25 Best & Fun Things To Do In Fredericksburg, VA
Are you searching for unique activities in Fredericksburg, Virginia? Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, this guide highlights the 25 best and most enjoyable things to do to fully experience this charming town.
Situated halfway between Washington, D.C., and Richmond, Fredericksburg is renowned for its rich historical significance and vibrant cultural scene, offering a plethora of activities that celebrate its storied past and dynamic present.
As one of the most historic towns in the region, Fredericksburg invites you to explore its heritage through attractions like the Fredericksburg Battlefield and the Mary Washington House. In addition to its historical sites, the town boasts a lively arts community, numerous boutique shops, and an array of dining options that cater to all tastes.
25 Best & Fun Things To Do In Fredericksburg, VA (2024)
1. Fredericksburg Visitor Center
Commence your Fredericksburg voyage with a visit to the Fredericksburg Visitor Center, an all-exclusive center for details on fun, educational, and entertaining things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, for visitors.
The visitor center provides free maps, brochures, and recommendations on local attractions, dining, and accommodations, with acquainted staff to answer your questions about the city’s history and events.
A visit to Fredericksburg Visitor Center aids in getting the most out of your trip by providing materials and local expertise to plan your travel and buy souvenirs.
Address: 706 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States.
2. Fredericksburg Battlefield Visitor Center
Exploring The Fredericksburg Battlefield Visitor Center, a beginning point for probing the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park is one of the educational things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, for everyone.
The center features exhibitions on the Civil War in the area, a park film, and a bookstore to provide insights about the history of the battles, see artifacts, and arrange your exploration on the battlefield.
Address: 1013 Lafayette Blvd, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States.
3. Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park
One of the best things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, today is to discover Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, a Civil War site driven by the National Park Service.
The park honors four major battles – Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Wilderness, and Spotsylvania – allowing visitors to explore a key chapter of American history.
Walk the grounds where the battles grew, see notable architecture, and learn about the sacrifices made by fighters on both sides of the Civil War.
Address: 1013 Lafayette Blvd, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States
4. Fredericksburg, VA Farmers Market
Unearth the top things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, this weekend by browsing the Fredericksburg, VA Farmers Market, an outdoor market.
The market features local farmers and craftsmen selling sorts of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, plants, flowers, and other locally-produced merchandise.
Stopping by the Fredericksburg Farmers Market allows local businesses to enjoy fresh and periodic goods, and appreciate the lively ambiance of downtown Fredericksburg,
Address: Hurkamp Park, Prince Edward Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States.
5. Chatham Manor
Touring Chatham Manor, a significant Georgian-fashioned mansion that served as the home of statesman William Fitzhugh, is one of the most adventurous things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, for visitors and locals.
Built in 1771, the house’s main features include its magnificent structure, well-conserved interior rooms, and surrounding areas.
Experience a trip back in time and explore the life and style of an 18th-century Virginia farmer’s family when you go to Chatham Manor.
Address: 120 Chatham Lane, Fredericksburg, VA 22405, United States.
6. James Monroe Museum and Memorial Library
Spend time at the James Monroe Museum and Memorial Library, a noteworthy site devoted to the life and heritage of the fifth President of the United States, James Monroe.
This attraction prides itself on the nation’s most extensive collection of Monroe-related artifacts and documents, giving insights into his life and achievements.
At the James Monroe Museum and Memorial Library, visitors can dig deeply into American history, survey the Monroe Doctrine, and see the private belongings of this important personality.
Address: 908 Charles Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States.
7. Mary Washington House
Mary Washington House is a landmark house museum and the abode of Mary Ball Washington, the mother of George Washington, during the final 17 years of her life.
The house possesses ancient furniture, some of Mary’s belongings, interpreters who give life to the 18th century, and house gardens.
Get a glimpse into the life of Mary Ball Washington, and explore the life of her famous son George Washington, making it one of the exciting things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, this weekend.
Address: 1200 Charles Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States.
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8. Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop
Going to the Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, a rehabilitated 18th-century building that once served as a doctor’s office and drugstore is one of the adventurous things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, for all ages.
Tours led by designated interpreters show medical practices and treatments, including the equipment and ingredients predominant in the 18th century.
Visiting Hugh Mercer’s Apothecary Shop gives a nostalgic experience to unearth more about earlier American medicine and the life of Dr. Hugh Mercer, a war personality.
