Fredericksburg has always been on my list of places to visit. I’ve heard great things about this quaint little town in the Hill Country. I knew Fredericksburg would be the perfect weekend trip from the great reviews AND the fact that a couple of my bucket list items could be checked off between here and there.
When entering the Hill Country, I instantly felt like I was in another country. The drive into town is absolutely beautiful with what seems like endless rows of grapevines and rolling hills. And as you enter Fredericksburg, the popular Main Street is lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Fredericksburg has so much to offer; here are links to some of my weekend trip favorites!
A Weekend in Fredericksburg {Things to Do}
STOPS ALONG THE WAY
What typically would have been about a 4.5-hour drive turned into an 8-hour journey from home to the hotel because of the fun stops and sights along the way. If you’re a Texas country music fan, then you’re probably familiar with the Josh Abbott Band song “My Texas,” which is basically a Texas Bucket List. I enjoyed delicious BBQ and🎵drank a cold Shiner down in Luckenbach.
- Buc-ee’s on the way was a must for all the road trip snacks!
- Vitek’s Market in Waco is the perfect BBQ stop. The food was great, but its popularity means that you might face long lines and the potential that they’ll run out of meat.
- Gruene is home to Texas’s oldest dance hall and a is town I knew I wanted to see along the way. Whether you’re into antiques or boutiques, Gruene has shopping for you! When I was there, I sat under Gruene’s historic water tower at Gristmill River Restaurant and Bar. I absolutely loved the vibe. There was live music with shaded outdoor seating and specialty drinks that were almost too pretty to try!
WHERE TO STAY
There are several places to stay in Fredericksburg depending on the type of trip you’re taking:
- Cotton Gin Village offers cabins, cottages, and vacation rentals. What makes this village unique is that their cabins are original 1800’s log structures that now have today’s modern conveniences. The Cotton Gin Village also offers some of the most luxurious amenities like full kitchens, fireplaces, and jacuzzi tubs.
- Blue Skies Retro Resort has got to be the cutest, vintage-inspired trailer resort. They feature five 1960’s Shasta campers that were pure nostalgia. The resort definitely gives off “glamping” vibes, but also has a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.
- Fredericksburg Inn and Suites is a great, family-friendly hotel with two swimming pools with a water slide, volleyball net, hot tub, gazebo, fire-pits, and much more
WHERE TO EAT
Fredericksburg is a German community, so there is a rich culture in this small town. There are dozens of places to eat on Main Street, all within walking distance of shopping.
- Hondo’s on Main is a great place for Texas music, food, and fun. Its popularity makes it the place to be. I recommend calling ahead or putting your name on the list and visiting nearby shops to pass the time.
- Nury’s Cuisine is such a cute place for brunch. The food and service are amazing and the atmosphere is family-friendly. They offer indoor and outdoor dining that includes a photo opportunity on a flowered tree swing!
- Crossroads Saloon and Steak House is an upscale restaurant that would be more suited for a dinner and dancing date night.
- Fredericksburg Mini Donut Company is a donut trailer with hot and fresh mini donuts topped with a variety of glazes and toppings to-go. They also offer cold-brewed iced coffee.
- Candy & confectionary shops seem to be everywhere. The smells alone were enough to get me in the doors. There’s a large selection of candy, popcorn, fudge, and specialty sodas that are sure to satisfy any sweet tooth!
WHAT TO DO
Enchanted Rock was on my bucket list, and it is absolutely beautiful. The pink granite rock at the top gives climbers a 360-degree view of the breathtaking (literally after that climb) state park. There are trails for hiking, campsites, rock climbing, shopping, and even nightly stargazing. I suggest checking the website to see what COVID-19 procedures are in place and if you need to purchase tickets in advance.
Wineries are what Fredericksburg is known for and likely what they’re loved for, too! There are over 20 wine tour companies and 50 wineries and tasting rooms in Fredericksburg. Tours run every 10 minutes on Saturdays, so there is flexibility with timing. If you want the full experience of the process of making wine, great food pairings, and background of each wine I would suggest going to an actual winery and taking a tour. If you just want tastings without a tour, tasting rooms will do!
Historical Landmarks can be found all over Fredericksburg and are great ways to get a little summer learning in for the kids. The Pioneer Museum was such a fun and educational blast from the past. And Summer 2021 is packed with festivals, tours, and celebrations for the entire family.
My three-day weekend trip to Fredericksburg didn’t seem nearly long enough to do and see all that Hill Country has to offer. It is definitely a place I’ll be visiting again!
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