Whether you have a whole weekend to spare, or only a day to explore, Fredericksburg is a destination for everyone. At almost 300 years old, the city’s story is just getting started.
Images and editorial supplied by City of Fredericksburg
History
The history of the nation’s founding fathers has its roots in Fredericksburg, as George Washington spent his boyhood across the Rappahannock River at his family’s Ferry Farm. Visit Ferry Farm and other family sites, such as Historic Kenmore, Mary Washington House and Rising Sun Tavern, to get an intimate picture of the first family of America.
James Monroe called Fredericksburg home as well, and the site of his former law office is now open to the public as the James Monroe Museum. Visitors can view artifacts from the Monroe family and learn more about the fifth president.
In early 2023, a “Freedom, A Work in Progress: Fredericksburg’s Civil Rights Trail was unveiled. The trail timeline begins at the end of the Civil War in 1865. The Civil Rights Trail tour includes sites where Black people created educational, housing, and business opportunities in the midst of Jim Crow era segregation, as well as buildings where people protested racial segregation in the 1950s and 1960s. As in the rest of the United States, Fredericksburg’s Civil Rights history continues into the present and this tour includes sites associated with Black political leaders in the mid to late 20th century and the Black Lives Matter protests of 2020.
Eat
One of the stops on the “FXBG Civil Rights Trail” was John Washington’s residence at 900 Princess Anne St., which is now home to one of Fredericksburg’s most beloved restaurants, Foode. At Foode, Chef Joy Crump uses seasonal, local ingredients to create Southern food that is steeped in tradition with a modern twist. Foode is open for breakfast, weekend brunch, lunch and dinner. Crump’s extraordinary cuisine exemplifies why she was a competitor on season six of Bravo’s “Top Chef” and a semi-finalist of the 2023 James Beard Awards.
You can also eat as the locals do at one of the historic eateries in Fredericksburg, including The Sunken Well Tavern and Carl’s Frozen Custard.
While in the city, visit Adventure Brewing, Red Dragon Brewery, Water’s End Brewery at Fredericksburg Square, and Strangeways Brewing to begin your Fredericksburg Area Beer Trail Passport. You can also enjoy a savory flight at Haley’s Honey Meadery or Wild Hare Cider Pub.
Play
Thrill seekers can check out the Fun Land of Fredericksburg Thunder Speedway, a multi-level go-kart track, with three stories and over 1,700 feet of twists and turns. Fun Land is also home to the Sky Trail & Zip Line, featuring 25 unique challenges and a zip line that soars high above the arcade! The fun continues with laser tag, mini golf, batting cages, an indoor roller coaster, bowling and more. Fun Land of Fredericksburg is constantly growing and innovating their attractions, including two new thrill rides, Patriot Plunge and The Flip Side, opening in 2023.
Catch a game at the Fredericksburg Nationals Ballpark, the minor league baseball team affiliated with the Washington Nationals.
Outdoors
If you are looking to further immerse yourself in Fredericksburg’s history, take a walk through the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park and tour four major battlefields of the Civil War.
The city also has a trail system with breathtaking views of the Rappahannock River, which winds past downtown. Take a selfie with the views on the Chatham Bridge pedestrian observation deck. Another fun hike is the Virginia Central Railway Trail, which has views of Hazel Run and the historic Virginia Central Railway bed from the path.
Shop
Enjoy our vibrant downtown shopping district. There is shopping for every aesthetic—designer clothes, adventure wear, handmade wooden goods, used books and unique gifts. Caroline Street also features a triple threat for foodies. Local wine proprietor City Vino is just across the street from artisanal olive oil seller Taste Oil Vinegar Spice and chocolatier FAVOR Chocolates.
Collectors are spoiled in Fredericksburg, which boasts multiple antique malls along the Caroline Street retail corridor. Countless items, from collectibles to artwork and classic china patterns can be found.
Arts
Fredericksburg is also a haven for artists. Find over 50 local artists at LibertyTown Arts Workshop and our revered art galleries. Items range from pottery to painting and everything in between.
Great stories start here. Plan your visit at FXBG.com. Share your fun on social with #FXBG.
