Best attractions and places to see in Lexington County include a variety of natural features, historical landmarks, and cultural sites. The region is characterized by its extensive river systems, including the Saluda and Congaree Rivers, and the large Lake Murray. Lexington County offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, historical exploration, and community events.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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Lake Murray sprawls over 50,000 acres just outside of Columbia. Originally created in the 1920 for use in hydroelectric production, the reservoir has become popular with outdoor enthusiasts of all stripes, but especially with anglers and boaters.
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Along the banks of the Saluda River, this greenway offers 3 miles of walkway that is ideal for walking, running, biking, skating and fishing.
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Chapin fits in neatly into the northern tip of Lexington County. As such it is the main access town to Lake Murray with over 500 miles of coastline. With this type of access there are water activities aplenty and lake side roads to bike around.
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This is the newest section of the Three Rivers Greenway project. The Saluda River Greenway runs directly behind the River Alliance headquarters along the Saluda River. This is simply a beautiful part of the Saluda River.
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The Cayce Riverwalk is a beautiful section of the Congaree River. It is a great for walking, jogging, bicycling, bird-watching, picnicking and taking in the natural beauty of the riverfront. Be it on foot or bike, make sure to keep a beady eye out for the hand-carved wooden animal sculptures and the lion bench that was hand-wrought by local artists!
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Chapin fits in neatly into the northern tip of Lexington County. As such it is the main access town to Lake Murray with over 500 miles of coastline. With this type of access there are water activities aplenty and lake side roads to bike around.
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Along the banks of the Saluda River this greenway offers 3 miles walkway that is ideal for walking, running, biking, skating and fishing.
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Lexington County offers several beautiful options. The Saluda Riverwalk provides 3 miles of pathway ideal for walking, running, biking, and skating along the Saluda River. Another excellent choice is the Cayce Riverwalk, which features hand-carved wooden animal sculptures and is perfect for walking, jogging, and cycling along the Congaree River. The Saluda River Greenway is also a beautiful section of the Three Rivers Greenway project.
Yes, for those seeking easier walks, the easy hikes guide for Lexington County lists several options. One popular choice is the Lake Murray Dam Walkway, offering a 1.7-mile paved path with scenic views. The Fourteen Mile Creek Trail is another flat, 1.8-mile pathway that follows a creek to a meadow, ideal for beginners.
The Lexington County Museum is a significant historical site, showcasing the region's history from colonial times through the Civil War across a seven-acre complex with 36 historic buildings. You can also visit the Cayce Historical Museum, housed in a replica of a 1765 frontier trading post, offering insights into the area's heritage. Historic Downtown Lexington itself features charming shops and restaurants in beautifully preserved buildings.
Lake Murray, often called the 'Jewel of South Carolina,' is a 50,000-acre reservoir popular for boating, fishing, swimming, and picnicking. The south side of the Lake Murray Dam provides public beach access. Saluda Shoals Park also offers opportunities for tubing, kayaking, and canoeing on the Saluda River.
Absolutely! Many attractions are family-friendly, including the Saluda Riverwalk and Cayce Riverwalk, which are great for strolls and bike rides. Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens, though spanning into Columbia, is a major regional attraction with diverse animal exhibits and botanical gardens. Virginia Hylton Park in downtown Lexington has playgrounds, including one for special needs children, and Lexington County Blowfish Baseball offers a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.
The town of Chapin, located on Lake Murray, is noted for its accessibility. Many of the riverwalks, such as the Saluda Riverwalk and Cayce Riverwalk, feature paved paths suitable for wheelchairs, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities.
Yes, Peachtree Rock Heritage Preserve features unique rock formations, including the largest sandstone rocks in the state and the only waterfall in South Carolina's coastal plain. It also offers hiking trails and scenic overlooks, and is home to fossils of ancient marine creatures.
Lexington County offers a variety of cycling routes for different skill levels. You can explore options like the Greenway Trail or the Palmetto Trail: Capital City Passage for easier rides. For more challenging routes, consider the Chapin & Little Mountain Historic District loop. Find more details in the cycling guide for Lexington County.
Many of the outdoor trails in Lexington County are dog-friendly, provided pets are kept on a leash. The Saluda Riverwalk is a popular choice for walking with dogs. Saluda Shoals Park also includes a dedicated dog park, making it a great spot for your canine companions.
The Icehouse Amphitheater in downtown Lexington is a key venue for concerts, movies, and various community events. Additionally, Historic Downtown Lexington frequently hosts local events and features charming shops and boutiques that reflect the area's culture. Lexington County Blowfish Baseball games also offer a lively community atmosphere.
Yes, Lexington County has mountain biking trails. You can find moderate trails like the Stewardship Trail loop or the Spiderwoman II Trail loop. Harbison State Forest also offers extensive mountain biking opportunities. For more information and specific routes, refer to the MTB Trails guide for Lexington County.
Gibson Pond Park offers a peaceful setting with paved trails through wooded areas, ideal for quiet walks and bird-watching. Virginia Hylton Park in downtown Lexington is another beautifully landscaped public space with walking paths and a pond, providing a serene environment for relaxation.


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