By Katie Wood
Plan your next weekend away to the heart of Texas Hill Country.
Tucked into the beautiful Texas Hill Country, just an hour and a half west of Austin, is the friendly town of Fredericksburg. Though small in size, this gem has been drawing people in with its Texas-size hospitality for years. Winter is the perfect time to plan a spring getaway to Fredericksburg for a taste of German heritage, award-winning wines, and more than 80 restaurants that feature everything from regional Hill Country cuisine to Bavarian dining.
In addition to a rich German-American history and decadent dining, visitors will fall for Fredericksburg’s delightful shopping, more than 40 vineyards, and countless outdoor activities. A quick drive from both San Antonio and Austin, the area is a hot spot for short getaways, girls’ weekends, and family trips. Come see the beauty of the Texas Hill Country and kick back, relax, and stay for a while.
What to See and Do
While exploring Fredericksburg, pay attention to the German roots of the town. Its heritage is apparent in many street names, menu items at restaurants, and stores. Visitors can take a step back in time with a visit to the Pioneer Museum, and the town boasts one of the country’s biggest Oktoberfest celebrations every fall. Take a scenic drive through the Hill Country. If you’re there in spring, visit Wildseed Farms—the perfect spot to enjoy the splendor of wildflowers. After dining at the on-site café, wander through the gardens, and even pick up a plant or pack of seeds to bring home. Or visit Enchanted Rock to take in sweeping panoramas of the Texas Hill Country atop the second-largest granite dome in the country. Linger awhile to enjoy some of the other trails in the park.
If history is more appealing to you, visit the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park. Sitting on over 1,500 acres, the sprawling park gives visitors a closer look at the 36th president of the United States. Take a tour of the Texas White House and see where much of Johnson’s business as president was conducted. In the middle of town, the National Museum of the Pacific War is a world-class, 6.5-acre museum complex. With hands-on displays, it’s a must-see for history buffs.
Where to Stay
In addition to popular hotel chains, visitors will find more than 900 guesthouses and bed and breakfasts both in Fredericksburg and in the surrounding Hill Country. Charmed by the town, travelers often return year after year. One Swiss businessman was so enamored with it during a cross-country trip that he never left. Bringing a bit of Switzerland to Texas, Daniel Meyer founded Barons CreekSide and built guest cabins out of material from his own Swiss farmhouse. The picturesque cottage-style property is sure to inspire visitors to slow down and enjoy the tranquil setting.
Fredericksburg Herb Farm, just a few blocks off Main Street, is another place that’s perfect for rest and relaxation. Guests can stay in one of the quaint Sunday Haus Cottages conveniently located by the spa and restaurant. For a unique experience, the 1940s-
inspired Hangar Hotel was built to resemble a World War II–era hangar. This hotel has an event space, a bar, and a diner in addition to comfortable lodging.
Where to Wine and Dine
With an abundance of delicious dining spots, you’d have to stay awhile to really delve into the dining scene. For an upscale restaurant with an unpretentious feel, the Navajo Grill offers delicious fare with Southern, Mexican, and Caribbean flavors. Savor your meal with a glass of local Texas wine. Farm Haus Bistro on the Fredericksburg Herb Farm uses local produce in its menu for delightfully fresh dishes. Fredericksburg Brewing Company, the oldest brewpub in Texas, is a charming establishment with many refreshing beers on tap. Drop in for a pint, or stay for dinner and try one of their German-inspired dishes. West End Pizza Company is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week to satisfy all your cravings for Italian. From fresh pizzas to pasta topped with their homemade marinara, this family-friendly spot is a town favorite.
Finally, you can’t miss out on the incredible vineyards in the area. Wine tastings are a big draw along Highway 290, as this stretch of Texas is one of the fastest-growing wine-producing areas in the United States. Visitors will soon find that Fredericksbug is the epicenter of the Hill Country’s wine region and reveals a remarkable range of Cabernets, Malbecs, and Tempranillos served in state-of-the-art tasting rooms.
Fredericksburg is certainly worth your while. In fact, you’ll find that in this charming Southern town, almost any occasion is reason for celebration. Fredericksburg is home to more than 350 festivals and special events each year, offering visitors a variety of experiences year-round.