Founded by German immigrants in the 19th century, Fredericksburg TX is the star of the Texas Hill Country region. Known for its unique German heritage, passion for peaches, and rich local culture, it’s become a hotspot for tourists, museum lovers, and foodies.
And, beyond the city streets, there’s the Texas Hill Country vibe to explore. Whether you’re into rock climbing at Enchanted Rock or walking trails through the beautiful Texas wildflowers, Fredericksburg has so much fun ready and waiting.
Not sure where to start? We’ve compiled all the major attractions into a one-stop-shop guide.
Why is Fredericksburg Texas so popular?
Don’t scratch your head wondering why tourists flock to Fredericksburg! It’s simple. Here are five top reasons:
Cultural Delight. With its German roots deeply entrenched in its cobblestone streets, architecture, festivals, and food, Fredericksburg offers a European escapade without needing a passport.
Cheers to the Vines. The town lies at the heart of Texas wine country. A trip here is incomplete without indulging in exquisite wine tastings or vineyard tours.
History Comes Alive. Ready for a trip down memory lane? Dive deep into its historical treasures, from the Texas Rangers Heritage Center at Fort Martin Scott to the National Museum of the Pacific War. Each corner whispers tales of yesteryears.
Nature’s Canvas. Texas Hill Country beckons with its rolling hills, blooming wildflowers, and enchanting sunsets. Whether you’re hiking or taking a leisurely drive, the vistas are simply breathtaking.
Retail Therapy & Cozy Stays. Main Street promises a shopping spree unlike any other, boasting unique finds and artisan crafts. And when the day winds down, charming bed-and-breakfast accommodations offer a cozy retreat.
Things to do in Fredericksburg TX: Outdoor activities
#1 – Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
What is it? Dramatic granite monolith and natural preserve.
Why visit? Enchanted Rock has attracted visitors to Central Texas for thousands of years. The colossal mound of pure pink granite is an icon – a grand hill that marks the surrounding skyline.
Climb up the mini mountain, explore the other magical rock formations, and learn about the local legends. There are nearly 11 miles of walking trails to discover and several designated day-use picnic areas and campgrounds for those spending the day. (You can purchase wood for a campfire at the local store.) However, you’ll need to bring your own drinking water while climbing the Enchanted Rock.
🌐 Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
📍 16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
#2 – Old Tunnel State Park
What is it? An abandoned railway tunnel that’s home seasonally to three million bats.
Why visit? Old Tunnel State Park is a popular local hiking spot and tourist attraction unlike anything else in the area. You’ll have to wait till dusk or early evening for the bats to emerge, but when they do, it’s a spectacular display. If they come out after dark, the rangers will bring along their red light. The ranger will explain the bat’s habits and ecology, including the difference between the 3 million Mexican Free-Tailed Bats and the 3,000 Cave myotis Bats.
You must purchase tickets online in advance and show either the ticket or email confirmation at the gate to Old Tunnel State Park. Bat season lasts from May to October. However, you can also hike, bird-watch, stargaze, or try to spot other local wildlife.
🌐 Old Tunnel State Park
📍 10619 Old San Antonio Rd, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
#3 – Wildseed Farms
What is it? A beautiful Texas wildflowers farm.
Why visit? Stroll through the 200-acre wildflower farm and vineyard location just a short drive from Fredericksburg. There’s half a mile of trails and gardens to enjoy, with blooms mostly occurring March through October.
That’s not all – as a working vineyard, you can also try some good Texas wine in their wine-tasting room. The farm runs a guide wine experience, helping you understand the flavors you can taste in each award-winning glass.
Oh, and there’s a ‘Biergarten’ where you can enjoy a cold beer, sandwich, or ice cream – or browse the largest selection of specialty foods in the Texas Hill Country.
🌐 Wildseed Farms
📍 100 Legacy Dr, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
#4 – Japanese Garden of Peace
What is it? Tranquil Japanese-style garden located at the National Museum of the Pacific War.
