Overview and Location
Lexington Park is a vibrant census-designated place in St. Mary’s County, Maryland, situated on the scenic shores of the Chesapeake Bay. As the principal community of its Micropolitan Statistical Area, the population estimate for 2024 is around 13,000 residents—making it a thriving small city.

Economic Engine: Patuxent River Naval Air Station
At the heart of Lexington Park’s economy is Naval Air Station Patuxent River (Pax River), the largest employer in St. Mary’s County with nearly 11,000 civilian and military personnel on base. Established April 1, 1943, Pax River has been a center of naval aviation test and evaluation for eight decades, playing a continuous role in advancing military flight technology.

A Legacy of Aviation and Space Exploration
Since its inception, Pax River has hosted every major naval aviation development program—and served as the training ground for early U.S. astronauts during the Mercury and Gemini programs. The base’s wind tunnels and flight test facilities were integral in preparing America’s first spacefarers, cementing Lexington Park’s place in aerospace history.

Cultural Mosaic and Community Spirit
Lexington Park boasts a richly diverse population: White (Non-Hispanic) residents make up about 51.7%, Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) approximately 34.1%, with growing Asian and multiracial communities adding vibrancy to the area. Nearly one in six residents is a military veteran, reflecting deep ties to national service.

Natural Beauty and Waterfront Lifestyle
Surrounded on three sides by water—Patuxent River to the west, Chesapeake Bay to the east, and St. Inigoes Creek to the south—Lexington Park offers stunning waterfront parks, scenic kayak trails, and easy access to miles of shoreline. 

Waterfront real estate remains highly sought-after, with multiple luxury homes featuring private docks, panoramic bay views, and direct boat access—ideal for boating, fishing, and water sports enthusiasts.

Attractions and Learning
The Patuxent River Naval Air Museum & Visitor Center, located in Lexington Park, chronicles the base’s storied past through interactive exhibits, vintage aircraft displays, and astronaut memorabilia. Open Tuesday through Sunday, it serves as a year-round educational hub for families and history buffs.

Notable Figures and Achievements
St. Mary’s County has been home to luminaries such as Rear Admiral Lillian E. Fishburne (the U.S. Navy’s first African American female admiral) and author Dashiell Hammett, whose early years in the county preceded his creation of The Maltese Falcon. Many astronaut trainees passed through Pax River, underscoring Lexington Park’s unique role in space exploration.

Lexington Park, Maryland: A Hidden Gem of History, Innovation, and Community

The serene sunset over the Patuxent River in the Lexington Park area highlights the town’s natural coastal beauty. Nestled in the heart of Southern Maryland’s St. Mary’s County, Lexington Park is a charming community known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming atmosphere. This town offers an idyllic blend of rural beauty and modern convenience – from scenic Chesapeake Bay shorelines to thriving high-tech industry. Many people may not have heard of Lexington Park before, but it is truly a “hidden gem” waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re interested in colonial history, cutting-edge aviation, outdoor adventures or a friendly hometown feel, Lexington Park has something positive and uplifting to offer everyone.

Located about 60 miles southeast of Washington, D.C., Lexington Park sits on the Patuxent River near the Chesapeake Bay, giving it gorgeous waterfront vistas and a mild, coastal climate. The community grew up alongside the Patuxent River Naval Air Station (NAS Patuxent River), a major U.S. Navy research base that has profoundly shaped the town’s character and economy. Yet Lexington Park is much more than a “base town.” It’s a dynamic area that combines small-town charm with big opportunities – a place where colonial-era heritage meets 21st-century innovation. For those who have never heard of Lexington Park, this guide will uncover as many of its great qualities and hidden gems as possible, helping to change the narrative about this underappreciated Maryland town.

A Rich History from the 1960s to Today

Although Lexington Park is a relatively modern town, its story is rooted in centuries of history. The area’s heritage stretches back to colonial times – in fact, just a few miles south lies Historic St. Mary’s City, the site of Maryland’s first colonial settlement and capital (founded 1634). That nearby historic area is recognized as the “birthplace of religious freedom” in America, and today it’s a living history museum where visitors can walk in the footsteps of early Maryland colonists. The land that is now Lexington Park was rural farmland and fishing villages for generations, until a pivotal event during World War II transformed it forever.

