places to visit at fredericksburg tx

31 Best Things to Do in Fredericksburg, TX

Known for its German heritage, excellent wine scene, charming downtown, and proximity to one of the most popular hikes in central Texas, seeking out the best things to do in Fredericksburg is a delightful way to spend a trip to the Texas Hill Country.

This beloved small town is one of the most popular places to visit in Texas and a staple along the Texas Wine Trail.

Visiting Fredericksburg soon and looking for the best attractions in and around this historic town?

Here’s what to do in Fredericksburg, TX!

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Top Things to Do in Fredericksburg TX

If you’re planning a Fredericksburg vacation, odds are that at least a few of these incredibly popular things to do in Fredericksburg are already on your list–and each and every one of them is worth your time!

Enjoy a flight at some of the best wineries in Texas.

There are over 50 wineries located in Gillespie County (where Fredericksburg is located) alone, and more than 100 in the Texas Hill Country overall–suffice it to say that visitors are spoiled for choice!

The best way to enjoy Fredericksburg’s many wineries, of course, is to sample several.

If you want to see the best wineries around quickly and don’t have a designated driver to help you out, consider signing up for a Fredericksburg wine tour to make things easier!

Looking for an absolute staple? Becker Vineyards is one of the biggest Texas vineyards in the game and a beloved destination near Fredericksburg!

Book your Fredericksburg wine tour today!

Drive (or be driven) along Wine Road 290.

Even if you’re not doing any tastings that day, driving along Wine Road 290–more officially known as Texas Highway 290–will treat you to absolutely stunning views.

Sample fantastic German food (with a Texas twist).

As one of the most famous German towns in Texas , it’s a given that there is plenty of German-inspired food around!

Fredericksburg’s German heritage is best experienced through its food: bratwurst, schnitzel, German potato salad, apple strudel, and more, are common on menus across town, and often served in a biergarten setting.

We personally love The Auslander and find it both a solid approximation of the German food we’ve eaten in Germany and delicious in its own right.

Would the kasewurst come with jalapenos in Germany? Nah, but they’re sure tasty when in Texas!

… and follow it up with a beer from Altstadt Brewery.

Ranked as one of the top breweries in the USA, Altstadt Brewery creates German-style beers inspired by the Reinheitsgebot (the German beer purity law dating to 1516)–quite the challenge for a 21st-century brewery in the Texas Hill Country!

The results, however, are delicious.

In addition to sampling the beer, you can also tour the brewery, try out the restaurant, and even check out their on-site tractor museum as part of your visit.

Stroll down Main Street.

Dotted with galleries, boutiques, and plenty of restaurants–including German restaurants, of course!–Fredericksburg’s beautiful Main Street belongs at the top of any list of what to see in Fredericksburg.

Climb Enchanted Rock.

This gigantic dome of pink granite has been mesmerizing humans for thousands of years–and just north of Fredericksburg, you can climb it yourself to earn magnificent views of the surrounding Hill Country!

The climb to the summit is a short 0.8 miles each way, but absolutely zero shade and steep inclines can make it quite the trek, especially during the sweltering summer months.

As climbing Enchanted Rock is one of the most popular things to do in Fredericksburg and the surrounding area, show up early to earn a spot–once the park is full for the day, cars start being turned away.

Stay at a beautiful bed and breakfast.

Fredericksburg is known for its many charming bed and breakfasts, and whether you choose a spot on bustling Main Street or down a quiet side road, it’s worth choosing a beautiful place to sleep during your Fredericksburg vacation.

Go antiquing in the Warehouse District.

Fredericksburg’s Warehouse District is covered in antique stores, and even if you don’t plan on seeking out any large items like furniture, it’s worth visiting–browsing is (more than) half the fun!

Fun Museums + Attractions in Fredericksburg

For a town of only 10,000, Fredericksburg has an incredible number of museums, gardens, and historical highlights to visit.

Here are the best Fredericksburg attractions to add to your list!

Learn important US history at the National Museum of the Pacific War.

Featuring an enormous number of artifacts and archives, the National Museum of the Pacific War is dedicated to telling the story of the Americans who fought in the Asiatic-Pacific Theater in WWII.

… and follow it up with a visit to the Japanese Garden of Peace.

Technically part of the National Museum of the Pacific War, though you can visit it separately, the Japanese Garden of Peace is set up as a traditional Japanese garden and was a gift from the people of Japan to the people of the USA.

It’s a beautiful, quiet place, and the perfect place to reflect on the area’s history.

Visit the Pioneer Museum to learn about Fredericksburg’s German roots.

Fredericksburg was originally settled by German immigrants in the 1840s. The Pioneer Museum, spread across multiple buildings in town, tells their story, including the origins of the settlement and the struggles that the first European settlers in Fredericksburg contended with.

Admire the beauty of St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

In the mid-19th century, German and Czech immigrants built many beautiful churches throughout Texas, with intricately painted interiors done in the style brought over from Europe.

The results are stunning, and while the small town of Schulenberg is known for having the greatest concentration of these churches, Fredericksburg has its own example at St. Mary’s Catholic Church!

It’s free and easy to poke your head inside, and a visit here is absolutely worth adding to your list of what to do in Fredericksburg.

Tour the Lyndon B. Johnson National Memorial Park.

Home to the “Texas White House” (so named because Johnson spent about 20% of his time as president working there), the former president’s restored boyhood home and ranch, and even “Air Force One Half”, the plane used by LBJ when in office to fly back and forth from DC to the ranch, the Lyndon B. Johnson National Memorial Park is a short drive from Fredericksburg and an interesting look at 20th century American history.

Stroll through Fort Martin Scott.

Operated from 1848 to 1853 by the US Army, Fort Martin Scott holds the distinction as the first outpost built by the US military in the state of Texas.

With a self-guided walkway that’s free to visit (and dog-friendly!), Fort Martin Scott is a fun way to mix getting outside with learning some history during a trip to Fredericksburg.

… and the Texas Rangers Heritage Center.

Located right next door to Fort Martin Scott, the Texas Rangers Heritage Center honors Texas Rangers, both past and present.

Browse specialty foods at Das Peach Haus.

Das Peach Haus is not just a beautiful store selling boutique Texas products such as wine, jam, and olive oil–it’s also a peach orchard, cooking school, and wedding venue with incredibly beautiful grounds!

Whether you’re planning to shop for local food products or not (though you definitely should be!), Das Peach Haus belongs on your list of places to visit in Fredericksburg.

Visit Marktplatz and the Vereins Kirche Museum.

Fredericksburg’s central park/square, known as the “Marktplatz” in a nod to the town’s German heritage, is the location of many of the best events and festivals in Fredericksburg throughout the year.

It’s also lovely to visit year-round, especially to see the Vereins Kirche–the unmistakable, octagonal building that is built on the site of the first church and first school in the town–and the gorgeous small garden located behind it.

Visit the beautiful Magnolia Pearl.

Though it is a clothing store, Magnolia Pearl’s flagship store in Fredericksburg is a draw for visitors whether or not they’re looking for new clothes–the stunning farmhouse-style building made from reclaimed wood is one of the most striking buildings in town!

Head over to Luckenbach for live music and small-town charm.

With a population of 3 (no, that’s not a typo), Luckenbach takes the idea of a charming small town in Texas to an absolute extreme–and it’s definitely worth visiting!

Home to one of the most famous Texas dance halls, Luckenbach boasts near-constant live country music, beautiful grounds, quirky decor, and an adorable general store housed in the town’s former post office.

Check out the Fredericksburg Herb Farm.

In addition to being a quaint farm, the Fredericksburg Herb Farm also operates as a restaurant, gift shop, spa, and small inn, renting adorable cottages to visitors on their property.

Seasonal Things to Do When Visiting Fredericksburg

While visiting Fredericksburg is a delight year-round, some of the absolute best things to do in Fredericksburg only come around once a week, month, or year! 

Pick your own Fredericksburg peaches.

Without a doubt, one of the most fun things to do in Fredericksburg is to pick your own peaches right off the tree!

Several orchards around town offer visitors the chance to pick their own peaches, and the season typically runs from mid-May to mid-August each year.

… and other fruits and vegetables!

Can’t wait for peach season, or simply missed it?

Peaches aren’t the only fruits you can pick at orchards in Fredericksburg: strawberries and blackberries are available at some farms in the spring, and pumpkins in the fall.

Enjoy a drink at Fredericksburg’s Oktoberfest.

For a Texas twist on a German tradition, don’t miss Fredericksburg’s 3-day Oktoberfest each fall, complete with German food, live music, a dirndl and lederhosen contest, and of course, plenty of beer!

… and enjoy German-style Christmas traditions in December.

With a German Christmas Pyramid standing proudly in the Marktplatz and plenty of mulled wine to go around, Fredericksburg keeps German Christmas traditions alive each December.

Unsurprisingly, Fredericksburg is considered one of the best places to celebrate Christmas in Texas !

Admire the brilliant fields at Wildseed Farms.

The largest working wildflower farm in the USA is located right in the Texas Hill Country, and visiting is one of the best things to do in Fredericksburg!

While the farm is beautiful throughout most of the year, bluebonnet season and sunflower season are both deservedly popular times to visit.

Wildseed Farms has beautiful walking trails lined with picket fences that allow visitors to get up-close views of the gorgeous flowers.

In addition, they also sell plants and local, artisanal foods on-site!

Sample Fredericksburg’s art scene during a First Friday Art Walk.

For half the year, on the first Friday of each month, Fredericksburg’s many galleries stay open late–until 8:00 PM, to be exact–to show off new work they’ve acquired and give visitors a chance to explore.

Grab some food, a glass of wine, and get ready to wander!

Seek out some of the best bluebonnet fields in Texas along the Willow City Loop.

Located northeast of Fredericksburg in the beautiful Hill Country, 13-mile Willow City Loop is a gorgeous scenic drive year-round–but it’s at its absolute best during wildflower season, when seemingly endless fields of bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, and more ensure that the surrounding fields are positively bursting with color.

Willow City Loop is one of the best places to see bluebonnets in Texas , so if you’re visiting during wildflower season, it’s an absolute can’t-miss attraction.

Watch the bats at Old Tunnel State Park.

From May to October each year, millions of Mexican free-tailed bats call the abandoned railroad tunnel outside of Fredericksburg home.

One of the coolest things to do in Fredericksburg is to watch them emerge over Old Tunnel State Park to hunt around sunset each evening!

Head to town in October to stuff yourself at the Fredericksburg Food & Wine Fest.

Held in the Marktplatz, the Fredericksburg Food & Wine Fest features local food, wine, beer, and more, and is a must-taste event for foodies in Texas.

Browse the stalls at Fredericksburg Trade Days.

Once a month, Fredericksburg’s monthly flea market takes over Sunday Farms for the weekend, featuring all kinds of vendors and even a biergarten to relax in between shopping sprees. 

If you’re looking to do some eclectic shopping, be sure to plan your visit during Fredericksburg Trade Days !

2 thoughts on “31 Best Things to Do in Fredericksburg, TX”

We went to Fredericksburg in December. It was ok. Would have been better, but with covid, so many businesses were closed. We missed out on a lot of shopping and a lot of places we were looking forward to going to. Hopefully next time we go, this virus will be gone and we can go about our life as usual. Looking forward to it.

Main Street is pretty much back to normal .We have been getting a lot of rain and it’s been a mild summer here .

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Fredericksburg Recent Texas Hill Country

26 Amazing Things To Do In Fredericksburg, TX

There are so many staggering things to do in fredericksburg, tx that you may want to take a week off.

There are so many amazing things to do in Fredericksburg, TX—all worth seeing. You’ll want to plan, from shopping to visiting wineries to learning how much history circles this town. Main Street is not the only street to hang out on in Fredericksburg. It’s just a part of what makes this small Texas town the most admired by many people, including the locals. But it’s most definitely a great street to start on!

Fredericksburg is an authentic Texas-German community about an hour’s drive from the San Antonio airport. With local German cuisine, historic buildings up and down Main Street, and to every living being in town, it’s the heart of the Texas Hill Country.

I was hosted on a media trip with other travel writers in Fredericksburg, Texas. All opinions are my very own.

Outside of the Vereins Kirche Museum

Things To Do In Fredericksburg, TX

If you’re new to the Texas Hill Country in Central Texas, the town of Fredericksburg is known the most from all the small towns that make up the area. An out-of-state travel guide recently voted Fredericksburg the most picturesque small town in America . The town really does hold up to its award.

There are many things to do in Fredericksburg, TX, on this list, and a few “must-dos” that I think everyone would find favorable. Take this list with you and have the time of your life!

The Texas Hill Country is known for many things – rolling hills, scenic views, waterfalls, hiking, wineries, and more, and Fredericksburg is in the midst of it all. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Fredericksburg several times, and every time, I wish I could stay longer. There are many tourist attractions in Fredericksburg, so you may need a week to see them all. But if you’re visiting just for a weekend, you’ll want to pick and choose what you want to see and do. Many ideas are below.

1. Swing By The Fredericksburg Visitor Center First

Make the Visitor Information Center your first stop. Not only can you pick up every brochure imaginable about attractions in Fredericksburg, but you’ll also be able to see a 10-minute video about the brief history of Fredericksburg and talk to a volunteer or employee who can help you pinpoint your plan. They can help tailor your visit so you can get in as much activity as possible. It is located at 302 E. Austin St.

Also, there are plenty of free parking spots behind the building.

2. Shop In Fredericksburg

Shopping on Main Street and side streets in downtown Fredericksburg is one of the primary reasons visitors come to Fredericksburg. You’ll find art galleries and some of the best places to shop for the latest fashions, home decor, jewelry, antiques, gifts, wine accessories, and so much more.

You could spend a whole day just on Main Street – shopping, having lunch, and perhaps indulging in a glass of wine at Becker Vineyards on Main. Shop Local!

3. Take A History Of Fredericksburg Tour

I’ve always said, “If you want to know the deep meaning of a town, take a guided tour.” Stands true with this one, too. We would have never known so much about the settlers that roamed this town in the 1800s and what it meant to survive back then. It was a fantastic hour of our time.

Hop on the little red vintage-style trolley for an adventure with Fredericksburg Tours and learn a history lesson or two about the German settlers. Our tour guide (in the photo above) was very knowledgeable about the ins and outs of the history of Fredericksburg. I recommend requesting him by name. David Schafer is a historian, trolley driver, and a great narrator .

There are several tours available. See them all at  Fredericksburg Tours . Trolleys are climate-controlled.

4. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Another reason I love the Texas Hill Country is I finally got to hike Enchanted Rock – well, sort of. I didn’t make it to the top because it was too hot, but it’s very doable, as many people hike up to the top daily. If visitors aren’t shopping or visiting the wineries, they are most likely coming to Fredericksburg to hike in the park.

The Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is so large it’s located in two counties – Gillespie and Llano Counties. The park offers camping, picnic areas, 8.4 miles of hiking trails, a nature trail, interpretive exhibits, rock climbing, and more. This could be a great day trip to immerse yourself in the experience. Bring more water than you think you’ll need for the day.

Parking is close to the trails. There are benches, restrooms, some shade, and a water fountain, and when we visited, someone was selling chilling drinks and snow cones. You may want to familiarize yourself with the park before you go. And, by all means, make your reservations online before you go.

Travel Tip:  They only allow a certain amount of people in the park on any given day. Saturdays get sold out quickly.

5. Enjoy Das Peach Haus All Day Long

Das Peach Haus is a family-owned business that started over 50 years ago as a roadside fruit stand. Today, it’s much more, offering award-winning jams, jellies, sauces, wines, and so much more. It’s the only place you can taste every product before buying. They’ve expanded to include a wine-tasting room and even started a cooking school using their products.

We enjoyed a wonderful dinner with their amazing chef and cooking school instructor, then enjoyed our time outdoors underneath the pine trees by their lake. If you ever can stop by, may I suggest asking for a sample of their award-winning Original Roasted Raspberry Chipotle Sauce? It is a best seller and a well-known product of theirs. Das Peach Haus is truly a one-of-a-kind, as is the family. They were very moving and cared a lot about family and Fredericksburg.

6. Dietz Distillery

Just when you think you’ve seen it all with this fabulous family, Fischer & Wieser has expanded into a distillery. Located right next door to Das Peach Haus is Diestz Distillery – owned and run by the oldest son – Dietz Fischer. The distillery offers Five Judges Gin, a London-style Gin with a Texas twist, and much more. When coming here, plan on a long, slow time so you can enjoy the outside.

7. National Museum Of The Pacific War

Learn about the story of World War II in the Pacific and how Admiral Nimitz led his troops. S ee real-life combat planes, ships, and gear in this 55,000-square-foot museum. Join in on a guided tour to get the best knowledge about this war. We were in awe of what we learned (and thought we knew) and how well our tour guide told the story. His passion showed through, especially when he was telling the story of the struggle between Allied and Japanese forces.

The museum is working on engaging its young visitors with more interactive exhibits and more hands-on experiences. When coming to Fredericksburg, I highly recommend visiting the National Museum of the Pacific War . Chances are, if you have teenagers, they have heard the story, but not like this!

It is located across the street from the Visitor Center. Make it your second stop!

8. Pioneer Museum In Fredericksburg

Learn more about the German Heritage on this self-guided tour at the Pioneer Museum . See an outdoor collection of authentic structures preserved in the 19th century German Pioneer days, including a one-room schoolhouse, a general store, a Blacksmith shop, a Sunday House, and more.

Admission price includes the Pioneer Museum, Vereins Kirche Museum, and Historic Jail.

9. Take A Self-Guided Wine Tour

Fredericksburg has more than 60 wineries, vineyards, and tasting rooms. I’ve been to more than a few, and not only are they spectacular, the scenic views are just as impressive.

Fredericksburg and Johnson City share Hwy 290, aka Wine Road. Between the two small towns, there are roughly 50 wineries just on Hwy 290. But Texas Wine Country has over 100 wineries, most in Fredericksburg.

A fun time with friends and family would be to take a self-guided wine tour for wine tastings and visit tasting rooms whether you drink wine or not. Some wineries also offer other drinks for those non-wine drinkers in the group. I have found most wineries are pet-friendly and kid-friendly, but always check before you go because there are a few that are neither.

We visited two wineries on our media trip – Kalasi Cellars and Signor Vineyards.

Kalasi Cellars – off Goehmann Ln. A darling couple owns and runs this winery inspired by Indian culture. Their wines are 100% estate-grown at their 140-acre vineyard in the Texas High Plains and crafted in small batches at their winery and tasting room in Fredericksburg. The property has two llamas and a few sheep on their property. Pets are welcome outside on a leash. It’s kid-friendly as well. We tasted one white, one rose, and four reds, all inspired by Nikhila’s roots from India. They offer vegetarian pizzas, vegan snacks, local meats & cheeses, non-alcoholic drinks, and Kalasi merchandise.

Signor Vineyards – Hwy 290. This upscale winery is beautifully dressed in French country white. They specialize in Texas Wines and Oregon Wines. One of the owners is from Oregon. We were wine and dined on some excellent wine and a luscious cheeseboard. The wine was so good I bought 2020 Rochambeau – a Texas High Plains Red Blend. The most expensive wine I’ve ever bought!

Rochambeau means Rock Paper Scissors – remember that game? In your spare time, look up why it’s called that. The meaning dates back to George Washington!

Signor Vineyards

10. Indulge In A Guided Wine Tour

Let someone else drive so you can enjoy the scenic views, music, and camaraderie. There are plenty of tour companies to book with, but you will want to book a reservation with one before you leave for Fredericksburg. I wouldn’t wait until you get there to book your tour, especially if you want to go on a Saturday.

11. Lunch, Spa, Stay At Hill Country Herb Garden

Hill Country Herb Garden (formerly Fredericksburg Herb Farm) offers 14 cozy curated cottages, luscious botanical gardens, and a 5,000-square-foot spa. Guests can enjoy garden-inspired craft cocktails, sake, wine and beer, and light fare from the restaurant and take a relaxing walk through the abundant gardens.

The onsite gardens are home to 154 unique botanical species, 60 native to Texas, and 33 herb species located in their new culinary garden. Stop by the Marigold gift shop, which provides hand-selected apothecary, jewelry, and home goods.

More about the restaurant below.

A historic Sunday House turned coffee shop.

12. Visit Historic Sunday Houses 

There are over 200 Sunday Houses scattered all over Fredericksburg. Most have been renovated into other businesses, such as restaurants or gift stores.

What are Sunday Houses, you ask? German immigrants lived on farms – away from town. So they built small one-room houses in town to stay in on Saturdays so that they didn’t have to drive to town to attend religious services on Sundays. If you were a prominent family, your Sunday House had two or more rooms and may even have a large kitchen area. Families were large back then, and it would be nothing for a family of eight or ten staying in a one-room house.

There are several ways to learn about these historic Sunday Houses and why they were so important to the German settlers. One is by taking a history tour with Fredericksburg Tours. Another way would be to visit the Pioneer Museum. You’ll be able to go inside a two-room Sunday House. Asking anyone at the Visitor Center is a great option, or you can go by the Sunday Supply coffee shop at 206 S Adams St. and ask for Jesse or Sarah Barter. They own the coffee shop, which was a Sunday House many years ago. Jesse loves telling the story.

13. Wildseed Farms

If you’ve ever been to Fredericksburg, it’s possible this was your first stop. It was for me many years ago. Coming from Austin on I-35, it would be on your right off Hwy 290. Wildseed Farms is the place to go for all things Texas Bluebonnet gifts and souvenirs. Their gift shop is wall-to-wall with those pretty blue flowers. Since I’ve been, the wildflower farm has added a winery.

14. Lyndon B. Johnson State Park And Historic Site

Down the road on Hwy 290 between Fredericksburg and Johnson City is this outstanding state park full of history about our 36th President of the United States. History buffs will enjoy this park. With so much history to see, historic buildings, and nature trails to walk, plan on a half day to see it all. And if you go in springtime, you’ll see so many beautiful wildflowers growing on the property. If you want to see the LBJ Ranch, you’ll need to go to Johnson City, TX, where it’s located.

15. Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park

The city-owned park is a large recreational park with rolling hills, live oak trees, and enough pavilions to serve many people. it also provides baseball fields, sand volleyball, and basketball courts. Bring a picnic and relax.

16. Old Tunnel State Park

Old Tunnel State Park , located on Old San Antonio Road, is where you’ll find up to 3 million Mexican free-tailed bats and 3,000 cave myotis bats from May through October. Be sure to read about this state park before you go. It’s not like other state parks.

One of my many loads from Fredericksburg Trade Days

17. Go Antiquing At Fredericksburg Trade Days

Plan your visit to Fredericksburg on the 3rd weekend of any month to peruse this fabulous trade day. It’s one of the best antique/vintage outdoor markets I’ve visited. I find stuff here every time I’ve visited. Parking is $5, and no entrance fee. It’s right off Hwy 290. There is also a Biergarten with live music –an excellent place for someone to sit while you shop!

There is a special Thanksgiving Weekend show on Friday/Saturday after Thanksgiving.

18. Take A Workshop At Windmill Meadow Farm

Fredericksburg is home to many working farms and ranches. Windmill Meadow Farm is a local cut flower provider and farm. You’ll find the freshest, long-lasting flowers for purchase. They also offer year-round tours and workshops to help visitors create their own craft, such as a flower bouquet. They are located at 127 Sunshine Lane.

19. Elk Store Winery & Distillery – Main Street

While on Main Street, stop here for wine and something stronger! Located at 327 E. Main Street. They specialize in hand-crafted small-batch whiskey.

20. Altstadt Brewery

While visiting wineries, why not stop here between visits and enjoy a craft beer? They are conveniently located on Wine Road – 6120 E. Hwy 290.

21. Visit Luckenbach

A trip to Fredericksburg would be the same if you didn’t swing by Luckenbach! A local and visitor favorite. They offer live music daily. We happened upon this dude who sang great country music and a little Lynard Skynyrd.

Luckenbach is one of the area’s historic dance halls and was made famous by “Willie, Waylon & The Boys.” Grab a T-shirt at the general store – I did!

Location: 8 miles SE of Fredericksburg at Hwy 290 & FM 1376 intersection.

22. Visit Circle E Candles Showrooms

Are you familiar with Circle E Candles? I have been for a long time. Well, they make their candles in Fredericksburg. You can visit the 119 E. Main Street showroom on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 10 am to 5 p.m. Fri/Sat 10-6, and Sundays from 12-4.

23. Take A Historic Home Tour

You can tour historic homes in town on Saturday, November 18th. This is a self-guided walking tour inside these fabulous homes.

24. Dance At Hondo’s Texas Music

Hondo’s offers a dancing scene with live music. But, before the night starts, Hondo’s offers lunch and dinner. I’ve been there before for the nightlife. But we also ordered food. Located at 312 W. Main Street.

25. Fredericksburg Nature Center

Discover a pollinator garden, a cactus garden, and a geology & rock exhibit. Friends of Fredericksburg Nature Center invite you to see its seven distinct habitats at the nature center. Over 650 Texas plants and animal species, including wildflowers, birds, butterflies, dragonflies, and damselflies. Location: Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park.

26. House Wren Antiques & Garden

On your way out of town on Hwy 290, stop by this incredible outdoor nature vintage home decor plant house. I’m not sure what to call it. On my first visit, I was mesmerized by all the unique succulents I’d never seen. She has many unique plants and planters and unique home decor. Just look for the blue truck and huge WREN sign. I’ve passed it up only to have to turn around.

Address: 12194 E Hwy 290, Fredericksburg

Places To Eat In Fredericksburg

Restaurants in Fredericksburg consist of German cuisine, Tex-Mex, American, Italian – you name it, it’s here.

Vaudeville Bistro

Located in the heart of Fredericksburg in historic downtown, this three-story historic building has much to offer. Vaudeville is a one-stop shop for gourmet market offerings, home decor, an art gallery, and a delicious bistro. A chef and an artist came together and made this dream come true.

I’ve had the pleasure of dining here twice, and believe me when I say you’ll want to go hungry. Big portions equal a full tummy. And you have to save room for that sharable (or not) huge chocolate chip cookie.

Chase’s Place Cocktails + Kitchen

Family-owned and operated, Chase’s Place features unique craft cocktails with various delicious bites. Their lively cocktail list changes seasonally, and the menu currently features spirits with hemp seed-infused vodka, Chipotle Tabasco, and baked apple rye, among other inventive pairings.

Don’t come here expected to watch football, baseball, or any sport because Chase’s best famous star is Bob Ross himself. On any given day, you’ll see videos of Bob Ross doing what he did best – paint!!

Alla Campagna

One of the newest restaurants in Fredericksburg, owned by John and Evelyn Washburne, Not only will you adore the food, but you’ll love the hand-crafted patio fountain. Alla Campagna’s menu gains inspiration from the Italian countryside, featuring much more than pasta and pizza. The menu serves fresh veggies and locally sourced ingredients with decadent Texas wine pairings.

Above is the handmade lasagne I ordered. I knew it was big, but I also knew I would take what I didn’t eat home with me. OMG – the outer layer of pasta was burnt to my liking! I’d go back to Fredericksburg just to eat this again. Next time, though, I’ll share it!