Why visit? Part of the Pacific War Museum, the Japanese Garden of Peace is an oasis of serenity among the bustling streets of downtown Fredericksburg. Here, you can reflect on the horrors of World War II, the current Japanese-American relations, or just simply marvel at the stunning display.
Designed by Taketora Saita and built-in 1976, the traditional garden is a gift from the people of Japan to America – part of the post-war reconciliation and honoring the friendship between Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz (born in Fredericksburg) and Admiral Heihachiro Togo.
The garden features a furrowed field of white pebbles, a symbol of the Pacific Ocean’s waves dotted with islands of vegetation and field stones representing the Pacific Islands. It’s truly a beauty to behold.
🌐 Japanese Garden of Peace
📍 340 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
#5 – Fort Martin Scott
What is it? Old military fort used in the Civil War and by the Texas Rangers.
Why visit? One of the Civil War history buffs – Fort Martin Scott was the first US Army outpost built on the Texas Frontier. The historic site includes the original garrison building, a late 1800s far shed, and three reproduction garrison buildings.
Once occupied by the Texas Rangers and the Confederate States Army during the Civil War, it was later abandoned, becoming a farm of the Braeutigam family until 1949. Since then, Fort Martin Scott has been the property of the City of Fredericksburg and a tourist hotspot.
🌐 Fort Martin Scott
📍 1606 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
#6 – Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park
What is it? Historic Park commemorating Lyndon B. Johnson, including the Texas White House.
Why visit? Lydon B. Johnson (LBJ), the 36th President, was born and raised in Gillespie County before dying in Johnson City. Located down the road from Fredericksburg, the Johnson National Historical Park tells the story of one of Texas’s favorite sons from his ancestors to this final resting place on his beloved LBJ Ranch.
LBJ ranch offers self-guided ranch tours. This informative tours cover the Texas White House, the Johnson family cemetery (including the gravesites of LBJ and Lady Bird), and the Presidential jet christened ‘Air Force 1/2.’
Starting in Fredericksburg, you’ll travel to nearby Stonewall for an in-depth look at the President’s early and later years. The tour lasts 3 hours 30 minutes and does not include lunch. On the tour, you can also see the ongoing ranching operation, including the Hereford cattle currently raised on the ranch – just as they were when LBJ lived there.
🌐 Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park
📍 199 Park Road 52, Stonewall, TX 78671
#7 – The Willow City Loop Scenic Drive
What is it? Short, scenic drive just north of Fredericksburg.
Why visit? Escape the busy streets of Fredericksburg and go on a relaxing drive through the stunning spring wildflowers. The Willow City Loop is a 13-mile winding lane passing through a paradise of rocky hills, wildflower meadows, ranchlands, riverbeds, and woodland.
There are a lot of places to park up – don’t miss the Texas bluebonnets that sprout from the streambed at Cottonwood Hollow. Also, look out for the Boot Fence, adorned with upside-down cowboy boots, the roaming livestock, and pockets of wild Hill Country.
#8 – The Preserve
What is it? Walk-through Asian Elephant Experience.
Why visit? Elephants in Texas! That’s not something you expect to see. However, The Preserve is a fantastic day out for the whole family, where you’ll get to meet a herd of Asian Elephants up close and personal.
In this once-in-a-lifetime experience, you’ll spend an hour and a half meeting the elephants, understanding their conservation, and learning from the team.
The Preserve also hosts a menagerie of other exotic animals, including giraffes, kangaroos, wallabies, and other species from the African and Australian continents. There’s even a chance to feed the incredible giraffes.
Remember to dress for the occasion – Texas weather is unpredictable, and The Preserve is entirely open-air. Also, guests 13 or younger must be accompanied by an older guest.
🌐 Elephant Preserve in Texas
📍 650 Doublehorn Rd, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Things to do in Fredericksburg TX: Museums, Galleries and Music
#9 – National Museum of the Pacific War
What is it? World War II Museum commemorating the Pacific War.
