Off-site Activities
The Lexington area has both a rich history and abundant natural resources. From hiking along the Appalachian Trail, driving on the Blue Ridge Parkway, to exploring local history in Historic Downtown Lexington. You're sure to find more to see and do here than you'd imagine! Click here to see a list of Lexington events that are happening during your visit.
Of course once you arrive at House Mountain Inn in Lexington, Virginia, you may never want to leave! More than 1,000 acres of pristine woodlands surround the Inn providing guests with a variety of on-site activities including two ponds stocked for fishing and over fifteen miles of meandering trails that are perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
For a Directory of all local current events and activities, please check out the Lexington, Virginia Visitor Center's website: www.lexingtonvirginia.com
Downtown Lexington
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Lexington is a lovely little city full of historic significance and modern shopping! Stroll through the streets and enjoy the period architecture, historic buildings, and exceptional shops. Another great way to see the city is through the Lexington carriage ride. Lasting 40 minutes, the ride carries you through town with a driver narrating civil war history and heartbreak. Learn of Stonewall Jackson's many life tragedies and the struggles and triumphs of Robert E. Lee. (540) 463-5647.
Natural Bridge
One of Virginia's most cherished natural wonders, this 90-foot-long bridge of rock is a breathtaking sight. The bridge contains 450,000 cubic feet of rock and is estimated to weigh approximately 36,000 tons. The Natural Bridge area also offers a zoo, a wax museum, a drag strip speedway, and a toy museum with a collection of 1700 toys from past and present. (800) 533-1410.
Rockbridge Vineyard
Home to many fine, award-winning wines, the Rockbridge Vineyard, offers tours of the vineyards, fermenting area, barrel cellar, and, of course, the tasting room. Open May through October. (540) 377-6204
Horseback Riding
Explore Lexington's natural beauty by horseback. What better way to spend the afternoon! Enjoy a guided trail ride for one hour or three hour eco ride with a light lunch. These trips are booked with Virginia Mountain Outfitters or Tish Vest. Please call Deborah Sensabaugh at Lost Creek Farms for reservations. 540-570-1910 or Tish Vest Horseback Riding at 540-570-3718.
Canoeing, Kayaking, or Tubing
Tubing can be fun, easy and relaxing. Our tube trip is long, at 4.5 miles and 4-5 hours, it is for those ready to be one with the river and able to face what ever mother nature has in store. Wilderness Wilderness Canoe Company Outfitting for individuals, families and Groups for canoe, kayak and tubing on the upper James River or Maury River. 631 James River Road, Natural Bridge Station, VA 24579, (540) 291-2295
Stonewall Jackson House Museum and Memorial Cemetery
On the north side of town is the Stonewall Jackson House and Museum. Housed in Jackson's former home, the museum displays Jackson's possessions, as well as appropriate period pieces, and offers informative guided tours every hour and half-hour. (540) 463-2552. On the south side of town is the cemetery where Jackson is buried along with 144 Confederate veterans, two Virginia governors, and Margaret Junkin Preston, the Confederate's Poet Laureate.
Virginia Horse Center
The 600-acre Virginia Horse Center is widely viewed as one of the most magnificent facilities in America for state, national, and international horse competitions and events. Visitors can tour the stables, show rings, and view steeplechase, timber, and carriage courses. (540) 463-2164
Virginia Military Institute
Take an antebellum stroll among the ancient oaks and majestic buildings of the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). Visit the campus' VMI museum, which chronicles the creation and development of VMI and the many contributions of its alumni to American history. On Friday afternoons in the spring and fall, don't miss the VMI cadets marching in full parade dress uniform along the school's parade grounds. A Lexington tradition, the parade is a true patriotic spectacle — unique to this historic region.
Fly Fishing / Fishing Guides
With over 30 years of experience, all levels of fisherman will thrill in the sport and learn new tricks of the trade from these fishing specialists. John Roberts Fly Fishing Adventures Offering instruction & guided trout fishing trips. 800-882-1145
www.vatrout.com
Golfing
Our guests enjoy privileges at the exclusive Lexington Golf and Country Club, just 15 minutes from the Inn. LG&CC is Virginia's second oldest country club. 18 hole championship course. 540-463-3542
Llama Treks
Enjoy a guided tour of local wildlife trails on the back of Llama (of all things). A water canteen, bird watching book and lunch are included in the price. (540) 463-1962.
Performing Arts
The Lenfest Center for the Performing Arts, located on the Washington and Lee University campus, presents artistic events and performances throughout the year, including university theater productions, operas, professional theatrical plays, and musical concerts. (540) 463-8000.