Alla Campagna means “To The Countryside” in Italian.

This family also owns and operates several other restaurants in Fredericksburg.

• Otto’s – a German Bistro (next to Tubby’s)
• Tubby’s – burger & taco joint (next to the Visitor Center)
• La Bergerie Market and Wine Bar
• Caliche Coffee (roast your own coffee)
• August E’s – high-end steaks & seafood
• AND… Hoffman Haus, where I stayed

Enjoy Lunch At Hill Country Herb Garden

Enjoy a lunch of chef-curated fare, garden-inspired craft cocktails, sake, wine, and beer with your meal, then take a relaxing walk through the abundant botanical gardens.

While some of us enjoyed fresh juices, others ordered wellness shots – mine was anti-inflammatory of cinnamon, orange, lemon, ginger, and turmeric. That ought to do the trick! Everything we ordered was delicious. My sushi rolls were really good.

HILL & VINE

Another husband and wife owner. The same couple owns the Sunday Supply, which is located next door. Not just that, but they have credited an outdoor space between the two restaurants for special occasions, nights out on the town, and many fun events.

Texas food & wine was the inspiration behind creating the special dining location. I’m not sure I got in a glass of wine, but I sure did, along with everyone else, enjoy sampling all these foods. Jesse kept bringing out dishes they were trying and not on the menu. So we got to be the guinea pigs of their new dishes. This guinea pig girl ate up that pumpkin french toast (upper right in the photo above). I couldn’t stop eating it – so much I didn’t order dinner.

You must make a point to dine at Hill & Vine sometime during your visit just so you can experience the ambiance of it all. And the food and service were amazing.

Sunday Supply Coffee Shop

Stop by for fresh coffee and a pastry. Available tables are outside as well for your enjoyment. It was such a pretty morning, and we got to sit outside before the heat wave came through. But, hopefully, it’s October, so more than 100 degrees of heat! Jesse and his wife own the store, and the building is an old historic Sunday House. As I said above, if you can catch Jesse, I’m sure he would love to tell you the story.

Hoffman Haus

Where To Stay In Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg has many places to stay, including quaint guesthouses, vacation rentals (VRBO), hotel chains, and more. Prices do fluctuate depending on what time of the year you go. And if this isn’t enough, there are over 1,500 vacation rentals in and around town. The places where the others in my group and I stayed are below and are great options when coming this way.

Hoffman Haus, Fredericksburg, TX

This is where I stayed. I told everyone I could actually live in my cabin and be happy. It had a king bed, living area, table, TV, mini kitchenette, closet, and a darling bathroom with a jacuzzi tub. What more could you need? Outside to the right of the cabin is an area to sit and wonder. Plus, you get breakfast brought to you each morning in a picnic basket. Hoffman Haus is a collection of many cabins, plus there is a spa on the premises. I could get used to that!

Trueheart Hotel In Fredericksburg, TX

I saw photos of this hotel on my friend’s Instagram page, which looked amazing. I would love to stay here. Truheart Hotel is a 13-room boutique hotel – cottage style. They are so darling!

Onera Rental in Fredericksburg

Very unique cabins in nature. I loved the drive down to where one of our members was staying. I  snapped this photo while waiting for her. Onera is definitely for the natural soul.

Fredericksburg Lodging – HoneyTree

For epic treehouse rentals in Fredericksburg, check out HoneyTree . I didn’t see these, but I know they were further out of town – close to Enchanted Rock.

Fredericksburg Inn & Suites

I saw these but didn’t snap a photo. But they remind me of an old 50s motel. My friend who stayed there just loved the vibe. Fredericksburg Inn & Suites is an award-winning property. 103 Rooms. Pet-friendly room. Full breakfast. Pool. Free parking and more.

Albert Hotel In Fredericksburg, Texas

I hoped this hotel would be finished so we could tour, but it’s still being constructed. Albert Hotel is a boutique hotel in a historic building on Main Street. I can’t wait to see it. Expect to see:

• 5 Restaurants onsite
• Pet-friendly

If you’re on social media, you might want to use #fbgtx to read what others say about the amazing things to do in Fredericksburg, Texas.

About Kim Croisant

Kim Croisant is a freelance writer and owner/writer at Texas Travel Talk and a native Texan living north of Fort Worth. When not writing about travel destinations (not just in Texas), restaurants, and hotels, she is most likely juggling family life, caring for her mother, and raising her grandson. She loves red wine, chips & dip, and travel magazines. Follow her on Instagram @texastraveltalk.

October 11, 2023 at 10:46 am

Wonderful! I will def try some of these recommendations on my next visit to beautiful Fredericksburg. Thanks!

October 11, 2023 at 10:55 am

So glad you found this article to be beneficial – thanks Yesenia!!

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41 Amazing Things to do in Fredericksburg, Texas

Planning a trip to the Texas Hill Country and looking for best things to do in Fredericksburg, TX?

Explore our recommendations from strolling on Main Street to the National Museum of the Pacific War and visiting the wineries along Highway 290 aka the Wine Road!

If you are from Texas, you have probably heard all about Fredericksburg!

After all, the city is a jewel of Texas Hill Country and one of the most romantic cities to visit in the Lone Star State. 

The small town is famous for its unique German heritage and cuisine, proximity to the Hill Country wineries, as well as beautiful architecture.

More Hill Country Travel Guides Best Things to do in the Texas Hill Country Austin to Big Bend National Park road trip via Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg, TX is one of our favorite cities to visit on a weekend getaway from Houston. 

There are many things to do in this historic city located in Central Texas.

Whether you like cultural attractions or antiquing, whether you are a foodie or outdoor explorer, Fredericksburg has a variety of attractions that will satisfy all visitors.  

Popular Things to do in Fredericksburg, Texas

Located in Gillespie County of Texas, Fredericksburg is one of the most visited destinations in the Texas Hill Country.

It is an ideal holiday spot from all the major Texan cities.

The city has a lively art and music scene and hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year. 

Here are our favorite things to do in Fredericksburg while on a visit:

Take a stroll around Historic West Main Street

One of the best ways to experience the culture, tradition, and German vibe of Fredericksburg is simply to take a stroll on historic West Main Street in Downtown Fredericksburg.

All along this part of the road, you can see the 19th-century architecture and admire the historic structures. 

The historic section starts from the Marktplatz and continues for about a mile.

Major attractions include the Vereins Kirche, Pioneer Museum, Old Jail, Church, etc.

You can read information about each of these buildings on the historic plaques or take a brochure from the Fredericksburg Visitor Center. 

Go shopping on the Magic Mile

The eastern part of Main Street where the majority of boutique stores and art galleries are located is known as the Magic Mile.

This section begins at the Nimitz Museum and ends at the Marktplatz. 

This is the central shopping district in Fredericksburg, TX and has amazing shopping opportunities.

You will also find several historic buildings, beautiful landscaping, and a variety of restaurants. 

In this area, you will find several designers and boutique stores and can buy everything from apparel, home goods, designer items, furniture, artwork, books, and collectibles.

Dine on authentic German cuisine

One of our favorite Fredericksburg, TX things to do!

The diverse and authentic Fredericksburg food scene is a favorite with visitors.

Many Fredericksburg restaurants are known for their German cuisine.

We love visiting Otto’s German Bistro for the schnitzels or the Farm Haus Bistro located a short distance away from the city. 

Der Lindenbaum restaurant is another great place to try the German food. The Auslander also has good food and a great beer garden.

Apart from the German restaurants, the city also has several steakhouses and bbq places if you want to try the famous Texas barbeque.

Hondo’s on Main has excellent food and vibe.

Looking for something sweet? Visit the Fredericksburg Pie Company!

Explore the city’s unique German Heritage at the Pioneer Museum

The best place to learn about the history of Fredericksburg, TX is the Pioneer Museum managed by the Gillespie County Historical Society.

On a visit, you can learn through exhibits and documents how this German city came to be founded in Texas in the 1850s. 

The museum is spread over an area of three and a half acres.

Here you will find original homesteads of the first German settlers and can see a variety of ancient artifacts and documents.

Through the buildings and exhibits, you can understand the life of the German pioneers. 

The buildings include a one-room schoolhouse, a log cabin, bathhouse, barn, and a smokehouse.

Seeing the beautifully preserved buildings is an amazing experience.

We recommend keeping aside an hour to see the structures. 

Also Read: 10 Best German Towns in Texas

Relax at the beautiful Marktplatz

Marktplatz is Fredericksburg’s Town Square. It divides the historic and shopping areas of Main Street and is worth a visit.

Here you will find lots of open green space, picnic tables, a play area, and lots of people.

The city’s popular events including Oktoberfest take place here. 

The Marktplatz has many attractions including the Vereins Kirche Museum.

A storytelling maypole is also located in the square. It has the history of Fredericksburg, TX along its branches.

You can also spot historical bronze sculptures and a waterwheel. Kids of all ages love seeing the waterwheel.

In the holiday season, Marktplatz has an ice skating rink and looks spectacular. 

Marvel at the iconic Vereins Kirche Museum

This striking octagonal building is the replica of the 19th-century German church that was the first building to stand in the city.

The old building was demolished in 1896 and the new one was built in its place in 1935 to honor the pioneers. 

Located in the Marktplatz, the Vereins Kirche has served multiple purposes: it was once a town hall, school, and church at various times.

The museum has many exhibits on the city’s past and is interesting to see. 

You will also find the Vereins Kirche depicted on most of Fredericksburg magnets, postcards, and paintings and has become a symbol of the city. 

Go wine tasting on Main Street

Fredericksburg is the center of Texas Wine Country.

You will find several Fredericksburg wine tasting rooms located within the town itself and these are perfect to try wine flights and tastings. 

The best part of these tasting rooms is that you don’t need to worry about a designated driver or a wine shuttle.

You can just walk to the wineries and then walk back to your hotel at the end of the day.

The city also has an open container policy which means you can walk around with wine in a plastic glass. 

Some of the more popular ones are Perspective Cellars, Narrow Path Winery, Grape Creek Vineyards, Vintners Hideaway, and of course the historic Fredericksburg Winery. 

Visit the National Museum of the Pacific War

The National Museum of Pacific War in Fredericksburg, TX is a must-visit attraction for wartime and military enthusiasts.

So what exactly is a Pacific War museum doing in this Texan town? There’s an interesting bit of history right there! 

Fredericksburg was the birthplace of Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, who commanded the US Pacific fleet forces during the Second World War.

The National Museum of the Pacific War as well as the adjacent Nimitz Museum is located here in his honor. 

This is the only museum in the country that is dedicated to telling the story of World War II that was fought in the Pacific Theater region.

The museum’s George H. W. Bush gallery has a vast collection that displays a variety of WWII era exhibits.

You can see photographs, guns, flags, aircraft, tanks, and even personal letters that were sent home. 

The recreated Pacific Combat war zone is a favorite with most visitors.

You can see reenactments of the popular tactics and strategies used during the war at the Pacific Combat Zone.

Other things to do at the museum include walking along the Plaza of Presidents and admiring the Japanese Garden of Peace. 

The museum is among top history museums in the country and is definitely a must visit while in Fredericksburg. 

Learn more about the admiral at the Admiral Nimitz Museum

The Nimitz Museum is dedicated entirely to the man who shaped the response, attack, and effectiveness of the Pacific Fleet during the Second World War. 

Housed in the Old Nimitz Hotel the museum tells the story of the Admiral from his birth to his commanding the forces during the war.

Visitors can see a range of personal artifacts donated by the Nimitz family. 

Enjoy the solitude of the Japanese Garden of Peace

While the Japanese Garden of Peace is a part of the museum, it deserves a special mention simply because it is free to visit.

It is really cathartic to take a stroll in this beautiful garden after seeing all the warfare exhibits. 

We loved knowing that the garden is a symbol of friendship between Admiral Nimitz and Japanese commander Admiral Togo.

The water features and shady trees feel great; visitors can rake their own gravel to feel peaceful in the garden. 

Purchase unique Texas souvenirs

The many cute shops on Main Street are perfect to purchase unique Texas souvenirs.

You can find books about local Texas history, handicrafts, paintings by local artists, magnets, postcards, barbeque recipe books, as well as wooden toys. 

You can also buy western cowboy boots, hats, paintings of the Texas bluebonnets, candy, fudge, and chocolates.

Undoubtedly, one of the best souvenirs for wine connoisseurs are wine bottles from the Texas Hill Country wineries.

Attend the First Friday Art Walk

If you are lucky enough to visit Fredericksburg on the first Friday in the month, then you should definitely attend the First Friday Art Walk.

This is a must for art and culture lovers.

On the artworks, you can visit the amazing art galleries in Fredericksburg and admire local artists.

The event includes live music and wine and is one of the most fun things to do in Fredericksburg, Texas.

Enjoy the wildflowers at Wildseed Farms

Wildseed Farms grows several different varieties of wildflowers and is the country’s largest working wildflower farm.

The farm is spread over 200 acres and is open to visitors.

There is no cost to enter the farm, making this one of the free things to do in Fredericksburg, TX.

There are walking trails around the farm and from here you can see the beautiful Texas wildflowers and take amazing photos.

No matter when you go to the farm, something is always in bloom.

But the best time to visit is from March to summer end.

They also have an updated bloom calendar on their website, we recommend checking it before you go. 

Wildseed Farms is also one of the best places to see sunflowers in Texas .

There are many other things to do at the farm.

Drink beer at the Brewbonnet Biergarten. You will also find fresh salsas, jams & jellies, canned vegetables, and other Texan products here.

Must try is the peach ice cream during summer. You can also shop for plants, pottery, souvenirs & more at the farm. 

Enjoy the nightlife in Fredericksburg

The nightlife in Fredericksburg is pretty exciting.

You can easily find dancing, cocktails, beers, and music.

Along with a bevy of excellent restaurants, cafes, and bakeries, Fredericksburg also has great bars. 

Most of them are located downtown on Main Street and are pretty easy to walk to.

One of the most popular bars is 78624 The Bar. Other places to go include Der Daiwel, Pioneer Bar, and The Stable.

Check out the breweries and distilleries in the area

Yes we know that this is Texas Wine Country but Fredericksburg and its vicinity also has many breweries and distilleries.

That’s right craft beer is a real thing in Texas!

There are two breweries located within Fredericksburg, TX itself –  Fredericksburg Brewing Company located on Main and Altstadt Brewery.

Elk Store Winery and Distillery on Main Street is also worth the visit. 

Besides these there are many other breweries and distilleries within driving distance of the city. 

Go hiking at Lady Bird Johnson Park

Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park in Fredericksburg is the perfect place to go for hiking.

This 33 acre park has many things to do including hiking trails, baseball fields, basketball courts, and more.

There are also many other amenities like swimming pools, picnic areas, children’s play areas, etc. 

We especially love the hiking trails.

Our favorite is the 2.6 miles loop trail that has river and dam views.

You can go off trail in places to make an even longer hike.

There are several rock outcroppings and it is steep in places but a great way to get into nature.

The trail is gorgeous in spring when the cacti and bushes are blooming with flowers in peak wildflower season. 

Unique things to do in Fredericksburg

Here are some of the more unique things to do in Fredericksburg that almost no one else will tell you about.

Many of these attractions and activities are hidden gems, discovered on our several visits to the city.

Have breakfast at Old German Bakery & Restaurant

When it comes to breakfast our favorite is the old German Bakery and Restaurant.

There’s almost always a rush to be seated but the weight is worth it.

All the food is served fresh and The bakery section has amazing pastries.

Our kids love the potato pancakes here and visiting the bakery is definitely a highlight of our weekend trips to Fredericksburg. 

Admire the historic St Mary’s church

The historic St Mary’s Catholic Church was founded by German immigrants in 1846.

This beautiful building is on the National Register of Historic Places.

It has beautiful gothic architecture and the corner tower is an icon of the church. 

You can see the church on a short guided tour that takes place after Mass on every Sunday.

Inside you will find beautiful paintings and murals leading to its designation as the painted church of Texas Hill Country.  

See the Old Jail exhibit

Located at 117 W San Antonio St, you can find the Old Gillespie County Jail that was built in 1885.

This is a must for history buffs.

The historic building was built with limestone blocks and is two stories high.

It is one of its kind buildings in the area and is fascinating to see. 

Buy fresh peaches from the orchards

Did you know that almost 40% of Texas peaches are grown in Gillespie County?

Over 60 orchards are located in close proximity to the city and you can buy the peaches in several places.

Our favorite is Das Peach Haus. 

On several occasions, we have also seen fruit stands selling peaches while driving around the countryside.

The peach season is from mid-May to mid-August, so time your visit accordingly.

You can also taste the fruit in pies, wines, and even beer throughout Fredericksburg. 

Enjoy a romantic time at Das Peach Haus

Speaking of Das Peach Haus, this place deserves a special mention because it is incredibly beautiful.

Located in a historic building that served as a warehouse for Lone Star Beer, Das Peach Haus is the perfect place to enjoy a romantic meal in a tranquil setting. 

Along with great food, they have an excellent range of local jams, jellie, sauces, and salsa for purchase.

It is fun walking through the store and looking for things to buy.

You can also sample wine at the store. In fall, they have pumpkin patches and seasonal decor and are a great place to visit. 

But our favorite part is the little pond at the back.

Sitting here, listening to the live music and amazing views is a very peaceful and fun experience. 

See a performance at the Rockbox Theatre

For family-friendly things to do at night in Fredericksburg, visit the Rockbox Theater.

This rock n roll themed performing venue has blues, jazz, country shows and is a nice option for spending an evening.

They have tributes to various artists and always put on a good show. 

Visit historic Fort Martin Scott

Built in 1848, Fort Martin Scott was a US Army Outpost near the town of Fredericksburg.

It was built to defend the western frontier of Texas after the Mexican war.

The fort served several purposes including protecting travelers and homesteaders until it was abandoned as the state expanded further west. 

Today this historic site is open for self-guided tours. It is located on Highway 290 and easily accessible.

You can view the historic buildings built in the grounds and even see historic reenactments at certain times during the year. 

Visit the Texas Rangers Heritage Center

Located next to Fort Martin Scott, you will find the Texas Rangers Heritage Center.

Here you can learn all about the history of Texas Rangers and their contribution to law enforcement.

The center also occasionally has music, cookoffs, and other fun activities.  

Step inside Twisted Sister bakeshop for a cuppa coffee

Our favorite when it comes to baked goodies and coffee!

This lovely place has amazing coffee and both sweet and savory pastries.

I personally love the iced mocha here and the pumpkin latte in autumn.

Their cinnamon rolls are also huge and delicious.

They also have excellent coffee mugs, sassy wall decor, and other goods for purchase. 

Enjoy Christmas year round at the Christmas Store

The Christmas store on Main Street is a must if you love Christmas.

The store is open year round and has been operational since 1994.

Here you can experience the holiday season even if it is hot and sweaty outside.

You can find unique Christmas ornaments, upscale holiday decor, wreaths, elves, stockings, and more in the gift shop. 

Go antiquing in the city

If you love antiquing then Fredericksburg is one of the best places to stop.

You can find a variety of interesting and charming historic pieces from vintage furniture and textiles to European pottery.

There are many antique stores in the city.

Antique stores on Main Street include Farm Haus, Hill Country Trading Post, and the Vintage Vault.

Another great place to visit is the Antique Mall of Fredericksburg.

Antique lovers will also love the Fredericksburg Trade Days held at Sunday Farms.

You can be sure to find several other stores and many treasures If you go antiquing in Fredericksburg.

Watch a production of the Fredericksburg Theatre Company

The Fredericksburg theater company is the best place to watch Broadway shows, Christmas classics, and Shakespearean plays in the city.

The productions are really well put and include talented stars.

This is definitely a fun thing to do if you are in the city for a longer time.

Smell the fresh herbs at the Fredericksburg Herb Farm

The Fredericksburg Herb Farm is a quaint property located just a few blocks off Main Street.

This was originally a 1800s homestead and has now been transformed into a rustic resort with a herb farm, spa, and cottages.

While you can stay at the farm to enjoy its many attractions, you can also visit just to eat at the Farm Haus Bistro.

You can walk among beds of rosemary, thyme, lavender, and other beautifully scented herbs on the property. 

Seasonal Things to do in Fredericksburg

The city hosts a variety of events and festivals and has different attractions during different seasons.

Here are some of our favorite seasonal tourist attractions in Fredericksburg.

See the bluebonnets at Willow City Loop on spring

The Texas Hill Country is stunning during spring.

A gentle breeze flows through the fields and flowers of every color bloom as far as the eye can see.

The most prolific flower is of course the Texas bluebonnet and the best place to see it is right here in Fredericksburg. Willow City Loop is a 13-mile road that is bursting with wildflowers come spring.

All along the road you will find unique Texas signs, cowboy boots, cattle, and horses. 

Related: Best Places to see Bluebonnets in Spring

Visit the lavender farms in June

If spring is for bluebonnets, summer is for lavender farms!

There are several located in and around Fredericksburg. In fact, you will also see lavender blooming in the city itself if you visit in the summer. 

Apart from picking your own flowers, you can also buy oils, tea, honey, and other artisan goods.

Fredericksburg Herb Farm has lots of blooms and lavender items for sale.

Becker Vineyards hosts a lavender festival while the nearby town of Blanco is known as ‘Lavender Capital of the World.’ 

Experience Christmas celebrations in the city

Fredericksburg is one of the best places in Texas to attend Christmas celebrations.

Fredericksburg’s German heritage really shines through during the holiday season.

The whole city decks up for the holiday season and a variety of events are held from Thanksgiving up to New Year.

Also Read: 10 Best Things to do for Christmas in Fredericksburg, Texas

The highlight is the enormous traditional German Christmas pyramid and Light the Night illuminated Christmas Parade.

Rent a pair of ice skates and enjoy ice skating with the family at the Eisbahn outdoor ice skating rink located at the Marktplatz.

Complete your holiday shopping at the Peddler Show and sample holiday wines throughout the town. 

Stop at the Christmas store on Main Street and buy some ornaments!

Enjoy beer tasting at Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is one of the best times to visit Fredericksburg. 

The town holds a big celebration during the first weekend of October.

There’s a lot of dancing, three stages devoted to German music, art and craft stalls, and plenty of beer!

The authentic German food also draws many visitors here during Oktoberfest.

You might also see people dressed in lederhosen and can be forgiven for thinking that you are in Bavaria. 

Attend the Fredericksburg Food and Wine Fest

Also held in October, the Food and Wine fest is great time to visit the town.

The event takes place around Marktplatz and you can sample a variety of Hill Country wines at the fest right on Main Street.

There’s also live music, tons of food options, and activities for all ages.

Best Things to do near Fredericksburg, Texas

While there are plenty of things to do in Fredericksburg, there are equally beautiful and unique attractions a short distance away from the city.

Most of these can be seen as a short day trip from Fredericksburg. 

Here are our favorite things to do near Fredericksburg, Texas:

Drive Highway 290 Wine Trail

Did you know that this part of the Texas Hill Country is also known as Wine Country?

There are over 100 vineyards and world class wineries surrounding Fredericksburg – all perfect for wine tour!

Many of them are located on the 30-mile stretch of the road from Fredericksburg to Johnson City.

So take a designated driver or better yet the wine shuttle and hop on to sample some of the best wines in the Southeast US. 

See the Alamo in San Antonio

Did you know that Fredericksburg is just an hour northwest of San Antonio ?

That’s right, you can also visit the Alamo and San Antonio’s beautiful riverwalk on a day trip from the city.

At the Alamo, you can learn about Texas’s history and then go for a boat cruise down the San Antonio River .

End your trip with a Tex-Mex dinner on the Riverwalk in the big city.

Go hiking at Enchanted Rock

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is located just 18 miles away from Fredericksburg and is definitely worth a visit.

The name Enchanted Rock has its origins in a Native American legend.

This unique rock formation is made of pink granite and rises 425 feet above the surrounding area. 

The Summit trail to climb Enchanted Rock is over 4 miles and takes 2 to 3 hours to complete.

From the top, you can have stunning views of the Texas Hill Country.

Besides this, there are many other hikes at Enchanted Rock State Park.

Visitors can also go rock climbing and see wildlife, making it a favorite spot for outdoor activities near Fredericksburg, Texas.

Take a day trip to Wimberley

Wimberley , located an hour southeast of Fredericksburg, makes an excellent day trip.

There are many things to do in this charming town but the two most famous attractions are the swimming holes of Jacob’s Well and Blue Hole.

Both these areas are perfect to take a dip on a hot summer day and hence favorite with families.

See the falls at Pedernales State Park

Pedernales Falls State Park is located on the banks of the Pedernales River and is an excellent place to visit.

The park has hiking trails of varying difficulty levels and is great for families.

Visitors can go swimming and river tubing or even fishing. Children can play in the water in shallow areas.

The mountain biking trails here are also worth exploring. 

Float down the river in New Braunfels

New Braunfels is located a little under 60 miles away from Fredericksburg and can be reached in an hour and a half.

The town is also a German town and while the architecture is similar to that of Fredericksburg, New Braunfels is a destination in its own right.

Our most favorite thing to do here in the summer is to go floating down the river. 

Explore the historic district in Kerrville

Kerrville is located just a little over 20 miles away from Fredericksburg, Texas and makes a great day trip.

The highlight is historic downtown where you can see many beautiful buildings and the Gillespie County courthouse.

You can walk along the river trail and also see the Coming King Sculpture Prayer Garden. 

Attend a country concert in Luckenbach

Luckenbach, a small town in the beautiful Hill Country, famously has a population of 3!

This town has just about 5 buildings and yet attracts thousands of tourists every weekend.

Luckenbach is famous for being a venue for country music concerts.

If you happen to go on weekends, you will always find country music singers performing to an enthusiastic audience.

You can listen to live music, two-step in the old dance hall, drink beer, and have fun in Luckenbach.

Luckenbach is located just under 5 miles from Fredericksburg, Texas and is a must stop for country music fans. 

See the bats fly at Old Tunnel State Park

Old Tunnel State Park, located near Fredericksburg, is one of the best state parks in the Hill Country.

The park is located about 14 miles south of the city and can be reached in under an hour via the Old San Antonio Road.

Old Tunnel State Park comprises an old railroad tunnel and several acres of area surrounding it.

This is one of the premier bat watching sites in Texas.

Over 3 million Mexican free-tailed bats live in the Old Tunnel State Park from May to October.

Visitors can view the bats emerge from the abandoned railroad tunnel at sunset.

This fascinating occurrence is a favorite with nature and wildlife lovers and as popular as the Congress Avenue Bat Flight in Austin.

Apart from the flight of Mexican free-tailed bats, Old Tunnel State Park also has many other activities including nature trails, camping, and bird watching.

Also Read: Best Places to see Bats in Texas

Visit Lyndon B Johnson National Historical Park

Lyndon B Johnson National Historical Park is dedicated to President Lyndon B Johnson and Lady Bird Johnson.

Located in Stonewall, the park is a must visit for history buffs.

Visitors can tour the LBJ Ranch, his birthplace, and the family cemetery among other historic buildings. 

The ranch served as the Texas White House for the president from 1951 to 1973.

Visitors can also see the Sauer-Beckmann Farmstead located within the Lyndon B Johnson state park.

