Saddlebrook Ridge

D.R. Horton offers a range of new homes for sale in Lexington, Virginia and the Shenandoah Valley. Lexington, located along the Maury River, is within driving distance of cities like Charlottesville, Roanoke, and Staunton. The area is known for its historical significance, modern opportunities, and natural beauty, and the presence of multiple colleges brings an energetic and eclectic mix of restaurants, activities, and people. Many of our communities in and around Lexington come with amenities to enjoy, and all of our new construction homes offer spacious open floorplans and smart home technology.

Why choose Lexington, Virginia

The area’s roots go back to colonial times; first, as a frontier trading post and later as a farming community. These roots are evident today through the area’s historical sites, existing farms throughout the surrounding countryside, and long-lasting institutions, such as Washington and Lee University, founded in 1749, and the Virginia Military Institute, established in 1839.

Not far from the universities, Lexington’s historic downtown boasts cobblestone streets lined with local shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and well-preserved architecture. Residents and tourists alike appreciate the beauty and energy of the area. Located near Interstates 64 and 81, Lexington provides residents access to modern amenities and nature in addition to its small-town charm.

Community life in Lexington, Virginia

As the county seat of Rockbridge County, Lexington hosts annual events that bring people together. The Rockbridge Regional Fair takes place each summer with livestock exhibits, agricultural displays, and entertainment. The town celebrates July 4th with a street festival featuring live music, tasty foods, and local celebrity chefs working with nonprofits in the area to raise money for their cause. The annual Lexington Christmas Parade is a beloved tradition. To celebrate the area’s Scottish heritage, the Lexington Scottish Walk and Highland Games features parades, traditional music, and cultural demonstrations. The Rockbridge Historical Society also offers programs and historical walking tours, enabling residents to explore their local heritage.

Those seeking art and culture will not be disappointed. Lexington is home to many local galleries. ShenArts provides opportunities for local artists and art enthusiasts to connect through workshops, exhibitions, and performances, and several organizations offer cultural events and experiences ranging from music to theater. The Lime Kiln Theater has been a local favorite since the late 1960s, when a group of Washington and Lee students produced A Midsummer Night’s Dream. After the establishment of the nonprofit organization inspired by the magic of outdoor theater, The Lime Kiln began hosting regular concert and theatre series each summer.

As a college-town, Lexington offers a wide-range of additional cultural and entertainment experiences. In addition to all the restaurants and activities that pop up near colleges, the schools themselves offer entertainment and activities to the public. Washington and Lee University and Virginia Military Institute open many events to residents, such as concerts and dance programs, films, art installations, athletic events, debates, and presentations on a wide range of topics.

There are also plenty of options for foodies in the area, as local food is another important part of life in Lexington. The area is home to many fun, interesting local restaurants and breweries, many of which focus on farm-to-table cuisine. Family farms thrive throughout the Shenandoah Valley, and the area is home to a variety of produce. Those looking to create farm-to-table meals at home can visit the farms or shop at local farmers markets. The Rockbridge Farmers Market, a grower/producer only market that runs from May through September, offers local produce, crafts, and live music. The Lexington Farmer’s Market is year-round, and you can find everything from locally-grown vegetables to baked goods to lotion for sale.

If sports and exercise sound more appealing, there are plenty of options to get moving in the area. There are numerous hiking and biking trails both in Lexington and in nearby towns, so you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Additionally, many local groups and institutions organize sports and fitness groups. The Rockbridge Area YMCA, for example, offers athletic programs, fitness classes, and community events for all ages. Those seeking lower-impact options can take a swim at the indoor pool at The Rockbridge Aquatics Center. It’s open year-round and offers lessons and organizes a swim team.

Outdoor fun in Lexington, Virginia

There is no shortage of beautiful scenery in the Shenandoah Valley, and Lexington residents enjoy the benefits of the area’s outdoor splendor. The combined George Washington and Jefferson National Forest, about a 30-mile drive from town, offers over 2,200 miles of hiking trails through woods and along mountain ridges. The Forest is home to 325 miles of the Appalachian Trail, which in its entirety runs all the way from Maine to Georgia. The 325-mile stretch in this national forest is the longest trek of the trail included in any national park in the country.