Why visit? The National Museum of the Pacific War is a must-visit attraction. Containing numerous artifacts and interactive exhibitions, it’s a worthwhile experience for everyone, from children to older adults.
The museum delves into the history behind World War II, showcasing Japanese aircraft, replicas of the Pacific combat zone, and a gallery dedicated to Admiral Nimitz. The combat zone, in particular, provides the closest insight into the strategic challenges of fighting an enemy on the countless islands dotted across thousands of square miles of open water.
It’s open from 9 AM to 5 PM every day except Tuesdays. Expect to spend around 3-5 hours exploring the museum.
🌐 National Museum of the Pacific War
📍 311 E Austin St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
#10 – Pioneer Museum
What is it? Local history museum exploring the early German settlers.
Why visit? This historic site is a homage to the early life in Gillespie County. The museum includes ten historic structures, set over 3.5 acres, staged as snapshots of life in the Texas Hill Country. You’ll find homesteads, a schoolhouse, a Sunday house, a bathhouse, a smokehouse, and a barn, all containing accurate artifacts from the period.
If you’ve come to Fredericksburg to learn about the regional German heritage, then the Pioneer Museum isn’t to be missed!
There’s also the Museum Gift Shop, where you can buy locally made sauces, jams, candles, and other Texas-themed souvenirs. The museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Saturday.
🌐 Pioneer Museum
📍 325 W Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
#11 – Vereins Kirche Museum
What is it? Replica octagonal building from the earliest days of Fredericksburg.
Why visit? Just a short walk from the Pioneer Museum is the Vereins Kirche Museum. Built in 1935, the unusual building is a replica of the original Vereins Kirche – a multi-purpose structure that sat in the center of Main Street for fifty years. The octagonal building functioned as a church, school, and community meeting place and was built by the first German settlers to Texas.
You can access the museum alongside the Pioneer Museum and Historic Jail with a single Day Pass. The museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Saturday. Without a Day Pass, it costs $5 for ages 6 and up to enter; under age 6 are free.
🌐 Vereins Kirche Museum
📍 100 W Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
#12 – Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm
What is it? A Texas German Farm located in the LBH State Park & Historic Site.
Why visit? Want to see what life was like for the early German immigrants? You can at the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm. Marvel at American bison and Texas longhorns, wander down to the Danz family log cabin built in the 1870s, or head off into the forests to enjoy a little slice of wilderness.
There’s also the self-guided tour where rangers in period clothes raise crops, care for the animals, and cook meals. They’ll answer any and all questions you’ve got about life on this WW1-era Texas German farm.
🌐 Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm
📍 501 State Park Rd 52, Stonewall, TX 78671
#13 – St. Mary‘s Catholic Church- a National Register of Historic Places
What is it? Traditional Catholic Church right in the heart of town.
Why visit? St. Mary’s Catholic Church was built in 1846 and it’s one of the spiritual centers of the city. The church’s famous twin towers, the Marienkirch and the new St. Mary’s, were built in 1861 and 1908, respectively, becoming beacons of hope throughout the Hill Country.
In addition to its religious importance, St. Mary’s was added to the Nation Register of Historic Places on June 21, 1983, to commemorate its vital importance to the local city.
You can take a guided tour of the church every Sunday after the 9 AM and 11.15 AM Mass. Tours are also available by appointment.
🌐 St. Mary’s Catholic Church
📍 304 W San Antonio St, Fredericksburg, TX 7862
#14 – Rockbox Theater
What is it? Rock ‘n’ roll music venue featuring country, rock, and blues acts.
Why visit? Looking for some live music? You’ll find it right here at the Rockbox Theater. Founded in 2007, it’s fast become the best live music venue in town, hosting rock ‘n’ roll music from the ’50s to ’60s, including tribute acts for Elvis, Tom Petty, Johnny Cash, Shania Twain, and more.
There’s also a host of original artists – and the venue puts on holiday–themed shows that’ll appeal to everyone. You can purchase tickets for all live music shows via the website or at the venue.