This living history museum it’s the best way to learn how the pioneer families lived a century ago.

You can see activities such as sheep shearing, sausage making, and more. 

Where to stay in Fredericksburg, TX?

Fredericksburg has a variety of lodging options from hotels, motels, inns, bed & breakfasts, and resorts.

Many of them are conveniently located near Fredericksburg’s Main Street.

We definitely recommend these, since you won’t have to worry about finding parking on Main Street plus can indulge in wine tasting and walk back to your hotel.

If you want historic cabins and cottages, try Fredericksburg Herb Farm.

1891 Grape Arbor House is another great option for a historic home.

The city also has all the popular chains from Best Western, Fairfield Inn & Suites, and Holiday Inn. 

On a few occasions, we have also stayed overnight in neighboring Kerrville and visited Fredericksburg as a day trip.

This is especially useful if you are traveling in peak season and hotels in Fredericksburg, TX are full or expensive. 

Visiting Fredericksburg, Texas is like stepping back into an old world.

You might still hear German being spoken while taking a stroll on Historic Main Street.

The city even observes the old customs and traditions.

The beautiful countryside and the European atmosphere make Fredericksburg one of the top cities to visit in Texas.

We hope you liked our post on the many amazing things to do in Fredericksburg, Texas from bakeries and wineries to museums and hiking.

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Top Things to Do in Fredericksburg, TX

Places to visit in fredericksburg, explore popular experiences, ways to tour fredericksburg.

Boutique Winery Experience in the Fredericksburg Texas Hill Country

All-Inclusive Social Wine Tour

• Texas Hill Country and LBJ Tour From San Antonio

Fredericksburg Private Wine Tour Volkswagen Limo

Fredericksburg Fiasco Scavenger Hunt

Fredericksburg City Trolley Tour

Private Fredericksburg Winery Transfer

Half-Day Winery Tour in Fredericksburg

• Taste of Fredericksburg Small-Group Wine Tour from San Antonio

Fredericksburg Texas Luxury Wine Tour Up to 6 people

Historical tours.

Top Attractions in Fredericksburg

Other Top Attractions around Fredericksburg

Private Sightseeing Tours

Private and Luxury

Tours & sightseeing.

Food, Wine & Nightlife

What travellers are saying

• National Museum of the Pacific War
• Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
• Grape Creek Vineyards Fredericksburg
• Main Street
• Wildseed Farms
• Old Tunnel State Park
• Fischer & Wieser's Das Peach Haus
• Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park
• Enchanted Rock Fissure
• Fredericksburg Private Wine Tour Lincoln Limo
• St. Mary's Catholic Church
• Fredericksburg Visitor Information Center
• Pioneer Museum
• Willow City Loop

Home » North America » USA » Texas » 34 Fun Things to Do in Fredericksburg, Texas

34 Fun Things to Do in Fredericksburg, Texas

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: October 26, 2023

In the heart of the Texas Hill Country, the town of Fredericksburg is a stone’s throw away from Austin and San Antonio. Despite its proximity to the big cities, it is popular because it maintains a small town feel while being packed with activities. There is never a shortage of fun things to do in Fredericksburg, Texas.

With its unique German heritage, thriving wineries, shopping, and museums, it’s the perfect weekend getaway from just about anywhere. We have visited Fredericksburg at least a dozen times and return several times a year. Here are our recommendations for top things to see and do whether you’re visiting for a weekend or longer.

Visit Fredericksburg wineries

Enjoy flowers at wildseed farms, visit national museum of the pacific war, stroll through the japanese garden of peace, shop along main street, explore lyndon b. johnson national historical park, experience life at the sauer-beckmann living history farm, pick peaches at an orchard, visit local breweries, see the beauty of a painted church, strike a deal at trade days, indulge at a bed and breakfast, fall in love with luckenbach, try local spirits at elk store winery and distillery, explore old tunnel state park, grab a bite at twisted sisters bake shop, browse around hill country herb garden, check out the bar scene, visit fort martin scott, try german food, see the exhibits at vereins kirche, learn about history at the pioneer museum, grab a drink at hye cider, climb enchanted rock, see live music at bankersmith, sample the wares at munch food park, see a show at fredericksburg theatre company, browse the warehouse district, taste whiskey at garrison brothers distillery, get cultured on a first friday art walk, drive the willow city loop, eat, drink, and relax at das peach haus, raise a glass at oktoberfest, join in the christmas festivities.

Over the last decade, wineries in Fredericksburg have gained national media attention and won more awards than ever. The live music, food, and fun atmosphere don’t hurt either.

A 30-mile stretch of road from Fredericksburg to Johnson City, Texas, is home to more than 50 wineries and tasting rooms. Many of the wineries focus on grapes that grow well in the Mediterranean, so look for wines like Viognier, Albarino, Sangiovese, and Tempranillo.

A trip to the Texas wineries is a great way to spend a day trip or weekend–with a designated driver or one of the many chauffeured tours . There are new wineries all the time, so you can go back multiple times and always see (and try) something different. Our favorites include Augusta Vin, Slate Theory, Pedernales Cellars, and Heath Sparkling Wines.

Wildseed Farms is like a playground for people who love the outdoors. In the spring, summer, and fall, its fields teem with flowers of every hue from the famous Texas bluebonnets to brilliant red standing cyprus.

The wildflower farm has walking trails, butterfly gardens, and an endless number of photo opportunities. There is also a wide variety of plants, seeds, and food items for sale in the shops. There’s so much to do here, and it’s one of the prettiest places to visit in Fredericksburg.

From the moment we walked into the National Museum of the Pacific War , it was clear that this was no small-town museum. The in-depth exhibits bring to life the conflict in the Pacific Theater in painstaking detail with thousands of artifacts and heavy machinery of the type you would normally only expect in facilities like the Smithsonian.

The three buildings of the Pacific War Museum include two traditional museums that focus on Admiral Nimitz and the World War II battles in the Pacific plus an outdoor Pacific Combat Zone where reenactments bring the battles to life in front of your eyes. If you have even a passing interest in history and are wondering what to do in Fredericksburg, Texas, make sure the National Museum of the Pacific War is on your list.

Part of the National Museum of the Pacific War, the Japanese Garden of Peace provides a moment of quiet in downtown and a counterpoint to the tragedy of war discussed in the buildings that surround it. The garden includes lots of items with symbolic meaning, including the stones, raked gravel, and water feature. In fact, the garden itself is symbolic—a gift in honor of the friendship between Admiral Nimitz and Japan’s Admiral Togo Heihachiro.

While the garden is integrated into the Pacific War Museum complex, you can also enter it separately. It’s one of the exceptional free things to see in Fredericksburg.

Shopping is undoubtedly one of the most popular things to do in Fredericksburg. The historic buildings along Main Street are home to over 100 shops selling pretty much anything you could be in the market for.

From antiques and art to clothes, musical instruments, candy, and home décor, the shops here have you covered. There are almost no chains, so the merchandise is unique and varied. When you’ve had your fill of shopping, there are lots of restaurants and wine tasting rooms where you can indulge while giving your feet a break. Hondo’s, Burger Burger, and Vaudeville are some of our favorites.

A short road trip away , two points of interest in Stonewall and Johnson City, Texas, allow visitors to take a step back into presidential history with a look at the life of Lyndon B. Johnson, the 36th president of the United States. Together, they are the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park.

Stonewall–just 14 miles from Fredericksburg–is home to the LBJ Ranch , which includes important places from the president’s life. You can visit the one-room schoolhouse where he learned to read, see his grandparents’ house, and view the Johnson family cemetery. A tour through the Texas White House where Johnson spent about one-quarter of his presidency transports you back to the 1960s with a fascinating look at the man behind the office. (Note: as of October 2023, the Texas White House remains temporarily closed for repairs, but it is viewable from the outside.)

Nearby Johnson City is the location of LBJ’s boyhood home and other landmarks significant in his early life.

The Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm is located at the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site. Here, interpreters work at this Texas-German farm that is just as it would have been in 1918 when LBJ was growing up.

Interpreters can vegetables, shear sheep, and even butcher animals they raise. The realism and attention to detail on the farm is striking, and the interpreters are passionate about their work and eager to educate visitors. It is worth visiting if you’re nearby.

The area around Fredericksburg produces 40 percent of the peaches in Texas. In the spring and summer, the orange gems hang heavy on the trees outside of town beckoning visitors to pick their own at the local orchards. There are also lots of roadside stands where you can buy peaches and delicious peach ice cream, too. Grabbing a scoop is one of the most delicious ways to welcome summer in the Texas Hill Country. Jenschke Orchards is our pick, but there are several good options.

It’s important to note that, like anything that’s weather dependent, the peach crop and availability can vary. Make sure to check what’s available at the orchard or farm stand before you go.

Fredericksburg has several breweries to visit that are perfect for beer drinkers. Just on the edge of town is Altstadt Brewery which specializes in authentic German-style craft beers like pils and dunkel. Altstadt offers regular tours and tastings, and they have an on-site restaurant.

On Main Street, Fredericksburg Brewing Company is worth a stop. The oldest brewpub in Texas , they make German-style brews with creative names like Not So Dumb Blonde. The restaurant features German specialties, burgers, and pizza.  

The German immigrants who settled Fredericksburg and other Texas towns in the 19th century tried to make their new places of worship feel like those they’d left behind in their homelands. They painted altars and arches with vibrant colors and designs reminiscent of the Gothic style they were used to, creating the Painted Churches of Texas .

While other towns like Schulenburg have a cluster of churches, Fredericksburg has a beautiful example of the artwork in St. Mary’s Catholic Church . The work from the early 1900s features intricate stained glass, paintings of the Twelve Apostles, arch decorations, and a depiction of Jesus above the altar, making St. Mary’s sanctuary one of the more unique things to see in Fredericksburg.

Seven miles east of downtown is a shopper’s paradise. Once a month, Sunday Farms turns into the bonanza that is Trade Days for the weekend. Antiques, gifts, jewelry, oddities, and kitsch— Trade Days has it all. With over 400 vendors, there is a tremendous amount to choose from. We love searching among the stalls for unique items–it feels like a treasure hunt!

The area is home to hundreds of B&Bs and guest houses. By staying in a bed and breakfast you can enjoy delicious breakfasts, personalized service, and a welcoming atmosphere a bit different from a hotel. Options in this B&B mecca range from upscale elegance to down home country comfort in line with what you’d expect in the heart of Texas. You can stay on the grounds of some of the wineries or even in a remodeled 19th century cabin . The options here are nearly endless.

The town of Luckenbach, Texas , is a must-visit for us every time we’re in Fredericksburg. Just 14 miles away, Luckenbach is essentially a wide place in the road. This tiny ghost town draws people from across the country and around the world to drink beer underneath the oak trees and listen to country music in the memorabilia-studded bar and on the stages out back.

There are daily informal performances at Luckenbach as well as concerts from country greats and festivals on the weekends . Here, there is a feeling that everyone is a regular–maybe even friends and family. Without a doubt, Luckenbach is one of the best places to visit nearby.

Right on Main Street, the Elk Store Winery and Distillery is one of the coolest places to visit in Fredericksburg. With dark wood, exposed stone, and comfy couches you can sink into all night, this bar is full of locals and people who know what’s good to drink.

The Elk Store Winery and Distillery has two bars—one with wine from around the world and one with spirits distilled on-site. Whether you’re choosing a French Cotes du Rhône, something made with their gin, or a popular cocktail with the house-made pecan pie moonshine, it’s hard to go wrong. I love the vibe here—comfort, familiarity, fun, and good drinks.

Want to visit Fredericksburg without driving? Check out these tours and top sites from Austin or San Antonio .

Old Tunnel State Park is a railroad tunnel that ceased operations in the 1940s. It’s now popular as the home of a colony of over 3 million Mexican free-tailed bats. In the evenings, you can gather to watch the bats take flight from their tunnel home, spiraling and swirling through the sky at dusk much like they famously do not far away in downtown Austin .

Twisted Sisters Bake Shop is a top-notch bakery with a sense of humor. They offer a full-service espresso bar and a huge selection of homemade items for breakfast and lunch. Locals and visitors come in for bagel sandwiches, cupcakes, salads, and more. The plate-sized cinnamon buns are to-die-for, and we can’t pass through town without getting the breakfast tacos.

The café has a quirky sense of humor with attitude-filled merchandise like coffee mugs that proclaim “better late than ugly” and dish towels that say, “I’m afraid if I give up wine, I’ll have to replace it with murder.” This place is brimming with wit and good food. Even better: there’s ample parking and plenty of comfortable seating.

Just a few blocks off Main Street, Hill Country Herb Garden is a chic, rustic complex transformed out of an 1800s homestead.

The farm has a 5000-square foot day spa and a fabulous bistro set among winding gardens and walking paths. You can stay on the property in the cottages or just stop in as we did for a quick bite and to check out the beds of rosemary, roses, and other beautifully-scented things.

Fredericksburg doesn’t lack for good places to eat and drink, but there are a few places we love for their expertly made cocktails and the ambiance.

Salvation Speakeasy is a cool bar with lush furnishings and the best bartenders in town. The location is unexpected to keep you on your toes (it is a speakeasy, after all). At 78624 The Bar , you’ll find classic cocktails, wine, and beer in a unique, antique-filled setting. The live piano music and courtyard make it among our top choices.

If you’re a karaoke lover, the Velvet Lounge is the place to go for fun and good drinks. They’re known for their happy hour.

In December 1848, the US Army established Fort Martin Scott as the first military post on the western frontier of Texas. On the outskirts of the newly-settled town of Fredericksburg, the Fort was designed to protect travelers and settlers in the area.

As the frontier moved further west, the Fort’s purpose changed, but it continued to serve military and security aims through the Civil War. Visitors can see original and reconstructed buildings and learn about life and conflict along the frontier.

Fredericksburg is full of restaurants and brew pubs serving food not typically found on this side of the Atlantic, and especially not in Texas. Influenced by the town’s heritage, German and German-inspired food options abound.

Cuisine ranges from traditional sausage, pretzels, and apple strudel to more Texan interpretations like schnitzel with Monterey Jack cheese and guacamole. Whatever your preference, there are lots of options for food and even more for beer.

Our top choice for restaurants if Otto’s –we’ve eaten here numerous times and have always been impressed. Plus, they’re open every day, which isn’t common in Fredericksburg. Other winners are Auslander, Old German Barkery & Restaurant, and Altstadt.

Founded by German immigrants in 1846, Fredericksburg (named after Prince Friedrich of Prussia) has a rich and distinctive history. Part of that history is on display at the the Vereins Kirche, a reconstruction of the original building that served as a town hall, school, and church. Visitors can learn about everything from the original settlers’ historic treaty with the Comanche Indians to religion and community on the frontier.

Run by the Gillespie County Historical Society, the Pioneer Museum is one of the history museums in Fredericksburg . It is designed to inform visitors about the lives of the early pioneers in the Hill Country by showing them places where the settlers lived and worked. The 3-acre complex has 11 buildings showcasing exhibits and more than 40,000 artifacts from the mid-19 th century.

The museum hosts regular walking tours that give an in-depth look at the history of the area.  

Hye Cider is a unique offering in the area. Recently relocated to a new tasting room at the Texas Wine Collective, they have a core offering of five ciders made from apples, honey, and other organic ingredients from the Hill Country. We loved them all but were partial to the slightly sweet Hye Note and Hye Heaven, which is made with Turkish figs and toasted peppercorns.

Seventeen miles north of downtown, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is one of the most popular hiking and camping sites in Texas and one of the best attractions in the Hill Country . Native American tribes ascribed magical powers to the rock, hence its otherworldly name.

The massive pink granite batholith and surrounding park attract 250,000 visitors a year for good reason—it boasts 2.5 square miles of land for rock climbing, backpacking, picnicking, and other outdoor activities. Whatever your plans, Enchanted Rock State Park is a great place for active pursuits or just relaxing in nature. Make reservations well ahead of time if this is on your must-do list, and take plenty of water if it’s warm.

Bankersmith is a ghost town turned saloon and dance hall. With four full bars, live music, and food, there is always something going on here. Bankersmith hosts frequent markets, food festivals, and special events, so check the calendar, especially if you’re planning to visit on the weekend.

For a fun outdoor dining experience, check out the Munch Food Park . On any given day, there’s a variety of trucks serving everything from donuts to barbecue in a family-friendly atmosphere. On weekends, you’ll find the beverage barn open, and there is often live music and special events.

The Fredericksburg Theatre Company has entertained audiences in the region for 25 seasons. They stage seven productions every season ranging from musicals like Annie to dramas like 12 Angry Men to comedies like the Texas classic A Tuna Christmas . If you’re looking for something a little unexpected to do, check out their current schedule .

The Warehouse District has a group of unique antique stores with one-of-a-kind finds. There are artworks, home furnishings, and lots of furniture. We even came across 19 th -century French books and a skeleton, so you never know what you may find here.

To fuel your shopping adventures, stop in to one of the restaurants. August E’s is an upscale choice known for their sushi and steak. Granite House Lounge has a great patio for outdoor dining and one of the best burgers in town.

A few miles outside of town in Hye, Texas, is one of the most popular distilleries in Texas . Garrison Brothers Distillery makes premium grain-to-glass bourbon on the ranch here, and they welcome visitors to sample their wares.

Sign up for one of Garrison Brothers’ regular tours to learn about all the details of how they make their handcrafted spirits. After you’re finished with the tour and tasting, enjoy lounging for awhile.

Scattered among the tasting rooms and cute shops, you’ll find about a dozen art galleries along Main Street and the surrounding areas. On the first Friday of every month, they keep their doors open late to welcome visitors with art showcases, live music, and wine from the nearby vineyards.

Each gallery has different options ranging from painting and photography to sculpture and ceramics. The self-guided gallery crawl becomes one big festive event. First Friday is a great time to be in town, but if you can’t make it then, check out the galleries on your own schedule.

A 13-mile loop northeast of Fredericksburg, the Willow City Loop is one of the best places in the area to see bluebonnets and other Texas wildflowers. The drive is lovely year-round but it’s particularly special from March to May when the landscape is painted with blue, red, and yellow flowers.

Das Peach Haus combines two of the best things about the Fredericksburg area in one place—food and the outdoors. Inside the store whose buildings date from the late 1800s and early 1900s, you’ll find just about every food product you never knew you needed from peach cider to their famous roasted raspberry chipotle sauce. And you can sample all of it on-site.

There is also a wine tasting room that features pairings with Hill Country wines and a cooking school that offers regular classes in regional US specialties and international cuisines. If that weren’t enough, just outside Das Peach Haus is what we loved most—views of the peach orchards, a handsome deck to relax on, and a gorgeous pond that’s open for fishing.

Oktoberfest is a big deal in this small German town . The largest festival of the year, it stretches for three days in early October. It includes dozens of musical acts, yodeling contests, a tuba fest, and lots of people wearing their best German dirndls and lederhosen. And, of course, lots of beer.

We love seeing all the concerts, watching the dancing, and eating as much currywurst and Bavarian pretzels as we can manage.

Make sure to plan far ahead if this is on your list of things to do because accommodations book up and restaurant reservations can be hard to come by.

Christmas in Fredericksburg is a festive time. Marktplatz lights up every evening with a giant tree and larger-than-life German Christmas pyramid. Nearby, kids ice skate on Marktplatz at Eisbahn. Many of the wineries feature seasonal offerings and special tastings, and the whole city is decorated for the holidays. It’s an ideal (and very popular) time to visit.

Where to Stay Vineyard Trail Cottages : Comfortable cabins A Barn at the Quarry : A rural retreat Hoffman Haus B&B : In the heart of town See more options for where to stay in Fredericksburg . Where to Eat Otto’s German Bistro : German and European-inspired cuisine Cabernet Grill : Upscale focusing on steak, seafood, and Texas wine Hondo’s on Main : Casual spot with live music Check out other choices for restaurants to try in town . How to Get Here Fredericksburg is 80 miles due west of Austin on Highway 290 and 80 miles north of San Antonio on Highway 87, making it an easy trip from both major cities (and their airports, if you’re flying in). Houston and Dallas are both roughly four hours away. Driving here is easy, parking is plentiful, and downtown is easily walkable. If you’d rather leave your car at your accommodations, Uber is available in town.

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

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Sunday 20th of August 2023

Is there golf nearby? Any recommendations?

Laura Longwell

Lady Bird Johnson Golf Course is popular. Otherwise, there is Vaaler Creek Golf Club in Blanco.

Thursday 15th of June 2023

Wish I had seen this article before! As a west coast Canadian, we try and do a spring trip somewhere warmer, so Texas was the place...a little bit of Austin, Waco, San Antonio and our favourite the Hill Country! Loved Fredericksburg and the little town of Gruene, it's town hall had a dance with a local band. The most fun we had in years- everyone sitting at picnic tables inside, and dancing- for the families- ages 4-84!! Will return for the BBQ, the pecans, and the laid back vibe.

Monday 25th of April 2022

Hi all, my family and I (wife and two girls 11&12) are visiting Fredericksburg in May Sunday to Tuesday. Is anything open? Some reviews say most places are shut sun and mon?

Friday 29th of April 2022

It is true that more places are closed early in the week, but, every time we visit, we find more and more places opening. In terms of restaurants, check out Hill & Vine, Sage, Auslander, and West End Pizza. Locals love Pasta Bella, too. If you're looking for wineries, Slate Theory, Signor, and William Chris are options. Luckenbach is also open every day. Plus, check out some of the historic sites and parks. I'm sure there are more, but those are the ones I know off the top of my head.

Friday 14th of January 2022

Also, check out Fredericksburg’s amazing antique shops!

Mike Thornton

Wednesday 15th of December 2021

Don't stay at Texas Hill Country Hotel a crap hole

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The 22 Best Things To Do In Fredericksburg, Texas

Why you should head to Texas Hill Country's most getaway-worthy German town this year.

• Wine Country
• Outdoor Activities
• Main Street

Where To Stay

Considered the heart of the Texas Hill Country , the quaint town of Fredericksburg is nestled between San Antonio and Austin and has become one of the most popular small towns for weekend getaways for those looking for culture, food, shopping, adventure, and small-town charm. It's easy to reach, but it still feels a million miles away from city life. The tiny town dates back to 1846 when German immigrants and settlers founded it and still honors old-fashioned traditions and authentic German roots. We believe the town of Fredericksburg is one of the best destinations for seasonal escapes, family outings, and girlfriend trips in the whole Lone Star State—and that's saying something.

Fredericksburg's appeal originates from many things: The picturesque Hill Country scenery , the town's uncanny ability to maintain its dual German-Texan heritage, and its impressive (and group-friendly) attractions. From more than 100 wineries and tasting rooms to a Main Street bustling with shops, galleries, restaurants, and biergartens, here are the best things to do when visiting Fredericksburg.

Enjoy Local Cuisine

Start at a german coffee shop.

Head to Old German Bakery & Restaurant for a hearty breakfast, but make sure to get there early to snag a table and taste the German pancake. Early risers can grab a cup of coffee at one of the charming German-inspired cafés, including KaffeeHaus (lines can get long on weekends), Rockhaus Coffee, and Caliche Coffee Bar (make sure to show up early to get one of the Czech kolaches before they sell out).

Gabriela Herman

Indulge In Authentic German Food

It wouldn't be a trip to Fredericksburg without Tex-Mex cuisine, schnitzels, sauerbraten (German pot roast), and German beer gardens. You can find delicious food and handcrafted spirits at more than 70 restaurants, including upscale eatery Cabernet Grill , classic German specialty restaurant Der Lindenbaum , and brasserie-style Otto's German Bistro .

Be Surprised With The Fine Dining

For drinks and live music, start the evening at 78624 Bar before heading to dinner at the acclaimed Vaudeville , a French-style bistro on Main Street. Other great dinner spots include Hill & Vine and Sage Restaurant + Lounge (try the thyme-infused paloma cocktail). Follow that up with live music at a honky-tonk or outdoor beer garden—there's somebody playing most nights of the week.

Visit A German Biergarten

There is no shortage of German-style brews to enjoy well beyond Oktoberfest, including saddling up to the taps at The Auslander , sitting on the patio at Altdorf Biergarten , and enjoy the scenic views at Altstadt Brewery .

Head To Texas Wine Country

Sip your way on the 290 wine shuttle.

They don't call this part of Texas "wine country" for nothing. More than 100 vineyards and tasting rooms are located in and around town, providing the ultimate vino experience while learning about Texas grapes. Fredericksburg is one of the most-visited wine destinations in the country. Book the 290 Wine Shuttle for safe all-day transportation between the wineries. Our favorite recommendations include Grape Creek Vineyards , Messina Hof Hill Country Winery , Signor Vineyards , and Barons Creek Vineyards .

Visit A Rhinoceros Rescue & Winery

At Rhinory , you can taste South African-inspired wines on a 55-acre ranch while also saying hello to the vineyard's mascot: a 4,000-pound real-life rhinoceros named Blake. The owners grew a passion for rhinoceros conservation after a visit to South Africa and hatched a dream to provide land for future rescue rhinos and establish a working winery, with the sales of the wine helping further their cause. Currently, there is one rhino who lives on the ranch, who you can see relaxing in a big fenced-in area while you're sipping on wine flights.

rhinory.com , 13112 US-290, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Switch The Vino For A Medieval Drink

Turns out, the land of Texas wine country can also be conducive for other distilling and fermenting purposes, including a much-forgotten brew: mead. Made with honey, mead is a familiar alcoholic drink known widely as a medieval staple. However, it's being brought back with trendy new concepts, including The Hive Patio Bar and Meadery.

403 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Get Outside

Pluck some texas wildflowers.

Unlike most floral fields where you can look but not touch, you can pick a bouquet at the nation's largest working wildflower farm, Wildseed Farms . This family-owned countryside escape has 200 acres of wildflower fields, a beautiful butterfly garden, a wine-tasting room, and frequent special events.

wildseedfarms.com , 100 Legacy Dr, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Climb Enchanted Rock

Just a short 20-minute drive outside of Fredericksburg brings you to the enormous batholith that's part of Enchanted Rock State Park , which was once Native American sacred grounds. An incentive for reaching the peak of this pink granite dome is the breathtaking view of the Texas Hill Country that awaits you at the top. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike, picnic, and camp overnight in the state park.

tpwd.texas.gov/enchanted-rock , 16710 Ranch Road 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Make A Detour To Luckenbach

In the 1970s, this tiny Texas-German town right outside Fredericksburg went up for sale. A local legend named John "Hondo" Crouch and a few partners plunked down the cash to buy it, and it quickly became an iconic country music stomping ground. Willie Nelson, Lyle Lovett, and Waylon Jennings have all performed in Luckenbach. To this day, Luckenbach's tiny dance hall still hosts popular  live music events  and festivals throughout the year. 

Check Out The Texas White House

The 36th president of the United States, Lyndon B. Johnson, hails from central Texas, and just a few miles from Fredericksburg, there are historical sites dedicated to commemorating his life in Stonewall and Johnson City. The Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site offers public access to the LBJ ranch, Texas White House, LBJ’s birthplace, Johnson family cemetery, old Junction School, LBJ’s grandparents’ home and ranch show barn.

nps.gov/lyjo , 1048 Park Road #49, Stonewall, TX 78671

Learn Something New

Visit the pacific war museum.

