Fredericksburg: A weekend getaway full of history & adventure

By S. MORRISEY | Photos by S. MORRISEY, BECKY STINEHOUR and visitsanantonio.com

If you’re looking for a great Texas getaway, whether for your family, you and your special person, or a girls weekend, let me tell you about my recent trip to Fredericksburg. This charming little town in the Hill Country has it all — rich history, delicious food, great shopping, and adventure around every corner. Whether you’re into history, outdoor adventures, or just want to shop and relax, Fredericksburg has something for everyone.

Fredericksburg was founded by German immigrants in the 1800s, and you can still see that influence everywhere — from the architecture to the food. The historic limestone buildings along Main Street look like a postcard. The town is packed with interesting spots like the Vereins Kirche Museum, the Pacific War Museum, and the Pioneer Museum.

You can’t visit Fredericksburg without trying some German food. I started my trip at The Ausländer and I was not disappointed! The food and the staff were wonderful.

For breakfast, don’t skip Old German Bakery & Restaurant. Open for breakfast and lunch, this favorite spot often has a waiting line, but it’s worth it. Their bakery had a wonderful selection of brat and semmel (Bavarian bread). If you need a coffee break, there are plenty of coffee shops and cafes up and down Main Street.

Of course, this is still Texas, so barbecue is a must. Backwoods BBQ had some tasty brisket!

Shopping in Fredericksburg is an experience in itself. Main Street is lined with boutiques, antique shops, and local food stores where you can find all kinds of unique treasures.

If you love vintage finds, The Red Baron Antique Mall is a fun place to browse. If you’re in the Christmas spirit, the year-round Christmas store is a lot of fun. You can also find plenty of Western wear, home decor, and handcrafted leather goods as you wander through the town.

For outdoor lovers, Enchanted Rock is a must. This massive pink granite dome is just outside town, and the hike to the top is worth it for the stunning Hill Country views. It’s best to go early in the morning before it gets too hot. Reservations are recommended as they control the number of cars on site.

If you want something quirky, check out Stonehenge II, a replica of the famous monument (with Easter Island heads, too!). And for classic Texas vibes, you can’t miss Luckenbach — it’s just a tiny dot on the map, but it’s legendary for its live country music and laid-back atmosphere.

Fredericksburg is one of those places that keeps calling you back. Whether you’re exploring its German heritage, or just strolling down Main Street with a pastry — or German beer — in hand, it’s a place that feels like a little escape from the real world.

If you’re planning a trip, I highly recommend staying for at least a couple of days — there’s too much to see (and eat!) in just one. And if you can, visit during Oktoberfest or one of the many festivals for an even more unforgettable experience.

So, who’s up for a road trip?