Lexington Park came into being in 1943 when the U.S. Navy established the Patuxent River Naval Air Station on farmland and shoreline appropriated for the war effort. The nascent community was named “Lexington Park” in honor of the USS Lexington aircraft carrier, which had been lost in battle in 1942. (Prior to that, the village was known as Jarboesville.) The new Naval Air Station brought an influx of military personnel, engineers, and support workers, rapidly turning quiet countryside into a bustling center of activity. By the early 1960s, Lexington Park had evolved from a wartime boomtown into a permanent town and was playing an exciting role in the Space Age – notably, famed astronauts John Glenn and Alan Shepard trained at NAS Patuxent River in the 1950s and 60s as part of their test pilot training. It’s an amazing historical fact that the first Americans in orbit and space walked the streets of Lexington Park, reflecting the town’s deep connections to aviation innovation.

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, the Naval Air Station continued to drive progress in Lexington Park. The base was vital in testing aircraft used in the Korean and Vietnam Wars, and it earned a reputation as the Navy’s premier site for aviation research, development, test and evaluation. As military technology advanced, so did the community. In 1977, a major infrastructure milestone occurred – the opening of the Governor Thomas Johnson Bridge, a tall span over the Patuxent River that for the first time directly linked Lexington Park and St. Mary’s County to neighboring Calvert County and Solomons Island. This bridge greatly improved access to the region, spurring commerce, travel and tourism (before then, one had to take a long route or ferries to cross the river). Locals still recall how the bridge “opened up” Lexington Park to the rest of Maryland.

From the 1980s to now, Lexington Park has seen extraordinary growth and diversification. A defining moment came in the mid-1990s, when a series of U.S. Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) actions greatly expanded NAS Patuxent River’s mission. The base was chosen to host the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) and other Navy aviation activities, bringing over 20,000 new military and civilian workers to the area and increasing the base’s workforce tenfold. This massive influx cemented Lexington Park’s status as a hub of aerospace and high-tech activity. Since 2000, the Lexington Park “micropolitan” area has consistently ranked as one of the nation’s fastest-growing communities, expanding its population by about 14.6% between 2000 and 2010. In 2010 St. Mary’s County’s population surpassed 100,000 for the first time, and growth has continued steadily (the Lexington Park CDP proper has grown to around 13–14,000 residents as of 2020–2025). This growth has been “largely on the strength of military expansion” and the high-paying jobs it creates, but it has also attracted new families, businesses, and amenities into the area.

Importantly, the community did not lose its heritage amid growth. Lexington Park has embraced its history and diversity through projects like the United States Colored Troops Memorial Statue, dedicated in 2012 at John G. Lancaster Park. This nationally recognized memorial honors the bravery of over 700 African American soldiers and sailors from St. Mary’s County who fought for the Union in the Civil War. The memorial – a life-sized bronze soldier – stands as a point of pride for the town, with annual ceremonies to remember those who served. It’s one example of how Lexington Park blends past and present: a cutting-edge aviation town that also treasures its historical roots and the contributions of all its people. From the birth of religious freedom in the 1600s to the space race of the 1960s and the innovation economy of today, Lexington Park’s story is one of resilience, growth and hope for the future.

A Thriving Economy Fueled by Innovation

One of Lexington Park’s greatest success stories is its thriving economy, which has become a model of high-tech growth in a small-town setting. At the heart of the local economy is the NAS Patuxent River base – often simply called “Pax River” – which is the area’s major employer and economic engine. NAS Patuxent River today employs roughly 20,000 people (military, civilian, and contractors) and is responsible for driving about 75% of St. Mary’s County’s economy, contributing an estimated $3 billion annually to Maryland’s economic output. This is an astonishing impact for a single installation, and it underscores how vital Lexington Park is to U.S. defense and aerospace efforts. The base is home to the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) and the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) headquarters, meaning the cutting-edge design, testing, and acquisition of Navy aircraft (including unmanned systems, avionics, and weapons) happens right here on the banks of the Patuxent. This has attracted many private defense contractors and aerospace companies to set up offices around Lexington Park, creating a cluster of high-tech firms that provide additional skilled jobs in engineering, cybersecurity, flight testing, and more. In recent years, several aerospace and tech companies have opened facilities along the MD Route 235 corridor in town, bringing even more jobs and expertise to the community. In short, Lexington Park punches far above its weight economically, with a unique mix of rural setting and advanced industry.

The demographics and income levels in Lexington Park reflect this prosperity. The town’s median household income is around $89,000, significantly higher than the U.S. median, thanks to the abundance of well-paying high-tech and government jobs in the area. Many residents work in fields like public administration, engineering, scientific research, and technology – in fact, “Public administration is the town’s most common industry by number of employees, followed by professional, scientific and technical services”. Yet despite these strong incomes, the cost of living in Lexington Park remains quite reasonable compared to larger cities like Washington or Baltimore. Housing costs especially are lower, allowing families to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.  This balance of good wages and affordable living makes Lexington Park very attractive for young professionals and families. 

