Self-Guided Walking Tour Ideas in Lexington

Are you interested in a self-guided tour of Lexington but aren’t sure where to start? Here is a guide with some tips on some places to explore.

Begin at the Visitors Center

The Visitors Center is the best place to start your walking tour. Here, you can find out everything you need to know about Lexington as the knowledgeable staff provides helpful information and suggestions for your trip. During your time at the Visitors Center, you can explore the Diorama of the Battle of Lexington, watch an entertaining animation about Paul Revere’s ride, and check out the Penny Machine, which features a commemorative Lex250 design. You can also check out the gift shop, where you’ll find historical and town memorabilia. Plus, the Minuteman Bikeway runs right through the center, the Buckman Tavern is right next door, and the Lexington Battle Green is across the street.

Explore Famous Lexington Homes

There are three Lexington homes where important history was made. The Hancock-Clarke House, located at 36 Hancock Street, housed guests like John Hancock and Sam Adams on the night before the Battle of Lexington. The Morrell-Dana House on 627 Massachusetts Avenue entertained many famous guests, including the Marquis de Lafayette. The Nathaniel Mulliken House, located at 1361 Massachusetts Avenue, was the home of the Mulliken family, which was burned to the ground by the British and rebuilt across the street from Raymond Tavern. While the Morrell-Dana and Nathaniel Mulliken House can only be viewed from the outside, the Hancock-Clarke House is open for tours.

Pay Your Respects at Cemeteries and Memorials

Check out three different cemeteries located in town: Ye Old Burying Ground, Robbins Cemetery, and the USS Lexington Memorial. The Ye Old Burying Ground, at 1965 Massachusetts Avenue, is the oldest cemetery in Lexington and home to the graves of Revolutionary and Civil War Soldiers. At Robbins Cemetery, located at 450 Mass Avenue, you’ll find the graves of old Lexington families such as the Robbins, Winship, Buckman, and Bowman. The USS Lexington Memorial on 1875 Mass Avenue is more of a memorial, instead of a graveyard. It includes five monuments that honor each of the five Navy ships of the USS Lexington.

Check out Museums like the Lexington Depot & Scottish Rite Masonic Museum and Library

Check out Revolutionary History at The Lexington Depot, a former train station turned museum. Located at 19 Depot Square, the Lexington Depot tells the important stories of the people who lived, worked, and played in Lexington through displays and interactive exhibits. 

The Scottish Rite Masonic Museum and Library is another museum in Lexington where you can learn about American Freemasonry and fraternalism. There is also a library inside the museum where you’ll find 5,000 books, 1,600 serial titles, and 2,000 cubic feet of archival materials related to Freemasonry, fraternalism, and American history.

Visit Galleries Like Gallery Twist

Gallery Twist on 1963 Massachusetts Avenue is a gallery that sits within a historic home. Each year, the gallery offers five rotating exhibits that showcase New England art in various styles and media. Around 200+ artworks by 30+ artists are shown here.

For those who are looking for guided tours, Lexington also offers walking and trolley tours. And for those who need more inspiration on how to spend their day in Lexington, check out our itineraries.