In the heart of Hill Country lies the city of Fredericksburg. German culture and influence run deep in this history-rich place filled with exciting restaurants, charming shops, miles of vineyards and orchards, and a uniqueness only Hill Country can offer. It’s a popular destination for North Texans for a reason; if you’re looking to plan a weekend getaway with the girls, this is the spot.
If you’ve been to Fredericksburg before, you probably know how hard it is to choose where to dine, shop, and sample local wines. Each time I visit, I make an effort to try at least one new restaurant, browse different stores, and stop by wineries I haven’t visited, and yet, I still have a list full of places I want to experience. I’m hoping to provide you with a few new ideas, confirm spots you know to be amazing, and help you plan the ultimate weekend with friends.
How you end up spending your time in Fredericksburg depends on what you love to do. If you and your friends are outdoor enthusiasts, a hike around Enchanted Rock, the second-largest granite dome in the country, a visit to Wildseed Farms to wander the half-mile walking trail surrounding the display gardens, or driving out to Old Tunnel State Park in time to watch the Mexican free-tail bats take flight for the night should be at the top of your list.
If you prefer to enjoy the numerous wineries that line Highway 290, it’ll be hard to decide where to start. I recommend beginning your day at Grape Creek Vineyards, as it’s one of the most popular wineries in the region—not to mention the gorgeous Tuscan-inspired estate! Afterwards, head next door to its sister winery, Heath Sparkling Wines, where you can partake in an incredible sparkling wine sampler paired with a variety of chef-prepared small bites. Take note that walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are recommended.
Another winery you don’t want to miss is Becker Vineyards, where you can stroll through lavender fields that bloom until the end of May, and taste award-winning wines like Vignoier, Chardonnay, and Sangiovese.
After a day appreciating the natural beauty of the region or sampling what the Wine Road 290 has to offer, make your way back into town for dinner. If you want to go all out, make a reservation at Cabernet Grill, where an on-staff sommelier will pair your meal with Texas wines, many of them grown and made locally. Otto’s German Bistro is where you can get an authentic farm-to-table dining experience, and the newer Granite House Lounge serves up New Orleans-inspired fare and fantastic cocktails.
If your group desires something a little more laid-back, there’s West End Pizza, with outdoor seating and games, Burger Burger, and Das Peach Haus, the original location of Fischer & Wieser. Browse the store for marinades, sauces, and preserves, and then wander to the back, where, on weekends, you can buy a bottle of wine (from their vineyard) and a charcuterie board before you settle down in an Adirondack chair that overlooks a pond. Watch the sun go down and enjoy a slice of classic Fredericksburg with friends.
For night owls and music lovers, may I suggest an after-dinner stop at the Rockbox Theater? Located right around the corner from Main Street, it has a unique design that makes for incredible acoustics, and performances range from The Beatles and Elvis Presley tribute bands to ‘90s country covers and swing music.
Before you head home after a successful weekend, stop in one of the numerous shops along Main Street, like Hill Country Outfitters, Haberdashery, and Zertz. From there, head over to the Warehouse District, where you’ll find Carol Hicks Bolton Antiques, and my personal favorite, Blackchalk Home and Laundry.
Since it’s also peach season, be sure to stop at Wahl’s Peaches, Gold Orchards, Vogel Orchard, or Fischer & Weiser’s Tha Stand to stock up on freshly picked peaches before you make your way back to North Texas. A weekend getaway isn’t nearly enough time to get your fill of Fredericksburg, but with the right group of friends and the right plan, it surely is a great start.
For more info: visitfredericksburgtx.com