The 13 Best Things To Do In Lexington, North Carolina

Original article published by: Southern Living
By Tara Massouleh McCay

“If you’re a fan of Southern barbecue (and really is there any other type worth considering?), then you’ve likely heard of Lexington barbecue. The signature style of ‘cue, which is characterized by hickory-smoked, pit-cooked pork shoulder, originated in Lexington, North Carolina in the early 1900s and has played a big role in putting this town of fewer than 20,000 on the map. Located 20 miles south of Winston-Salem in the central part of the state, Lexington offers everything you love about some of our favorite Southern small towns, with a few extra-special attractions that make a visit more than worth your time.

Spend a quintessential small-town day moseying through the local shops and boutiques on historic Main Street. Fill the rest of your visit with a proper barbecue tour. Enjoy a visit to the gallery of the state’s most famous living artist, a stroll around High Rock Lake, and stops at each of six nearby wineries. Keep reading for the best things to do in the “Barbecue Capital of the World” that go far beyond just smoked meats.”

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“The number one thing people will ask you after a trip to Lexington is where you went for barbecue. The best strategy is to try a few places and truly get a feel for the town’s signature style of ‘cue that’s built around slow-roasted, pit-cooked pork shoulder covered in “dip” (a thin sauce made with ketchup, vinegar, salt, pepper, and sugar) and served with red slaw (a version of standard cabbage coleslaw that swaps mayonnaise for dip). The area features 12 separate spots to get your fill, and every local’s got their own ideas about which is best. Two that will come up time and time again are Lexington Barbecue, which opened in 1962, and The Barbecue Center, which opened in 1955. Just be sure to order a side of hush puppies and a sweet tea for the full experience.”

900 North Main Street
Lexington, NC 27292
(336) 248-4633
barbecuecenter.net