Beginning as a frontier trading post in the mid-1800s, Lexington’s fascinating history is woven into the city’s streets and remarkable period buildings. Uncover a local insight into the city’s fascinating heritage via walking tours, historical trails and antiques stores. Follow historical timelines at specialized museums or discover some of the city’s contemporary culture at the local theater. Picturesquely situated between a network of rivers, creeks and lakes, Lexington is also an ideal spot to spend a sunny day by the water hooking fish or spotting wildlife.
Spend some time checking out Lexington’s downtown attractions. The Dawson County Historical Museum offers a bit of background on the trading post town built around the former outpost of Fort Plum Creek. Learn about the Plum Creek Massacre, which occurred when Cheyenne, Arapaho and Sioux Indians clashed with traveling migrants on the nearby Oregon Trail in 1864. If you are interested in finding out more, join one of the Platte River Historical Trails offered by the Lexington Visitors’ Bureau and visit fascinating historical sites on a two-part circuit tour. Check out the Heartland Museum of Military Vehicles to see expertly preserved wartime vehicles from throughout the 20th century.
Watch a movie at the city’s 100-year-old Majestic Theater. Search for hidden treasures at Lexington’s reputable antiques stores or visit the city on Labor Day in September to experience the nationally acclaimed Labor Day Antiques and Crafts Extravaganza.
Get active or enjoy the beautiful Nebraskan scenery in the city’s parkland areas. Memorial Park and Plum Creek Park are great spots to relax with the locals. Drop a line at the Plum Creek Park fishing pond or go farther abroad to Johnson Lake, local hotspot for boating, fishing and watersports, and the home of Lakeside Country Club golf course. Canoe down the Platte River and see flocks of sandhill cranes in spring. The city also has a Family Aquatic Center for taking youngsters swimming.
Lexington is located in central southern Nebraska, a little over 3-hours’ drive west from OmahaOpens in a new window. The nearest major airport is Kearney Regional Airport, an hour’s drive away. Explore the surrounding area on a wine-tasting tour and sample the different varietals grown in Lexington’s wineries.
