Fredericksburg Highlights
Nestled in the sweet spot halfway between Washington, D.C. and Richmond, Fredericksburg is centrally located to beaches, mountains, and the big city, yet offers unique amenities of its own. Whether you see more telework for your future and you’re looking to move away from the city, you are coming for a PCS, or you know you’ll be moving to Fredericksburg for another reason, the area has many activities and sites to commend it. From history to sportsman’s activities, there is something here for everyone!
1: Civil War Sites and Historical Adventures
It’s no secret that Fredericksburg is a major site for Civil War history- it seems like every road and corner has a memorial, historic name, or shrine dedicated to commemorating America’s famous internal struggle. The area features three main driving tours, free of charge, that will take you from a cemetery in downtown Fredericksburg out through the countryside to see various battle sites and camping spots. Many of the stops also function as hiking paths or feature visitor’s centers, and each tour can take the better part of a day if completed entirely. Prefer to get away? Fredericksburg in only about 2.5 hours from the historic triangle featuring Jamestown, Yorktown, and Williamsburg.
Of course, the area’s history does not live solely in the Civil War. Numerous historical homes, including Mary Washington’s home and others, dot the landscape. Old Town Fredericksburg offers a taste of colonial life away from the bustle farther north- we are particular fans of the Apothecary Shop for its demo that includes live leeches.
2: Sportsman’s Paradise
More accustomed to the great outdoors for its own sake? The area has plenty to offer for the avid sportsman. Outside Spotsylvania, the stores and houses quickly fade into trees and streams teaming with whitetail deer, fish, and other wildlife. Prefer to stay in town? The Rappahanock River flows through downtown Fredericksburg, offering access for those who want to kayak, swim, or fish. Of course, there is opportunity aplenty for metal detectors and treasure hunters- just make sure not to disturb artifacts on public land!
3: Out on the town
The Fredericksburg area leaves nothing to be desired for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Go to Old Town Fredericksburg for a taste of the area’s colonial roots. The newer section features classic chain restaurant fare as well as regional specialties- two of our favorites include Itavie, an Italian gem, and Park Lane Tavern, which features European fare from various countries and allows the lucky diner to sit in the king’s chair. The area also boasts several bowling alleys and movie theaters, as well as more customized experiences like art studios.
4: For the kids
Looking for something that your kids will love? The area is known for its kid-friendly parks and easy hiking areas. Just a short drive away, check out Kings Dominion theme park, or for a closer visit, Funland of Fredericksburg. The area also features the Paragon Gym for Kids, as well as the usual Karate and Tae Kwon Do studios. Many opportunities exist for horseback riding as well. For a smaller, more intimate experience with your kids, Valkyrie Ranch offers multiple types of riding and programs for individuals and small groups. If you prefer a larger setting, the Hazelwild Farm Equestrian Center may be your fit. Come fall, several area farms turn themselves into pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and carnivals.
5: Wholesome living
While the area is growing in population, it is not hard to get in touch with its historically agrarian roots and enjoy the organic, natural life. Natural food stores that source from local producers abound, and many people in the area with a little bit of land make a pastime of selling produce out of a stand near their home. If you want to own a piece of land of your own to homestead and produce your own food, many homes in the area sit on a few acres with minimal usage restrictions.
Author: James Vaughn