In Fredericksburg, Virginia, visitors find an authentic American experience. It is classic and eclectic. Historic and contemporary. Here, significant sites and stories of the past stand side by side with a diverse collection of today’s entrepreneurs and artists. Downtown sidewalks are just steps away from hiking, biking and river trails. From the homes and haunts of founding fathers to the restaurants and shops of present-day visionaries, the attractions and people of Fredericksburg welcome visitors to find their own interests and enjoy this diverse destination any way they choose.
Fredericksburg is located along the banks of the Rappahannock River, halfway between Washington, D.C. and Richmond, Virginia. Interstate 95 and U.S. Route 1, pass directly through the city, as do U.S. Route 17 and Virginia Route 3. There are several major airports in proximity and both Amtrak and Virginia Railway Express (VRE) provide frequent, convenient service to Downtown Fredericksburg.
Fredericksburg embodies a combination of historical sites, a dynamic downtown and an inclusive spirit that welcomes all. A stroll along the streets of downtown reveals independent shops, art galleries, chef-owned restaurants and a welcoming atmosphere amid brick-lined sidewalks and 19th-century architecture. Horse-drawn carriage rides, vintage trolley and car experiences and guided walking tours offer excellent and colorful introductions to a downtown marked by tree-lined streets and seasonal decorations.
The diverse and creative restaurant scene here is heaven for foodies. From quenching a thirst for the perfect cup of coffee to enjoying an extravagant four course menu, there is something for everyone. More than 40 chef-owned restaurants invite diners to savor the flavors of their menus. Even more specialty shops, boutiques, antique stores and art galleries open their doors each day, combining to offer a unique shopping experience. Quarterly downtown Main Street events and festive annual celebrations add even more reasons to frequent this vibrant shopping district.
Of course, this city is known for its history. George Washington’s Boyhood Home at Ferry Farm is here as is the Mary Washington House, where his mother lived her final years. During the Civil War Fredericksburg was home to some crucial events, from the Battles of Fredericksburg to the site of a speech from President Abraham Lincoln. From preserved battlefields to museums with interpreters in period dress, to an apothecary and legendary taverns, there is carefully preserved history at every turn. The Fredericksburg Civil Rights Trail, a destination on the U.S. Civil Rights Trail, includes stories and sites of the local Civil Rights Movement from the end of the Civil War to the present.
Those who want to enjoy an outdoors experience will find easy access to light adventure. The Rappahannock Canal Path and River Heritage Trail combine for an excellent waterfront and downtown hiking or biking experience. Outfitters offer kayaking, tubing and paddleboarding gear and instruction, both from the downtown dock and other waterfront locations.
Here, sacred battlefields and a distinctive downtown come together, each with stories to tell and experiences to share. The combination is an authentic American experience like no other.
Fast Facts
- George Washington grew up in Fredericksburg and spent much of his youth here.
James Monroe lived and practiced law in Fredericksburg. - Fredericksburg sits at the exact midpoint between Washington, DC and Richmond making it a perfect stop to meet friends and loved ones.
- Historic downtown Fredericksburg is remarkably walkable, with more than 150 locally owned shops, restaurants, galleries, and museums clustered along brick sidewalks and 18th- and 19th-century buildings.
- Fredericksburg is home to the University of Mary Washington.
- Fredericksburg played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement, including being the first stop for the Freedom Riders on May 4, 1961.
- Despite its colonial appearance, Fredericksburg is forward-looking, with a growing creative economy, vibrant tourism scene, and an active calendar of year-round events.
Annual Events
- First Friday of the Month – First Friday | Sip and Stroll
- Twelfth Night at Historic Kenmore, January
- Winter Restaurant Week, January
- Galentine’s Day Shop Crawl, February
- Fredericksburg Art Show, March
- Historic Garden Week, April
- Flower Crawl, May
- Marine Corps Historic Half, May
- Around the Town Trolley Shuttle, Memorial Weekend to Labor Day Weekend
- Shakespeare on the Lawn at Historic Kenmore, June
- 4th in Fredericksburg Events, July
- Annual Peeps Show at the Visitor Center, July
- Pumpkin Spice Crawl, September
- ScarecrowFest, October
- Costume Stroll and Treats on the Streets, October
- Tree Lighting, November
- Veterans Day Parade, November
- Holiday Open House Weekend, November
- Christmas Parade, December
- Ice Skating at Riverfront Park, December
- Mistletoe Market, December
- Downtown Cookie Crawl, December
- Candlelight Tour, December
- FAMFaire Holiday Markets, December
- Wee Christmas Dollhouse & Miniature Show at Historic Kenmore, December
- Gingerbread House Exhibit at Ferry Farm, December
Photo Gallery
