Welcome to Fredericksburg. As you plan your trip to our beloved city, we want to share with you just a few of our many extraordinary features. Fredericksburg is revered for its authentic history, but there is so much more that exemplifies our downtown and beyond. Navigate your way through this city with so many options for fun that we provide.
The history of Fredericksburg extends from the initial settlement by indigenous peoples, to the ever-evolving story that continues to unfold today. President George Washington spent many of his childhood years in the Fredericksburg region, growing up at Ferry Farm across the Rappahannock River. He later bought a house for his mother, Mary Washington, which is on display to this day. The surrounding areas played a crucial role in the Civil War, as the hallowed grounds of four major battlefields rest in the Fredericksburg region, as well as one battlefield in the middle of Fredericksburg itself.
Arguably the most fascinating aspect of Fredericksburg’s history is how African American residents have shaped the culture of our city. John Washington, an enslaved Black man, escaped from the city of Fredericksburg, leaving his mark on so many elements of our history. Stories of African American residents have informed and inspired the people and guests of Fredericksburg for years, including a group of black high school students who protested discrimination at the Fredericksburg Community Center. Embark on the African American History Walking Tour to learn more of how African American people have impacted our city.
After learning of Fredericksburg’s history, choose from one of our 40+ unique restaurants to enjoy. Many of our restaurants are local and chef-owned, and have contributed to just how much the 40 blocks of our downtown have flourished in the past few years. You can also enjoy the delicious local libations that we have, from our award-winning craft breweries, to A. Smith Bowman, the oldest distillery in Virginia.
As you walk around downtown Fredericksburg, immerse yourself in all the amenities that we have. Our local boutiques are renowned throughout the country, and are perfect for everyday shopping. We have experienced an influx of artistic expression throughout the years, including many art galleries that have opened to the public. What could have been a simple walk to the train station or back to your car is now a lovely artistic and shopping experience throughout downtown.
We also have plenty of wonderful entertainment options, for visitors of all ages. Drive on Fun Land of Fredericksburg’s three-story go-kart track, play a round of mini-golf or laser tag, or scale the recently opened Sky Trail ropes course. In the spring and summer, swing by Shannon Airport to not only view their museum and eat at their 1950’s diner, but to book a tour of Fredericksburg from the air, on a World War II stearman’s biplane. You can also embrace these seasons by enjoying nine innings of fun at a Fredericksburg Nationals game, our local minor league baseball team.
There is so much to experience and enjoy in Fredericksburg, and we are thrilled that you have chosen us as a destination. Please let us know how we can assist you while you are here. Our visitor center is located at 706 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg VA 22401. We can also be reached by telephone at 540-373-1776. Our website is FXBG.com.
