Fredericksburg, Virginia, has Stars Hollow vibes (Golmore Girls) and a name often confused with a city of the same name in Texas.
Located on the edge of the Washington, DC bubble, you get small-town charm within commuting distance of DC.
Thanks again to Visit Fredericksburg for hosting my visit. All opinions are my own. This article contains affiliate links.
Visit the Fredericksburg Visitor Center
601 Caroline St., Fredericksburg, VA
I always like to stop by a visitor center when I visit a destination, especially the first time. Their staff is a great resource for local events, top things to do, and restaurant recommendations.
I also want to note that the Fredericksburg Visitor Center has great merch, including t-shirts.
Explore Downtown With Trolley Tours of Fredericksburg
(Trolley departs from the Visitor Center)
601 Caroline St, Fredericksburg, VA – (The parking garage is at 600 Sophia Street)
This 75-minute trolley tour takes you throughout historic downtown Fredericksburg, established in 1728.
I’d recommend starting your visit with this tour for a great overview of the city layout and a way to connect the dots to the city’s history as you explore.
Fredericksburg has an abundance of stories, including its colonial, Civil War, and Civil Rights history within its 40-block National Historic District.
Be on the lookout for historical reenactors who will come out and wave from some of the buildings along the way too.
There are 350+ original 18th and 19th-century buildings in Fredericksburg to admire.
Tours are available rain or shine in the covered trolley, and you can check the schedule for upcoming tours here.
Search for “Otter-ly Amazing” Otters Around Fredericksburg, VA
Look for bronze statues around downtown Fredericksburg featuring adorable river otters.
There are seven otter statues in downtown Fredericksburg.
Look for the QR code at the base of each otter sculpture to learn more about the otter and its location.
You can pick up a physical map of the scavenger hunt at the Fredericksburg Visitor Center to help locate all seven statues, or download the digital scavenger hunt and map.
Completed scavenger hunts can be brought back to the Fredericksburg Visitor Center located at 601 Caroline Street) for a prize.
Tour the Fredericksburg Area Museum
907 Princess Anne St, Fredericksburg, VA
(Free Admission)
Learn more about Fredericksburg regional history with exhibits that span over 10,000 years.
Exhibits are housed inside the former Town Hall and Market House dating back to 1816.
The museum has three floors of permanent and temporary exhibits.
The museum doesn’t shy away from the ugly parts of the town’s history.
That includes a slave auction block previously used to sell enslaved people between 1843 and 1865 that was removed from the corner of William and Charles Street in 2020.
Go Hiking at Alum Spring Park
1 Greenbrier Dr., Fredericksburg, VA
Alum Spring Park is a great place to enjoy nature. The park features a one-mile walking path, playground, and picnic areas.
The star of the park is the sandstone cliff, known as Alum Spring Rock, which is 40 feet tall and 400 ft wide.
Colonial visitors believed the mineral water had medicinal properties that could help cure diseases and injuries.
Historic Footsteps Where Abe Lincoln Stood
Intersection of William Street and Princess Anne Street
President Abraham Lincoln visited Fredericksburg, VA on May 23, 1862, to visit the Union camps. He also stopped at Farmer’s Bank that was being used as headquarters for the Federal troops.
It’s believed that Abe Lincoln entered the residential entrance on George Street and left through the bank’s main entrance on Princess Anne Street.
A lesser-known story that took place on these steps is about John Washington.
He was born a slave into the family that managed and lived at Farmer’s Bank.
On April 18, 1862, the Union army arrived, and the owner urged John to flee with her.
Instead, he chose to walk down these same steps to freedom as he crossed the Rappahannock River into the Union territory and later became a sign painter in Washington, DC.
Enjoy Braehead Farm
1130 Tyler St, Fredericksburg, VA
Braehead Farm is a great multi-gen stop for all ages. The family-owned farm is the last remaining farm within city limits and dates back to 1937.
Another perk of this location is that it’s 10 minutes from downtown Fredericksburg, which makes the farm accessible without a long drive.
Kids will love viewing farm animals up close, and the Family play areas with swings, corn pit, playgrounds, and more.
You’ll definitely want to save room in your belly and in your shopping basket for sandwiches, sweet treats, and farm goods to take home at the market and bakery.
The farm is open year-round with special events throughout the year, including seasonal pick-your-own produce and flowers.
Tour Rising Sun Tavern
1304 Caroline St, Fredericksburg, VA
Rising Sun Tavern was the former home of George Washington’s youngest brother, Charles, in 1760.
The structure later became a tavern in 1792, purchased by the Wallace family and operated for 35 years.
Visitors will gain more insight from the docent dressed in period costume who shares more about the stories and artifacts within the building.
Tours last around 45 minutes, pending how many questions your group has.
Tours are available seasonally, with varying hours/days, with the last tour of the day starting at 3:30 PM.
Explore Motts Run Reservoir Recreational Area
6600 River Rd, Fredericksburg, VA
This park features an 860-acre nature park and a 160-acre reservoir used for fishing, boating, and area hiking.