Another remarkable aspect of Lexington Park’s economy is that unlike many neighboring “bedroom communities,” a large portion of residents both live and work in the county, rather than commuting long distances. St. Mary’s County as a whole is one of the fastest-growing in the state, and while some people do commute to D.C. or elsewhere, many professionals have found fulfilling careers right in Lexington Park’s tech sector. This has helped create a tight-knit community of highly skilled workers who are also invested in the local schools, businesses and civic life. A variety of new shopping centers, restaurants, and services have opened along the main roads (Three Notch Road and Great Mills Road) to cater to the growing population, so residents don’t have to leave town for dining or entertainment. In summary, Lexington Park’s narrative is now a “dynamic, growing community” that has transformed into a hub for innovation and economic vitality, all while maintaining its laid-back, friendly vibe.

Education and Family-Friendly Amenities

Lexington Park is not just about work; it’s also a wonderful place to live and raise a family, with strong educational institutions and community amenities that add to its positive reputation. The town is served by St. Mary’s County Public Schools, which are known for a commitment to excellence. In fact, Lexington Park has eight public schools right in the area, “ These include several elementary schools Lexington Park Elementary and Town Creek Elementary, two middle schools, and Great Mills High School . Parents often praise the family-friendly atmosphere and the variety of programs available, from STEM education initiatives supported by the Navy presence to robust sports and arts programs. For younger children, the town’s parks and recreation programs provide safe places to play, contributing to a real sense of community.

For higher education, Lexington Park residents have excellent options close at hand. Just seven miles south of town is St. Mary’s College of Maryland, a public liberal arts honors college that is often called a “gem” of the Maryland state university system. St. Mary’s College is ranked among the top public colleges in the nation (5th in the U.S. in its category according to U.S. News & World Report), and it offers a beautiful waterfront campus with high-quality undergraduate programs. The college frequently collaborates with NAS Pax River on research and hosts cultural events open to the community, enriching the intellectual life of the area. Additionally, the College of Southern Maryland has a campus center nearby, offering community college courses, workforce training, and continuing education opportunities for adults. This means residents can pursue everything from technical certifications to associate degrees without leaving the county. Education is truly a priority here – from grade school to graduate research, the Lexington Park area provides resources that empower youth and fuel the high-tech workforce the town is known for.

It’s also worth noting that the community places value on lifelong learning and culture. The presence of the base and its highly educated workforce has spurred things like science and tech clubs in schools, a well-resourced public library, and local museums (like the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum) that offer educational programs for kids. All of these factors contribute to Lexington Park’s narrative as an uplifting, family-oriented town. Far from the negative stereotypes, the reality is that children here have access to quality education and enriching experiences, in a safe environment where neighbors care about each other’s success.

Parks, Nature, and Outdoor Recreation

One of Lexington Park’s most delightful surprises – and a big draw for those who love the outdoors – is its abundance of parks, natural beauty, and waterfront recreation. The town and its surroundings offer everything from sandy beaches and hiking trails to playgrounds and sports fields, making it easy to enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle. Residents often say that having the Patuxent River and Chesapeake Bay at our doorstep is a true gift, providing endless opportunities for boating, fishing, swimming, and appreciating nature’s beauty.

Some of the parks and outdoor spots in and around Lexington Park include:

