore Lexington, South Carolina?
From peaceful lakeside mornings to live music nights and easy day trips,
Lexington, SC offers plenty to do without feeling rushed or crowded. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, breathe a little deeper, and still make your days feel full.
Have you spent time in Lexington or around Lake Murray?
- Which of these activities would you try first?
- Do you have a favorite hidden spot in Lexington County?
Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your stories and tips. And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family planning a South Carolina getaway. It might just inspire their next trip!
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