The Complete Guide to Visiting Fredericksburg, Virginia

History buffs already make a beeline for Fredericksburg because of its connection to George Washington, its central position in the Civil War, and its role in the Civil Rights Movement. It can also be a welcome interlude for I-95 travelers between Richmond and Washington, D.C. But Fredericksburg has a variety of experiences to offer every kind of traveler, from outdoor adventurers to eagle-eyed shoppers and foodies.

Use our guide to find the best places to stay, attractions you can’t miss, and local eateries that’ll have you coming back to Fredericksburg, Virginia.

WHERE TO STAY

Ironclad Inn

A Colonial-era brick residence with nine rooms, the Ironclad Inn calls itself the first “B&B&B.” The extra “B” is for the bourbon tasting room and bottle shop, which hosts tastings and serves cocktails and light snacks.
 

The Richard Johnston Inn

You’ll be situated right in Historic Downtown Fredericksburg when you stay at the Richard Johnston Inn. There’s also the 1890 Caroline House around the corner, a Victorian-inspired home, putting the room total at nine guest rooms and three suites.
 

The Publisher Fredericksburg

Located on the historic site of The Free Lance-Star newspaper, The Publisher is a boutique hotel with thoughtful touches in each room and an on-site restaurant.

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK 

Foode

This local staple focuses on farm-to-table ingredients prepared by “Top Chef” star Chef Joy Crump.

Orofino

Expect fresh Italian favorites and satisfying flavors at this Historic Downtown Fredericksburg restaurant.

Osan

Sample the sushi and a variety of rolls at this Japanese restaurant, or opt for entrees like the salmon teriyaki or chicken katsuretsu.

Soup and Taco

There are two locations of this Fredericksburg staple — one on Caroline Street downtown and a second closer to the University of Mary Washington. Eat on-site or get your order to go and set up a picnic by the river.

A. Smith Bowman Distillery

Enjoy a complimentary tour and tasting at this distillery, named for Captain Isaac Bowman, a soldier during the Revolutionary War.  

Himalayan Heritage

A local favorite, Himalayan Heritage serves Indian and Nepali cuisine that’s bursting with flavor and prepared in a classic clay oven.

Basilico

Stop by for lunch and don’t forget to grab a sweet treat (the gelato is made fresh daily!) from this concept that’s part New York-style deli, part Italian market.

Strangeways Brewing

Cheers to a day of exploring Fredericksburg at this brewery. You may even happen upon some live music or a special event.

Blue Cow Ice Cream

This Virginia ice cream chain has taken several cities by storm, and Fredericksburg is no exception. Try flavors like chocolate cayenne, goat cheese with blueberry swirl, and the Blue Cow Patty (butterfingers, oreo, and chocolate chips in dark chocolate ice cream).

TOP ATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO

Hurkamp Park

Enjoy a picnic lunch or stop by during a special event like the weekly Fredericksburg Farmers Market. Don’t forget to snap a picture in front of the colorful LOVEwork.

Riverfront Park

The first “smart park” in the city, Riverfront Park has views of the Rappahannock and a series of kid-friendly areas like a playground, meadow, and water feature.

Pro tip: Don’t miss the Otter-ly Amazing art installation at both parks — see how many bronze otter statues you can spot in the area (they’re great for a pic!).  

Window Shopping Downtown

A stroll through downtown is perfect for souvenir collecting. Stop in stores like Riverby Books, pick up something for your pup at Dog Krazy, or find an artisan treasure at Latitudes Fair Trade Store.

Bonus: Fredericksburg is a top town in Virginia for antiquing. Find new-to-you treasures in various shops (you’ll find most of them downtown) like The Fredericksburg Antique Mall & Clock Shop, Blue Shark Antiques & Collectibles, and R&R Antiques.

Fredericksburg Nationals

The Single-A Affiliate of the Washington Nationals, the Fred Nats play at Virginia Credit Union Stadium with frequent promotions like $2 Tuesdays, fireworks on Fridays, jersey auctions, and giveaways.

Reclaim Arcade

Travel back in time to play all your 70s, 80s, and 90s favorites, from arcade games like Galaga, Mortal Kombat, and Street Fighter to over a dozen pinball games. Your ticket gets you in all day and all games are set to free play, so you can spend as much time as you want trying to get that top score.

Fredericksburg Civil Rights Trail 

Explore a 2.6-mile walking tour through Historic Downtown Fredericksburg and a 1/9-mile driving tour with more stops to learn about the local places and people that played a part in the Civil Rights Movement.

George Washington’s Ferry Farm

The first President of the United States was six years old when his family moved to Ferry Farm. Take a tour of the replica house and grounds to learn about the Washington family and the individuals they enslaved, and the ongoing archaeological work around the property.

Historic Kenmore

Across the Rappahannock River, discover the Georgian-style brick mansion built for Washington’s sister, Betty Washington Lewis, and her husband. The tour focuses on the family, the enslaved community, and the Revolutionary War.  

Washington Heritage Museums

Five sites fall under the umbrella of the Washington Heritage Museums, where you can learn more about George Washington, his family members, and life in Washington’s Virginia.

• Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop–Restored 18^th century building turned into a museum of medicine
• Rising Sun Tavern–Museum inside a tavern originally built as a residence in 1760 by Washington’s youngest brother, Charles
• Mary Washington House–House Washington bought in 1772 for his mother, Mary Ball Washington, where she would live for 17 years
• St. James’ House–One of only a few 18^th century frame houses still standing in Fredericksburg
• Mary Washington Monument–1894 monument dedicated to Washington’s mother, located in the Washington Avenue Historic District

Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park

Get outside and dive deep into Civil War history at this National Military Park, where you can walk the grounds where the war reached its climax. The park includes Chatham Manor, a plantation, headquarters, and hospital; the death site of Confederate General Stonewall Jackson; and the Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness, and Spotsylvania battlefields.

JUST DOWN THE ROAD…

Richmond | Head south on I-95 to visit Richmond, the capital of Virginia and a must for foodies, music lovers, and urban explorers of all stripes. Don’t miss a walk along the James to see why they call Richmond the River City.
 

Culpeper | A true small town gem, Culpeper has a charming Main Street, history that’s waiting to be told (and strolled), and a variety of local restaurants. You’ll find it around 35 miles northwest of Fredericksburg.
 

Arlington and Alexandria | A stone’s throw from our nation’s capital you’ll find much to explore, from the brick-lined streets of Old Town to trendy restaurants off the Mount Vernon Trail. Make it a Northern Virginia getaway when you explore nearby Prince William and Fairfax counties.  
 

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with your family, a Virginia vacation’s got all that you love, all in one place. Use this guide to Fredericksburg to help you start planning your Virginia vacation today!