Lexington, Massachusetts (Updated 2024)
Lexington
rooted in the history of the American Revolution
On April 19, 1775, before the morning mist had cleared, gunfire burst out above Lexington, indicating the start of the American Revolution. Visit Lexington’s three historic homes or follow in the footsteps of the early patriots at the Battle Green and Minute Man National Historical Parks. The award-winning Liberty Ride trolley offers a ride down the historic Battle Road trail as your costumed guide narrates the thrilling events of April 19, 1775, as well as the literary heritage that shaped American identity and culture.
Known for its part in the American Revolution, Lexington has a strong sense of patriotism even after two centuries and a wealth of art events, concerts both indoors and outdoors, unique stores, and restaurants serving international cuisine. Unique gastronomic experiences can be had at a number of working farms, and there is an outdoor Farmers’ Market that is open periodically.
Chinese New Year is celebrated in the winter, the Battle of Lexington and Concord and Paul Revere’s Ride is reenacted every April, Revolutionary Revelry is held in May, the Fourth of July Carnival is a classic, the Autumn Arts & Crafts Festival takes place in September, and the Holiday Lighting and Shopping Festival takes place in December.
You can ride or stroll along the Battle Road Trail, ride the Minute Man Commuter Bikeway, or explore the Across Lexington pathways if you’d rather be outside. In both domestic and international tournaments, the synchronized skating team The Haydenettes routinely takes home medals.
There are galleries, art centers, over 70 local artists, and Open Studios every spring for those who enjoy the arts. In addition to a biannual juried pottery display showcasing the greatest pieces in Massachusetts, there are year-round rotating exhibits.
Concerts take place all year long, with anything from Fife and Drum musters to the Lexington Symphony Orchestra, the Jazz Band, and a capella singing ensembles. There are free outdoor concerts in July and August, including the Bicentennial Band and other rotating local musicians, several evenings a week. With a population of over 33,000, Lexington is a diversified city with one of the greatest public school systems in the nation. Industries include research and development centers connected to Hanscom Air Force Base and a burgeoning biotech, pharmaceutical, and life science cluster. Boston, MIT, Cambridge, and Harvard University are all 30 minutes apart by car.
Make plans to spend one or two days in Lexington. For your overnight needs while visiting Lexington, there are a number of bed-and-breakfast places, modern motels, and a historic inn all only a short stroll or drive from the historic landmarks and Minute Man National Historic Park. As the “Birthplace of American Liberty,” Lexington is a place we are excited to welcome you to.