The park offers kayak, canoe, and boat rentals onsite. Check their schedule for concession hours/days/.
No swimming or wading is allowed because the reservoir is used as a source for drinking water.
Be on the lookout for special upcoming “Concerts by Canoe” featuring a concert on the lake by a quartet on the pier.
Attendees can bring their own boat (no gas-powered motors), kayak, canoe, or rent one to float and listen to music. (SUPs are not permitted)
Take a Walking Ghost Tour By Fredericksburg Hauntings Ghost Tours
Tour starts – St. George’s Episcopal Church, 905 Princess Anne St, Fredericksburg, VA
This ghost tour combines local lore and Civil War tragedies appealing to both history buffs and anyone intrigued by paranormal activity.
The walking tour includes sharing about Ironclad Inn, Kenmore, and Mary Washington House led by your guide in period attire.
Our guide did a fantastic job of storytelling and drawing us into tales of the city’s past.
Tours are available nightly and last one hour, walking around a mile in total. There’s a bonus extended tour with additional locations.
Paddle on the Scenic Rappahannock River
I love any time that I get to spend out on the water.
We enjoyed a relaxing canoe paddle on the scenic Rappahannock River, the longest free-flowing river in the eastern United States, with guides from Friends of the Rappahannock.
The non-profit was founded in 1985 and operates across 18 watershed counties.
2,000+ members are committed to river stewardship by protecting the river’s water quality, habitats, and public access.
The community can get involved in their advocacy, restoration projects, and educational programs.
Check out their calendar for upcoming special events.
If you have additional time, check out Virginia Outdoor Center, offering canoe and kayak tours and whitewater tubing.
Visit the Fredericksburg Battlefield
1013 Lafayette Blvd., Fredericksburg, VA
Fredericksburg Battlefield is a National Military Park operated by the National Park Service.
The Battle of Fredericksburg in 1862 was a major Civil War engagement fought from December 11-15.
Four area battles took place within 18 months, resulting in 100,000+ casualties at Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, the Wilderness, and Spotsylvania Court House.
Several trails are available to explore, including driving tours with an audio app by the National Park Service.
- Sunken Road Walking Trail – .8 mile loop
- Chatham Grounds
- Lee Hill – .5 mile round trip
- North Lee Drive – 2.8 miles one-way
- South Lee Drive – 2.4 miles one-way
The battle consisted of almost 200,000 troops, resulting in around 13,000 casualties for the Union and 5,000 casualties for the Confederates.
One of the moving statues on-site was dedicated to Richard Rowland, a Confederate soldier who risked his life as he brought water to injured Union soldiers during the Civil War.
Order a Giant Pancake at Battlefield Restaurant
1018 Lafayette Blvd, Fredericksburg, VA
Battlefield Restaurant is home to Fredericksburg’s Largest Pancake.
This restaurant is a local favorite and located directly across the street from the Fredericksburg Battlefield.
You can try the special “pancake of the week” or order a classic 1-large pancake could easily feed 4-5 family members or friends.
They serve the pancakes on a pizza pan, and leftovers are placed in a pizza take-out box.
If you don’t have that big of an appetite, you’ll find plenty of other classic breakfast options on the menu, including egg and cheese Breakfast sandwiches made with Texas toast.
Go on a Self-Guided Walking Tour of the Civil Rights Trail
601 Caroline St., Fredericksburg, VA (Fredericksburg Visitor Center)
The Civil Rights Trail throughout downtown Fredericksburg is 2.6-mile self-guided walking trail with 21 stops.
The walking trail provides an important glimpse into the Civil Rights history of Fredericksburg, beginning after the Civil War in 1865 through the 1950s and 1960s, up until the Black Lives Matter era.
We learned that Fredericksburg Greyhound bus depot was the first stop on the 1961 Freedom Rides which was an effort to desegregate the interstate bus travel system.
The former site of the slave auction block was another stop on the self-guided walking tour which was another sobering and heartbreaking remembrance of racial inequality.
Another marker included information on The Green Book which was created during the Jim Crow era for black motorists to have a list of safe restaurants, gas stations and accomodations when they traveled.
If you can’t make it to all of the stops in person you can still read about each stop and listen to the audio narration online.
The thought provoking and insightful tour is a passion project created by the City of Frederickburg’s Economic Development and Tourism Department , the University of Mary Washington’s James Farmer Multicultural Center, Georgraphy Department and the Historic Preseration Department.
This historic marker in front of the former bank shares more information about John Washington, whom I briefly shared earlier in the article.
You can also extend the journey on Part 2 of The Civil Rights Trail. It’s a driving tour covering 1.9 miles with stops at Dorothy Hart Community Center, Shiloh Cemetery, and the University of Mary Washington campus.
Dine at Foode
900 Princess Anne St, Fredericksburg, VA
The historical marker about John Washington in front of Foode is part of the self-guided walking tour. I also want to note that it’s definitely worth planning a meal at Foode too.
Foode is housed in the former Historic National Bank Building, which includes seating options in a former bank vault.
