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.
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