Probably the last place you'd expect to hear detailed accounts and witness bona fide relics of World War II in the Pacific is in this little Southern Texas town. In fact, history is waiting to be explored in Fredericksburg's National Museum of the Pacific War . In its vast gallery space, patrons can participate in interactive exhibits and view tanks and aircraft used in the war.

pacificwarmuseum.org , 311 E Austin St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Revisit The Pioneer Days

Glimpse into the daily lives of the German settlers of the Texas Hill Country at the Pioneer Museum . Located in downtown Fredericksburg, it features historic homesteads and buildings donated by founding families of Gillespie County. Among the exhibits are a one-room schoolhouse, a log cabin, a Sunday house, a bathhouse, a barn, and a smokehouse that all showcase artifacts and architecture.

pioneermuseum.gov , 325 W Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Check Out The Vereins Kirche

You'll likely notice the town’s most recognizable building, thanks to a unique octagonal shape and position on the center Marktplatz. The  Vereins Kirche —which means "society church"—was originally built in 1847 and served as the first public building used as a town hall, school, and church for all faiths.

100 W Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Spend Time On Main Street

Hit the shops.

Shops and tourist attractions may come and go, but one aspect of Fredericksburg has stood the test of time: the historic storefronts up and down Main Street. You can even see "Wilkommen" (translation: welcome) signs on full display throughout town. In addition to stores, art galleries, and artisan gifts and treats, the epicenter of Main Street is the Marktplatz .

Attend Oktoberfest

Depending on what time of year you visit, there is almost always a seasonal festival on the lineup. For example, in spring, expect events surrounding the Texas bluebonnets in bloom. In the fall, however, the town is gearing up for its biggest event: Oktoberfest. Fredericksburg has hosted Oktoberfest for over 40 years in an effort to honor and sustain the traditions of the German immigrants who settled there during the 19th century.

Experience A Texas-German Christmas

Fredericksburg also gets decked out for the holidays and is not to be missed. During Weihnachtszeit, the town installs a traditional German Christmas pyramid , which looks like a giant wooden windmill with whirling figures depicting Christmas scenes. You can attend opening events of the month-long Christmas festivities during the first weekend of December, including a parade.

Hit The Weekly Farmers' Market

This region of Texas is known for having a really robust agriculture and ranching scene, which makes for an abundant weekly farmers' market where you can take home wildflower bunches, famed peaches from down the road, fresh eggs, unique artisan wares, and more. Typically, visitors can also enjoy wine tastings and live music in downtown Fredericksburg at the Adelsverein Halle at Marktplatz. 

Fredricksburg offers a full range of accommodations, from hotels and motels to camping, cabins, and B&Bs. Search around for historic vacation cottages throughout Fredericksburg, or stay in one of the many new and old bed-and-breakfast properties right in town.

Stay In Town

Luckily, there are many options of bed-and-breakfasts within walking distance of Main Street. If you're looking for a freshened-up, retro-meets-Texan style, The Trueheart Hotel offers amenities such as a communal outdoor fireplace and morning deliveries of hot biscuits. Get the same classic small-town feel as the Dragonfly Inn in Gilmore Girls at Hoffman Haus . Book one of the cozy cottages at Hill Country Herb Garden , a bucolic spot with an on-site restaurant and spa.

Stay At A Winery

If your main objective when visiting Fredericksburg is to have a wine weekend, choose from one of the one-site lodgings located along the 290 Wine Road. Some of our favorite recommendations for both stays and vinos are the accommodations at Barons Creek Vineyards , Messina Hof Winery , and Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa .

Stay In A Treehouse

Set in a quiet nature setting, but still very close to downtown Frederickburg, this unique set of luxury tents, cabins, and repurposed shipping containers called Onera is the perfect place to unplug in between bouts of exploring the area and town. You can expect amenities such as fire pits and hot tubs.

stayonera.com , 173 Basse Ln, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Stay In An Airport Hangar—Sort Of

The Hangar Hotel was designed in the spirit of a WWII-era military hangar, complete with nostalgic airplane memorabilia and aviation-themed decor. There's a classic 1940s diner on site, as well as year-round lodging. Make sure to visit the second-floor observation deck for views of the grounds.

hangarhotel.com , 155 Airport Rd, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Related Articles

15 Top-Rated Things to Do in Fredericksburg, TX

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Mar 17, 2023

Fredericksburg is a lovely town in the center of the Texas Hill Country with a rich German heritage. Peach orchards and grape vines decorate the outskirts of the historic town, adding to its already scenic and hilly countryside.

There are so many things to do in Fredericksburg, from scenic drives to enjoy the sights of traditional Texas ranches, wildflowers, and roadside produce markets to local shops, where you find flower seeds and locally made jams to take home.

The small town was founded in 1846 by German immigrants, giving it a unique cultural influence that you do not find in other parts of Texas. The foundation laid by early German settlers is still present today, from historic buildings like The Vereins Kirche Museum , one of the first structures in the city, to the German-influenced food.

Speaking of the food, it is easy to nosh your way through Fredericksburg. You can enjoy quaint restaurants serving up authentic Hill Country cuisine, like Hill & Vine, or relax at small places like West End Pizza, with casual dining settings that extend outdoors.

One of the great appeals of Fredericksburg is its walkable downtown, where you can peruse the shops and cafés and easily access many of the local tourist attractions. Within a short driving distance are some natural wonders near Fredericksburg that are worth visiting, like stargazing at the Enchanted Rock Natural Area or the Old Tunnel State Park Bat Cave .

As you plan your visit, review our list of the top things to do in Fredericksburg.

1. National Museum of the Pacific War

2. enchanted rock state natural area, 3. stroll historic main street, 4. wildseed farms, 5. rockbox theater, 6. willow city loop & other scenic drives, 7. st. mary's catholic church, 8. the pioneer museum, 9. old tunnel state park bat cave, 10. the lady bird johnson municipal park, 11. texas ranger heritage centre, 12. lyndon b. johnson state park and historic site, 13. das peach haus, 14. stargazing, 15. marktplatz and the vereins kirche museum, map of things to do in fredericksburg, tx, fredericksburg, tx - climate chart.

The National Museum of the Pacific War is a museum and outdoor plaza dedicated to Fleet Admiral Charles W. Nimitz of the US Navy. The six-acre complex includes the museum and the boyhood home of Nimitz.

The Smithsonian Affiliate Museum is dedicated to sharing the history and stories of those who participated in or died in the Asiatic-Pacific region during World War II. The museum houses artifacts from the war including ships, uniforms, and other military items in the George H.W. Bush Gallery.

Other places to visit in the complex include the Admiral Nimitz Gallery, with interactive exhibits about his career; the Memorial Courtyard, which recognizes those who died during the conflict; the Plaza of Presidents, honoring the U.S. Presidents who served during WWII; and the Japanese Garden of Peace. You can access the museum and courtyard from Main Street.

Address: 311 E. Austin Street, Fredericksburg, Texas

Official site: https://www.pacificwarmuseum.org/

One of Fredericksburg's best treasures, and worth topping your itinerary, is Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. The best times to visit are during the early morning light or stargazing in the evenings. There are 11 miles of hiking trails through the natural area that are suitable for all levels, from basic walking paths to extreme hiking. Rock climbing is also available.

Enchanted Rock is a special area because it has the third largest granite dome in the world. The three towering sections are referred to as Enchanted Rock, Little Dome, and Turkey Peak. You can participate in ranger-led programs on many weekends or take part in one of the regularly scheduled public events like bird-watching.

For a moderate hike, you can take a 4.5-mile loop trail around the rocks. You will want to research the trails ahead of time if you plan to walk on them, as some of them are quite rugged, and you will need to take water with you, a map, and have appropriate footwear and clothing. It is important to note that advanced reservations are required for day passes to visit Enchanted Rock, and they often fill to capacity, so you will want to plan ahead for this activity.

Address: 16710 Ranch Road, 965, Fredericksburg, Texas

Official site: https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/enchanted-rock

The Historic Main Street in Fredericksburg is where you will likely spend quite a bit of time during your visit. It is the central hub of activity in the town, and it is where you will find small shops and restaurants inside renovated historic buildings. Look for the plaques on the exterior walls of the buildings as you pass by to see what they once were.

Shopping is popular on Main Street and one of the top reasons that visitors come to Fredericksburg. Main Street is lined with many apparel stores, boutique gift shops, home décor stores, and places where you can buy custom-fitted cowboy hats and locally made jewelry.

Just off Main Street is the Warehouse District, where you can shop at some of the local antique stores and art galleries. You can find convenient lodging at hotels like the Fredericksburg Inn & Suites or the Inn on Barons Creek, which are a short walk from Main Street.

Address: Main Street, Fredericksburg, Texas

If you enjoy plants and gardening, you will want to visit Wildseed Farms. It is a 200-acre property made up of a nature store and a beautiful outdoor area to explore. The indoor garden store has an abundance of home and garden products, like birdhouses, lighting features, and bird baths.

You can buy seeds for planting at home and find locally made products like peach soap. The outdoor garden area has a nursery with plants for sale, pottery, home goods, and garden art.

Also outside, you can walk on the trails and see some of the colorful wildflower fields on the farm. Some of the best examples of flowers in the Texas Hill Country are on the farm, from bluebonnets and sunflowers to poppies and zinnias.

Address: 100 Legacy Drive, Fredericksburg, Texas

Official site: https://www.wildseedfarms.com/

One of the best live entertainment options in Fredericksburg is the Rockbox Theater. The venue is popular for showcasing tribute bands that cover popular artists like The Eagles, Bon Jovi, Elvis, and the Rolling Stones.

Most shows have matinee and evening performances, and there is a full events calendar, so you will likely find something available during your stay. Since the theater is just off Main Street, you can plan to have dinner at one of the local eateries before the show and walk around afterwards for an evening coffee.

Address: 109 N. Llano Street, Fredericksburg, Texas

Official site: https://www.rockboxtheater.com/

While there are many attractions and activities available in Fredericksburg, you do not need an agenda to enjoy your stay. In fact, one of the most enjoyable things to do is just drive along the scenic roads to see the Texas Hill Country landscape. You can simply head out on the roadways in any direction and enjoy a few hours of fresh air and the scenery, or you can take one of several recommended routes.

Wildflower season runs March through May and is the best window for scenic drives. Willow City Loop is a scenic 13-mile loop around the countryside that meanders through a series of hills and valleys. It is especially beautiful in the springtime, when the trees are in bloom and the colorful wildflowers are easy to spot from the roadway. This is a private road, so you should not stop, but it is a stunning drive.

Other scenic drives near Fredericksburg include Old San Antonio Road , which goes past Old Tunnel State Park, with winding roads and scenic pastures with grazing horses in the fields.

The drive to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area on Ranch Road 965 is another scenic route, especially in the morning hours, when you can see the rugged landscape in an array of colorful light.

St. Mary's Catholic Church, in the heart of Fredericksburg, is one of the most visited places in town, in part, because if its stunning architecture and history. The church is made of native stone and was completed in 1906. If you look closely at the church and sanctuary, you will notice the Gothic-inspired architecture and some asymmetrical structural features on its façade.

This church has been central to the Fredericksburg community since German immigrants started it in 1846, and it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You can take a guided tour of the church on Sundays or plan one by appointment.

Address: 304 W. San Antonio Street, Fredericksburg, Texas

Official site: https://church.stmarysfbg.com/

A fun place to visit to learn about local history is the Pioneer Museum and historical site, which is set up like a small village representative of the settlement of Fredericksburg and its German heritage.

Take a self-guided sightseeing tour of the 3.5-acre grounds, which chronicles the journey of German immigrants traveling to Texas in the mid 1800s. As you walk through the 10 buildings in the village, you can visit the smokehouse, a one-room schoolhouse, a traditional 1880s log cabin, and the Kammlah barn, a stone barn representative of the time period.

One of the most unique structures is "Sunday House." This is a traditional townhouse that would have been built by German settlers of the area and used on weekends by German families who lived in the rural regions so they could go to church on Sunday.

Address: 325 W. Main Street, Fredericksburg, Texas

Official site: http://www.pioneermuseum.net/

Old Tunnel State Park is a 16-acre park that is small but one of the best treasures for wildlife in the region. The marquee experience at the state park is observing the bats as they emerge from the cave at night in the warmer weather between May and October.

Make a reservation to take a seat on the hillside bleachers for the most spectacular night experience. Watch as some of the three million Mexican free-tailed bats and 3,000 cave myotis bats fly out of the abandoned railroad tunnel below.

Old Tunnel State Park is great to visit in the daytime as well to enjoy the tall scenic lookouts at the park over the hilly landscape of Fredericksburg. There are many trails in the park, and quiet spots with benches for enjoying the peaceful countryside. The park is open all year, but if you plan to visit after 5pm between November and April, you will need a reservation and permit to enter.

Address: 10619 Old San Antonio Road, Fredericksburg, Texas

Official site: https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/old-tunnel

Fredericksburg has fantastic recreational parks, and one of the most versatile and popular is the 330-acre Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park. The multipurpose park has rolling hills, large trees providing shade on hot Texas days, Live Oak Creek for fishing, and children's play areas.

A highlight of the park is the Lady Bird Golf Course, which takes advantage of the rolling terrain for both a challenging course and for the stunning views. This is a nice park to go to and relax for an afternoon and take a walk on the nature trails. There are also designated camping and RV spots within the park.

Address: 126 W Main Street, Fredericksburg, Texas

Official site: https://www.fbgtx.org/236/Lady-Bird-Johnson-Municipal-Park

Many people have heard of the elite Texas Rangers, but few visitors know much about their significance or history. The Texas Ranger Heritage Center, located in an open-air pavilion, is a wonderful stop where you can learn about Texas' most elite law enforcement regiment.

The center's mission is to educate visitors on the history of how the Texas Rangers protected settlers in the early 1900s and information on the 166 Texas Rangers that exist today. A large badge in front of the park bears the names of every Texas Ranger killed.

While you are visiting the center, you should stop next door at historic Fort Martin Scott and walk the pathway that takes you past the first US Army frontier post in Texas, which was established in 1848.

Address: 1618 E Main Street, Fredericksburg, Texas

Official site: https://trhc.org

The Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site can take an entire day to visit, but it is well worth putting on your agenda during your visit to Fredericksburg. There are many things to experience inside both.

Your first stop should be the visitor center to get a permit, so that you have access to all the locations and can learn about the presidency of Linden B. Johnson. Plan a portion of your time at the Sauer Beckman Living History Farm , where you can see what daily life was like on the farm in 1918. Just down the road from the farm is where the Texas State Bison Herd and the Texas Longhorn Herd are visible in the pasture.

In the historic site, there are many walking paths and trails in various lengths that take you past wildflowers and wildlife areas, historic German cabins, and other scenic routes in the park. If you are traveling with children, be sure to pick up an activity packet from the visitor center to keep them engaged, with information on things like how to identify animal footprints in the park.

Address: 199 Park Road 52, Stonewall, Texas

Official site: https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/lyndon-b-johnson

For a true taste of Fredericksburg that you can take home with you, make a stop at Das Peach Haus, a popular roadside cabin selling products like jams and sauces made from the fruits of local orchards.

You can sample your way through the store trying some of the fresh-baked goods and any of the locally made Fischer & Wieser products, including their most well-known product, the roasted raspberry chipotle sauce.

Be sure to take a walk around the outside of the cabin to see some of the other historic buildings on the farm. If you have time, you can take one of the public cooking classes offered at Dad Peach Haus.

Address: 1406 S. U.S. Highway 87, Fredericksburg, Texas

Official site: https://jelly.com/fw-farmstead/das-peach-haus/

Fredericksburg is one of the best places to stargaze in Texas. The dark night sky and low levels of light in this region of the Texas Hill Country is why stargazers flock here to take advantage of the natural landscape.

There are two designated Dark Sky Parks in Fredericksburg: Enchanted Rock State Natural Area and the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park. Whether you bring your own telescope to the parks, join in on one of the local stargazing parties, or take part in an astronomy program, this is one of the most spectacular places to catch the brilliant stars over Texas.

The Vereins Kirche Museum in the center of town on the Fredericksburg Square is on the National Register of Historic Places, and it is one of the first structures of the settlement. The original building was erected in 1847 in the center of what is now Main Street. It was eventually torn down, and the replica, built in 1934, stands in its place.

This is an important part of the city's heritage, as it was where the settlers had their communal church. The Marktplatz that surrounds it is part of the community park in the center of town that is used by the public in various ways. The park is an easy place to take a rest and enjoy the views as you visit Main Street.

Address: 100 W. Main Street, Fredericksburg, Texas

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Things to Do in Fredericksburg, TX - Fredericksburg Attractions

Things to do in fredericksburg.

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• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Fischer & Wieser's Das Peach Haus

2. Longneck Manor

3. Rustlin' Rob's Texas Gourmet Foods

4. Der Kuchen Laden

5. The Christmas Store

6. windmill meadow farm

7. Amish Market

8. URBANherbal

9. Lone Star Candy Bar

10. Magnolia Pearl

11. Quintessential Chocolates

12. Fredericksburg Fudge

14. The Texas Silver Rush

15. One Quilt Place

16. Pottery Ranch

17. Circle E Candles

18. Nimitz Book and Gift Shop

19. Fredericksburg General Store

20. Remember Me Too

21. Fredericksburg Jewelers

22. Fredericksburg Natural Baby

23. Things In A Room

24. Homestead Downtown

25. Headquaters Hats

26. Books on Main

27. Fredericksburg Popcorn Emporium

28. Yee Haw Ranch Outfitters

29. The Grasshopper

30. Kuckucks Nest

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

15 Best Things To Do In Fredericksburg TX You Shouldn’t Miss

January 18, 2023 //  by  Southern Trippers

Are you wondering what the best things to do in Fredericksburg, Texas are? You are in the right place.

In this article, we will walk you through the places to visit in Fredericksburg and tell you everything you need to know about this wonderful town. We will cover all the attractions in Fredericksburg, TX, and much more.

Fredericksburg, Texas is a charming town steeped in history and filled with plenty of things to do and see. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, shopping, or dining, there’s something for everyone.

From The National Museum of the Pacific War to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area whatever you love this town has it. Oh, and if you love food Fredericksburg, TX really delivers.

However, what people really flock here for are the wineries.  Fredericksburg has some of the best wineries in the south . There are over 50 wineries in this region nestled in some of the most incredible countryside.

Fredericksburg, Texas, is a perfect destination for those looking for a mix of history, outdoor activities, shopping, and delicious food and wine. This town known for its German heritage will delight you. It makes a perfect southern USA road trip.

So are you ready to see what we feel are the best Fredericksburg activities? Pull up a chair grab a drink and let us walk you through the best things to do in Fredericksburg, TX.

15 Best Things To Do In Fredericksburg TX You Shouldn’t Miss

Visit the national museum of the pacific war.

If you are looking for things to do in Fredericksburg then a trip here should be top of your list. The musuem is dedicated to the Pacific Theater of World War II.

This musuem features in-depth exhibits, thousands of artifacts, and interactive displays that tell the story of the war in the Pacific. The detail here is outstanding and if you love history you can spend hours here quite happily.

The musuem is split into three parts. Two are more like traditional museums and the third area is an outdoor Pacific Combat Zone, where they do reenactments.

This is one of the attractions in Fredericksburg that you won’t want to miss.

Hike Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

If you are looking for things to do near Fredericksburg and you love the great outdoors then head to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. It’s about a 20-minute car ride away and is well worth it for the views.

The park encompasses 1600 acres and is great for rock climbing, hiking, and all other outdoor activities. It’s also incredibly beautiful.

It’s called Enchanted Rock as the Native Americans attributed magical powers to the massive pink granite dome which seems to rise out of the Texas countryside. The view from the top of this dome is breathtaking.

The park has over 11 miles of hiking trails to explore and some wonderful picnic spots. If you are looking for romantic things to do in Fredericksburg the park is open until 10 pm and the stargazing is wonderful.

You will need to plan ahead a little if you wnat to go here. The park closes when it is at capacity so it’s also best to make a reservation to ensure you get entry. You can also camp here.

Definitely one of the things to do in Fredericksburg at night. This is one of the Southern USA State Parks that is worth a visit.

Go Shopping On Main Street

Wondering what to do in Fredericksburg, TX then how about a bit of shopping? Main Street is lined with over 100 shops selling everything you could ever want and more.

From boutiques to art galleries, from hand-crafted jewelry to vintage clothes and even locally made pottery you will find it all. Main Street is the perfect place to find that special gift and souvenir.

You won’t find chain stores here just delightful historic buildings filled with unique and unusual things to purchase. Bring your wallet or just go window shopping, it’s a delightful way to spend a leisurely afternoon.

Take A Hot Air Balloon Ride

When it comes to romantic things to do in Fredericksburg nothing beats a hot air balloon ride over the beautiful Texas Hill Country. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience.

From the air, Texas Hill Country becomes a beautiful rolling landscape full of rivers meandering through rolling hills and lush forests. A balloon ride is one of the best activities in Fredericksburg, Texas.

The rides normally take place in the morning and typically last about an hour. They nearly always include that very important champagne toast making the experience even more special.

This is one of those fun things to do in Fredericksburg, TX that will create a lasting memory for all involved.

Enjoy The Fredericksburg Herb Farm

I know suggesting a trip to a herb farm might seem a little odd but believe us this is one of the best places to visit in Fredericksburg. While it does have herbs and gardens there is also so much more to enjoy here.

Just off Main Street, you will find the incredible Hill Country Herb Garden. Here they have transformed an 1800s homestead into a chic complex.

You will find a day spa, a great bistro, and incredible gardens. You can even stay here if you want to in one of their cottages.

The gardens are beautiful with winding paths that allow you the best views and of course the best smells. There are over 154 unique botanical species here 60 of which are native to Texas. They also have a lovely culinary garden with over 30 herb species.

A visit here is a must. It’s one of the best things to do in Fredericksburg for adults especially couples looking for a special afternoon.

Dine In Fredericksburg

If you are looking for things to do in Fredericksburg then may we suggest a little bit of a food tour. The town is full of great restaurants, brew pubs, and cafes all offering you something different.

However, what most come here for is the German food. The town is heavily influenced by its German heritage and this is so evident in the food available.

There are so many great German restaurants in town all with filling and hearty dishes. Expect things like schnitzel, sauerkraut, traditional sausage, pretzels, and apple strudel

Der Lindenbaum and The Auslander are both great restaurants for authentic German cuisine but there really are so many to choose from.

If you are wondering what to do in Fredericksburg, TX then consider sampling some of the German food on offer you won’t regret it.

Explore The Pioneer Museum Complex

The Pioneer Museum Complex is a collection of historic buildings that showcase the Germanic history of the Texas Hill Country.

The museum educates visitors about the lives of the early pioneers in this area. It showcases where the settlers lived and worked and has 19th-century artifacts and exhibits.

There are 11 buildings set over 3 acres with more than 40,000 artifacts on display. If you love history or learning about the cultures of others you will love this place.

Regular tours are given and we highly recommend taking one as they give you so much knowledge and history.

Stroll Through Marktplatz

Marktplatz is a charming square in the heart of Fredericksburg that features shops, restaurants, and a farmer’s market. It offers visitors a taste of authentic German culture.

Right in the heart of the town, this area is a social hub and has been for generations. Marktplatz also often hosts festivals and concerts and the ice skating rink is here at Christmas. The weekly Farmer’s markets and yearly Oktoberfest are also held here.

Surrounded on all sides by some of the town’s landmarks it’s also a pleasant place to enjoy a picnic or people watch. Grab a German pastry and watch the world go by.

There is also a statue commemorating the town’s peace treaty with Native Americans here. Oh, and if you have children there is a playground here for them to enjoy.

This is one of the free things to do in Fredericksburg that has something for everyone.

Go On A Wildflower Walk.

When most people think of Texas they don’t think of wildflowers but in the springtime, Texas Hill Country comes alive with flowers.

Either go it alone and explore the countryside or head to Wildseed Farm. This 200-acre wildflower farm and vineyard always has something to look at whatever the season. It’s a great place to see Texas bluebonnets.

Here you will find a butterfly garden, walking trails, and countless photo opportunities. You can even shop for gifts and get a beer if you so wish.

This is one of the things to do in Fredericksburg with kids as it offers them a certain degree of freedom that can’t be found elsewhere.

Visit Lyndon B. Johnson State Park

One of the things to do near Fredericksburg, TX is to visit Lyndon B. Johnson State Park. About a 20-minute drive from Fredericksburg, this living history farm is something everyone will love.

Lyndon B. Johnson was born and raised in the Texas Hill Country hence the park named after him. This farm focuses on the World War I period and demonstrates what life was like during that time on a Texas-German farm. You can learn about sheep shearing, sausage making, and much more.

As well as visiting the farm you can hike the trails and visit a ranch. You will see a lot while walking this area from bison, and longhorns to wildflowers and creeks, it’s a beautiful hike.

Oh, and they also have an Olympic-sized swimming pool that is open during the summer. A visit here is one of the things to do in Fredericksburg with kids.

This is definitely one of the fun things to do in Fredericksburg.

Attend A Fredericksburg Trade Day

Every month Fredericksburg, Texas holds trade days. These trade days are market-style events that consist of vendors selling a variety of wares. You will find antiques, collectibles, handmade clothing, jewelry, and much more.

They are a great place to shop and find unique items. You will also find them a great place to learn about the local culture, artisans, and craft people.

They are real events with live performances, music, and food vendors. They are on the second weekend of each month so if you are there then check it out.

Take A Drive On The Willow City Loop

If you want to see the wonderful scenery in this area but don’t fancy hiking then a drive on the Willow City Loop might be perfect for you.

It is a 13-mile loop to the northeast of Fredericksburg, TX, and really is one of the best ways to see the wildflowers in this area. The scenery is also dramatic from rolling hills to rugged landscapes this drives covers it all.

The best time to do this drive is from March to May when the area is covered in a sea of blue, red, and yellow flowers. It can get busy during this time so if you can try and do the drive on a weekday to avoid a lot of traffic.

Get Historic At Fort Martin Scott

One of the best activities in Fredericksburg, Texas is to visit Fort Martin Scott. the fort was established in Decemeber 1948 as the first military post on the western frontier of Texas.

Initially, it was set up to protect the settlers and travelers in the area but with time its purpose changed even though it continued to serve military and security aims.

The site contains one restored original garrison building, an 1800s-old farm shed, and three reproduction garrison buildings.

Check before you go as opening times change and while you can self-tour the site the buildings are not always open.

Visit The Fredericksburg Wineries

One of the best things to do in Fredericksburg for adults is to visit one or a few of the Fredericksburg Wineries. With over 50 wineries and vineyards in the area, you have so many to choose from.

All of them offer tours, and wine tasting with some even offering food, live music, and a whole host of other activities. Many of these wineries are award-winning and produce some of the best wines in the U.S.A.

Most of them are located along a 30-mile stretch of road between Fredericksburg to Johnson City so they are easy to find. You can either drive yourself or go on one of the many tours offered in the area.

