Fredericksburg in Virginia might not be as popular as its fellow cities in Virginia, such as Charlottesville, Virginia Beach, and Richmond, but it has all the stunning places that can attract a large number of visitors from the country. Whether you enjoy visiting outdoor destinations for fun activities or prefer indoor spots like museums, you’ll find them in Fredericksburg, VA.
Not only that, there is a side of Fredericksburg that barely catches the eyes of the masses. Below, I’ve listed 15 hidden gems in Fredericksburg, Virginia, that can make your trip to the city memorable.
Table of Contents
Indoor Hidden Gems in Fredericksburg, VA
1. Rising Sun Tavern Museum
Location: 1304 Caroline St, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
The first indoor hidden gem in Fredericksburg, VA, that should be on your itinerary is the Rising Sun Tavern Museum. This museum is perfect for those who want to learn about the history of the region, as it was built in 1760 by Charles Washington, the younger brother of George Washington.
As you enter the museum, you will surely like the architectural details and the woodwork on display, which will take you back to the 1700s. After that, the same is in the different rooms as well. All the furniture, furnishing, and artifacts are well preserved and give a thoughtful vibe of what life in the 1700s used to look like.
The staff inside is very friendly, and if you like to learn more about the museum and the lifestyle of that time, they also offer guided tours.
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2. Kenmore Plantation
Location: 1201 Washington Ave, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Another notable museum for history enthusiasts in Fredericksburg is the Kenmore Plantation, which was built in 1776 by Elizabeth Washington Lewis, younger sister of George Washington.
Just like the Rising Tavern, this museum’s architectural details are also top-notch, with furniture and furnishing giving a glimpse into the life of the real elites of that era. Apart from this, you will also see one of the finest plaster ceilings of that time in there.
Additionally, the garden area outside the mansion also deserves appreciation, with well-maintained plants and trees giving the mansion a special look. There is also a small gift shop inside, as well as guided tours for those interested.
3. Mary Washington House
Location: 1200 Charles St, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Another museum in Fredericksburg that often goes unnoticed is the Mary Washington House, which is just minutes away from the Kenmore Plantation. It’s a very simple-looking house, but don’t let it fool you, as this was the house of Mary Ball Washington, the mother of America’s first president, George Washington, and it will be an interesting visit for those who like to learn about history.
As you went inside, you would see the Washington-era furnishing, including her personal bed and a tea table, which is believed to have been used during her final meeting with George Washington. There are also different exhibits where you will get to know more about the Washington family and their influence in America.
There is a small, well-maintained garden outside and a gift shop in the museum if you want to purchase any souvenirs. Lastly, it is also recommended to have a guided tour if you want to know more about the mansion and the Washington family.
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4. Shannon Air Museum
Location: 3380 Shannon Airport Cir, Fredericksburg, VA 22408
Located at the Shannon Airport, the Shannon Air Museum is an off-the-beaten-path attraction that many tourists miss despite it having such a stunning aircraft collection. Regardless of whether you are an aviation enthusiast or not, you’ll surely enjoy your visit to this hidden gem museum.
Their collection is full of unique aircraft, with the most precious one’s being the Vultee V-1A aircraft, which is the only one of its kind in the world, along with Pitcairn Mailwing PA-5, which was the first aircraft in the main wing series, and Bellanca CH-400 Skyrocket which was world famous in the 1930s because of his fast speed.
Not only the planes and their models, but you will also see different exhibits about the evolution of flight, their role in the military, and different personal stories of pilots and aviators who made significant contributions to this field. You can also take a guided tour if you want to learn more about everything on the spot
5. Chatham Manor
Location: 120 Chatham Ln, Fredericksburg, VA 22405
The last indoor hidden gem in Fredericksburg, VA, in this list is the Chatham Manor, which is a Georgian-style mansion established back in 1771. This mansion is located atop a hill overlooking the Rappahannock River, just across downtown Fredericksburg. It’s a historical landmark with offerings of serene views, which makes visiting here even more special.