Address: 1020 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States.
9. Central Rappahannock Regional Library Fredericksburg Branch
Educational things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, for all ages, await you at Central Rappahannock Regional Library Fredericksburg Branch, the base library for the Central Rappahannock Regional Library System.
The library houses a vast array of resources including books, ebooks, audiobooks, public computers with internet access, printing services, and a notary public.
At the library, you can borrow materials, use computers and wifi, attend events, and browse resources for all ages.
Address: 1201 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States.
10. Rising Sun Tavern Museum
Drop into the River Sun Tavern Museum, a legendary landmark that served as the home of George Washington’s younger brother, Charles Washington, to relish unique things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, for art enthusiasts.
With its establishment in the 1760s and becoming a tavern in the 1790s, the museum has period furnishings and gives guided tours that give life to the 18th-century tavern.
Take a step back in time and share in Fredericksburg’s colonial past through the eyes of this social center.
Address: 1304 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States.
11. George Washington’s Ferry Farm
An adventure to George Washington’s Ferry Farm, the revamped boyhood home of the first U.S. President, is among the adventurous things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, for families.
The farm is characterized by an image of Washington’s home, guided excursions examining the lives of the family and enslaved people, and ancient grounds displaying significant finds.
Learn about George Washington’s productive years, and gain more in-depth wisdom about his background when you drop by George Washington’s Ferry Farm.
Address: 268 Kings Highway, Fredericksburg, VA 22405, United States.
12. A.Smith Bowman Distillery
A. Smith Bowman Distillery is a notable craft distillery and the oldest distillery in Virginia providing some of the best things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, for adults.
The distillery focuses on distinctive handmade spirits like bourbon and other whiskeys, with follow-up tours illuminating their distilling operation and records.
Adults can learn about Virginia’s distilling methods, witness instant whiskey-production processes, and taste their spirits.
Address: 1 Bowman Drive, Fredericksburg, VA 22408, United States.
13. Fun Land of Fredericksburg
Enjoy fun things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, for families at Fun Land of Fredericksburg, Virginia’s exclusive indoor and outdoor family entertainment center.
This attraction features 18 exhilarating rides and attractions, including go-karts on a multi-level track, laser tag, rock climbing, mini golf, and a large arcade.
Fun Land presents a full day of family delight with activities for all ages, from thrilling rides to standard arcade games.
Address: 1351 Central Park Blvd, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States.
14. Kenmore
Kenmore is a famous house museum and the residence of Fielding Lewis and his wife, Betty Washington Lewis, the sister of George Washington.
The house possesses colonial-era structures and furnishings, giving a peek into the lives of the wealthy farmers class during the 18th century.
Visitors to Kenmore can be guaranteed a house and garden to explore, learn about the Lewis Family and their links to George Washington, and share American history.
Address: 1201 Washington Avenue Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States.
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15. Reclaim Arcade
Gamers seeking entertaining things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, this weekend can go to Reclaim Arcade, an old-fashioned arcade combining standard video games and pinball machines in a stylish ambiance.
The gaming hub offers over 75 arcade and pinball games from the ’70s, ’80s, and ’90s, developed for free play, an active VHS video store, and an 80s-styled living room for accommodation.
Relive your childhood gaming memories, play a wide range of standard games, and appreciate a special environment blending old vibes with modern-day facilities.
Address: 2324 Plank Road, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States
16. Old Mill Park
Old Mill Park is a well-known public park situated on the panoramic Rappahannock River offering an array of fun things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, for families.
The park presents diverse amenities including open fields for sports and picnics, a playground area, a canoe and kayaking launch, walking trails, and general conveniences.
Relish possibilities for leisure, fun, and enjoying the beauty of the riverfront, also an ideal spot for a picnic with family, a game of frisbee with friends, or a tranquil walk along the trails.
Address: 2201 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States.
17. Sammy T’s
Since 1981, Sammy T’s, a legendary restaurant nestled within a noteworthy building with exposed tin ceilings has given room for lovely things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, this weekend.
This beehive has visitors swarming in to enjoy fresh, simple American treats concentrated on natural ingredients, with vegan alternatives alongside their main menu.
Share in this Fredericksburg landmark, relish a warm ambiance and eat delectable food in a stunning historic locale
Address: 801 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States.