Whatever your music tastes, hit the Rockbox for an evening serving up the best of Texas live music.
🌐 Rockbox Theater
📍 109 Llano St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States
#15 – Fredericksburg Theatre Company
What is it? Regional theater company.
Why visit? Founded in 1997, the Fredericksburg Theater Company is on a mission to entertain, enrich, and inspire. While it’s a focal point of the local community, tourists receive a warm welcome in the comfortable venue, which seats up to 250.
With 13,000 annual audience members, it’s one of the best theaters in the area. It was crowned BroadwayWorld.com’s ‘Best Theater in the San Antonio Region’ and ‘Theater of the Decade’ (2010-2020) for the San Antonio region.
You’ll find concerts, plays, dramas, kid shows, and much more as part of each season. If you want a night of culture, you won’t be disappointed.
🌐 Fredericksburg Theater Company
📍 1668 S US Hwy 87, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
#16 – Texas Oktoberfest
What is it? A beer-filled celebration of German heritage.
Why visit? German beer, food, music, and more – what’s not to like? Based on the classic German holiday, Oktoberfest is a once-a-year celebration of the town’s German roots, with quality beers and lots of German foods. You can try bratwurst, sauerkraut, pretzels, as well as wood-fired pizza. It runs on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, sometimes at the beginning of October.
There’s even an oompah band – or OkTUBAfest – performance, fun run, lederhosen contest, and much more. After more than 40 years of celebrating the festival, it’s a highlight of Fredericksburg’s social calendar.
🌐 Texas Oktoberfest 2023
📍 Downtown Fredericksburg on MarktPlatz (Market Square)
Things to do in Fredericksburg TX: City Tours
#17 – Historic Fredericksburg District Tour
What is it? The complete tour of Fredericksburg’s historic center.
Why visit? Learn about Fredericksburg’s historical roots, from the early days when German settlers arrived in the Texas Hill Country through to the modern history of the town. See historic homes, Sunday houses, and beautifully preserved German architecture.
The tour lasts 1 hour 45 minutes and is hosted by a local historian – a descendant of the early pioneer families. You’ll complete the tour aboard a classic trolley and will finish up at the Fredericksburg Visitor Center when it’s finished. Some walking is involved.
🌐 Historic Fredericksburg District Tour
📍Meets at Fredericksburg Visitor Center, 302 E Austin Street, Fredericksburg
#18 – Wine tasting tour
What is it? Taste wine and learn about the history of the Texas wine country.
Why visit? Located in the heart of the Texas wine country, no trip is complete without sampling the local vineyards, from Heath Sparkling Wines to Grape Creek Vineyards. Several tours run in the local area, including:
- Fredericksburg TX Wine Tasting Tour. Covering three wineries and including lunch, you’ll spend 5 hours learning the ins and outs of what the top wineries have to offer.
- Boutique Winery Experience. Tour the scenic wine region and bypass the crowds as you visit three boutique wineries. Lasting 5 ½ hours, it’s the ultimate wine-tasting experience for everyone from novices to experts.
- Fredericksburg Wine Trolley. Spend an unforgettable journey traveling through the Hill Country on a classic trolley. You’ll sample numerous wines, enjoy a private tour of some of the most beautiful wineries, and get lunch included. Best of all, the trolley is air-conditioned!
#19 – A tour at Longneck Manor
What is it? See wild animals up close and personal on a tour of Longneck Manor.
Why visit? Walk on the wild side at the most unique conservation adventure in the heart of the Hill Country. Featuring towering Giraffes, powerful White Rhinos, and some very adorable Labrador Retrievers.
In the 75-minute tour, you’ll be escorted by an animal care specialist who lets you get up close and personal with the animals. Feed the giraffe and rhino some of their favorite treats as you learn about the perils these animals face in the wild. Spaces are limited to twenty people per tour.
In addition, you can also stay on-site. Wake up to giraffes roaming just outside the window of your villa – or go for the luxurious giraffe suite located inside the giraffe barn!
