America’s Military Town
When it comes to American military history there’s hardly a town more thoroughly saturated in it than Fredericksburg. Some of America’s best-known Revolutionaries lived here. Four major Civil War battles were fought in and near Fredericksburg. Two brilliant major military museums are nearby. Come to Fredericksburg and learn the stories of American’s at war
Day 1
2:30 pm
Arrive in Fredericksburg and take a guided tour of America’s Military Town. Historian, John Gaston is your host for this guided tour. John’s knowledge and enthusiasm are evident from the moment he steps on the bus. You’ll see monuments to Revolutionary heroes, historic battlegrounds and the stories of little-known warriors such as Urbane Bass, African-American physician who gave his life in WWI. At the conclusion of the tour, check into area hotel.
5:30 pm
Enjoy dinner at Six Bears and a Goat. The bears (Coast Guard) and the goat (Navy) are the animal mascots of the service branches of the seven founders of this brewery and restaurant. At 6B&G everything is made from scratch in-house, beer and food, and it’s all delicious.
Day 2
9:00 am
After breakfast at your hotel, take a tour of George Washington’s boyhood home, Ferry Farm. George Washington lived at this farm across the river from Fredericksburg as a child and adolescent. Visit the reconstructed farmhouse and learn about the fascinating archaeological discoveries that led to its rebirth.
10:30 am
Next, visit the James Monroe Museum. Few people know that our fifth President (who operated a law office in Fredericksburg) was also an officer in the Continental Army. Meet “James Monroe” as a 1st Lieutenant in the 3rd Virginia Infantry. Get a close look a Monroe’s sword and other rare artifacts from the museum collection.
12:00 pm
Enjoy a tasty lunch in the Robin’s Nest Cafe at Fredericksburg’s Shannon Airport
1:30 pm
After lunch, tour the Shannon Air Museum. Inspect this wonderful collection of aircraft from the Golden Age of Aviation including the only surviving V-1 AD, which belonged to William Randolph Hearst.
3:00 pm
The oldest distillery in Virginia welcomes you for a guided tour and tasting. Bowman creates superb bourbons, vodka, gin and other friendly spirits. After the tour, sample some for yourself and then shop for your favorite bottles to take home.
6:30 pm
After returning to your hotel for a few hours, have dinner at Ristorante Renato. Since 1978 Renato’s has been dishing up the best in Northern and Southern Italian cuisine. Enjoy a delicious meal here and save room for the Cafe Diavolo, their special flaming dessert.
Day 3
8:30 am
Following breakfast at your hotel, take a guided tour of the Battle of Fredericksburg. Fought in 1862, the battle is considered Robert E. Lee’s most complete victory and a stupendous loss for the Union. Your guide will take you on a riveting tour through this hallowed ground where you will see the site of the first amphibious beachhead and first urban street fighting in American military history. Hear the story of “The Angel of Marye’s Heights.”
12:00 pm
Enjoy lunch at Harry’s Ale House. Locals come to Harry’s for it’s fresh food, good service, and fun atmosphere.
2:00 pm
Next, experience the Chancellorsville Battlefield Visitor Center. Chancellorsville was one of the most pivotal and costly battles of the Civil War. Robert E. Lee again outclassed his Union opponent, winning a huge victory, but at a staggering cost including his most trusted lieutenant, Stonewall Jackson.
3:30 pm
After a hard day of campaigning, pay a visit the Wilderness Run Vineyards and 1781 Brewery. Enjoy numerous craft beverages at this winery/brewery located at the site of a field hospital during the Battle of Chancellorsville.
6:15 pm
Fredericksburg’s very walkable downtown is filled with good places to eat. Within just a few blocks find fine dining, casual, and everything in between.
Day 4
9:00 am
Begin your final day with a tour of the Spotsylvania Courthouse Battlefield. Here, Robert E. Lee and Ulysses S. Grant locked horns in a two-week meat-grinder of a conflict in 1864. Though neither side won a distinct tactical advantage, Grant continued his march towards Richmond.
11:00 am
Travel north and enjoy lunch at the Devil Dog Diner. Located within the National Museum of the Marine Corps, the Devil Dog Diner offers a unique dining experience in a mess hall-themed cafeteria with exterior views overlooking the Parade Deck. With an ambiance that pays homage to Marine Corps traditions, this diner serves as a delightful retreat for museum visitors. Pre-order box lunches available with advance notice.
1:00 pm
Conclude your visit with a tour of the National Museum of the Marine Corps. Under the command of the Marine Corps University, the museum preserves and exhibits the material history of the U.S. Marine Corps; honors the commitment, accomplishments, and sacrifices of the Marines; supports recruitment, training, educations, and retention of the Marines; and provides the public with a readily accessible platform for the exploration of Marine Corps history.
Contact Information
Haley Backlund
Tourism Services Coordinator
City of Fredericksburg Department of Economic Development and Tourism
[email protected]
540-372-1216