18. Riverside Center for the Performing Arts
Catch a view of the best performances to jazz up your trip at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts, a contemporary performing arts center with the most entertaining things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, at night.
Found in 1998, the center boasts a temporary agenda of shows and musicals, with dinner theater preferences a children’s theater, and conference facilities.
A night out to the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts offers top-notch productions, a delicious pre-show dinner, and the choice to participate in their conference area
Address: 95 Riverside Parkway, Fredericksburg, VA 22406, United States.
19. The Alpine Chef
Grace your tastebuds at The Aline Chef, a German restaurant with a menu serving healthy German meals like schnitzel and sausages in a Bavarian ambiance.
Guests to The Alpine Cheff can savor a tasty and original German dining experience in a charming location, as they are allowed to enjoy Sunday brunch and family-style food among other special things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, this weekend.
Address: 200 Lafayette Blvd, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States.
20. Rush Hour Live Escape Games
Discover thrilling things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, for all ages at Rush Hour Live Escape Games, an exclusive escape room with so much fun and challenges catering to groups.
The escape room has over six special room styles, letting visitors venture into adventures like finding a missing gem or escaping a private ship.
Encounter an engaging experience as you work with friends, family, or colleagues to solve puzzles and riddles within a defined time frame.
Address: 1 Towne Centre Blvd, Fredericksburg, VA 22407, United States.
21. Eileen’s Bakery & Cafe
Eileen’s Bakery & Cafe is a precious bakery nestled in a transformed church to promote a plethora of unique things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, every day.
This attraction proposes savory breakfast sandwiches, creative gourmet lunch preferences, and a large pick of pastries and cakes, with brewed coffee and teas.
You can enjoy a delightful daytime experience to eat fresh food in a specially significant location.
Address: 1115 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States.
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22. La petite Auberge
Couples seeking to enjoy romantic things to do in Fredericksburg, VA. tonight can check out La Petite Auberge, a family-owned restaurant with fine French and regional cooking.
Founded in 1981, the restaurant features a garden-styled dining room, a music-styled bar, and a temporary menu with food prepared using top-notch ingredients.
Couples can anticipate a standard French dining encounter with a touch of modern flair, in a lovely and famous environment.
Address: 311 William Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States.
23. Indian Punch Bowl
Finding the Indian Punch Bowl, a vast, natural hollow in a rock resembling a bowl, and sitting in a small park overseeing the Rappahannock River, is one of the exciting things to do in Fredericksburg, VA.
With close-by informational shows, this destination provides a glimpse into local history and the option to see an ancient irregularity with a picturesque view.
Address: Rappahannock Riv Heritage Trl, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States
24. Goolrick’s Pharmacy
Goolrick’s Pharmacy is a significant milestone raised by K.N. Goolrick and is known for being one of the few soda fountains working in Virginia.
Established in 1897, this attraction presents the reformed soda fountain giving traditional treats like milkshakes and sandwiches, and a pharmacy department.
Gain the opportunity to explore the best things to do in Fredericksburg, VA, this week by taking a step back in time, savoring a tasty soda fountain experience, and getting medications filled.
Address: 901 Caroline Street, Fredericksburg, VA 22401, United States.
25. Intimidator 305
One of the family-friendly things to do near Fredericksburg, VA, with kids is to take a ride at Intimidator 305, a steel roller coaster named after NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt and known for its fun and exciting experiences.
Established in 2010, the Kings-dominion-nestled treasure classified as a “Giga Coaster” prides itself on an astonishing height of 305 feet (93 meters) and a near-vertical 85-degree first drop.
What’s more, Intimidator 305, with a speed of up to 90 mph takes its riders on a lovely journey through high-speed turns, inversions, and airtime hills, thus providing extreme and memorable experiences for its visitors.
Avail yourself to explore this attraction with a 40-minute drive from Fredericksburg to Doswell, Virginia.
Address: Kings Dominion, 16000 Theme Park Way, Doswell, VA 23047, United States.
Plan your trip to Fredericksburg, VA
Fredericksburg, Virginia, presents a variety of activities and attractions catering to all interests and ages. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, historical experiences, or simply a relaxing day out, this charming town has it all.
Plan your visit to Fredericksburg today, and be prepared to create unforgettable memories in this inviting destination.