When summer temps soar in Fredericksburg, there’s no shortage of places to cool off. Whether you want to splash, chill, or sip something frozen, FXBG has you covered!
Pools & Splash Pads
Doris E. Buffett Pool (Dixon Pool)
📍 1300 Dixon St, inside Dixon Park
This public pool is a summer essential: a large slide, lap lanes, zero-depth entry for little ones, and shaded seating areas. Open Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Bonus: Free entry for Fredericksburg city residents (22401 ZIP code).
Riverfront Park Splash Pad
📍 713 Sophia St
A favorite downtown destination for families! The interactive splash pad at Riverfront Park is free and open daily during warm months. Surrounded by green space and shaded seating, it’s the perfect quick cool-down spot while strolling Downtown.
Rappahannock River Adventures
Kayaking, tubing, paddle boarding, or simply lounging riverside offer refreshing escapes.
Learn more about our recommendations for River activities.
Learn about the importance of River safety.
Ice Cream & Frozen Treats
Carl’s Frozen Custard
📍 2200 Princess Anne St
Fredericksburg’s most iconic dessert stop since 1947. Serving rich custard in classic flavors from a walk-up window—it’s a must on a hot day.
Abner Butterfield Ice Cream Company
📍 821 Caroline St
Local, small-batch ice cream with indoor seating. Their rotating flavor menu keeps things fresh, and it’s a great place to cool off mid-shopping.
Happy Michoacana To-Go
📍 1075 Gateway Blvd
This small dessert shop offers frozen and chilled snacks for all tastebuds! Enjoy a classic scoop of ice cream, a cool strawberries and cream popsicle, or a sweet and spicy Mangonada.
See more recommendations for ice cream spots in FXBG.
Air-Conditioned Places to Chill
Want to stay out of the heat altogether? We don’t blame you! Here are some great places where you can enjoy the A/C and still enjoy summer fun.
Fun Land of Fredericksburg
📍 1351 Central Park Blvd
Indoor games, laser tag, mini bowling, and frozen drinks—Fun Land is a playground for kids (and adults) who want fun with their AC.
SkyZone
📍 1410 Central Park Blvd
An indoor trampoline park featuring freestyle bouncing, dodgeball, fitness programs & more.
Reclaim Arcade
📍 2324 Plank Rd
A nostalgic blast fun. Play vintage pinball, arcade games, or chill in the recreated ‘80s living room. It’s the ultimate retro escape from the sun.
Local Museums
Take a quiet, cool break inside a historic building. Enjoy exhibits that focus on local art and history—and the AC is always running.
Quick Tips to Stay Cool
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Visit splash pads and pools early to avoid crowds.
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Keep a refillable water bottle with you at all times.
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Ice cream = always a good idea.
Updated 7/21/25