Some of the best are Augusta Vin Winery,  Barons Creek Vineyards, Das Peachals and Becker Vineyards, however, they are all great. Visiting a winery is definitely one of the best Fredericksburg activities.

Visit Old Tunnel State Park

If you are looking for things to do in Fredericksburg at night then we have something rather unusual for you. If you are up for an adventure this old railroad tunnel has a secret that you can only see at night.

Every evening this tunnel springs to life as the three million bats that have made this tunnel home come to life and leave the tunnel for the evening.

It really is a spectacular sight and well worth a trip. But this state park has more to offer with places to picnic, hike, bird-watch, stargaze and look for wildlife.

It’s a really unique experience and one of the best things to do in Fredericksburg, Texas.

As you can see it isn’t easy choosing the best things to do in Fredericksburg, TX as there is so much to offer. We hope this article has helped with your decision-making.

Whichever of these attractions in Fredericksburg you choose to visit we hope you have an amazing time. Please come back and tell us all about your experience.

25 Fun Things to Do in Fredericksburg, TX

By: Author texasonly

The Texas Hill Country is full of hidden gem small towns, and one of my favorites is Fredericksburg.

There are so many fun things to do in Fredericksburg, TX , that you could easily spend a week or more exploring this small town in Texas .

Fredericksburg, Texas, offers visitors the opportunity to explore world-class museums, shop until their heart is content, and get outdoors as much as possible.

The best part is, all of this takes place in Texas wine country as well.

The fact that Fredericksburg is located near both Austin and San Antonio make it an easy Hill Country escape.

One of my favorite drives is the Austin to Fredericksburg drive .

There are some really great stops in this part of the Texas Hill Country to explore.

As native Texans, we have been visiting Fredericksburg for years.

It consistently ranks as one of the best places to visit in Texas , and one of the most romantic getaways in Texas , so we continue to go back to it year after year.

So, grab your best friends or that special someone and head out on an awesome weekend getaway or fun Texas road trip to Fredericksburg, TX!

Fun & Unique Things to Do in Fredericksburg, TX

1. old tunnel state park.

For a unique experience while visiting Fredericksburg, head to the Old Tunnel State Park just before sunset to witness the Mexican free tailed bats take flight for their nightly feeding.

The park, which is located on Old San Antonio Road, is home to an old abandoned railroad tunnel which has now become the home to over three million Mexican free tailed bats!

When the bats emerge, they spiral upward in a counter-clockwise motion, sometimes as high as 10,000 feet!

This is truly quite an amazing site, and should definitely be on you list of things to do in Fredericksburg, TX, if you are visiting between May and October.

It’s no wonder that Old Tunnel State Park is considered one of the best state parks near San Antonio . It is just so unique.

While visiting Old Tunnel State Park, you are not allowed to go inside of the tunnel.

This helps to ensure that the bats are not disturbed in their natural environment.

Pro Tip: You do have to buy a ticket in advance online.

You can purchase your ticket up to 60 days in advance by visiting the Texas State Park website.

Read Next : 12 Cool Things to Do in Alpine, Texas (& the Big Bend Region)

2. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

For some time outdoors, head to Enchanted Rock State Park during your Hill Country escape.

Enchanted Rock State Park is home to a large pink dome shaped granite boulder that has been drawing visitors to it for generations.

It is said that Native Americans believed that Enchanted Rock was a place of spiritual importance, so they would visit the rock to perform important ceremonies and rituals.

Rising 425 feet above the base elevation of the park, climbing Enchanted Rock is equivalent to climbing a 30- to 40-story building!

In the spring, you have a great view of the surrounding hill country dotted with Texas wildflowers as you ascend to the top of the rock.

In addition to hiking Enchanted Rock, you can also explore the many other hiking trails found on the property or find the perfect spot for a picnic lunch.

Pro Tip : Enchanted Rock State Park is a popular place. Be sure to make your reservations in advance for this Hill Country gem!

3. Learn About History at the Pioneer Museum

For a dive into the history of the town, be sure to add a visit to the Pioneer Museum to your list of things to do in Fredericksburg, TX.

The Fredericksburg Pioneer Museum is a 3-acre historic site that is home to 11 historic buildings from the original German immigrants that first settled here.

The homes of these German settlers are just some of the buildings that you can see while visiting the Pioneer Museum.

In addition to the home of the German immigrants, there is also a church, a barn, a schoolhouse, and more. All of these can be seen when you participate in a self-guided tour of the museum.

You can get a combo ticket that includes entrance to the Pioneer Museum and the Vereins Kirche Museum at either of these locations.

4. Enjoy Wildflowers at Wildseed Farms

Lovers of Texas wildflowers will not want to miss visiting Wildseed Farms during their time in Fredericksburg, TX.

Home to numerous Texas flower and plant species, Wildseed Farms offers visitors the opportunity to walk through their vast gardens of wildflowers.

In the spring, the gardens come alive with beautiful Texas bluebonnets and bright red poppies.

Of course, you can also purchase seed to plant your own Texas wildflowers. They even have a winery on site that offers tastings and wine for sale!

5. Enjoy Live Music on Main Street

Finding live music in Fredericksburg, TX is easy and should definitely be on your list of things to do in Fredericksburg, TX.

Whether you are into country music or rock music, you are sure to find something you like in this Texas Hill Country town.

Check out Hondo’s on Main on Thursday nights to enjoy live music, or head out to Crossroads Saloon & Steakhouse on a Saturday evening to enjoy live music with load of dancing.

Of course, live music also includes concerts, and Fredericksburg has you covered there as well thanks to The Backyard Amphitheater .

6. Go Shopping in Fredericksburg, Texas

Another one of my favorite things to do in Fredericksburg, TX is to go shopping, especially in the beautiful historic buildings in town.

Fredericksburg’s Main Street area is lined with fun boutique shops selling everything from custom jewelry to home furnishings.

Grab a glass of wine from a wine tasting room to drink as you stroll down Main Street browsing the 150+ shops, art galleries, and wine tasting rooms that call this area home.

Spend the day looking for a fabulous Texas souvenir t-shirt, or enjoy choosing the perfect leather handbag, the choice is yours and the selections are endless on Main Street!

When you think you’ve seen it all, get off of Main Street and head to explore other areas of Fredericksburg.

The side streets are also full of great art galleries and fun shops, many housed inside historic buildings, just waiting to be explored.

7. Visit the Many Vineyards & Wineries in Fredericksburg

There is no denying that Fredericksburg, Texas is Texas wine country!

It seems like every time we visit this area of the hill country, there are more and more wineries popping up (which is fine with me).

Driving on Highway 290 (also known as Wine Road 290) from Johnson City to Fredericksburg, wineries line both sides of the highway.

These Fredericksburg wineries and vineyards are some of the best in the state and should definitely be part of your list of things to do in Fredericksburg, Texas.

A visit to Becker Vineyards allows you to enjoy sipping wine while looking over a beautiful Texas lavender field.

In addition to this, Becker Vineyards also hosts special events, making this a fun and unique venue.

Another popular place to enjoy hill country wines is Grape Creek Vineyards. Grape Creek Vineyards makes me feel like have been transported to Tuscany.

I just love sipping Grape Creek Vineyards’ delicious wine while enjoying one of their brick over pizzas!

In addition to all of the vineyards that line Highway 290 from Johnson City to Fredericksburg, TX, there are also numerous tasting rooms in Fredericksburg proper.

As I mentioned above, Main Street is lined with great wineries that allow you to take your way to go while strolling on Main Street!

8. Check Out the Local Breweries

You can’t visit a town with the German heritage that Fredericksburg, Texas possesses and miss checking out their breweries.

Fredericksburg’s Main Street contains the Fredericksburg Brewing Company.

They serve up their delicious beer accompanied with some awesome pub style food in one of the historic buildings on Main Street.

For a completely different experience, head to Altstadt Brewery on Highway 290.

This brewery is showing off their German heritage with some of the coldest Hefeweizen you will find in town.

Combine that with their fabulous outdoor beer garden and you have the perfect place to spend an afternoon in Fredericksburg, Texas!

9. Enjoy the Fredericksburg Distilleries

If liquor is more your style, then the Fredericksburg area has you covered there as well.

The Elk Store Winery & Distillery is located in the heart of Fredericksburg on Main Street.

The Elk Store Winery & Distillery serves up handmade small batch premium spirits that include gin, moonshine, rum, and whiskey.

Of course, the Elk Store Winery also sells wine (hence their name).

A little outside of the downtown area you will find Dietz Distillery .

Dietz is a pretty new to the scene, and at the time of publication, was only offering up Five Judges Gin, with plans to bring more flavors in soon.

One of my personal favorites in this area, Garrison Brothers Distillery , is actually outside of Fredericksburg in a small town named Hye, Texas.

As one of the first bourbon distilleries outside of Kentucky, Garrison Brothers has mad a name for itself.

Serving up delicious bourbon whiskey, Garrison Brothers Distillery offers fun cocktails along with a tour of their facilities when you visit the ranch.

Garrison Brothers Distillery is a fun place to add to your list of things to do in Fredericksburg, TX!

This is truly one of my favorite stops when road tripping from San Antonio to Fredericksburg.

10. Visit the National Museum of the Pacific War

You might be wondering how a national museum like the Pacific War Museum wound in on Main Street in Fredericksburg, Texas?!

I wondered the same thing. How did a national World War II museum wind up in the Texas Hill Country?

Especially when I learned that the Museum of the Pacific war is considered the fifth best history museum of the pacific in the United States! Why is it in central Texas?

Well, you see, Admiral Nimitz, one of the leaders of the US Pacific fleet in the battles of the Pacific War was from Fredericksburg, TX.

The Main Street property that now houses the National Museum of the Pacific War was once home to the Nimitz Steamboat Hotel.

This hotel was owned by Admiral Nimitz and operated by his family during his absence.

The National Museum of the Pacific War focuses on the battles associated with this part of World War II.

While touring the national museum, you can read first count stories and see numerous artifacts associated with the war.

One of my favorite areas of the National Museum of the Pacific War is the memorial and Japanese Garden of Peace.

The Japanese Garden of Peace was a gift from Japan to offer peace and forgiveness for al that happened during the Pacific War.

The Japanese Garden is truly a place of solace and reflections and shouldn’t be missed during your visit to the Pacific War Museum.

11. Fredericksburg Theater Company

The Fredericksburg Theater Company is proud to bring live theatre performances to the Texas Hill Country.

Having served this area for over 20 years, the Fredericksburg Theater Company has a long standing tenure in Fredericksburg, TX.

Check out the Fredericksburg Theatre Company and their schedule of events for a complete line up of performances.

Acts include everything from live music to full scale Broadway style productions.

12. Vereins Kirche Museum

The Vereins Kirche Museum showcases more of the stories of the German Settlers that first settled this area.

The octagonal building located in the heart of downtown Fredericksburg, TX now serves as the Vereins Kirche Museum.

The original Vereins Kirche building served many purposes in Fredericksburg’s history, but was demolished in 1897.

The new building you see today serves as a museum, a Pioneer Memorial Library, and the Fredericksburg, TX Chamber of Commerce.

Step inside to learn more about this fun town and don’t forget to visit its sister property, the Pioneer Museum.

13. Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site

Granted, the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site is located outside of Fredericksburg, TX in Johnson City, but I just had to put it on our list!

This is just one of those Texas historic sites that you have to visit!

Visiting the Johnson National Historical Park allows visitors to see where President Lyndon B. Johnson was born and raised.

You can tour the boyhood home of Johnson during your time on the Johnson National Historical Park, and see the ‘Texas White House,’ the home that Johnson continued to own and visit during his presidency.

After stopping at the park’s visitor center, you can take a self-guided tour to see the beautiful ranch grounds and the Texas White House.

There are several historic sites on the site including an old schoolhouse, parks, a church, and the Lyndon B. Johnson family cemetery.

Visit the National Park’s website for more information.

14. Enjoy Some German Restaurants and a Biergarten

You can’t visit Fredericksburg, TX and not eat German food. That would just be wrong!

Lucky for you, Fredericksburg has several German restaurants to choose from thanks to its German heritage.

These restaurants serve up everything from traditional German cuisine to beer and pub style food, so you are sure to find one that you will love.

The best part, some of them even have amazing beer gardens to enjoy!

Some restaurants to check out include Altdorf Restaurant, Altstadt Brewery, The Auslander Restaurant, Otto’s German Bistro, Der Lindenbaum, and the Old German Bakery and Restaurant.

15. Das Peach Haus

Das Peach Haus is a cute little store in Fredericksburg, TX that specializes in gourmet food items, especially those made with peaches.

Here you can find everything from peach jam to peach ice cream.

One of my favorite things about Das Peach Haus is that you can sample almost everything they sell!

Offering up over 150 sauces jams and jellies, Das Peach Haus is sure to have one that you love.

During your visit, you can also enjoy a glass of wine in the wine tasting room or outside by their beautiful pond.

16. Texas Rangers Heritage Center

The Texas Rangers Heritage Center is a 12 acre site dedicated to showcasing and honor those that have served the Lone Star State.

A visit to the heritage center allows you to learn more about the role that the Texas Rangers have served throughout the history of Texas.

The center sponsors events that are open to the public and include things like campfire storytelling, live history reenactments, and walks with a Ranger.

If you are a history lover, the Texas Rangers Heritage Center should definitely be on your list.

17. Historic Fort Martin Scott

The historic Fort Martin Scott is located just east of town on Highway 290.

Fort Martin Scott is a historic army outpost which was in operation from 1848-1853.

The fort played an important role not only in the history of Texas, but also in that of the United States during the Civil War.

When you visit Fort Martin Scott, you can take a self-guided tour to see the original buildings that were used by the settlers.

Fort Martin Scott showcases an original garrison building and three reproduction garrison buildings for visitors to see.

There is also a late 1800s farm shed on site.

Twice a year, this Fredericksburg, TX historic site also puts on live historical reenactments.

18. Willow City Loop

For one of the most beautiful drives in the Texas Hill Country (in my opinion), head to the Willow City Loop.

Located just outside of Fredericksburg in Gillespie County, the Willow City Loop showcases gorgeous Texas terrain.

From gentle rolling pastures to dramatic canyon, driving the Willow City Loop is what Texas is all about.

My favorite time to drive the Willow City Loop is March-May when the Texas wildflowers, and more specifically, the Texas bluebonnets are in bloom!

Fredericksburg, TX and the loop are one of the best places to see bluebonnets in Texas .

19. Fredericksburg Herb Farm

One of the hidden gems in Fredericksburg, TX is the Fredericksburg Herb Farm.

Judging by its name, you would thing that this is just a place that grows herbs, but don’t judge a book by its cover.

While the Fredericksburg Herb Farm does grow its own herbs to use in its restaurant, there is much more to it than that.

This hill country destination is also a wonderful spa facility that is perfect for a relaxing day while visiting Fredericksburg, Texas.

The Fredericksburg Herb Farm also has a great little gift shop where you can find the perfect gift or souvenir to commemorate your visit.

20. Fredericksburg Trade Days Sunday Farms

If you find yourself in Fredericksburg, Texas the third weekend of the month, then take time to check out the Fredericksburg Trade Days Sunday Farms.

The trade days are located on Highway 290 near Wildseed Farms.

Offering up over 350 vendor selling everything from boutique clothing to home furnishings, the Fredericksburg Trade Days is a fun, outdoor shopping event.

When you need a break you can visit the outdoor Biergarten and enjoy some fair style food and a nice cold beer or glass of wine.

21. First Friday Art Walk

The first Friday of every month, the small town of Fredericksburg, Texas comes alive as participating art galleries in the area open their doors for the First Friday Art Walk.

The art galleries stay open until 8 pm for the art walk to allow visitors to enjoy viewing the art and visiting with the artists.

Many of the galleries also host special events, making a visit to this small town even better!

22. Texas Oktoberfest

The German culture that Fredericksburg, Texas is so proud of is honored every years with their annual Oktoberfest celebration.

The first German settlers to this area would be proud to see that the Fredericksburg, Texas Oktoberfest has been going strong for over 40 years!

The Oktoberfest celebrations means lots of beer, brats, and oompah music! Fredericksburg, Texas offers up three days of celebrations in the Texas Hill Country that is truly a great time!

You can watch keg tapping, do the chicken dance, and participate in a 5k all while donning your best dirndl or lederhosen.

Find the most up to date information on the Oktoberfest website .

Fredericksburg is one of the best places to spend fall in Texas !

23. Painted Churches of Texas

The historic painted churches of Texas were originally built in the early to mid 1800s.

They are called the “painted churches” because of the uniquely designed and artistic interiors that each of them contain.

Granted, the painted churches aren’t in Fredericksburg proper, but they are nearby in the surrounding hill country, so if you have time, be sure to check them out.

There are 20 painted churches throughout the area and all are listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.

24. Go Peach Picking

If you find yourself in Gillespie County during the summer months, then you have to visit the many peach orchards that call this area home.

Not only can you purchase peaches and peach products from the many roadside stands in Fredericksburg, Texas, but you can also pick your own peaches!

There are numerous orchards in the area, many of which allow you to pick your own peaches.

This is one of the unique things to do in Fredericksburg, TX!

25. Fredericksburg Visitor Center

I don’t usually include a visitor center on my list of things to do, but the Fredericksburg Center is an exception to this rule.

Here you will find loads of information on some of the best attractions in Fredericksburg.

Whether you want to learn more about Pearl Harbor at the Museum of the Pacific War, find out where to see some live country music, discover the Hill Country herb garden, learn more about the Vereins Kirche Museum, or maybe chat about the Gillespie County Historical Society, the center has you covered!

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About The Author

Tiffany Ditto is a marketing specialist and content creator in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Ditto holds a Master of Science in Digital Communication Analytics and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism both from the University of North Texas. When not working, she enjoys spending time with my spunky Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Riley, and rambunctious Bengal Cat, Lilura.

Jenn Record

Tuesday 4th of April 2023

WOW! I had no idea this part of Texas is so rich with outdoor fun and interactive history... adding it to the list for a 2024 visit... the parks look especially inviting.

Tuesday 11th of April 2023

It is! We love Fredericksburg so much. I hope you have a great time when you visit!

Monday 3rd of April 2023

I had no idea Texas was wine-country! Looks awesome!

It is for sure! 4th largest producer in the United States! :)

Sunday 2nd of April 2023

Wildseed Farms looks beautiful!! I've always wanted to roam through a field of beautiful flowers!

Yes, Wildseed Farms is a great place for sure!

Goya Galeotta

Saturday 1st of April 2023

Fredericksburg keeps popping up on all my social feeds with its beautiful vineyards and wildflowers.. but I didn’t know there is so much more to it! Thanks for sharing - great post as always!

It's a great city! Thank you for checking it out and taking time to comment!

38 Best & Fun Things To Do In Fredericksburg (Texas)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: January 24, 2022  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

With a massive amount of history stemming from the 1800s, Fredericksburg, Texas is a phenomenal place for you to visit with friends and family.

Fredericksburg’s history stems from German immigrants who settled on Texas territories in the area of San Antonio and started building their own piece of the American Dream.

With family lineages and Presidential bloodlines that are connected with Fredericksburg, it is definitely one of those locations that has many points of interest pertaining to the earliest history of our country.

If you don’t know what to see first or what to look for, there are a vast amount of churches, museums, breweries, architecture, and German-inspired food that you can add to your fun bucket list of things to do in Fredericksburg (not to mention all of the festivities and things to see that surround Fredericksburg as well).

To see how far the German settlers’ of the 1800’s dreams have come, and the fruits that have grown from their vision and labor is an inspiring feeling on its own.

But to actually absorb the deep roots of Fredericksburg’s humble beginnings, will change your life forever. 

Of course, there is balance in all things.

So when looking for things to do in Fredericksburg, you want to be sure you are visiting the pivotal establishments, and helping to foster the growth of the local community- as a number of shops and restaurants are family-owned, or decades old.

Many of the Fredericksburg attractions have profound meaning to them and should be respected as such.

Table of Contents

1. Fredericksburg’s Main Street

ShengYing Lin / Shutterstock

Located inside the beautiful historic buildings along the stretch of Main Street, you will find eclectic specialty stores selling jewelry, home goods, clothing, and art.

As expected, you can find most of the day-to-day hustle and bustle of the city taking place downtown on Main Street, in connection with a thriving nightlife when the sun sets.

When looking for what to do in Fredericksburg (especially at night), Main Street should always be your default if you are looking for the quintessential traveling basics, i.e. a good restaurant or an array of decorative shops and bars.

The entire street is paved with options to visit (and revisit) as much as you see fit, and we recommend it being one of your points of interest every time you visit.

Address: E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

2. Beers and Cheers at Oktoberfest

rawf8 / Shutterstock

Looking for fun things to do in Texas ?

The delicacies of German culture are some of the finest and sweetest creations you can find.

Fredericksburg has a deeply rooted community within the streets of its very own German Town.

With a number of German-inspired architecture, menus full of schnitzels and strudels, and authentically crafted beer, Oktoberfest is a great success year after year.

Being renowned as the “Polka Capital of Texas” Fredericksburg hosts one of the most gloriously fun Oktoberfest’s the State has ever known.

Going on its 42nd season, the show features 5 stages of entertainment, tons of food and drinks, and a “Kinderpark” in case you want to bring the little ones as well!

Perfect for an adult family outing or catching up with some friends, Fredericksburg’s Oktoberfest is definitely worth the time if you’re in town somewhere between the end of September/Early October.

Address: Fredericksburg, TX, United States

3. Wildseed Farms

Ray Shrewsberry / Shutterstock

One of the greatest things about Fredericksburg is that it blends many different elements of life together.

If you prefer to be outdoors living it up with nature instead of cooped up in a bar or restaurant, then the Wildseed Farms might be the escape you are looking for.

Planted across 200 acres of land, you will find a number of wildflowers and butterfly gardens throughout the property. 

Positioned row after row are gorgeous arrays of plants and wildlife that will truly evoke a sense of clarity as you walk through the gardens.

Fredericksburg is known for its vibrant organic art, that blesses both locals and visitors with total symbiosis.

You will be astonished by how beautiful the Wildseed Farms are, and can literally spend an entire day basking in its elegance.

Also, feel free to head over to the Market Center on your way out, which features the Blossoms Boutique store and the Brewbonnet Biergarten!

Address: 100 Legacy Dr, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

4. The Chisholm Trail Winery

The Chisholm Trail Winery

In time, you may find that in Fredericksburg we dine with the finest of wine.

Home of the “Spirit of the Old West” (where Quarter horses and Longhorn steer walk freely around the Spring Creek) the Chisholm Trail Winery invites you to enjoy some of the best homegrown grapes Texas has to offer.

With approximately twelve hundred square feet of land, the Chisholm Trail Winery also offers guests the opportunity to peruse the vineyard through a guided tour and learn more about the beauty and history of the establishment.

Taking its first steps into the Wine Industry back in 1999, the Chisholm Trail Winery devotes itself to a fine-tuned experience and a memorable moment every time you visit.

Already containing a 15,000-gallon wine tank, the company currently has plans to enlarge its facility to add an even larger barrel room.

Address: 2367 Usener Rd, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

5. National Museum of the Pacific War

There are but a few moments in modern times that have truly left a stamp on the history of the United States.

Most triumphant stories begin with dire circumstances, and World War II is definitely no exception to the rule.

The National Museum of the Pacific War displays thousands of well-kept memorabilia from the war and sends you through an informative journey through the Early to Mid-Forties.

It may come as a surprise to some that the quality of Fredericksburg’s Pacific War Museum is so pristine and well-poised for such a small Texas town.

But when you dig deeper, you’ll come to find that an Admiral by the name of Chester Nimitz, who led the U.S. Pacific Forces, was born in Fredericksburg, so the idea isn’t too farfetched after all.

If you are ever excited to learn more about the history of Texas from a magnified point of view, the National Museum of the Pacific War is one of the tourist attractions you must see. 

Within the National Museum of the Pacific War, you will find the Admiral Nimitz Historic Ballroom that bears shiny wooden floors and high ceilings, a Pearl Harbor exhibit that goes into great details in regards to the surprise attack that happened on December 7th, 1941, and a traveler’s favorite, the “Doolittle Raid” Exhibit that details America’s response to Pearl Harbor.

The National Museum of the Pacific War in Fredericksburg is by far the most in-depth representation of the Pacific War’s history, as well as how Fredericksburg is intimately connected with key players in America’s war efforts.

Address: 311 E Austin St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

6. Old Tunnel State Park

J Ruben Sanchez / Shutterstock

Spectacular views of nature are forever cherished in the world of tourism, and the activities that come reveal themselves on the adventurer’s path are priceless.

A cool breeze under summer trees is perfection bottled up in one moment and can set the stage for a comforting vacation experience.

Located on Old San Antonio Road, Fredericksburg’s Old Tunnel State Park is full of wonder as it has both winding trails for the trekkers, and bird watching for the nature lover.

However, if you purchase a ticket in advance online, you will be allowed to stay in the park after 5 pm and be a part of the emergence of our mammal bat buddies!

The “Old Tunnel” is actually an abandoned railroad tunnel that is now occupied by approximately three-million Mexican Free-tailed bats, and thousands of Myotis Velifer bats.

Operation of the tunnel halted in 1942, which ultimately led to the tunnel becoming a magnificent home for night-loving creatures.

Please bear in mind, the Old Tunnel State Park is a popular place during the vacation months, so be sure to book your tickets in advance BEFORE arriving at the event site.

There will be no tickets available to see the bats at the actual park.

Address: 10619 Old San Antonio Rd, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

7. Pioneer Museum

Pioneer Museum

The German heritage of Fredericksburg has been alive and well for over one hundred and seventy years!

For all that has transpired throughout that time, the earliest people of this city have laid the foundation for a beautiful city to flourish in Texas.

The Pioneer Museum holds an organic Fredericksburg essence that has evolved throughout almost two centuries.

Spanning over three-and-a-half acres and eleven buildings within Downtown Fredericksburg, the Museum is ripe with the art of storytelling, sheep shearing, and a fully immersed experience of the traditional values and culture of the city.

Whether it be this weekend or any weekend, make sure to pay tribute to the past progressions that have led to Fredericksburg’s modest modernity.

Especially if you’re simply looking for “what to do” while visiting.

You can also tour the Old Jail inside of the Pioneer Museum every first Saturday of the month.

Address: 325 W Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

8. St. Mary’s Catholic Church

JustPixs / Shutterstock

Another one of the coolest places to visit sits amongst a variety of colorful structures.

St. Mary’s Catholic Church was founded by a spiritual group of German immigrants in 1846, and the entire property is made up of two separate towers associated with the church.

The older tower, erected in 1861, is called the “Marienkirche”, and the younger tower called the “New St. Mary’s” was established in 1908.

In the earlier days, services for worship were held in people’s homes, which later upgraded to the Vereins Kirsche.

Twenty-two years short of two centuries, St. Mary’s Catholic Church is still a landmark worth visiting and is one of the unique and free things to do when you find yourself in Fredericksburg.

Before erecting the stone church we see today, German Catholics built a smaller wooden church on the same grounds.

After the civil war ended, many Catholics arrived in Fredericksburg, and by 1900, the Catholic community was urgently in need of a larger space to worship.

