Stroll through Lexington

A few months ago, I took you to historic Concord, which meant Lexington had to also be on the list!

The other weekend, we spent a few hours in downtown Lexington, enjoying the spring weather with the whole town. I can see why people love this area and definitely suggest a walk through downtown Lexington (and the surrounding neighborhoods of gorgeous homes) on a spring or summer day.
Tip: there are plenty of ice cream shops to choose from!

Grab a sandwich from Avenue Deli (I went with the Italian. And “meant” to only get a half sub, thankfully I forgot and got the whole thing. I fully recommend you have the same faulty memory when ordering yours.)

Walk down the main street, peer into the independent shops and check out the real estate listings in the window.

As you walk towards the national historic site square, step over to the Old Belfry.

This otherwise unimpressive solitary building is the Belfry that housed the bell that sounded the alarm on that fateful morning of April 19, 1775. Interestingly, the town moved the Belfry around to different spots in town until the 1891 Lexington Historical Society returned it to the original standing spot, here.

First Parish of Lexington

Return to your stroll up the main street and keep wandering until you hit the Inn at Hastings Park and then walk back up the other side towards the First Parish of Lexington.

 

Inn at Hastings Park

I loved this house's double vestibule at the entrance.

 

The somewhat busy intersections might cause you to nearly miss the Masonic lodge, Buckman Tavern, and memorial to Prince Estabrook, so take your time and don't worry about the cars buzzing by.

Can you see the Masonic coat of arms?

Memorial to the soldiers

Memorial to Prince Estabrook: "In Honor of Prince Estabrook - Prince Estabrook was a slave who lived in Lexington. At dawn on April 19, 1775 he was one of the Lexington Minute Men awaiting the arrival of the British Regulars at the Buckman Tavern. In the battle which followed, Prince Estabrook was wounded on Lexington Green. Through circumstance and destiny, he thus became the first black soldier to fight in the American Revolution. This monument is dedicated to the memory of Prince Estabrook and the thousands of other courageous black patriots long denied the recognition they deserve."

The surrounding streets are filled with lovely, historic homes that have been well cared for (and have gorgeous gardens in the spring). If the heat hasn't gotten to you, wander the side streets, or drive slowly around pointing out all of the houses you'd be happy to live in!