Searching for the Elusive White Squirrel
By Dani Halliday
THE HIGHWAY 64 PROJECT
A Day in Lexington
Lexington, North Carolina is the perfect place to shop, eat, explore, and learn about local history. Here are some tips for a great day spent in “The Barbecue Capital of the World”!
Tip #1:
Red Donut Shop
If you’re looking for some breakfast, or are just craving something sweet to start off your Lexington adventure, make sure to stop by Red Donut Shop for a delicious selection of donuts and other treats, made fresh everyday!
Tip #2:
Davidson County Historical Museum
After you’ve filled up on a sweet treat, make sure to stop by the Davidson County Historical Museum! Located in the Old Davidson County Courthouse, this must-see spot features multiple interactive and educational exhibits about local history that the whole family can enjoy.
Tip #3:
Visitor Center
The next stop is the visitor center, located right across the street from the Davidson County Historical Museum. Here is where the real fun begins, because now it’s time to pick up a map and hunt down some pigs! Lexington is home to numerous painted pig statues, thanks to a city-wide art initiative called “Pigs in the City” that many local businesses are participating in. Every pig is unique and has its own name, so have fun trying to find them all! Are you up for the challenge?
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Tip #4:
Conrad & Hinkle Food Market
Even if you don’t live locally and can’t bring home fresh groceries, stopping by this family owned and operated market is a must. Once you’ve tired yourself out pig hunting, carve out some time to check out the homemade and locally sourced products this place has to offer. The pimento cheese and chicken salad are must-tries!
Tip #5:
Lunch
If you didn’t end up buying any food at Conrad & Hinkle, now is the time for lunch! There’s no need to fret if you planned on saving your barbecue meal for later. Lexington also has multiple American, Asian, Italian, Mexican, and seafood eateries to choose from. Fuel up, but make sure to leave room for a traditional Lexington barbecue dinner!
Tip #6:
The Candy Factory
If you’re looking for dessert after lunch, or just want to bring some treats home with you, The Candy Factory is the perfect place to head to next! A local favorite, this traditional candy shop has an old-school, nostalgic feel. With a variety of old-fashioned, contemporary, and homemade sweets to offer, there’s something for everyone here. Make sure to swing by!
Tip #7:
Top Hat Comics or Pig City Books
If you’re an avid fan of comics, graphic novels, or collectibles, Top Hat Comics is the perfect place to stop next! Only a couple stores down from The Candy Factory, you won’t have to travel far for your next thrilling read or rare action figure. If novels are more your speed, not to worry! Pig City Books is a cozy bookstore that’s only a little further away. You can find many genres of books, both old and new, along with a reading nook if you need some time to curl up.
Tip #8:
Army and Navy Store
If you’re looking for casual or work clothes to add to your closet, The Army and Navy Store is a great place to visit! This store proudly offers a variety of brands, such as CARHARTT, Levi, Wrangler, Dickies, Izod, and BDU. Besides clothing, casual shoes and work boots are also sold here. With a range of sizes, and clothes for men, women, and children alike, you really can’t go wrong!
Tip #9:
Traditional Lexington Barbecue
We hope you’re hungry, because now it’s time for dinner! Your Lexington adventure wouldn’t be complete without a traditional Lexington barbecue meal, so this tip is an absolute must-follow if you want to finish your day strong. With twelve top-tier barbecue restaurants to choose from, your tastebuds will definitely be satisfied no matter where you go. This is “The Barbecue Capital of the World”, after all!
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—Emily Stuart