With Gothic eccentricism in regards to the infrastructure of the Church, the “New” St. Mary’s Catholic Church was finalized.

Today, you can stare in awe at the brilliant stained glass artistry and carved sculptures of Jesus and the Saints.

Amidst the artful displays, you will also find the Priest and Righteous King Melchizedek making an offering to Abraham.

As with most phenomenal churches, the ability to worship and be surrounded by powerful images from the bible is the ideal way to pay homage to the Most High.

Address: 304 W San Antonio St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

Looking for more thrill? How about visiting Austin, Corpus Christi, and Dallas? If you do plan the trip, here are some best things to do in Austin , some top things to do in Corpus Christi , and some best things to do in Dallas !

9. Tour the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park

EWY Media / Shutterstock

The 36th President, Mr. Lyndon B. Johnson, had an overwhelming love for a little ranch right here in Fredericksburg.

The Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park pays homage to the birthplace and stomping grounds of the Johnson family and references an abundance of relevant history in regard to the everyday life of the family.

Gaining information that goes all the way back to Lyndon B. Johnson’s Grandparents definitely constitutes adding this park to your list of places to visit.

If you are interested in going back in time with the hope of learning and understanding Fredericksburg and Texas as a whole, the Lyndon B. Johnson National Memorial Park is the place to be.

And make sure to say hi to Lady Bird for us!

Address: 1048 Park Road #49, Stonewall, TX 78671, United States

10. Das Peach Haus

Moab Republic / Shutterstock

The best farmers know exactly what to do when it comes to bringing us our sugar fix!

While peaches are the main attraction, and will forever be a desirable sweet treat, Das Peach Haus holds a variety of different options for the traveling soul.

Their assortments of jams, jellies, and sauces are a fun staple in Fredericksburg’s history and remain some of the tastiest creations within Fredericksburg.

Operated under the guidance of Fischer and Wieser the “Tasting Room” is a small piece of the restaurant’s greatness, as it offers wine tasting next to an immaculate pond.

Furthermore, if you are interested in learning the art of cooking, they have two-hour classes that feature different wines and intimate details about the restaurant’s cuisines.

If this is something you fancy, Das Peach Haus is one of the things to do in Fredericksburg if you have some time to spare for a day or two.

Address: 1406 S US Hwy 87, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

11. Der Lindenbaum

Der Lindenbaum

Nothing beats having traditional food in a historic place like Fredericksburg.

For a hearty meal that will enrich your experience throughout your travels, Der Lindenbaum pairs a great steak with a top German beer or wine that will satisfy any travel woes.

Dressed in an elegant limestone building, Der Lindenbaum is family-friendly and will provide a super cute place for you to dine and be catered to.

An extensive selection of all things German makes Der Lindenbaum one of the top places to get a decent meal, and not have to travel too far to get it.

Don’t forget to make a reservation during the Summer evenings!

Address: 312 E Main St #4612, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

12. Fredericksburg Pie Company

Fredericksburg Pie Company

When visiting a place like Fredericksburg’s it is also important to find some of the family-owned establishments and be sure to support their journeys.

Fredericksburg Pie Company makes each of their scrumptious pies from scratch, also making a claim that their pies today taste better than their grandmothers did!

If you’re up to putting them to the test and have a delicious slice of pie on top, then the Fredericksburg Pie Company will accommodate you with open arms.

While there is limited space for you to dine inside, there is plenty of outdoor seating for you to soak up some rays and have a couple of slices.

Address: 108 E Austin St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

13. Rockbox Theater

Rockbox Theater

Getting its start in 2007, the live music and entertainment venue, known as the Rockbox , is one of Fredericksburg’s best and longest-lasting event spaces.

The Rockbox Theater has given its stage to a number of classic rock-n-roll artists as well as tribute groups and modern acts.

What makes Rockbox an even more desirable location to visit is its commitment to giving great music, comedy, and independent artists an opportunity to shine – for both the community and tourists alike.

A simple and fun way for you to enjoy a night out this weekend will be to find a show on the official website, buy a couple of tickets, and enjoy a night out at Fredericksburg premium show and event space.

Address: 109 Llano St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

14. Japanese Garden of Peace

Japanese Garden of Peace is a Fredericksburg attraction that is a must-see.

One of the most heartfelt symbols of honor and integrity that sits amongst such a historical city is the Japanese Garden of Peace located directly in the Downtown area.

While technically positioned in the same complex as the Pacific War Museum, it also bears its own entryway to allow visitors to experience it separately from the museum itself.

Not only is it a great addition to your “free things to do” list, but shall remain one of the best places to visit considering its proximity to all the other fun activities within Fredericksburg.

A hidden Texas treasure, for sure.

Address: 340 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

15. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Silvio Ligutti / Shutterstock

While Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is technically 25-minutes outside of Fredericksburg, the natural scenery the park engulfs you in is definitely a must-see.

Located 18 miles north on Highway 16, rests an incredible habitat for you to travel to.

It is advised, however, that if you intend to visit the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area in the Springtime, you’ll need to first book a reservation in advance with the Texas Parks & Wildlife Reservation System.

While it is one of the fun things to do in Fredericksburg, the Spring season tends to be the busiest throughout the year.

Nonetheless, the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area will forever be a top tourist place to visit.

If sightseeing isn’t active enough for your busy bones, you can also camp, picnic, and enjoy one of the clearest night skies Texas has to offer.

At a mere $8 per person, rest assured the travel is worth the effort when you arrive at one of the best things to do when visiting Fredericksburg.

Address: 16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

16. Fort Martin Scott

saxettom / flickr

In 1848, Fort Martin Scott was being used as an Army outpost during a conflict with Native assailants.

While it was abandoned less than a decade after it was established, it is still a momentous place for you to plan your activities around.

Near Fredericksburg (approximately 2 miles from Downtown Fredericksburg) Fort Martin Scott comprises twenty one buildings scattered in proximity to the Fredericksburg-San Antonio highway.

You can sift through a number of rooms within the buildings and imagine what it could be like to be in the barracks during the heated struggles of the late 1800s.

Texas is known for its grit and determination, and Fort Martin Scott is a great place for you to learn a bit more about the vast past of Fredericksburg, and have fun while you do it.

Fort Martin Scott was also proclaimed a “Historic Texas Landmark” back in 1936, in addition to making the “National Register of Historic Places in Texas” in 1980.

You can find yourself getting lost in the mounds of interesting novelty Fort Martin Scott has in its galleries.

You will also be in for a treat once the 41,350 square feet Heritage Center is built right across from the fort, which will be a further educational complex that focuses on the history of Gillespie County as a whole.

Address: 1606 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

17. Vaudeville

Inspired by the meticulous palate of Chef Jordan Muraglia and the visionary prowess of Artist Richard Boprae, the restaurant known as Vaudeville was born.

Getting its start in May 2012, the two entrepreneurs set out to bring a Renaissance to Downtown Fredericksburg.

They began to pair contemporary food items with a luxurious setting and are regarded as one of the most romantic things to do when visiting Fredericksburg.

Of course, you are also welcome to join if you simply want a good lump crab curry or a duck confit.

Even though the Vaudeville encapsulates a finer pitch to its tune, it brings about a necessary balance of community and self-expression that can be seen as a light of inspiration for such a quaint piece of Texas.

So be sure to stop by and celebrate one of the top restaurants in Fredericksburg and support the entrepreneurial spirit of two passionate professionals servicing the city.

Definitely put Vaudeville as one of the things to do in Fredericksburg while you’re there!

Address: 230 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

If you have more time and the need to make more memories, why not check out El Paso, Fort Worth, and Galveston? If you do plan the trip, here’s what to do in El Paso , some top Fort Worth attractions , and some fun things to do in Galveston !

18. Emma + Ollie

Emma + Ollie

Do breakfast right with all the Southern charms you’ve been looking for and start your activities with home-style energy.

The Emma + Ollie menu introduces their “Mama’s Pancakes” and “Angie’s Breakfast Bowl”, which includes organic scrambled eggs, hash browns, cheese, and the quintessential side of meat or seasonal veggie options.

But you should not limit yourself to just breakfast at Emma + Ollie.

The fried chicken thigh with a biscuit is oh-so exquisite, but there are a variety of lunch options on the menu that are cleanly farmed and present with freshness.

The best part about Emma + Ollie is that it provides a comforting dining experience with the perfect food to accomplish the goal.

What seems like a simple way to get a comforting meal might be quite literally Fredericksburg’s best option for a delicious brunch!

Address: 607 S Washington St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

19. Artisans, A Texas Gallery

Artisans, A Texas Gallery

Some of the finest-crafted artwork is created and displayed inside this articulate Texas gallery.

You and your loved ones can experience the beauties of fine art at the Artisans gallery , but purchasing a piece is always a better idea!

The facility is home to over twenty brilliant artisans who can turn your beloved dog into a shiny piece of art.

As if that wasn’t enough, you can venture into the back courtyard and enjoy landscaped scenery juxtaposed against a few outdoor creations built and designed by the gallery’s artists.

Address: 234 W Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

20. Gallery 330

Gallery 330

Creating a space for artists to share their work is the lifeblood of any respectable gallery.

Gallery 330 anoints Fredericksburg’s art scene with a high-quality space for up-and-coming regional and national artists to display their crafts.

Every month, the 330 Gallery adds new artists to their repertoire but continues to maintain a perfect combination of modern impressionism and contemporary realism.

Getting its start in 2017, Gallery 330 brings a semi-new feel to Fredericksburg’s deep and rich history.

This is one of the few Fredericksburg attractions where you can find everything from oil on canvas paintings, granite hand-carved sculptures, and tons of biophilic references all within the gallery’s showroom.

It definitely will not take a large portion of your day to get through the entire selection, but visiting Gallery 330 is a safe bet if you genuinely have an interest in the arts, or trying to buy some time before your next amazing adventure.

Address: 330 W Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

21. Hill Country Escape

Jerome.Romme / Shutterstock

Now here comes the real fun!

Inspired by the art of working together and the ever-growing concept of group-think, the Hill Country Escape is a mashup of teamwork and challenges.

In order to take part, one must find clues and create strategies that help solve puzzles and complete goals.

You can have a group as small as two people or as large as ten, but no matter the size, you’ll most definitely have the time of your life.

While it is quite a tourist attraction for some, it is also an exciting and abstract way to spend an evening having fun with relatives and strangers alike.

Hill Country Escape is a brain and bonding game that is perfect for a fulfilling night in the town.

Address: 162 Boos Ln, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

22. The Marktplatz

If you are looking for even more things to do in Fredericksburg, the Market Place aka “ Marktplatz ” is located at the very center of the city and is a host for many fun festivities throughout the seasons.

During the Summer it is the perfect place to learn more about the history of Fredericksburg as the “Vereins Kirche” stands as one of the most prominent buildings in the city.

Today, the Marktplatz remains as a center for people to meet up and enjoy concerts together, or simply go ice skating during the winter months.

Definitely a trip you want to make on a sunny Saturday or Sunday morning, but just being around such a lively area is worth its weight in gold anytime.

If you are looking for things to do in Fredericksburg, then visiting the Marktplatz is a must-do for your trip.

Address: 126 W Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

23. Creekstreet Wine Tours

Africa Studio / Shutterstock

Texas does wine just as good as any other place in America, and you can rest assured that wine has found a home in Fredericksburg.

If you are in Fredericksburg for a fun time this weekend, planning a wine tour may be just the thing to spice up your traveling mood.

Creekstreet Wine Tours is a professional group of wine enthusiasts that will show you different wineries and wine tasting rooms.

You have the option to book a full day or half-day touring, or if you are just looking to roam freely around the estate, feel free to hop on a shuttle and be chauffeured swiftly to your dream destination.

If you are into reds-and-whites and looking for an eventful time around Fredericksburg wineries, then look no further!

And of course, what are a few glasses of wine without offerings from a cultural menu?

The quality of the Fredericksburg Wine Tour is of refined quality and is one of the unique things to do while visiting.

24. Vereins Kirche Museum

In a nutshell, the Vereins Kirche Museum was once a space for community gatherings and youth services over a century ago.

The original building, erected in 1847, was demolished in 1896, which led to the replica that currently stands in Fredericksburg since 1935.

Located directly inside the “Marktplatz”, it was once home to the first German settlers that claimed Fredericksburg as their own and began the momentum for the city we see today.

If you want to be enlightened by the cornerstone that gave way to a phenomenal city, the Vereins Kirche Museum is an interesting sight to see.

Deemed the “Society’s Church”, you will find an assortment of updated paintings and photos conveying the building’s long and prevailing history.

Inside the shops, you can find a smorgasbord of amazing cookbooks that bear German recipes within them, including a few books published by Fredericksburg’s Wrede Country School and their official PTA.

So please, take your family and friends on an intellectual adventure of the past, and deepen your understanding of this amazing piece of Texas.

Address: 100 W Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

25. Painted Churches

xradiophotog / Shutterstock

While St. Mary’s Catholic Church is the proverbial place to worship, there are many churches right outside/near Fredericksburg.

Located right in the Texas Hill Country, the Painted Churches are both Czech and German-inspired and consist of many architectural similarities to original European aesthetics.

Named on the official “National Register of Historic Places” list, the Painted Churches continue to amaze with the incredible attention to detail, magnificent marble, and stained glass it displays to the world.

For dates that go back one hundred years, German settlers once found an immense amount of comfort from these enchanting structures.

To think that such history surrounds a small city in Texas is both breathtaking and humbling at the same time for most travelers.

Address: TX, United States

26. The Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm

Malachi Jacobs / Shutterstock

Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm pays homage to Christine and Johann Sauer alongside their four children, who claimed 269 acres of land across from the Pedernales River.

In 1900, Otto and Emil Beckmann arrived on the scene and purchased their very first cotton crop in 1915.

The two families expanded their agricultural and foundational presence, which later became a donation to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department in 1965.

Today, the grand total of area attributed to the park is 700 acres, and still has traces from its nomadic and conquistador history etched into the soil.

It is located at the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park.

Address: 501 State Park Rd 52, Stonewall, TX 78671, United States

Looking for more fun outside Fredericksburg? Why not travel to Houston and New Braunfels? If you do plan the trip, here are some best things to do in Houston and what to do in New Braunfels ! 

27. Trade Days

Diann Bayes / flickr

About fifteen miles east of Downtown Fredericksburg is a delightful treat for those who like to shop.

A company called “Sunday Farms” opens up a marketplace for you to buy almost anything and everything, and have a fun time doing it!

Operating under the moniker Trade Days , the robust amount of findings and happenings that occurred on the once-a-month event is perfect for the abstract traveler.

Every third weekend of the month, Trade Days is home to vendors, artists, and entrepreneurs alike, and offers its own Biergarten just to get the party started!

Enjoy live music as well as you peruse through seven barns and acreage out the wazoo.

As the old saying goes, “If You Can’t Find it at Trade Days… You Don’t Need it!”.

Be sure to prepare for a $5 paid parking option, and Governors Orders are still in effect while attending the festivities.

Address: 355 Sunday Farms Rd, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

28. Willow City Loop

digidreamgrafix / Shutterstock

Being the official flower of the State, the Texas Bluebonnet is admired as one of the prettiest flowers around.

With Texas possessing an abundance of these gorgeous plants, the Fall and Winter allow for the soil to produce a plethora of bluebonnets, especially in Fredericksburg.

If you head a little way outside of Fredericksburg towards Llano, TX, you will come across some of the most epic views and canyons you can ever imagine.

The natural layout and remarkable juxtapositions of land and water give life to the concrete path of the Willow City Loop .

During the wildflower season, you can find an abundance of colorful flowers and plants, as well as an infinite amount of live oak trees and other woodland creatures.

Viewed as one of the most elegant tourist attractions Fredericksburg has to offer, be advised that weekend trips can be quite overwhelming, as people from far and wide take a ride on this thirteen-mile stretch of road.

If today is a weekday, you may be right to stack everyone into a car and be on your way!

Another thing to note, although the Willow City Loop is overseen by the county, the land is actually privately owned.

So if you choose to venture over to the Willow City Loop, be sure to not boondoggle on people’s land or aimlessly drift onto the offbeat paths.

29. Grape Creek Vineyards

Founded in 1983, and touted as the oldest grape vineyard on Highway 290, Grape Creek Vineyards is home to 100 acres of farmland and 40,000 square feet of production facility.

Producing close to 750,000 bottles per year, the Grape Creek Vineyards harvests a whopping 800 tons of Texas-grown grapes right on their estate.

Everyone is welcome into the vineyard and given the chance to tour each facility and vineyard, while also indulging in the essential tasting.

There is also the Stout’s Signature Restaurant that connects an exceptional range of food items surrounded by a lovely vineyard setting.

Quality is the name of the game.

So when it comes to visiting the great city of Fredericksburg, just remember, the Grape Creek Vineyards is topnotch for the casual and seasoned wine consumer.

Address: 10587 E U.S, US-290, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

30. First Friday Art Walk

First Friday Art Walk

On the first Friday of every month, you can attend the “ First Friday Art Walk ” in Downtown Fredericksburg.

With most participating galleries located on Main Street and San Antonio Street, it is definitely one of the simplest things to do when visiting (or living in) Fredericksburg.

The galleries keep their doors open until 8 pm for visitors to enjoy open receptions, special events, and hometown wines all in one place.

For the past few years, the First Friday Art Walk has reigned supreme on people’s “things to do in Fredericksburg” lists, so why not go this weekend and cross it off for yourself!

The fact that this event is an all-day deal and features a very creative piece of Fredericksburg adds to the overall value Texas has to offer.

Prepare yourself for a sophisticated and pleasant night in the town.

Address: Fredericksburg, TX , United States

31. Fredericksburg Herb Farm

Located on a 5,000 square foot property, the Fredericksburg Herb Farm is home to a number of therapeutic and satiating options.

Besides having a comforting spa environment with food made from garden-fresh ingredients, there is also a lovely gift shop called the Poet’s Haus where you can purchase a few in-house-made items like soaps, candles, and lotions.

Reserving a day of relaxation in one of Fredericksburg Herb House’s Sunday Haus Cottages to enjoy a massage, good food, and a healthy mind and body decompression is exactly what you need to complete any vacation regiment.

Address: 405 Whitney St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

Looking for more fun around Texas? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Port Aransas ?

32. Luckenbach

Emily Marie Wilson / Shutterstock

Ten miles outside of Fredericksburg is a quaint city called Luckenbach.

If you find yourself with an extended stay in Fredericksburg, Luckenbach extends Fredericksburg’s beauty and has many wonderful attractions within its city limits.

Named after the German noble Jakob Luckenbach, the town was made famous by the late great Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings.

Luckenbach, having an immense amount of history similar to Fredericksburg, this country music/German-Texan heritage is by far one of the places to visit if you have exhausted yourself with all Fredericksburg has to offer.

Similar to Fredericksburg’s Rockbox Theater, Luckenbach has also hosted its fair share of musicians throughout the decades and continues to be a flourishing part of Gillespie County.

33. Kaffee Haus

Kaffee Haus

Lori Allen and Kate are the two entrepreneurial taste buds behind Kaffee Haus.

Located directly on Main Street, it is the optimal experience to sip a well-brewed seasonal drink at a Fredericksburg favorite.

It is a well-known fact that the tiny shops always have the best selections.

The best part is, this place attracts both travelers and locals and asks them to join in the fun flavors in their corner of the world.

So this weekend, make a trip to your next favorite shop and indulge in a cup or two of their hot offerings.

Address: 218 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

34. Red Baron Antique Mall

Red Baron Antique Mall

With a plethora of arbitrage and unique collectible items, the Red Baron Antique Mall is the gift that keeps on giving.

Housing over fifty antique dealers and implementing Estate Sales and Auctions, the Red Baron Antique Mall is the place you can purchase your next collectible or your next watch.

The idea behind buying classic pieces is one that has transcended the times.

From furniture and clocks to fine china and jewelry, there are many eclectic items to choose from.

For all the contemporary shops in the heart of Main Street, the Red Baron Antique Mall is the perfect place to balance your shopping experience.

Address: 502 W Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

35. Elk Store Winery & Distillery

Elk Store Winery & Distillery

Established in 1895, the Elk Store Winery & Distillery has a unique historical journey of its own.

Like most of the Fredericksburg attractions, The Elk story was founded by a Moravian immigrant looking for his piece of the American Dream.

The Elk Store was a trusted source throughout the Great Depression and Prohibition, as moonshining under the radar became commonplace with the Elk Store walls.

Establishments that have surfed the sands of time and weathered countless storms always have the greatest knowledge of true history.

To visit the Elk Store is not only an opportunity to enjoy handmade spirits but also introduces another perspective of the evolving culture of Fredericksburg.

It is definitely one of the things to see when you come to visit, as it shows a tiny piece of Texas during a monumental era of American development.

So come by this weekend and chat with the locals in an unabashed social setting, and have a good time over a few cold glasses.

Address: 327 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

36. Twisted Sisters Bake Shop

Twisted Sisters Bake Shop

The majority of things to do when in Fredericksburg typically revolve around learning the history of the people and embarking on natural journeys within the surrounding areas.

When it is time to come back from your vacation-induced dream state, and you’re ready for a comforting meal, the Twisted Sisters Bake Shop has an abundance of sweet and savory items for you and the family!

With everything prepared with a German twist, this bakery and restaurant is a perfect cooldown for this weekend, regardless of what Monday has in store for you.

Their menu also rotates quite frequently, allowing their options to be fresh and exciting no matter how often you visit their shop.

Inside, you will find a sporadic sense of humor with a lighthearted vibe, as the memorabilia throughout the store contain quirky and flippant phrases.

Even with the comedic aspects, however, the Twisted Sisters Bake Shop still has some of the best sandwiches, cakes, and cinnamon buns Fredericksburg has to offer.

A top-tier choice for any traveling foodie!

Address: 111 S Washington St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States

If you want more thrill, don’t forget to check out San Antonio and Waco. If you do plan the trip, here’s what to do in San Antonio and some fun things to do in Waco !

37. Bankersmith, TX

Just a short drive from Fredericksburg you will find a lively town with a population of zero, but a plethora of activities.

Bankersmith is an old ghost town that is technically more for events than actual residency these days.

While it is near Fredericksburg, Bankersmith carries its own unique aesthetic and invites everyone for a dashing good time in a small town.

From the Margarita Festival in April to the Crawfish and Cajun Festival in August, Bankersmith hosts an array of fun things to see and do.

If you feel like shaking your groove thing, there’s an amazing Dance Hall on the immediate grounds.

Or maybe ice skating is your thing?

Say hello to a full-blown Ice Haus with all the German fixings the locals appreciate.

So make this weekend worth the hustle and visit Bankersmith for a delightful time while on vacation.

38. Garrison Brothers Distillery

Garrison Brothers Distillery

Fermented organic corn for that ole’ fashioned old fashioned, with one ice cube, please.

Or maybe a “Sit and Sip” tour is more your style?

Either way, the Garrison Brothers Distillery is a handcrafted experience tuned for the beer or whiskey aficionado.

Located outside of Fredericksburg in Hye, Texas, it’s a must that you visit the Garrison Brothers’ kitchen and dabble in a variety of deep brown and gold liquids.

The Garrison Brothers Distillery is equipped with a stocked barrel barn for you to browse through, with an optional taste of their 135-proof “White Dog” right out of the keg.

When in Texas, it’s almost heresy to not dive into a local brewery or distillery and try some of the State’s liquid gold!

Take a stroll through the barrel barn and enjoy a few pours of the Garrison Brothers limited releases, and don’t forget to take a few shots… with a camera, of course! [Drink Responsibly]

Address: 1827 Hye-Albert Rd, Hye, TX 78635, United States

Visiting other parts of Texas? Why not check out some of the things to do in South Padre Island  & some of the fun things to do in Tyler, TX ?

Start Planning Your Trip To Fredericksburg

When you are in Fredericksburg, Texas, it is important to soak in all the monumental history that the area has to offer.

There are a number of Fredericksburg attractions that will absolutely blow you away and inform you at the same time.

These are more than just tourist attractions.

The majority of things to see in Fredericksburg have a deep intrinsic value to them and have stood strong throughout the tests of time.

Come and soak in all the great experiences Fredericksburg has in store, and be sure to leave more enlightened about the world than when you came.

Happy travels.

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Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

The Best Things To See And Do In Fredericksburg, Texas

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• Destinations
• Fredericksburg
• Texas Hill Country
• United States

Located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg offers wineries, charming shops, fine dining, and German heritage, all in a beautiful and historic setting.

If you visit during the spring, you’ll be treated to a spectacular show of wildflowers, including Texas’s famous bluebonnets.

I was recently invited on a press trip to Fredericksburg, and I had a wonderful time. Here are some of the many things visitors should do in this delightful area.

Learn About The Town’s Rich History

Founded by German immigrants in 1846, Fredericksburg has a remarkable history starring pioneers, Native Americans, and veterans of the Pacific theater. Upon settling in Fredericksburg, each settler received a lot in town as well as an additional 10 acres outside of town. The settlers made a peace treaty with several of the local Comanche tribes that allowed the townsfolk to farm the land along the Llano River. In return, the Comanche people were allowed to visit the town at any time.

Since many farmers would drive into town to shop on Saturdays and attend church services on Sundays, Sunday houses were built for use on weekends and religious holidays. Today, you can step back in time at the Pioneer Museum , where you’ll find a collection of preserved structures from the 19th-century German pioneer days, including the Webster Sunday House. The Gillespie County Historical Society runs the museum and hosts community events focused on education and historic preservation.

The National Museum of the Pacific War , the only United States institution dedicated exclusively to telling the story of the Pacific theater in World War II, draws more than 150,000 visitors annually. Join a guided tour to view the renovated Pacific Combat Zone, a realistic environment that gives visitors a deeper understanding of the momentous struggle between the Allied and Japanese forces that took place on the islands of the Pacific.

Several annual events also offer a taste of the city’s history, including the Gillespie County Fair, an Oktoberfest celebration, and various food and wine festivals.

Explore The Texas Hill Country

Whether you bicycle the backroads of Luckenbach, Texas , or take a scenic drive through the Texas Hill Country on a photography tour, you’ll see local wildlife and plenty of cacti. End your bike ride or drive at the watering hole made famous by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson’s 1976 country hit “Luckenbach, Texas.” Tour the local dance hall, post office, and beer joint, and take in some live music in a lively Texas atmosphere.

If you visit in the spring, you’ll see fields of colorful wildflowers — bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, buttercups, and more — across the landscape. Stop at Wildseed Farms to walk the paved paths and view the gorgeous fields of wildflowers grown there.

If you’re an especially active traveler, hike to the top of Enchanted Rock , the second-largest granite dome in the U.S. An easier hike is the Enchanted Rock Loop Trail, where you can still enjoy the views from this rock formation.

Taste The Local Wines And Brews

Named one of the 10 best wine travel destinations by Wine Enthusiast , the Fredericksburg area is famous for its Texas Hill Country wines and hosts more visitors than any wine region in the country except Napa. There are more than 50 wineries and tasting rooms in Fredericksburg and Gillespie County. Wine Road 290 will take you to some of the award-winning wineries, but if you’re only in the area for a short time, plan to head to one of the town’s many tasting rooms.

