Whether you have a whole weekend to spare, or just a day to stop and visit, Fredericksburg is a destination for everyone. And at almost 300 years old, the city’s story is just getting started—great stories start here.
History
The founding fathers had a close connection with Fredericksburg. 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, too, called Fredericksburg home, 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.
Fredericksburg is also home to the “Trail to Freedom,” a route that retraces the journey of freedom-seeking enslaved people through the city to federal troops across the river. The self-guided tour retraces the steps of John Washington, who was enslaved in Fredericksburg and wrote the story of his escape in a memoir. The trail has multiple stops downtown that are walkable and full of previously hidden history.
Eat
One of those stops on the “Trail to Freedom” was John Washington’s residence at 900 Princess Anne St., which is now home to one of Fredericksburg’s best-loved restaurants. At Foode, Chef Joy Crump uses seasonal, local ingredients to create Southern food that is steeped in tradition but uses the most recent techniques. They are open for brunch, lunch and dinner. There’s a reason she was a competitor on season six of Bravo’s “Top Chef.”
Eat like a local at one of our historic eateries in the city, including Goolrick’s Modern Pharmacy and Carl’s Frozen Custard.
While in the city, visit Adventure Brewing, Red Dragon, and Strangeways Brewing and get started on your Fredericksburg Area Beer Trail Passport or get a flight at Haley’s Honey Meadery.
Play
Thrill seekers can check out the Fun Land of Fredericksburg Thunder Speedway, a multi-level go-cart track, with three stories and over 1,700 feet of twists and turns. Fun Land is also home to the Sky Trail and Zip Line, featuring 25 unique challenges & a zip line soaring high above the arcade! The fun continues with laser tag, mini golf, batting cages, an indoor roller coaster, bowling and more.
Catch a game at the Fredericksburg Nationals Ballpark. The minor league baseball team, affiliated with the Washington Nationals.
Outdoors
Take a walk through the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park and tour four major battlefields of the Civil War if you’re bent towards history.
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. Everything 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 art galleries. Items range from pottery to painting and everything in between.
Plan your visit
Great stories start here. Plan your visit at FXBG.com. Share your fun on social with #FXBG.