🌐 Animal Encounters and Tours – Longneck Manor
📍 1749 Beyer Rd, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
#20 – Fredericksburg Safari Tour and Safari Tasting Tour at Grapetown Vineyard
What is it? One part vineyard and winery, the other part animal sanctuary.
Why visit? Come meet Grapetown Vineyard’s remarkable menagerie, featuring Dairy Goats, Beef Cattle, American Bison, Alpacas, and exotic animals like Camels, Kangaroos, Zebras, Rheas, and more.
Better yet – combine the two!
With the Wine Tasting Plus Guided Safari Tour, you can sip and sample great wines, beer, and cocktails before and after your tour of the animals. The Zebra Tram will huttle you to the exotic wildlife and ranch operations, where you can possibly feed some of the animals.
Plus, if there’s any extra time, you’re just a short walk from Bankersmith ghost town!
🌐 Grapetown Vineyard
📍 8142 Old San Antonio Rd, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
#21 – Wildflowers and Wildlife Tours in April-June
What is it? Go on a ride to explore Texas wild blooms.
Why visit? Travel on a climate-controlled trolley through the wild meadows of wildflowers that line the Texas roads. Beginning in the heart of Fredericksburg, you’ll spend 3 ½ hours snapping photos and marveling at the cacophony of color.
Tours change based on the wildflower views and time of year – with every display as special and unique as the last. The tours run exclusively in the wildflower season from April to June. Expect to see beautiful scenes of Bluebonnets and Indian Paintbrushes alongside the best of the Hill Country.
🌐 Wildflowers and Wildlife Tour
📍 Meet @ 302 E Austin St Fredericksburg TX 78624
Things to do in Fredericksburg TX: Food & Drink
#22 – The Auslander
What is it? Popular restaurant serving up classic German and American food.
Why visit? Located opposite the National Museum, The Auslander specializes in German beer, food, and a good dash of Texas hospitality.
Whether you’re just looking for a refreshing Bavarian beer alongside some sausage and sauerkraut or a hearty meal of Jagerschnitzel or Bratwurst, The Auslander has all your favorite dishes. As one of the most popular restaurants in town, it can get jam-packed.
But if you want some classic German cuisine – just as they’ve been made in Fredericksburg for over 100 years – then The Auslander is the place to try.
🌐 The Auslander
📍 323 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States
#23 – Das Peach Haus
What is it? One-stop-shop for everything peaches.
Why visit? Das Peach Haus does precisely what it says – it’s the House of Peaches. That means peach jam, peach jellies, canned peaches, peach cobbler, and, best on a hot summer day, peach ice cream.
Das Peach Haus is run by Fischer & Wieser. Next door is also the Dietz Distillery, where you can sample some local wine while soaking up the stunning scenery. Or, if wine isn’t your thing, stick to Dash Peach Haus’s wonderful, punchy collection of peach (and other fruit) products. They make an excellent gift from the Peach Capital of Texas!
🌐 Das Peach Haus
📍 1406 S US Hwy 87, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States
#24 – Hill Country Herb Garden
What is it? Relaxing restaurant and spa.
Why visit? Begin your relaxation retreat with a day at the spa, including deep tissue massages, waxing, facials, and every other wellness treatment you can imagine. As you unwind, sip super healthy smoothies or a garden-inspired cocktail from the bar.
Once your spa treatments are over, stroll over to the restaurant, serving up nutritious and delicious dishes like Pork Chop, Mediterranean Stuffed Salmon, and Ahi Tuna Salad. There’s a specific menu for Lunch, Brunch, and Dinner – so there’s always something ready to eat at Hill Country Herb Garden
Oh, and if that doesn’t sound enough, you can also stay overnight at one of the on-site cottages.
🌐 Hill Country Herb Garden
📍 405 Whitney St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, United States
Things to do in Fredericksburg TX: Shopping
#25 – Fredericksburg Trade Days
What is it? Monthly trade show and flea market.