If you prefer a stiff spirit or brew, head to Altstadt Brewery , which serves up German-style beer and food and offers tours and live music. In town, there’s Elk Store 1895 Winery and Distillery , where two Czech brothers produce small-batch gin, rum, whiskey, and more. At this wine and spirits bar, you can choose from craft cocktails made from distilled spirits or from more than 100 wines from all over the world.

Visit The Texas White House

Visit the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park , known as the Texas White House, to see where the 36th president of the United States conducted much of his business.

Then continue your tour at the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site , where you can visit the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm . This working farm takes visitors back in time to the pioneer days of the 1800s. Employees wear period clothing while carrying out day-to-day duties like curing meats, baking bread, and making soap. Visit to see what life was like for the average German-American farm family.

Eating In Fredericksburg

Great food and wine are everywhere you turn in Fredericksburg, and you’ll find a variety of American, Tex-Mex, and German restaurants from which to choose.

Here are some of my favorites.

Emma + Ollie

Rebecca Rather, known as the Pastry Queen, owns Emma + Ollie , a delicious breakfast and lunch spot. Stop by to pick up some pastries to go, or browse the full menu of sweet and savory items. I love the Tomato Toast, featuring fresh-toasted sourdough topped with CKC goat cheese, bacon jam, roasted tomatoes, arugula, and an over easy egg. Fresh beignets are available all day.

Tubby’s Icehouse

Tubby’s Icehouse is known for its Caribbean-style street food and laid-back atmosphere. An extensive wine and beer list complements menu items like the curry shrimp taco, with red curry, coconut shrimp, carrot slaw, herb salad, and peanuts. It’s like being on the islands — in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.

Farm Haus Bistro

Located at the Fredericksburg Herb Farm, the Farm Haus Bistro features an American menu with French and Italian influences. The meals are prepared using locally grown fruits, vegetables, and herbs.

German Favorites

Thanks to Fredericksburg’s German heritage, you’ll find numerous authentic German restaurants in town. A local favorite is the Auslander Restaurant and Biergarten , which has been serving up Bavarian cuisine for more than 20 years. Another solid choice is Otto’s German Bistro , which offers gourmet German fare made from locally sourced produce and meats.

Where To Stay In Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg is home to almost 800 lodging options, many of them bed and breakfasts. Each has its own charm. Visit the Fredericksburg tourism site to learn more.

Here are a few unique places to lay your head.

Barons CreekSide

Barons CreekSide , a log cabin village set on 26 rolling acres, is just a short drive from Main Street and features its own vineyard.

Hangar Hotel

The funky Hangar Hotel is located next to the Gillespie County Airport. Owned by a pilot, the hotel has an aviation theme, and you can sit on the patio and watch the planes land.

Fredericksburg Herb Farm

At the Fredericksburg Herb Farm, you can stay in a Sunday Haus Cottage set in a garden environment. Stroll the gardens, get a spa treatment in the 5,000-square-foot destination spa, or dine at the on-site restaurant. The property is located near downtown Fredericksburg.

Belle Maison

Located in the town’s historic area, just a short walk from Main Street, Belle Maison is a luxurious bed and breakfast with French perennial gardens in both the front and back.

Chuckwagon Inn

The Chuckwagon Inn , built in 1854, was originally a dogtrot structure with a dirt floor between a bedroom and the kitchen. The old milking shed and barn are now bed and breakfast suites. Enjoy a hearty made-from-scratch breakfast each morning at this rustic getaway, located just a few miles outside the downtown area.

Planning a trip to the Texas Hill Country? Make time for lively Austin and historic San Antonio .

In 2015, Jill Dutton started traveling the world to explore culture and place through storytelling, writing about the people she meets along the way. Readers of her articles have come to expect an intimate look at authentic travel experiences. Jill's podcast, Global Journeys with Jill Dutton is ranked #22 in FeedSpot’s “Best Travel Podcasts on the Planet.” Listen to a podcast episode, read her syndicated food column -- Global Plates: The People We Meet, The Food They Eat, or follow her travels at https://globaljourneyswithjilldutton.com/.

30 Fun Things to do in Fredericksburg TX

Right in the heart of the Texas Hill Country sits the charming and historic small town of Fredericksburg, Texas, in Gillespie County. 

According to Southern Living Magazine, Fredericksburg, TX, is a hot spot for people all over the United States.

Known for its unique German heritage and many great wineries, the city is also home to great outdoor activities, loads of shopping, and great restaurants.

We love visiting Fredericksburg and find ourselves there several times a year.

About 1.5 hours outside of  Austin and not far from San Antonio, Fredericksburg is a great town for a weekend getaway from the big city and an easy day trip from Austin .

Let’s look at some of the fun  things to do in Fredericksburg, TX!

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Things to do in Fredericksburg, TX

Enchanted rock.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area should definitely be on your list of things to do in Fredericksburg, Texas, year-round.

Located about 20 miles outside of Fredericksburg, Enchanted Rock State Park is one of the most popular hiking and photography areas in the Texas Hill Country and a popular road trip . 

Today, visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, rock climbing on the massive pink granite dome, picnicking, and enjoying some of the best stargazing around while visiting Enchanted Rock.  

Of course, the park is one of the top attractions near Fredericksburg, Texas; it is extremely busy on the weekend, so make sure to make your reservations and pack a picnic.

Be sure to visit the Enchanted Rock website for the most up-to-date information while planning your trip to Texas Hill Country.

Old Tunnel State Park

Watching the Mexican free-tailed bats take flight from the historical Old Tunnel State Park is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Fredericksburg.

The park, home to over three million Mexican free-tailed bats, is an old abandoned railroad tunnel that once belonged to the Northern Railway.

Head to the park before sunset to see the bats head out on their nightly flight.

If you’re a nature lover, this exhilarating experience at Old Tunnel State Park tops the list of things to do in Fredericksburg, Texas.

Please note that the tunnel is a protected area for bats, so entry is forbidden.

Old Tunnel State Park is just one of the best places to  see bats in Texas . 

Fredericksburg Pioneer Museum

Down on the west end of downtown Main Street, you will find the family-friendly Fredericksburg Pioneer Museum . 

The 3-acre complex that makes up the Pioneer Museum is home to 11 historic buildings from the original small-town authentic German immigrants.

While taking one of the self-guided tours of the Pioneer Museum, pay attention to the historic 19th-century German homes, a church, and buildings.

Visitors also get to see a vast collection of 19th-century German artifacts at the center of the Museum.

Pick Peaches

The orchards near Fredericksburg and in the Texas Hill Country produce 40 percent of the state’s peaches.

So, if you find yourself near or visiting Fredericksburg in the summer, enjoy picking some peaches before tasting everything made with peaches.

The peaches here are great and one of the best things around (especially the peach ice cream), so don’t miss trying them!

Das Peach Haus

Another thing to do in Fredericksburg, Texas, is hang out at the Das Peach Haus store. 

This cute store, located not far from Main Street, has century-old buildings dating back to the German immigrants.

If you’re a peach lover, Das Peach Haus is a great place since they have everything you can think of made from the best peaches, even ice cream!

Rockbox Theater

The former warehouse turned live music venue, Rockbox Theater , has entertained Fredericksburg since 2007.

Located just off Main Street, the Rockbox Theater initially focused on live music from the 50s and 60s but has since evolved to welcome bands and comedians for you to watch.

Museum of the Pacific War

I have often wondered why a National museum like the National Pacific War Museum is located in the small town of Fredericksburg, Texas. 

So, I did a little research on the history and discovered that Admiral Nimitz, a leader in the battles of World War II in the Pacific, was from Fredericksburg.

The property that the National Museum of the Pacific War occupies was once home to the Nimitz Steamboat Hotel, a hotel in town that Admiral Nimitz owned and operated on this site on Main Street.

The National Museum of the Pacific War focuses on the battles of World War II.

When you explore the Museum of the Pacific War, you will notice that it contains world-class artifacts, some of which are directly from the Pacific War combat zone.

See the memorial and Japanese Garden of Peace during your visit.

The Japanese Garden of Peace was a gift from Japan and serves as a reminder of the friendship between Japan and the United States.

Don’t miss the Japanese Garden of Peace while visiting the Museum of the Pacific War.

Shop on Main Street

Shopping is one of the best things to do in Fredericksburg, Texas. 

Fredericksburg’s main shopping lies on each side of Main Street and is easy to walk around.

Located inside the beautiful historic buildings along this stretch of Main Street, you will find cute specialty stores selling jewelry, home goods, clothing, and art.

Stay at a Fabulous Bed and Breakfast

One of the most romantic things in Fredericksburg, Texas, is to stay with your sweetie at a fabulous bed and breakfast. 

Fredericksburg’s Main Street is lined with bed and breakfasts. 

They range from century-old German houses to cottages, so you will surely find one that suits your style and is near downtown and the wineries on Wine Road 290.

Wildseed Farms

Wildseed Farms is another of the many great things to do in Fredericksburg, TX, and is a photography hot spot. 

This wildflower farm is home to numerous Texas flower and plant species.

The goal at Wildseed Farms is to grow wildflowers for seed production so that Texas wildflowers, including bluebonnets, can continue for generations to come! 

Visit their website for more information on the wildflower farm.

Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park

Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park is a 150-acre park with all the features you would need for a great day out in nature.

This family-friendly park houses numerous pavilions for visitors to enjoy, a lake to fish in, sports courts, hiking trails, and a playground on-site! 

Visitors in the summer months will also find a public swimming pool!

Since it is located about 3 miles outside of town, it is easy to visit. So pack a picnic and head out.

Fredericksburg Theatre Company

For over twenty years, the Fredericksburg Theatre Company has been producing live theatre in the small Texas town of Fredericksburg. 

Performances range from live musicians (including country music) to full-scale Broadway-style productions. 

You can watch a show at the Theatre Company on the weekends if you’re in town. 

Take a Texas Wine Tour

Texas is quickly becoming a wine destination, and Fredericksburg is definitely a wine country!

Wineries are popping up everywhere in the Texas Hill Country, especially along Highway 290, nicknamed “Wine Road 290”.

Highway 290 is a 30-mile stretch of road that runs from Johnson City to Fredericksburg and is home to over 30 wineries, with more appearing daily, making it one of the top trip attractions.

Consider taking a guide tour with the Fredericksburg wine tour  or hopping on the Wine Road 290 shuttle bus when you are ready to sample some fabulous Texas wines.

Of course, the wine shuttle is an extra cost, but it is worth it!

The wineries near Fredericksburg also host a wine trail a few times a year.

Participating in the wine trail events is one of the best things to do as it allows you to try several Fredericksburg, TX wineries.

Honestly, wineries are the most popular things to do in Fredericksburg, Texas!

Vereins Kirche Museum

The Vereins Kirche Museum is located right on Fredericksburg’s Main Street in the Marktplatz.

Vereins Kirche was built on this site in the Marktplatz by some of the first German settlers that founded Fredericksburg, Texas. 

This structure has served as the town hall, a school, a fort, and an old-style church, and a general store.

Although the original town hall building at the Vereins Kirche Museum was demolished in the late 1800s, it was rebuilt in 1935 to the building you see today in the Marktplatz. 

Located right in the center of Marktplatz, visitors to the Vereins Kirche Museum get to see a glimpse of Fredericksburg’s past by visiting the family-friendly museum that is housed inside.

The Marktplatz is also home pavilions, picnic areas, a playground, and more.

The Marktplatz is also where Oktoberfest and other festivals are hosted.

Of course, the Vereins Kirche Museum as well as Fredericksburg’s other museums are some of the best things to see in the Hill Country, so take time to check them out while visiting Fredericksburg.

Enjoy Some German Restaurants and a Biergarten

Like we said before, Fredericksburg, TX was founded by German settlers, so it is only fitting that you take in some of the German cultures while you are visiting.

We can’t think of a better way to experience a culture than through food and restaurants! 

Explore some of the German heritage that Fredericksburg has to offer by popping into one of the many German restaurants and biergartens that you will find around town.

Some nights you will even find live music!

Explore History at the Texas Rangers Heritage Center

The 12-acre complex that is the Texas Rangers Heritage Center is housed near Fredericksburg, TX on Highway 290.

This complex, which supports a wide range of events, was built to honor those that serve. 

Visitors can come for campfire stories, living history re-enactments, and walking tours to learn how the Texas Rangers helped to guard the first forts in Texas.

This is a great addition to your small town itinerary.

Visit a Painted Church

Now, the historic painted churches aren’t directly in Fredericksburg, but they are in the Texas Hill Country that is near to Fredericksburg. 

Originally built between 1830 and 1900, the famous churches are called the “pained churches” because they are uniquely designed and painted with elaborate faux finishes inside.

There are 20 painted churches scattered around miles of the Texas Hill Country that welcome visitors for tours.

All of the churches have been listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, making them one of the top attractions here.

Visiting the churches is an easy day trip from San Antonio or any place in central Texas.

Tour Fort Martin Scott

Located a few miles east of Fredericksburg on Highway 290, visitors will find the historic Army complex, Fort Martin Scott. 

Fort Martin Scott was in operation from 1848-1853 when it was used as a military operation both before and after the Civil War. 

This self-guided tour allows visitors to see several of the original settler’s buildings.

The original garrison building, a late 1800s farm shed, and three reproduction garrison buildings are all part of the complex and available for visitors to tour.

Twice a year Fort Martin Scott hosts live re-enactments to allow visitors to “live” history.

Visit “Tuscany in Texas” at Grape Creek Vineyards and Winery

When I first read “Tuscany in Texas”, I giggled a little.

 I wondered how any place in Texas could dare compare themselves to my beloved Italy.

I have to admit though, Grape Creek Vineyards and Winery is the closest thing to Tuscany that I have seen in Texas. 

From the towering Cypress trees, a favorite in Tuscany, to acres of sprawling vineyards, this did have a Tuscan feel.

Drive the Willow City Loop

Just outside of Fredericksburg, you will find the scenic drive that is the Willow City Loop in Gillespie County. 

The landscape around the Willow City Loop is quite interesting.

The terrain changes from pastures and gently rolling hills to dramatic canyons and meandering streams, often dotted with flowers.

This makes this 13-mile stretch a breathtaking drive in comparison to most other parts of Texas.

While the drive is gorgeous year-round, it is at its best during the spring and summer (March-May) when the Texas wildflowers, especially the Texas bluebonnets , are in bloom. 

Admire the Texas Wildflowers

Spring in Fredericksburg means that the countryside comes alive with beautiful Texas wildflowers. 

Visit between March and May to see sunflowers, Indian paintbrushes, poppies, and Texas bluebonnets.

Honestly, Texas wildflowers are definitely one of the favorite things to see in this area.

There are so many wildflowers near Fredericksburg that you will easily find some during your springtime trip!

Visit the Fredericksburg Herb Farm

Now, don’t let the name fool you, the Fredericksburg Herb Farm is much more than fields of herbs. 

They do grow their own herbs which they use in their restaurant, but there is so much more to the Fredericksburg Herb Farm than just that.

Here visitors will find a fabulous spa facility and shop for you to relax at while on your trip.

You can also pick up the perfect Texas souvenir in their gift shop before retiring to one of their fabulous cottages!

The Fredericksburg Herb Farm is also near downtown, making it a great place to come and relax.

Enjoy One Of the Fun Festivals

Fredericksburg hosts many great festivals throughout the year.

In the summer months, you will find the Gillespie County Fair and a rodeo, both of which are near downtown. 

For a full calendar of events, check out the Fredericksburg, TX  website .

The tiny town of Luckenbach was made famous by a Texas county music legend and is located near Fredericksburg, so you might as well visit while you’re here. 

Luckenbach is a short trip outside of Fredericksburg, and should definitely be on your list of fun things to do in Fredericksburg, TX.

Luckenbach has hosted the top names in live country music for years and continues to do that still today.

While you’re visiting, be sure to grab a Texas beer from the bar, browse the general store, and then hang out to absorb the country atmosphere and live music!

Tour a German Brewery

If you are driving on Highway 290 east of Fredericksburg, you are sure to notice the Altstadt Brewery. 

This award-winning brewery combines old-world brewing practices with modern technology to create its fabulous beer.

Grab a beer while visiting this German brewery so you can experience more of Fredericksburg’s German heritage.

Visitors can take a guided tour the facility daily for free before enjoying eating some German food in their on-site restaurant. 

They can also enjoy their huge outdoor patio or maybe catch some live music.

Visit a Local Distillery

While Fredericksburg is known to have great Texas wine, there are also several great distilleries near Fredericksburg that welcome visitors.

One of our local favorites is the Garrison Brothers Distillery where every bottle of Texas-style bourbon is made with pride from Texas distillers.

After your tour, head to their bar to do a tasting or order a cocktail. 

Find a Treasure at Fredericksburg Trade Days Sunday Farms

The third weekend of every month brings about the Fredericksburg Trade Days. 

Located on Highway 290 is Sunday Farms, Fredericksburg Trade Days are the perfect place to find you a little Texas treasure.

The trade days contain over 350 vendors and small shops selling antiques, food, candles, jewelry, clothing, and more.

The shops are quite eclectic and fun with a wide variety of goods.

Take a break in the outdoor Biergarten and enjoy some yummy “fair food” while here also.

The Trade Days grounds are near Wildseed Farm, so you won’t miss them while on your trip.

Tour the “Texas White House”

East of Fredericksburg toward Johnson City, takes you to the “Texas White House”, the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park and working ranch.

President Lyndon B. Johnson was born and raised in this area of the Hill Country so it is only fitting that the Texas White House be here.

Stop in at the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park and Visitors Center to get a permit and map indicating the tour route in order to access the beautiful ranch grounds that house the Texas White House.

On the property, you will find several historic buildings, a working ranch, a farm, parks, a church, the Texas White House, and the Lyndon B. Johnson Family Cemetery welcoming having visitors.

This is one of the historic things to see in Fredericksburg and a truly great National Museum.

Visit the Art Galleries

Fredericksburg is home to several great local artists that love to show off their work. 

There are several art galleries near Fredericksburg and many are located right on downtown Main Street.

Most art galleries showcase local art and photography from the Texas Hill Country, making these galleries of the great things to see in the area.

Go Antique Shopping

Antique lovers will definitely want antique shopping to be on their list of things to do in Fredericksburg, TX. 

Of course, if you are visiting during the third weekend of the month, then you can antique shop at the Fredericksburg Trade Days mentioned above.

If you are visiting during other times of the month, don’t worry, you can still get your fill of antique shopping at places like The Red Baron antique store.

The Red Baron is a huge antique mall that has a large selection of reasonably priced goods.

There are also a few antique shops on Fredericksburg’s Main Street.

Final Thoughts on Things to do in Fredericksburg, TX

As you can see, there are so many fun things to do in Fredericksburg, TX . 

Give Fredericksburg and the Hill Country a try, and then comment below and tell us what your favorite thing to do in Fredericksburg, Texas is.

While you’re here, check out some of our other posts:

Enoch’s Stomp Vineyard & Winery: The Perfect Weekend Getaway

6 Reasons to Take an East Texas Wine Tour

15 Awesome Things to do in Wimberley, TX

50+ Free Things To Do In Dallas-Fort Worth

Ultimate List of Road Trip Essentials

Romantic Getaways in Texas

15 Small Towns in Texas You Must Visit

101 Things to do in Dallas-Ft. Worth

20 Awesome Things to do in Wimberley, TX

Romantic Weekend in Downtown McKinney

A Fabulous Weekend in San Antonio

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Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight:

We love using CheapOAir, Kayak, and Kiwi to search for the best flight prices. We love using these search engines because they search the web for airlines worldwide to ensure you get the best deal! In addition to flights, you can also find great hotel prices on Kayak and Kiwi.

Book Your Vacation Package:

If you want to book an entire vacation package, we suggest using Expedia. We love how easy Expedia is to use, and we always find good deals on entire vacation packages on their site.

Another great site for vacation packages is BookVIP . BookVIP offers super cheap vacation packages to incredible destinations. You are sure to save money using their site!

For full guided vacations, including hotels, some meals, transportation, and guides, then we book with Trafalgar. Trafalgar is a trusted tour company that will meet all your needs while ensuring a great experience.

Trip.com allows you to book flights, hotels, train tickets, rental cars, airport transfers, tours, and more all on one site. Owned by the parent company that also owns Skyscanner, this is a trusted resource for travel booking and a great “one-stop shop.”

Book Your Accommodations:

We always begin our search by checking out honest reviews on TripAdvisor hotels. This allows us to narrow our search for specific properties once we are ready to book. Of course, you can also book directly on the TripAdvisor site!

There are several accommodation sites that we like to use. One of our favorites is Booking.com because it offers a wide variety of hotels and guesthouses at a good price.

Another “go-to” hotel booking site for us is Hotels.com . We love their loyalty program that allows you to earn free nights, and their “secret prices” for members are fabulous deals!

HotelsCombined is another cool site. They allow you to compare all the top travel sites with one search to ensure you find the best deal out there. Kayak works in this way as well.

If you want a luxurious all-inclusive vacation, consider checking out the Sandals/Beaches properties. Sandals properties are for couples only and Beaches are for families. We have visited Sandals in the past and absolutely love the attention to detail and the service they provide.

Tour Companies We Trust:

We love taking guided tours when visiting new places. Our go-to tour companies are Viator.com and Get Your Guide . Both of these companies have been in business for years and provide excellent customer service. You can trust booking tours from their sites for sure!

For a guided city tour, check out City Sightseeing and BigBus Tours . These bus tours are so much fun and easy to hop on and hop off at top attractions in cities around the world.

CityPass is a great way to save money when visiting large cities. CityPass allows you to get free admission to major attractions once you buy their pass. The savings add up quickly with this pass, often saving 50% with combined admissions.

Another great pass to save money in larger cities is the Sightseeing Pass . This pass allows you to save valuable time and money by combining admissions to major attractions. They also have a handy app that keeps everything you need at your fingertips.

Looking to Save Time and Money?

Check out our resource page for all of our favorite vendors. These companies help us to save time and money on our travels!

About the Author

Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through creative content creation and her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel and accompanying social media accounts.  She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

Spursteddybexar

Sunday 5th of September 2021

I Live in the area and this is a great round up of things to do in FBG. I also particularly enjoy a leisurely drive on Ranch Road 1 alongside the Pedernales River near Stonewall, where you can still see the old guard house and river crossing that LBJ used when he lived here. (Also, longhorns!) And the National Park has a nice living history farm - Sauer Beckmann - that kids and adults would enjoy.

thattexascouple

Sunday 12th of September 2021

Thank you so much for taking the time to read and comment. Fredericksburg is such a fabulous area! We have to add that drive to our itinerary next time for sure!

Didi Schiele-Lazar

Sunday 18th of July 2021

Followed your link to get $50 off Airb&b. How does it work? We'd like to book a room and they're going fast!

Monday 19th of July 2021

As soon as you book a qualifying room then your credit will appear. :)

Sunday 24th of January 2021

Great post! I've never been but its not too too far away from me so I'd love to add it to my long weekend list. Thanks for sharing these great tips!

That is so great to hear. We love Fredericksburg so much! I hope you get to visit soon!

Wow, you have so many amazing ideas! Now, I'm deffinetely adding it to my travel list, I want to go there now. Thank you for sharing this list guys!

Thank you for reading. We are so glad you enjoyed it!

Ummi Nadrah

Ohh..how exciting! I'll make sure to visit in summer when the peaches are in season. Where I come from, peaches are a luxury.

Yes! We love peaches!

17 Towns Like Fredericksburg, Texas

Posted on Published: June 9, 2022  - Last updated: June 10, 2022

Categories Places

Since you like Fredericksburg, TX so much, we’ve helped you to find similar towns in terms of charm, culture, family-friendliness, and more, that you could choose to live or visit.

Fredericksburg, Texas

Fredericksburg, Texas, has it all: shopping, vineyards, heritage and music, outdoor activities, live entertainment, and friendly locals.

There’s a genuine German spirit hidden behind the upscale boutiques and five-star restaurants on Main Street, as well as the classic German food and warm hospitality of the locals.

In Fredericksburg, TX, you’ll find a beautiful landscape and a safe community. There is a thriving tourism economy in this historical German town, with a focus on wine, festivals, and live music, as well as shopping along the picturesque main street.

Hotels here typically range between $74 and $259 per night. You have bed and breakfast, RV parks, inns, cabins, and more to choose from.

Planning to move here? Residents typically pay $476,258 for their homes and the independent school district comes highly rated. The median household income is $53,500.

Click here for the official tourism website of Fredericksburg in Texas to find out more about the city’s offerings.

1. Frankenmuth, Michigan

When it comes to Christmas, Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland is proclaimed the biggest in the world. German immigrants established “Little Bavaria” in Michigan, just like they did in Fredericksburg.

Economically, the 5,901 residents of this town benefit from tourism and farming, yet the cost of living and typical home prices are below the national average.

The temperature here is lower than in central Texas, especially in the winter. Frankenmuth, population 5396, is a popular vacation spot for beer connoisseurs and holiday revelers alike because of its emphasis on German customs.

While on a riverboat tour, you can converse with a brewmaster about his or her craft while admiring the decorations at the World’s Largest Christmas Store. A night in Frankenmuth, Michigan may go around $60 – $270.

The median household income in Frankenmuth is $62,427 and residents typically pay $298,697 for their homes. The school system here is rated highly and stands out among schools across the state.

Click here for the official tourism website of Frankenmuth in Michigan to find out more about the city’s offerings.

2. Gruene, Texas

If you do want to relax like you’re in the middle of a country song, make your way to this hotbed of live music and have a good time. Rather than being a town, this section of Texas is more like a neighborhood. 

Aside from the fact that the inhabitants here aren’t as neatly arranged as in Fredericksburg or several other places on this list, this one stands out. Gruene, Texas, is the best place to get off the grid if you want to.

This may be the ideal place to buy property where the median home price is $317,900 and the median household income is $66,574. Schools here operate above average, excelling particularly in diversity and college prep.

Click here for the official tourism website of Gruene in Texas to find out more about the city’s offerings.

3. Leavenworth, Washington

Leavenworth, about two hours from Seattle, seems like it was taken from Germany and put on the slopes of Washington. If you’re looking for a getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this is it.

It is small, having a population of about 2,300, making it akin to Forks. Leavenworth has a wide variety of outdoor activities , including camping, skiing, kayaking, and hiking, in addition to Oktoberfest and other events in the area.  

It costs roughly $166 per night to stay in Leavenworth. The typical house price is $755,351 while the median household income is $55,275. The schools in this beautiful town are all highly-rated. Food services and accommodation, as well as retail services, are the main industries in Leavenworth.

Click here for the official tourism website of Leavenworth in Washington to find out more about the city’s offerings.

4. Granbury, Texas

Dinosaur World in Granbury, Texas, is a 20-acre park with life-sized dinosaur reproductions where you can take funny photos even further back in time.

Straight jackets are unnecessary. Go fishing in the Brazos River or Lake Granbury while you’re there on a ghost tour.

Revolver Brewing, among the state’s fastest-growing microbrews, is based in Granbury. Tastings plus tours are available to the public at the brewery. Visits with the whole family are easy in Granbury, thanks to the city’s abundance of educational, entertaining, and enlightening destinations in these many fields.