• Nicolet Park – A local favorite community park right in Lexington Park, featuring playgrounds, picnic pavilions, skateboarding areas, basketball courts, and walking paths. Reviewers love Nicolet Park’s clean facilities and kid-friendly amenities; “Nicolet Park is a great place for kids to play and for adults to relax,” notes one resident. In summertime, the park’s splash pad and playground are bustling with families, proving that Lexington Park provides wholesome fun for all ages.
• John G. Lancaster Park – Another popular park in town, Lancaster Park is known for its scenic walking trails, open green space, and sports fields. It’s described as a “hidden oasis with beautiful trails and plenty of shade,” perfect for a peaceful afternoon stroll or a family picnic. Lancaster Park is also historically significant as the site of the United States Colored Troops Memorial Statue, as mentioned earlier. Visiting this park offers both natural tranquility and a chance to reflect on local heritage.
• Elms Beach Park – For beach lovers, Elms Beach Park is a true gem on the Chesapeake Bay, located just a short drive from central Lexington Park. It offers a sandy beach on the bay, gentle waves, and stunning water views, along with picnic areas and grills for cookouts. Visitors highlight Elms Beach’s serene environment and cleanliness: “Elms Beach Park is a perfect place for a day at the beach with clean sand and great views,” one review noted. Watching the sunset over the bay from Elms Beach is an experience that rivals any coastal resort – but here it’s peacefully uncrowded and free for locals to enjoy.
• St. Mary’s River State Park – Just west of Lexington Park is the St. Mary’s River State Park, a large natural area surrounding a pretty woodland lake. The park features miles of hiking and mountain biking trails through shaded forests, as well as fishing spots by the river and lake. It’s an ideal spot for bird-watching and immersing oneself in Southern Maryland’s native flora and fauna. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate that from Lexington Park, you can reach such unspoiled nature in minutes.
• Point Lookout State Park – Less than a half-hour drive south of Lexington Park (at the tip of St. Mary’s County) lies Point Lookout, a state park with spectacular waterfront on both the Chesapeake Bay and Potomac River. This park not only has beaches, a boat launch, and great fishing, but also historical interest (it was a Civil War site). It’s mentioned as one of the many “extensive park system” assets of the county, offering camping and hiking as well. Day-tripping to Point Lookout for a picnic or to tour the old lighthouse and Civil War museum is a popular weekend activity for locals.

In addition to these, Lexington Park benefits from numerous smaller neighborhood parks, sports complexes, and waterfront access points (many folks enjoy kayaking in the calm inlets of the Patuxent). The town’s climate is humid subtropical, with hot summers and mild winters, meaning outdoor recreation is feasible almost year-round. From summer swimming and crabbing in the bay to autumn hikes under colorful foliage, nature is always putting on a show here. The community also organizes events like 5K runs, youth sports leagues, and outdoor movie nights in the parks, fostering a friendly atmosphere.

In short, Lexington Park is rich in natural beauty – something that outsiders might not expect if they only know the town for its naval base. The truth is, living here means you can spend your free time on sandy beaches, explore quiet woodlands, and enjoy breathtaking Chesapeake Bay sunsets (often followed by dazzling stars in the clear rural night sky). It’s an outdoor lover’s dream tucked away in Southern Maryland.

Cultural Attractions and Hidden Gems

Beyond the parks and the base, Lexington Park boasts a variety of cultural attractions, historic sites, and “hidden gem” destinations that provide plenty to see and do. Rather than being a boring or “in the middle of nowhere” place (a misperception we’re here to change!), the town and its vicinity offer enriching museums, lively arts, and unique landmarks you won’t find elsewhere. Here are some of the must-see attractions that showcase the very best of Lexington Park:

• Patuxent River Naval Air Museum & Visitor Center: This museum is an absolute highlight of Lexington Park – “a must-visit for anyone interested in aviation and military history,” as one local guide puts it. It’s also often called a “hidden gem with an amazing collection of naval aviation history.” In fact, the Patuxent River Naval Air Museum (PRNAM) is the only museum in the United States dedicated to naval aviation research, development, testing, and evaluation, which mirrors the very mission of NAS Pax River. Housed in a modern facility, the museum displays over 25 historic aircraft that were tested at Pax River – from fighter jets and helicopters to unmanned drones. Visitors can get up-close to planes like an F-14 Tomcat, an F/A-18 Hornet, and the X-32B Joint Strike Fighter prototype, among others. The indoor exhibits include simulators, engines, and interactive displays that tell the story of cutting-edge flight test programs. Both tourists and residents love this museum; it’s educational and inspiring for all ages. As one reviewer said, “The museum is perfect for a family outing with lots to see and learn.” If you come to Lexington Park, the Naval Air Museum is a must-see attraction that truly sets the town apart.

• United States Colored Troops (USCT) Memorial Statue: As discussed in the history section, the USCT Memorial Statue in Lexington Park is a unique landmark honoring African American soldiers from the Civil War. This striking bronze statue depicts a Union soldier and serves as a poignant educational site – it’s “a nationally recognized memorial” to over 700 Black troops from St. Mary’s County who served in the Union forces. Accompanied by informative panels and often the site of commemorative events, the memorial is a hidden cultural gem that many outsiders don’t know exists. It stands proudly in Lancaster Park (21550 Willows Road), quietly reminding visitors that this small town values honoring the bravery and sacrifices of its diverse citizens. For those interested in African American history or Civil War history, the USCT Memorial is a moving stop on a Lexington Park tour. And even for those who aren’t history buffs, it’s a meaningful symbol of community unity and respect across backgrounds. The United States Colored Troops Memorial Statue in Lexington Park honors over 700 Black soldiers and sailors from St. Mary’s County who fought for the Union in the Civil War. It reflects the town’s pride in its diverse heritage and commitment to telling every American’s story.

