Fredericksburg

Fredericksburg is well known for its German heritage, delightful Main Street and copious amounts of wineries. The town was founded in 1846 and named after Prince Frederick of Prussia after German immigrants began to settle here. The town still harbours a special mix of Texas culture and German character to make it one of the most unique places to visit in Texas Hill Country.

1. Stay in a True Wild West Getaway at Rocking R Cabins

The Shining Star Cabin is part of the Rocking R Cabins complex just outside of Fredericksburg. When driving through the gates, I couldn’t believe how wonderful this wild west style cabin looked with the sun glistening on the porch and the Shining Star sign swinging in the wind.

Upon entering I instantly felt like we were in a western film with Cowboy and Native American artwork hanging on the walls, antlers adorning the mirrors and rustic style furniture. The attention to detail was complete with extra touches like snacks in the kitchen and drinks in the fridge. All these were much appreciated after a long drive and really set this Airbnb apart. The owners also very kindly left a handful of vouchers in the kitchen which we were able to use to receive discounts in several local restaurants in Fredericksburg.

Outside you will find a fire pit, hot tub and grill, making it the perfect getaway whilst relaxing in Texas Hill Country. The cabin was hands down one of the best Airbnbs I’ve ever stayed in and I would recommend a visit to anyone.

2. Rise and Shine at Texas Sunrise

I would recommend that you start your Fredericksburg adventure at Texas Sunrise with an all-American style breakfast. Surrounded by Texas memorabilia, longhorn skulls, Lone Star flags and dollar bills pinned to the ceiling, I loved the old school diner feel of this classic breakfast joint.

We opted for the Papa and Mama Bear breakfasts which were both huge and delicious. The biscuits and gravy were also a stand out on the menu, along with their hashbrowns. It was so good I’m drooling just writing about it.

3. Explore the Quaint Stores on Main Street

Next take a walk down the historic Main Street which is bustling with independent boutiques, art galleries and local eateries. A few I would recommend you check out include:

Fredericksburg General Store – Great for western style souvenirs

Fredericksburg Brewing – The oldest brewpub in Texas

Clear River Ice Cream, Bakery & Deli – A retro diner serving glorious ice creams

Headquarters Hats – A western paradise stocking hundreds of cowboy hats, boots and belts

Lone Star Candy Bar – The perfect stop if you have a sweet tooth

4. Make a Visit to Texas Jack Wild West Outfitter

Another store I was obsessed with was just off Main Street located on N Adams. It was called Texas Jack Wild West Outfitters and was housed within an old livery stable. This might just be one of the best western stores I found whilst visiting. It is filled with a huge range of cowboy attire for both men and women and also serves as the Cimarron showroom, so you will find a large selection of firearms in the back. This is certainly a Lone Star state gem, which you will find hard to leave without finding something you absolutely love.

5. Stop in at the Old German Bakery

The Old German Bakery is a great choice for breakfast or lunch to soak up some German heritage and taste some traditional recipes. The bakery was established in 1975 and they have always made their homecooked food from scratch. All their meals have a German flair and I couldn’t resist ordering one of their speciality waffles topped with blueberry jam.

6. Soak up Some History at the Pioneer Museum

Spend an afternoon in the Pioneer Museum where you can learn more about the German legacy of the town and wander around the grounds on a self-guided tour. Here you can take a glimpse into the former lives of the German pioneers of this area and explore their original homes and buildings, including a school house, log cabin, Sunday house and barn, all of which provide an insight into how things once were. If you decide to visit the self-guided tour will take approximately 45 minutes.

7. Take a Local Wine Tour

This is an additional tip if you are visiting. The region around Fredericksburg is home to over 50+ wineries and they are just one of the many things which puts Fredericksburg on the map. Personally, I’m not a wine drinker, but if you are, then definitely look into booking a wine tour during your stay!

Thanks for reading!

Make sure to tag me on Instagram @thealternativeguide_ if you visit any of the places I have recommended or if you find any other off-beat locations in Fredericksburg, as I love seeing the places you have visited and sharing them with the wider alternative travel community!