Granbury, Texas’ median household income is $49,793 while the median house price is $385,000. Residents are mainly employed in oil and gas extraction, quarrying, and mining industries.

Click here for the official tourism website of Granbury in Texas to find out more about the city’s offerings.

5. Pella, Iowa

Pella, Iowa is a city in the state of Iowa with a population of 10,2970. Immigrants from the Netherlands found Pella, which means “City of Refuge” in Dutch.

Vermeer Windmill in Pella, Iowa, has been functioning since today and is currently the country’s tallest working windmill.

The Opera House, De Ross Ax Throwing, Vermeer Museum, and more, are among the attractions that can be found in the area.

The city’s nightlife includes inns, pubs, cafes, and clubs such as the Nederlanders Tap & Golf and the Cellar Peanut Pub. The average cost of a hotel room is $153.

Living expenses are lower than the national average, while wages are at $34,094 on average. 

Most of the people who live here own their own homes, which makes it a wonderful location to call home. The average price of a home in Pella is $267,036, and the area’s schools are ranked highly.

Click here for the official tourism website of Pella in Iowa to discover more about the city’s offerings.

6. Vail, Colorado

Even if you’re only aware of this town because of its world-class ski resorts, did you realize it was modeled after the Swiss town of Zermatt?

As a result, you’ll see beautiful woodwork and elegant balconies all across town. Vail, Colorado , may have a comparable Bavarian-inspired, Alpine beauty to Fredericksburg. However, this city was designed for the snowy wonders of the season.

There will be fewer people than in Fredericksburg, but the economy will be focused on tourism just like in Fredericksburg. Enjoy the cool mountain atmosphere, retail, spas, and excellent cuisine while taking in the Vail Film Festival or the Burton US Open.

Most Vail hotels cost between $115 to $315 per night, which is roughly what you’d imagine for a tourist destination.

The median household income here is $80,987 while the typical house price is $1,564,209. Residents are mainly employed in food services and accommodation. Schools across the board operate above average in Vail.

Click here for the official tourism website of Vail in Colorado to find out more about the city’s offerings.

7. New Orleans, Louisiana

Given its dual heritage as a former Spanish colony and a French colonial outpost, this city exudes a distinct flavor of each. In both the wrought-iron terraces and Jackson Square, French culture is reflected.

Many of New Orleans’ most well-known sights can be experienced in one visit: the Cafe du Monde on Bourbon Street, Preservation Hall Jazz, (together with Mardi Gras), and more.

Despite this, there is a great deal more to this ethereal metropolis. Everything from the entertainment on Frenchman Street to the cuisine and beverages in the French Quarter, as well as the Bywater, is influenced by the region’s French, Cajun, and Creole roots. 

When it comes to the atmosphere, the Crescent City leads the way. New Orleans hotels range from $55 to $280 per night with an average of $122.

New Orleans, LA has a median household income of $45,615. The median house price is $276,410. Residents are mainly employed in tourism & healthcare, energy, and international trade. The schools in New Orleans 

Click here for the official tourism website of New Orleans in Louisiana to find out more about the city’s offerings.

8. Venice, California

In this California town, it’s tough not to draw analogies to the renowned Italian town. For good reason, Venice Beach is a popular tourist attraction around the world.

This fantastic coastal town is sure to keep you entertained and enthralled at all times. Venice Beach is the epitome of a fun-filled beach resort because it is home to artists, creators, and, of course, the rollerblading sunseekers you have seen in the headlines.

To watch health fanatics weight training in the sun, head to Muscle Beach, or merely stroll across the roadways in pursuit of large, vivid murals that adorn every available wall. You shouldn’t miss the Ocean Front Walk, a spectacular boulevard.

On the east side, you’ll find a slew of souvenir shops and eateries, while on the west, you’ll find street performers, tarot card readers, and even those who step on glass or balance with chainsaws.

The median home value today is $1,578,200 coming in just behind the real Beverly Hills. Venice is also the most expensive place to rent in all of LA. Venice hotels range from $96 to $496 per night with an average of $144.

Click here for the official tourism website of Venice in California to find out more about the city’s offerings.

9. Marfa, Texas

Located in west Texas, the little desert town of Marfa is regarded as a cultural center. Minimalist art is a popular tourist attraction in the city.

Building 98, historic architecture, a traditional Texas town square, contemporary art installations, as well as the Marfa lights are just some of the attractions.

Located in the distant reaches of West Texas, the 1,831-person hamlet offers a unique blend of minimalist art, wacky ingenuity, and exquisite cuisines.

The median listed home price is $297000, while the median income is $41,719. The school system is below average, particularly for college readiness. 

Hotels range between $81 and $350 per night. Marfa’s largest industry is food services and accommodation.

Click here for the official tourism website of Marfa in Texas to find out more about the city’s offerings.

10. Montpelier, Vermont

This beautiful town, named for Montpelier, France, was established in 1781 and is steeped in history. It’s a must-see because of its French-style architecture and stunning fall colors.

The populace, median household income, and typical house value of Montpelier, Vermont, a friendly small town, are all comparable to those of Fredericksburg.

There is a lot to see and do in Burlington, Vermont’s capital city, including the Barr Hill Distillery and North Branch Winery for beer and wine connoisseurs. In addition, there are over 450 historical structures to explore in the area.

If you’re more of a naturalist, you’ll appreciate the 200 acres of peaceful trails at North Branch River Park, which includes a stretch along the Winooski River. Staying in Montpelier will cost you about $60 to $350 a night, which is less than the national average.

The median household income is $65,078. The median house price is $362,861

Residents are mainly employed in Retail Trade and Educational Services. The schools here are rated above average.

Click here for the official tourism website of Montpelier in Vermont to find out more about the city’s offerings.

11. Round Top, Texas

Round Top has an Antiques Show that is often crowded with people hunting for bargains and unique items throughout the spring and fall.

The tiny hamlet of Round Top, located halfway between Houston and Austin, is well-known for its enormous antique show, which takes place every two years. 

Henkel Square Market, located in the historic district, features a variety of stores situated in structures dating back to the mid-19th century. Fine paintings, jewelry, apparel, and stunning artwork may be found here.

It’s a fusion of country style and art and culture, with great shopping and friendly service. Fine dining and front-porch living coexist in Round Top. Hotels here average $192 per night.

The median household income is $123,750. The median house price is $847,415

Residents are mainly employed in Real Estate and Educational Services.

Click here for the official tourism website of Round Top in Texas to discover more about the city’s offerings.

12. Healdsburg, California

Healdsburg is a great substitute for a trip to Tuscany if you can’t make it there. It is located on the same latitude as Tuscany, therefore it has a comparable climate and produces a wide variety of Tuscan wines. Not to be missed here is the town’s Italian food as well.

Healdsburg, a town in Sonoma County’s northernmost region, exudes a spirit that is equal parts historical and contemporary. For almost a century and a half, the iconic Healdsburg Plaza has stood as a centerpiece of the town of Healdsburg.

From the stylish Flying Goat Coffee to the opulent Healdsburg Inn, the town’s fashionable shops, cafés, and hotels work their way from the town center.

You must visit the Ferrari-Carano Winery, sitting on five acres on a Franco-Italian designed property if you’re a wine connoisseur. It’s only a short drive from town.

Healdsburg hotels range from $120 to $618 per night with an average of $278. The median household income is $96,016 while the typical house price is $1,13M. Residents are mainly employed in Food Services and Manufacturing.

Click here for the official tourism website of Healdsburg in California to find out more about the city’s offerings.

13. Solvang, California

This lovely town, often known as the “Danish Capital of America,” is home to quaint shops and a distinctive white and red windmill.

The town’s 5,804 residents and its colorful windmills and European antique stores draw many visitors. Its local culture manages to retain parts of the Danish settlers’ holidays and traditions.

The average nightly cost of a trip to Solvang, CA, for one person, ranges from $191 to $484. The median household income is $83,431, while the typical house price is $1,291,763. Residents are mainly employed in Food Services and Manufacturing.

Click here for the official tourism website of Solvang in California to find out more about the city’s offerings.

14. Helen, Georgia

A 90-minute drive from Atlanta, Georgia, this town feels like a world away. In the 1960s, to increase tourism in this community near the Blue Ridge Mountains, it was turned into an Alpine-style village.

Helen, Georgia, which has a comparable median household income and a more inexpensive housing market to Fredericksburg, has a distinct Bavarian flavor.

With its charming hotels, cobblestone pathways, and stunning scenery, Helen, nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains, is North Carolina’s third most popular tourist destination.

The Cherokee Native American colonies and the original settlers of the Southeast can both be explored, along with the wine tours, festivities, and great Alpine food and drink that you’d expect.

 If you plan to stay a night, the cost will go around $60 – $250. The median household income is $64,000 while the typical house price is $251,774. Residents are mainly employed in Retail Trade and Arts & Entertainment.

Click here for the official tourism website of Helen in Georgia to find out more about the city’s offerings.

15. St. Augustine, Florida

For a city established in 1565 by Spanish settlers, its classical architecture, such as cobbled streets, and terraces, is not surprising given its history. On top of all that, it has been dubbed “America’s oldest city.”

Located on the northeast coastline, St. Augustine is a small city. The St. Augustine Inlet is one of the area’s most famous pieces of Spanish architecture. A historic downtown filled with stores and restaurants is also available in the city’s 42 miles of beaches.

The city of St. Augustine, despite its modest size, has a rich cultural and historical heritage. Even in the winter, temperatures can drop below freezing. 

But it’s still an affordable area that has a lot to offer young professionals and retirees. St Augustine hotels range from $65 to $343 per night with an average of $129.

The median household income is $63,317 while the typical house price is $454,109. Residents are mainly employed in hospitality and retail.

Click here for the official tourism website of St. Augustine in Florida to find out more about the city’s offerings.

16. Hermann, Missouri

With a lower population of only 2,322 people and a similar cost of living, Hermann, Missouri is about an hour’s drive from St. Louis but offers far more inexpensive housing than Fredericksburg, Texas.

Old-world German charm and a rich history may still be found here. A total of more than 150 buildings in downtown Hermann’s historic district are included in the National Register of Historic Places.

Tourism, the arts, and recreation are the mainstays of this secluded community inside the Missouri River Valley. 

More than a third of Missouri’s wine production comes from the state’s seven local wineries. It is impossible to miss the Hermann Wine Trail’s 20-mile-long panoramic beauty if you are an aficionado of wine.

Hermann, Missouri, is a great place to visit whether you’re looking for brick cottages, steeples, and clock towers, or whether you’re more interested in walking tours and zip lines.

The cost per night ranges from $80 – $390. The median household income is $47,463, while the typical house price is $158,533. Students perform admirably at schools in this town. 

Click here for the official tourism website of Hermann in Missouri to find out more about the city’s offerings.

17. Charleston, South Carolina

As much as this town is distinctly Southern, it also has many European-style elements like magnificent churches and cobblestone avenues and a diverse array of small, brightly colored residences.

These include Gothic Revival, Art Deco, and Victorian architectural styles. They’ve got it all when it comes to entertainment: history, romance, drama, and even food are all on the menu.

History aficionados will enjoy the city’s many walking excursions, including the historic tours of Downtown, Historic Market, Patriots Point, Plantation tours, Old Slave Mart Museum, and more.

The median home cost is $386,600,  the and median income is $68,438, higher than the state. Schools here are highly-rated and the overall population is 426,958. It may be a far cry from Fredericksburg in terms of the populace, but the old town charm is the same.

Several of the top industries supporting Charleston’s thriving economy include aerospace, energy, automotive, life sciences, IT, and defense.

Click here for the official tourism website of Charleston in North Carolina to find out more about the city’s offerings.

10 Of The Most Unique Places To Visit In Texas

• Explore the historic town square in Granbury, Texas, for a glimpse into its rich history and visit the Hood County Courthouse and Museum.
• Experience the mysterious Marfa Lights in Marfa, Texas, and visit the iconic Prada Marfa art installation.
• Enjoy water activities on the winding rivers of New Braunfels, Texas, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, or floating, and don't miss the Natural Bridge Caverns nearby.

Everything really is bigger in Texas, which tracks considering it's the second-largest U.S. state. But, in addition to being grandeur in size, the Lone Star State is also big on breathtaking cityscapes, too. From San Antonio and its scenic River Walk to the rugged outdoor beauty of El Paso, Texas has some of the most beautiful towns in America, making it the perfect destination for any wanderlust traveler.

However, beyond some of the state's more well-known cities, Texas also offers tourists a variety of unique places to visit. From historic landmarks and sweeping canyons to deep caverns and even island adventures — these truly unique, off-the-beaten-path places in Texas feature something a bit more special for a treasured trip of a lifetime.

Related: 10 Small Towns In West Texas You'll Love Visiting

Granbury, Texas

Founded in 1866 , Granbury is among the many unique places in Texas to visit, and its historical roots run deep.

And although a variety of historic landmarks can be found sprinkled throughout the city, the town's pride and glory is undoubtedly the Historic Granbury Square , where tourists can visit the Hood County Courthouse and Museum.

• Unique for its historic town square
• Things to do: Hood County Courthouse and Museum, Granbury Opera House, Hood County Jail Museum, The Bridge Street History Center, Yeats - Dukes 1858 Working Museum, and the Granbury Doll House

The historic square isn't the only unique thing about Granbury. Head just outside of town to Glen Rose to see the footprints of prehistoric creatures at the Dinosaur Valley State Park .

Marfa, Texas

The Prada Marfa sculptural art installation is one thing that makes this West Texas town unique.

Of course, there are many reasons to visit Marfa, Texas , that go beyond its artsy prowess, including the mysterious Marfa Lights — an unexplained light phenomenon that certainly tops the list.

• Unique for its mysterious glowing lights
• Things to do: Prada Marfa, the Chinati Foundation, Building 98, and Marfa Holocaust & Model Ship Museum

The Marfa Lights Viewing Area is located about nine miles outside of town. The annual Marfa Lights Festival also draws in crowds and features food vendors, live music, and other performances.

New Braunfels, Texas

New Braunfels is another one of the unique Texas towns to visit, as it's a water world like no other. Located a little over 30 miles northeast of San Antonio, the city is a popular summer destination for its winding river and is brimming with fun water activities.

Visitors can kayak, paddleboard, or float down either the Comal River or the Guadalupe River; the options are wet and endless.

• Unique for its winding river
• Things to do: Schlitterbahn Waterpark, Landa Falls, Landa Park, Panther Canyon Nature Trail, Master Blaster Water Park, and McKenna Children's Museum

For another unique attraction, visit the Natural Bridge Caverns , which are located about 15 miles outside of town.

Related: These Are The 10 Most Adorable Small Towns In Texas For Your Bucket List

Terlingua, Texas

It doesn't get more unique than a deserted city, so head out and explore the Wild West at Terlingua Ghost Town .

Situated close to the Rio Grande and Mexican border, tourists can see the remnants of an old mining town in Terlingua.

• Unique for its desolate ghost town
• Things to do: Terlingua Trading Company, Terlingua Ghost Town Sign, and Starlight Theatre

Terlingua is also nestled in between Big Bend Ranch State Park and Big Bend National Park , making it the perfect side trip for those keen on exploring the great Texas outdoors.

Fredericksburg, Texas

Fredericksburg's National Historic District features more than 80 points of historic interest , making it one of the many unique destinations in Texas for history buffs.

The second German Town in Texas , the city's German heritage is also a major draw for tourists.

• Unique for its German heritage
• Things to do: Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park, National Museum of the Pacific War, Marktplatz von Fredericksburg, Gillespie County Historical, Pioneer Museum,

Looking for a cozy place to stay? Some of the most charming bed and breakfasts can be found in Fredericksburg, Texas , including the Full Moon Inn Bed and Breakfast , Walnut Canyon Cabins , and Peach Tree Inn & Suites .

Jefferson, Texas

The exact date of Jefferson, Texas' founding remains a mystery. However, this quaint and unique Texan town has Fredericksburg beat when it comes to its history.

Jefferson is home to nearly 100 historical landmarks , from its Federal Building to its Plantation House.

• Unique for its historic landmarks
• Things to do: The Grove, Historic Jefferson Railway, Gone With the Wind Museum, Jefferson General Store, and Jefferson Historical Museum

Care for a good scare? Jefferson has also been dubbed the most haunted town in Texas .

Related: Planning A Trip To Texas? The Small Towns Pictured Here Look The Coolest

Pal Duro Canyon, Texas

As its name suggests, this unique Texas city is famed for its sweeping canyons, which can be found just outside of town.

Plus, there are many things to do in Palo Duro Canyon, Texas , from hiking to the iconic Lighthouse rock formation to embarking on a scenic drive.

• Unique for its sweeping canyons
• Things to do: Palo Duro Canyon State Park , Canyon Aqua Park, Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, and Texas Outdoor Musical

Sonora, Texas

Nestled on the western edge of Texas Hill Country, Sonora is one of the many unique towns in Texas to visit, but it's perhaps best known for being home to stunning caverns.

The Caverns of Sonora are located about 15 miles southwest of the city and are quite a sight to see.

• Unique for its caverns
• Things to do: Eaton Hill Nature Center & Preserve, Old Sonora Ice House Ranch Museum, and Sutton County Historical Society

Dripping Springs, Texas

Known as the "Gateway to Hill Country," Dripping Springs is another one of the most unique destinations to visit in Texas, as it's famed for its wineries and natural wonders.

One of the most famous natural wonders in Dripping Springs is the stunning emerald-green waters of the Hamilton Pool Preserve.

• Unique for its natural swimming hole
• Things to do: Hamilton Pool Preserve, Milton Reimers Ranch Park, and Hudson's On Mercer Street,

Tourists should check the website for updates on any closures at the Hamilton Pool Preserve due to high bacteria levels or recent rainfall, among others.

Related: 10 Charming, Small Texas Towns You Should Definitely Visit

South Padre Island, Texas

Life's a beach on South Padre Island, which is easily one of the most unique islands in Texas to visit, thanks to its location and resort town status.

The barrier island, which is located off the southernmost tip of Texas, is a popular resort destination for its local dining options, beach views, nightlife scene, and much more.

• Unique for its beachy atmosphere
• Things to do: South Padre Island Birding And Nature Center, Laguna Madre Nature Trail, Andy Bowie County Park, Gravity Park, and Isla Blanca Park

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Things to Do in the Spring in Fredericksburg

Spring bursts onto the scene in Fredericksburg, Texas, painting the Hill Country with vibrant wildflowers and bringing with it warm, inviting weather. It's the perfect time to pack your bags and create lasting memories. Here are some fantastic springtime activities to enjoy with your kids , partner, or friends:

Go Wildflower Sightseeing

Texas bluebonnets and other wildflowers are the undeniable stars of spring in Fredericksburg. Take a scenic drive along the countryside, stopping to admire the fields of blue stretching towards the horizon. Wildseed Farms is a must-visit for families. This working wildflower farm offers a dazzling array of colors, wagon rides, and even a wildflower maze to explore. Find the latest updates on the wildflower season here . 

Become Wine Experts

Nestled in the Texas Hill Country, this region boasts a bounty of wineries , offering tastings and tours amidst scenic vineyards. With sunny skies and warmer weather, it's an ideal time to relax with a glass of your favorite vino alfresco. Many wineries are even kid- and dog-friendly, making it a delightful escape for the whole family. Through mid-April take part in the Wine and Wildflowers Celebration which provides special tastings and discounts at participating wineries. 

Saddle Up for a Hill Country Adventure

Explore the Texas Hill Country on horseback ! Guided trail rides are a fantastic way for families to experience the beauty of the landscape. Bit & Bridle Stables offers privately-guided rides tailored for all ages and experience levels. Embark on a daytime or sunset excursion with GF Trail Rides . If you’re joining the evening ride, expect a campfire and a hot dog roast.

Step Back in Time at Pioneer Museum

History comes alive at the Pioneer Museum , where you can learn about Fredericksburg's heritage through interactive exhibits. Explore a one-room schoolhouse, a log cabin, and even a blacksmith shop. The museum often hosts special events like hands-on workshops for all ages, and living history interpreters who transport you back in time.

Hike, Climb & Stargaze at Enchanted Rock

Spring in Fredericksburg bursts with outdoor activities , and no itinerary is complete without the iconic Enchanted Rock State Natural Area . Here, granite giants rise majestically from the earth, offering challenging hikes with breathtaking panoramic views. Plus, camping, backpacking, birding, rock climbing, and stargazing at night. Dogs are allowed in the designated day-use picnic areas, where you can meet for a lunch break. Fredericksburg boasts a treasure trove of parks and nature areas , each waiting to be explored. Note: Day pass reservations guarantee entry to Enchanted Rock. Reservations can be made up to 30 days in advance.  

Sweet Treats and Shopping Spree

No Fredericksburg adventure is complete without a trip down Main Street . This charming thoroughfare boasts an array of shops, galleries, and restaurants. Stop for a scoop of homemade ice cream or browse the colorful candies at local shops. Main Street also features fun shops overflowing with unique toys and souvenirs, the perfect memento for your little adventurers.

Bonus: Events Galore

Spring brings a vibrant festival scene to Fredericksburg. Check the calendar for events happening during your visit. From the lively Fredericksburg Trade Days with over 350 vendors to concerts and live music , there's something to keep everyone entertained.

Spring in Fredericksburg offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, and small-town charm. With these springtime activities on your list, you're guaranteed to create memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Texas A&M Announces 2024-25 Parents Of The Year

Texas A&M University is excited to announce Jacqueline and Kristopher Knoop as the 2024-25 Parents of the Year.  

The Knoops serve the Aggieland community in different but impactful ways. Jacqueline Knoop ‘95 is a professor at Mays Business School in the accounting department, while Kristopher Knoop ‘95 is a family medicine doctor serving the Bryan-College Station community. 

The Knoops, nominated by their daughter Sydney ‘24, a senior business honors and accounting major, were surprised with the announcement during one of Jacqueline’s classes. When asked what their reaction was, Jacqueline said, “Pure shock; we remember being in school and seeing the Parents of the Year be announced and would never, in our wildest dreams, have imagined being named with the honor.” 

“We’ve always considered our highest honor to be parents to our two daughters, Sydney and Maddie,” Kristopher said, “to know that Sydney felt so strongly about our greater impact that she nominated us brought us to tears.” 

In her nomination, Sydney described her parents as “legendary” in their respective fields. “While I always knew I had amazing parents,” she said, “these past four years have shown me all that my parents mean to the student body of Texas A&M,” Sydney added that her parents inspire her daily to live out the core values of Texas A&M. 

Sydney wrote that her mother’s commitment extends beyond the classroom. She is the first accounting professor many students will have, but she also has dedicated herself to being the first mentor, career adviser, “mom” away from home and supporter to all her students.  

Describing her father, Sydney wrote that Kristopher strives to give back to the Texas A&M medical community. He volunteers with the Texas A&M School of Medicine and has guided and advised students pursuing medicine for many years. Kristopher is also a proud Aggie sports fan who is always ready to bring new fans to experience the Aggie Spirit. 

The Knoops also give back to the Texas A&M community outside their professional roles. The Knoops are involved in OPAS, with Jacqueline serving as the President of OPAS Encore, the fundraising arm of OPAS, and Kristopher serving on the board of directors.

“Seeing how my parents give back to this organization is inspiring,” Sydney said, “They are dedicated to bringing the arts to Texas A&M, bettering and investing in the local community.” 

Current students had more to say about the Knoops: 

“I absolutely adore the Knoop family! They are genuinely so generous and caring to everyone they encounter. As a TA (teaching assistant), I have the privilege of getting to know the Knoops on a personal level, and they create the most welcoming and supportive environment.” — Audrey Knoll, ‘25 

“Jacque and Kris have always opened their home to be a safe haven for many college students. Their willingness to be present and support me has had an extraordinary impact on my life. I only hope to foster the same love, compassion and overwhelming grace that they have for each patient/student they encounter.” — Christine Chacko, ‘25 

When asked what they are most looking forward to during their year as the Texas A&M Parents of the Year, Kristopher said, “We’ve always considered the Texas A&M community our extended family, and during our year, we are most looking forward to increasing this extended family by meeting as many students and families as possible.” 

The Aggie Parent and Family Ambassadors (APFA) extends its gratitude to Melissa Wilkinson, the 2023-2024 Parent of the Year, for her service to the university this past year. 

Every year, Texas A&M students can nominate their parents and family members to represent the university as Parent(s) of the Year. Members of APFA, a recognized student organization within Student Life — New Student and Family Programs , select the winners based on their character and embodiment of the Texas A&M Core Values.

  Media contact: Corie Ritter, [email protected] , 979-845-1677

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The Lyrids begin this week. How to see first major meteor shower of spring when it peaks

While the april 8 eclipse was only viewable in north america, the lyrids should be visible pretty much around the world..

A week after that stunning total solar eclipse , the Lyrid meteor shower is about to give sky-gazers plenty of reasons to once again look toward the cosmos.

One of the oldest-known meteor showers  on record, the Lyrids has peaked like clockwork every late April for thousands of years. And while that peak won't be occurring until Saturday, you still have a chance to see the soaring meteors beginning Monday.

The best part? While the April 8 eclipse was only viewable in North America, the Lyrids should be visible pretty much around the world .

Here's what to know about the Lyrid meteor shower .

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Where do the Lyrid meteors come from?

Meteor showers occur when Earth passes through debris trails left by comets and other space objects. The debris – space rocks known as meteoroids – collides with Earth's atmosphere at high speed and disintegrates, creating fiery and colorful streaks in the sky, according to NASA .

Those resulting fireballs, better known as "shooting stars," are meteors. Those meteoroids that survive their trip to Earth without burning up in the atmosphere are called meteorites, NASA says .

Named for the nearby constellation Lyra, the Lyrid meteor shower is composed of pieces of debris  from the Comet C/1861 G1 Thatcher . The comet is named for A. E. Thatcher, who discovered it in 1861.

The meteor shower itself, though, has been observed for 2,700 years ever since the first recorded sighting was made in 687 BC by the Chinese, according to NASA .

How can we see the Lyrid meteor shower?

The Lyrids are known as one of  four major meteor showers each year  that have a sharp peak. This year, that peak falls between April 21-22,  according to EarthSky.org .

However, the meteor shower could be visible anytime beginning Monday.

According to NASA, the best view in the Northern Hemisphere of the shower is after moonset and before dawn.

Here are tips from the U.S. space agency:

• Pick an area well away from city lights or street lights.
• Bring a sleeping bag, blanket, or lawn chair.
• Lie flat on your back with your feet facing east and look up.
• Be patient. About 30 minutes in the dark your eyes should adapt and you should begin to see meteors.

How many Lyrids will we see per hour?

The first meteor shower of the spring , the fast and bright meteors of the Lyrids will appear to be flying across the night sky.

While  NASA notes  that the Lyrids can surprise watchers with as many as 100 meteors seen per hour, in general, 10-20 Lyrid meteors can be seen per hour during the peak.

Lyrids don’t tend to leave long, glowing dust trains behind them as they streak through the Earth's atmosphere. However, they can produce the occasional bright flash called a fireball.