There are also scenic trails in the town of Lexington itself. The Chessie Nature Trail, maintained and managed by Virginia Military Institute (VMI), is a popular seven-mile hike through a wooded area along the Maury River. The trail is a former rail line and easily accessible for residents. The Chessie Trail is not the only hiking option in Lexington; the Brushy Hills Preserve is only a five-minute drive from downtown and offers hiking trails and paths of varying lengths and difficulty. The 560-acre Brushy Hills Preserve is a watershed tract between a series of ridges, making it a quiet retreat for enjoying the peace and beauty of nature.

You can also enjoy the nature of Lexington on several golf courses nearby.. The Lexington Golf & Country Club, the second oldest club in Virginia, features a beautiful course with a collection of Par 3s laid-out along the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This club is easy to access as it’s less than two miles from downtown Lexington’s historic district. Though it requires a short drive, Cliftondale Country Club is another good option for play among the natural beauty of the Shenandoah Valley. The club is located less than 30 miles from Lexington, and it offers a 9-hole course, driving range, and practice area.

For those that prefer disc golf to traditional golf, Natural Bridge State Park, less than 15 miles away, has an 18-basket disc golf course called Thistle Ridge. It’s located along the three-mile Blue Ridge Trail, which offers views of the Blue Ridge and Allegheny Mountains and meadows designed to serve as habitats for bees and butterflies. The park provides information on the sites and natural elements on the scorecard provided for play.

Lexington also provides several options for those looking to cast a line. The Maury River runs through town and is known for its population of smallmouth bass and rainbow and brook trout. The Maury River is one of the most convenient options for fishing, but the numerous other nearby creeks and rivers provide plenty of options. The James River and South River also provide opportunities for catching trout and bass, and all three of these rivers also allow other types of water activities, like kayaking or floating. Residents can also make the short drive to Lake Merriweather, which provides more than 280 acres of fishing and other types of recreation.

In addition to its beauty and recreational activities, Virginia has a rich equestrian history spanning from colonial farm horses and wild ponies to a broad range of competitions and events. Today, Lexington is proud to be a part of that Virginian tradition. The Virginia Horse Center, less than four miles from downtown, provides training, competitions, and recreational riding for all skill levels. Events at the center range from show jumping, dressage, and rodeo to more unique experiences like alpaca shows. Several other stables in the area also offer horseback riding lessons, trail rides, and many other equestrian-related events for both English and Western riding styles.

Businesses and economics in Lexington, Virginia

Lexington is centrally located within the Shenandoah Valley, ensuring residents can find jobs across a variety of industries while still living in an easygoing community. Located in the town of Lexington itself, Washington and Lee University and Virginia Military Institute are significant employers. With industry leaders in construction and manufacturing maintaining regional offices in the area, there are plenty of employment opportunities.

The area is also supportive of local businesses. Main Street Lexington is part of the accredited Main Street America™ program and offers support and resources for those hoping to start their own business in the area. Likewise, The Lexington-Rockbridge Chamber of Commerce supports the community and economy by hosting networking events and economic development programs.

What makes Lexington a great place to live

As a college town in the Shenandoah Valley, Lexington offers an energetic small town charm full of well-supported local businesses, as well as access to nature’s finest views and ample work opportunities. The historic downtown area, with its preserved 19th-century architecture, showcases the value the community places on local businesses, as well as the area’s history. Downtown features thriving shops and restaurants that appeal to all who visit—residents included.

Lexington is a great place to call home at any age. The area’s dedication to education and outdoor recreation make it appealing for families. Working professionals value the area's scenic landscapes, opportunity for a great work-life balance, and the community support of local businesses. When the 9-to-5 chapter of life comes to a close, retirees enjoy the community's welcoming environment, many events, and proximity to natural landscapes.

New construction homes in Lexington

D.R. Horton's new homes in Lexington, Virginia, are great for people at any stage of life. With access to job opportunities, good schools, a strong sense of community, and many activities and conveniences, D.R. Horton communities in Lexington offer something for everyone. Browse our homes for sale Lexington listings, or visit our model homes today.