• Local Arts and Entertainment: Within Lexington Park itself, the arts scene is growing. The town is home to the Three Notch Theatre, home of The Newtowne Players, a community theater group that puts on plays and musicals throughout the year. Additionally, Lexington Park’s proximity to St. Mary’s College means residents can attend world-class chamber music concerts, lectures, and art exhibits on campus.  All of these contribute to a culturally vibrant environment in and around Lexington Park – there’s more happening here than outsiders might assume, from theater productions to summer concerts by the river.

• Historic St. Mary’s City: Less than a ten minute drive south of Lexington Park is Historic St. Mary’s City, a sprawling outdoor museum that preserves the original 17th-century capital of Maryland. This site is incredibly significant – it’s the fourth oldest permanent English settlement in North America and as noted earlier, the birthplace of Maryland’s religious tolerance experiment. Today, Historic St. Mary’s City is a beautifully reconstructed colonial town and living history museum, complete with costumed interpreters, replica colonial buildings, and ongoing archaeological excavations. Visitors can explore a tall ship (The Maryland Dove, a replica of a 17th-century sailing vessel), tour the State House of 1676, see how Maryland’s first colonists lived, and even visit a Woodland Indian hamlet exhibit. The experience has been described as “like stepping back in time”. For history buffs and families alike, Historic St. Mary’s City is an eye-opening journey into the past, right in Lexington Park’s backyard. It’s also a gorgeous waterfront site for walks and special events (the museum hosts an annual Governor’s Cup Yacht Race finish and holiday celebrations). This attraction underscores how Lexington Park embraces its colonial heritage while moving forward.

Dining, Festivals, and Local Flavor

No portrait of Lexington Park would be complete without highlighting the local cuisine and community festivities – after all, sharing good food and good times is a big part of what makes a town feel like home. Lexington Park is known for some truly unique flavors and fun events that can pleasantly surprise newcomers.

Firstly, being on the Chesapeake Bay, this area is a haven for seafood lovers. Blue crabs, oysters, rockfish, and shrimp are staples here, often caught fresh from nearby waters. 

Lexington Park’s dining scene has expanded with the town’s growth, bringing a diversity of cuisines. 

For sports fans, youth and adult leagues (from soccer to sailing) are active, and there are even unique events like the Governor’s Cup Yacht Race, which ends at St. Mary’s City each year, bringing a fleet of sailboats past Lexington Park’s shores.

All these cultural and culinary offerings paint a picture of a vibrant, positive community. Lexington Park isn’t just a place where people work – it’s a place where people celebrate, come together, and enjoy life’s simple pleasures. Neighbors gather at local breweries and wineries (yes, we even have a few wineries in St. Mary’s County), families attend outdoor movie nights in the park, and there’s a palpable sense of community spirit. Far from any negative narrative, the day-to-day reality in Lexington Park is one of friendliness, festivity, and forward-looking optimism.

Lexington Park is St. Mary's County's ONLY Opportunity Zone!
St. Mary's County has an opportunity to attract investment dollars into Lexington Park

Lexington Park, sitting directly outside Naval Air Station Patuxent River where over 25,000 enter every day, offers an incredible investment opportunity. The County, partnering with the St. Mary’s County Community Development Corporation, developed the Lexington Park Redevelopment District Master Plan. This Opportunity Zone coincides with that master plan.

The economic and community growth in Lexington Park is exciting.

Recent enhancements include:

• Creation of the LexPark Arts Park from a 35 acre piece of vacant land
• Public art installations
• Road extensions to connect neighborhoods and amenities
• Numerous restaurants and coffee shops opening

Invest in Lexington Park today and be part of our renaissance!

• Maryland Opportunity Zones: https://dhcd.maryland.gov/pages/oz/opportunityzones.aspx
• Maryland Opportunity Zone Resources: https://dhcd.maryland.gov/Pages/OZ/OZ-Conference.aspx
• St. Mary's County Department of Economic Development: https://www.yesstmarysmd.com/opportunityzone
• St. Mary's County Department of Economic Development - Tax Incentives & Financing: https://www.yesstmarysmd.com/doing-business-here/tax-incentives-financing