This post is mainly for our customers coming to the Open School House this weekend, but also useful for anyone local looking to day trip out to Lexington. It is the town I grew up in and where much of my family still lives. It is a quintessential Mid-West historical small town. Thanks to its affluent historical past (Lexington was larger than Kansas City during the Civil War era), there are many beautiful Antebellum homes and buildings. We still love just driving around looking at the old neighborhoods (South Street, Main Street & Franklin) and admiring the older homes, and old-fashioned tree-lined streets.
I've compiled a list of my must-sees while in town.
More information about all of these sites is available on the Lexington website.
Lexington Missouri Website
Fahrmeier Farms
9133 County Farm Road, Lexington MO 64067
My cousin owns a produce farm and pumpkin patch right outside of Lexington. They've got beautiful pumpkins and mums as well as so many kid-friendly activities. They have lunch available and treats, too!
Orchards are a big thing around here! Here is a list of all of the local favorites.
The Lafayette County Courthouse :
It was built in 1847 and is the oldest courthouse in continuous use west of the Mississippi River. It is known far and wide for the cannonball embedded in the upper left column, a remnant of the Civil War Battle of Lexington I, fought on September 18, 19 and 20, 1861.[2]
Anderson House, Museum & The Civil War Battlefield :
Lexington was the site of the largest battle in the western campaign of the American Civil War. The battlefield on the bluffs of the Missouri River is now a state park where the trenches in the battlefield are still visible today. Experience the historic Anderson House that was utilized as a hospital and seized by both sides in the battle known as the Battle of the Hemp Bales. Historian-led tours and a pristinely preserved museum of artifacts and stories make this a must-see national heritage destination.
Main Street :
There are many darling stores on Main Street. Here are some of my favorite spots :
The River Reader & Coffee Shop, 1010 Main Street
This is Emma's favorite bookstore. This is also the spot in town to get coffee. Amanda that also works at the School House works there on Saturdays, so say hi!
Antique Stores - a list of all
There are many, many antique stores on Main Street. Here are my favorites :
Blackthorn Antiques, 1115 Main
The Country Peddler, 1112 Main
Old West Octoberfest
I picked this weekend for our Autumn Open House because there are some really fun activities happening in Lexington. The Main Street will be buzzing with activities, details below!
Old West Octoberfest in Downtown Lexington, complete info here >
Historic Trolly Tours: 11am, Noon & 1pm (leave from
10th Street & Franklin Street), $5
Art & Photography Show : The LEX, 11 South 11th Street, 10am - 4pm
Downtown Craft & Antique Vendor Booths on Main Street (maybe relocated due to weather), 10am - 10pm
Craft Beer Tasting: 4pm - 7pm, 1111 Main Street at the P&H Events Center, $15
Kids Activities: 11am - 2pm, Scarecrow Building, Cowboys, Pumpkin Painting & Entertainment across from the Courthouse on Main Street