Why visit? Trade days are when the best of Fredericksburg come to Sunday Farms to sell their wares. Hosted on the 3rd Saturday of every month, you can browse over 350 vendors selling antiques, shabby chic, crafts, tools, jewelry, clothing, hunting accessories, candles, and much more.
Think of it like the giant flea market spread over 7 barns and multiple acres. There’s also a relaxing biergarten to inspect your purchase as you listen to the live music.
You can park for $5, and the venue is also pet-friendly.
🌐 Fredericksburg Trade Days
📍 355 Sunday Farms Rd, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
#26 – Shop Local at Farmer’s Market
What is it? Local Farmers Market from 4pm – 6pm on Thursdays
Why visit? Fredericksburg is renowned for its agricultural produce, whether that’s peaches, grapes, herbs, or wildflowers. Sample some of these delights at the seven-month-long Fredericksburg Farmers Market.
You’ll find farmers, ranchers, and wineries from in and around Gillespie County selling fruits and vegetables, including peaches, blueberries, strawberries, tomatoes, greens, and more. And plenty of meats, seafood, goat cheese, flowers, vinegar, herbs, and other delicious items are also available.
Oh, and if you’re after something hot and ready to eat, there’s fresh bread and pizza made in a wood-burning oven. You’ll also have a chance to sample quality wines from local wineries or talk to the artisans, growers, ranchers, and bakers behind the remarkable produce.
🌐 Fredericksburg Farmers Market
📍 Pioneer Museum, 325 W. Main Street, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
#27 – Shopping on Main Street
What is it? Experience some retail therapy in the heart of the city.
Why visit? With more than 150 shops, boutiques, and art galleries to explore, don’t miss out on Main Street. Technically called Haptstrausse, Main Street runs from the National Historic District through the core retail areas.
There are lots of craft shops, including a soap marker, boutique thrift store, German imports, jewelry, and several antique vendors. Main Street is also where you’ll find dozens of art galleries covering abstract curiosities to classic American styles. So, if you’re looking to pick up a new piece for your home, you’re sure to find it somewhere in this creative quarter.
Try these popular shops and galleries:
- Haberdashery Boutique – Clothing store.
- Rustlin’ Rob’s Texas Gourmet Foods – Gourmet food samples.
- Vaudeville – Upscale bistro and retail shop.
- Dogologie – Dog specialty store.
- Fredericksburg Winery – Family-run winery.
- Charles Morin Fine Art Gallery – Fine art and crafts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fredericksburg TX worth visiting?
Absolutely! Fredericksburg isn’t just your average Texan town; it’s an experience. Delve into its rich German history, stroll down the picturesque Main Street, or drive out to the Hill Country’s finest wineries for a serenade for your taste buds. This tiny town packs a big punch!
How many days do you need in Fredericksburg Texas?
That depends on what you’ve got planned. Visiting Fredericksburg can range from a day trip to a whole weekend.
However, for those looking to explore Main Street, indulge in some wine tasting, climb in the Enchanted Rock and perhaps visit the Museum of the Pacific or Texas White House, 2-3 days would be ideal. If you’re extending your stay to explore more of the Hill Country or attend local events and festivals, you might consider staying longer.
Final Thoughts
With rich German culture, breathtaking natural landscapes, and some of the finest wining and dining in the region, Fredericksburg hosts the best that Texas has to offer. Whether you’re an avid history buff, a self-avowed foodie, or you’ve got nature in your bones, you’re sure to find something for you.
But that’s the thing about Fredericksburg Texas: you’re never quite sure what surprises you might discover. So, don’t just stick to what you know – browse the guide above and step out of your comfort zone. That could be meeting climbing the Enchanted Rock, exploring the historic history at Texas Rangers Heritage Center, or heading out for a hike among the Texas Bluebonnets wildflowers.
So, are you packing your bags yet? Fredericksburg Texas is always ready to welcome you with open arms.
