Make some history this weekend.
For a day trip or long weekend, Fredericksburg offers wonderful food, shopping, and history.
Four major Civil War battlefields, as well as Colonial and Revolutionary War sites allow you to enjoy the outdoors, spend time with family and immerse yourself in history. Once you return from your trip, enjoy the many comforts offered by historic Fredericksburg and the surrounding area.
From battleground to hallowed ground, this day plan is built for those who want to jump right into history.
- Print or download your tour map.
- Get the day started with a classic Southern twist on breakfast at Mason Dixon Café.
- Start your visit at the Fredericksburg Visitor Center. Obtain information on the places to visit and events offered throughout the spring, summer, and fall.
- Soak in sites from the Founding Era, including George Washington’s boyhood home at Ferry Farm or Kenmore. If you have time, learn about eighteenth century medical practices and see live leeches at the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop.
- Choose from a variety of daily specials for lunch at longtime local hotspot, J. Brian’s.
- After a hearty meal, dive into the Civil War with a visit to the Fredericksburg Battlefield. If you have extra time, don’t forget the incredible Chancellorsville, Wilderness and Spotsylvania battlefields. Remember, hiking battlefields is also a great way to wear out the kids!
- Have dinner at Foode in the historic National Bank, once visited by President Abraham Lincoln.
Enhance your historical experience with fun and family-friendly activities all weekend!
- Print or download your tour map.
- Start the day with a farm to table breakfast at Mercantile.
- Burn off breakfast by paddling the Rappahannock in a kayak or canoe or biking at the Virginia Outdoor Center.
- Explore the city’s history at the Fredericksburg Area Museum.
- If you have time, see thousands of Civil War relics at the White Oak Civil War Museum.
- Grab a burger for lunch while overlooking the Rappahannock at Brock’s Riverside Grill. Follow up lunch at Carl’s, a renowned and classic frozen custard stand. Be sure to bring cash!
- For dinner, enjoy a sandwich at the local and popular Sammy T’s.
From antiques to craft beer, we’ve put together a plan for fun and lasting memories.
- Print or download your tour map.
- Jumpstart your day with coffee or cappuccino and breakfast at Hyperion Espresso.
- Enjoy retail goodness at:
- Beck’s Antiques & Books for unique items.
- Made in Virginia Store for a variety of gifts.
- Card Cellar for the family sports fan.
- Jabberwocky Children’s Books & Toys is great for the kids.
- Dog Krazy, Inc. for your furry family member.
- Riverby Books has a wonderful selection for the entire family.
- Appreciate a pint with variety of craft beers on tap at Red Dragon Brewery.
- Enjoy a New York slice of pizza for dinner at Castiglia’s.
Fredericksburg is the perfect place to connect with your better half!
- Print or download your tour map.
- Enjoy a stroll through the beautiful gardens and grounds at Chatham Manor.
- Browse through the many booths at R&R Antiques.
- Take a quiet, cozy carriage ride through historic Fredericksburg.
- Cap off the day with a quiet, romantic Italian dinner at Ristorante Renato or go for German fare at The Alpine Chef.
Before You Go
We’ve got some tips and advice for prepping for a visit to Fredericksburg, including weather and accommodations, everything you need to make your visit a comfortable and memorable one.
- Check the weather so you know what to wear and how to pack.
- Download the Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, and Overland Campaign Battle Apps.
- Find a place to stay that makes it easy to see and do as much as possible. The Courtyard Marriott is right in the middle of historic Fredericksburg. For an extra romantic experience, check out the Richard Johnston Inn.