You may recognize founding partner and executive chef Joy Crump, who appeared in Season 12 of Bravo’s Top Chef.
A few recommendations: Rosie’s Fried Chicken sandwich and a health shot of “better for you” juice with blended fruits and veggies.
You also can’t go wrong with any of their seasonal salads or chicken dishes.
Take a picture with the Virginia LOVE sign at Hurkamp Park
500 William Street, Fredericksburg, VA
There are 8 official LOVE signs located throughout the Fredericksburg area.
You can find the Fredericksburg area locations and all the locations throughout the state of Virginia here.
Explore the Downtown Shops in Fredericksburg, VA
You’ll find a variety of shops and restaurants on Main Street and beyond in downtown Fredericksburg.
In fact, there are 100+ independent shops, boutiques, and chef-owned restaurants within 40 blocks of downtown Fredericksburg, so allow time to wander.
There are several antique shops if you love to hunt for hidden treasures and a fun tattoo shop if you want to take home a more permanent souvenir.
Visit Possum-bilities, a Possum-themed Store
211 William St, Fredericksburg, VA
I love a gimmick, and Possum-bilities is the perfect spot for a love or intrigue for “all things possum” or “oppossum.”
When I learned that there was a possum-themed store with a live animal ambassador, I had to check it out for myself.
Both words are used interchangeably to describe the animal in North America, which is why you may see merchandise using both names by over 30 local artists.
English colonists are credited with writing down the word opossum for the animal in the 17th century.
The animal ambassadors are rescues that can’t be returned to the wild and now help with educational programs.
Educational programs can be booked for a variety of groups including schools, garden clubs, businesses, parties, and more.
Did you know that possums help the ecosystem by eating ticks?
Opossums are the only marsupial native to the United States and Canada, and their lifespan in the wild is 2 years and 3-4 years in captivity.
Be on the lookout for upcoming possum-themed events like “Opossum Yoga” and “Opossums for Reading”
The Ultimate Wedding Dress Store at Ava Laurénne Bride
1001 Princess Anne St, Fredericksburg, VA
If there’s an upcoming wedding in a loved one’s future, you’ll want to add this stop to your list.
Ava Laurénne Bride is a luxury bridal boutique with two locations; the original is in Fredericksburg, and the other is in Greenville, SC.
Since 2012, Ava Laurénne Bride has become a destination for future brides, offering a variety of curated styles and designers to choose from.
Future brides can book an appointment to shop with an expert stylist for their perfect wedding dress in a gorgeous environment tailored for a fairy tale experience.
Drink and Dine at River’s End Speakeasy
216/218 William St., Fredericksburg, VA
This speakeasy-themed cocktail bar and restaurant is located directly above Galvin’s Deli.
To enter the speakeasy, you pick up the phone and call the hostess with the password you were given with your reservation.
If you don’t have a reservation, you’ll have to answer a riddle next to the phone in the lobby to enter if they have room. If not, you’ll be added to the waiting list.
Ages 21+ for evening dining, and reservations are highly encouraged. Sunday Brunch is available for all ages.
You’ll want to try several of the shareable plates, including their Whipped Feta & Goat Cheese.
Their dishes focus on local, seasonal, and organic ingredients, so you can’t go wrong with whatever entree you choose.
Make sure you also leave room for dessert, even if it’s just for a bite of their whiskey cake.
Attend a Fredericksburg Nationals Baseball Game
42 Jackie Robinson Way, Fredericksburg, VA
The Minor League Baseball team is the Single-A affiliate of the Washington Nationals Major League Baseball team.
You can enjoy a Fredericksburg Nationals baseball game where you may see a rising star before their MLB debut or an injured Washington Nationals player using the game for their rehab,
There wasn’t a game during my visit, but I did get to view the stadium, and there isn’t a bad seat in the ballpark. The gift shop is open during the week, and there’s also an online store.
Stay at Courtyard by Marriott Fredericksburg Historic District
620 Caroline St, Fredericksburg, VA
The Courtyard by Marriott Fredericksburg Historic District is a great option if you want to be within walking distance of restaurants, museums, and shops.
The hotel has an indoor pool, whirlpool, fitness center, and restaurant onsite.
The bar onsite may have live music during your visit, which is good to know if you have an inside room.
You’ll also want to check out Anita’s Cafe & Dessert Bar for delicious pastries and coffee located within the same building.
You can compare hotels and vacation rentals in Fredericksburg, VA here.
Amtrak Train Station in Fredericksburg, VA
425 Princess Anne Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401-6067
The train station has a platform with a shelter, but no waiting room.
This is a great option for locals who commute daily and travelers who want to also visit Washington, DC.
The Amtrak station is within a walkable distance to many downtown shops and restaurants.
What’s the Closest Airport to Fredericksburg, VA?
The closest airports to Fredericksburg, VA, for commercial flights are Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) and Richmond International Airport (RIC), both around 50 miles away.
Washington Dulles is 58.5 miles, and Baltimore Washington International Airport is 87.9 miles from Fredericksburg, VA.
