Mother’s Day is a great opportunity to celebrate the amazing women in our lives, and what better place to do that than Fredericksburg? With its blend of shopping, experiences, and dining, Fredericksburg offers a full day of memorable moments for Mom. Here’s your guide to planning the perfect Mother’s Day in FXBG.
Start with a Cozy Breakfast or Brunch
Begin the day by treating Mom to a delicious brunch at one of Fredericksburg’s local favorites:
-
Eileen’s Bakery and Cafe: Housed in a charming old church, this café is ideal for a quiet breakfast with artisan pastries and rich coffee.
-
Mason-Dixon Cafe: A popular local spot with Southern-style brunch, mimosas, and hearty options.
See our full list of brunch suggestions.

Shopping Spree in Historic Downtown
After breakfast, head downtown and treat her to a shopping spree on Caroline Street. Mom can explore unique shops like:
- PONSHOP – A gallery and artisan space featuring handmade pottery, paintings, and more.
- Duly Noted – Stylish stationary, cookbooks, candles, and unique gifts.
- Riverby Books – A treasure trove of used and rare books where she can find her next nightly read.
- Green Eyed Vines – A one stop shop for all things green, including plants, pots, and fun goodies.
- Whitby’s – If mom has been on the hunt for some new home decor, this is the perfect place to stop.
- Monkee’s – A great selection of clothes, jewelry, shoes, and bags guaranteed to make any mom feel beautiful.
Enjoy an Experience Together
Make memories she’s sure to remember:
-
Get Creative – Take Mom for a relaxing and fun experience at Wine and Design, create a unique scent at Pearlescent Candle Co, or get matching permanent jewelry at FIKA Studio.
-
Tour the Town – Take a narrated trolley ride, hop in an antique Model-A Car, enjoy a scenic carriage journey, or take a walking tour through Fredericksburg’s historic sites and neighborhoods.
- Go to the Market – Head over to Hurkamp Park for the special Mother’s Day edition of the Artisan Market.
Relax Outdoors
For a change of pace, take in the natural beauty of the area:
-
Alum Spring Park – Bring a blanket and enjoy a picnic under the trees.
-
Rappahannock River Heritage Trail – If Mom loves the outdoors, take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the scenic riverside path.
Dine in Style
Cap off the day with a beautiful dinner:
-
Castiglia’s: A variety of Italian and American favorites, in a family-friendly, casual dining environment. Enjoy drinks in the popular rooftop SkyBar.
-
Five Chophouse: Fine dining located in the new Publisher Hotel. Perfect for a special Mother’s Day meal.
-
Benny Vitali’s: If you’re keeping it casual, grab a giant slice of pizza and keep strolling downtown!
Don’t Forget Dessert
Treat Mom to something sweet:
- Carl’s Frozen Custard – A Fredericksburg institution. Expect a line—it’s worth it!
- Abner Butterfield Ice Cream Co. – Handcrafted, small-batch ice cream with fun, creative flavors.
- Cool Cat Cupcakes – Who doesn’t love a cupcake to finish off the perfect day?
- Smuggler’s Cafe – Is mom a Star Wars fan? If so – treat her to a dessert and an experience she won’t forget with a trip to our local spaceship/cookie shop!
- Kilwin’s – Treat mom to a fudge or chocolate treat from FXBG’s newest sweet spot.
Regardless of how you choose to celebrate Mother’s Day, Fredericksburg has something Mom is sure to love. See all events happening this other’s Day weekend on our events page.
Updated April 23, 2026.
