The best staycations in Lexington County

Lexington, SC - 02/13/2021 (Teresa Siqueira) - Lexington is a town on the move. The fastest-growing region in South Carolina offers the perfect place to spend a vacation. Lexington County lies immediately west of the state capital of Columbia and is part of that city's Standard Metropolitan Statistical Area.

The county will provide you with a relaxing getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With the current pandemic, including social distancing and travel restrictions, along with financial constraints for many, travel plans may have to be temporarily shelved. It's time to think of a much more local concept of traveling.

That said, we have the best spots for living the best staycation in Lexington County.

*Dreher Shoals Dam Walk: The Lake Murray Dam Walkway is a walking pathway across the top of the Dreher Shoals Dam. The perfect place to explore the outdoors and recreation that the county offers. Enjoy a fantastic view of the 50,000 acres, Lake Murray. After a nice walk with your loved ones, finish the day enjoying a picnic with an enviable view.

*Lexington Square: The neighborhood-oriented retail center is the perfect spot to plan a shopping, enjoy dining or treat yourself with a self-care beauty gift.

*Virginia Hylton Park: A playful, social, and recreational space for all ages. Outdoor movement engages people in experiences outside and with each other in positive ways. Hylton Park is the best place to have that outdoor adventure. Attractions include a paved walking trail, special needs playground, Twelve Mile Creek with an overlook and waterfall, along with picnic shelters with grills.

*Lexington County Museum: Discover the history and culture at the Lexington County Museum. The historical restoration will take you on a trip to the pre-Civil War life in Lexington. Did you know Lexington is a direct descendant of the old Royal township of Saxe Gotha? Find out where the stories of the county began.

*Breweries: For all the beer lovers, Lexington County has an excellent microbrewery scene. Grabe a cold one and hope on a brewery tour. Start your outing in the shadow of Hazelwood before making your way into Angry Fish, and finish with a drink at Krafty Draft Brew Pub.

*LAC Gallery: LAC Gallery is a premier art gallery. The exhibition room showcases original and collectible works of art.

*Gibson Pond Park: Another great option to adventure and enjoy nature. Gibson Pond Park is a popular recreation area. The amenities include a large picnic shelter, rental cabins, a paved trail, restrooms, and a fishing pier. Their recently remodeled scenic overlook provides a unique view of a waterfall rushing over an old gristmill.

*Riverbanks Zoo and Garden: The 4th ranked zoo in the U.S. is home to more than 2,000 animals and one of the nation's most inspiring botanical gardens. Visit with the whole family and enjoy the dynamic natural habitat exhibits, scenic river views, spectacular valley overlooks, and significant historical landmarks.