Five of the ten rooms in this mansion are open to the public, where you will see architecture and furnishings from the 1700s era. Inside, you will also see a wide range of informative exhibits and documents related to the Civil War and other major events, as this place was used as a Union headquarters and field hospital.
Additionally, other than the mansion, the scenic views this place offers are just unreal. Because of being on a hilltop, you will see panoramic views of Fredericksburg and the Rappahannock River, which is also perfect for photography. Additionally, the garden in front of the mansion is also worth appreciating, which is always in top condition and is filled with different plants, trees, and flowers.
Outdoor Hidden Gems in Fredericksburg, VA
6. Motts Run Reservoir Recreation Area
Location: 6600 River Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22407
The first outdoor hidden gem you need to visit in Fredericksburg, VA, is Motts Run Reservoir Recreation Area, which is just 10 minutes away from the famous historic city center. If you are looking for an outdoor place with hiking, biking, and lots of other activities, you will surely love this place.
Starting with the area, this reservoir spans over 860 acres and is home to various animals and birds as well. Start your journey from the hiking trails, which are fairly maintained and are mostly unpaved, ideal for watching different wildlife and for families. Along with that, there is also a biking trail, which can be challenging for some, depending on the skill set of each individual, but overall provides a great experience.
After this, head to the riverside, which is the primary spot for visitors here. Whether you just want to sit across the dock or like to navigate the river by canoe, kayak, or small boat, the choice is yours. The management here is professional and helpful, which is a plus point for the visitors.
7. Indian Punch Bowl
Address: Rappahannock Riv Heritage Trl, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Those who like to visit historical landmarks alongside serene beauty will surely love visiting the Indian Punch Bowl. This place is located a couple of miles away from downtown.
The formation visitors see here is a stone basin that is carved into the rock. What’s more interesting is that despite discovering this place in the early 18th century, we don’t know the actual cause of that rock formation. Everyone has different opinions; some think it’s man-made, and some think it’s natural.
What made this place even more special is that it’s not only about the rock formation like many other places like these, but in the surroundings, you will see natural greenery, and the Rappahannock River crossing in front offers serene views, which makes visiting this place even more special.
8. John Lee Pratt Park
Location: 120 River Rd, Fredericksburg, VA 22405
Those looking for a peaceful time away from the regular hustle and bustle of the city should head straight to the John Lee Pratt Park. It’s located on the other side of the city area, which is divided by the Rappahannock River, and the whole area is perfect for family picnics and to have a wonderful time with your loved ones.
This park spans over 30 acres and has lots of visitor-friendly amenities like shelters and tables, which makes this place ideal for families. Apart from that, there is also a hiking and biking trail, which is a 1.1-mile loop. Additionally, if you like to play different sports, then there are multiple soccer fields, tennis courts, a baseball/softball field, and a unique 9-hole disc golf course. There are a lot of fun things to do on this side of Fredericksburg.
Lastly, after all the activities, end your trip on the shores of the Rappahannock River, admiring the beauty and how peaceful everything around you is before leaving.
9. Riverfront Park
Location: 701 Sophia St, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Another peaceful place perfect for both families and individuals is the Riverfront Park, which offers countless fun things to do in Fredericksburg. As you reach this place, you will see well-maintained green spaces, which is a preferred sitting spot for many families and friends, with amenities like restrooms, tables, and a splash pad on the other end. At the same time, the kids’ playground area also has a lot of options to keep the kids engaged.
Moreover, what makes this place even better is the Rappahannock River flowing in front of the park. The views of the river with the backdrop of greenery make this side of the park the primary photography spot for many tourists.
10. City Dock Park
Location: 207 Sophia St, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
City Dock Park is the last outdoor hidden gem spot to visit in Fredericksburg before moving on to the underrated restaurant section. This park is situated at the end of Sophia Street and provides a serene waterfront experience.
Unlike other parks in the list that were mainly dominated by the greenery side, this park is known for the water experience. There are several docks and boat ramps as well, which make this place perfect for those who like to navigate the river. And the best part is that mostly this place is less crowded, which makes the experience of going there even better. There are also some benches in case you just want to enjoy the views of the river.
Hidden Gem Restaurants in Fredericksburg, Virginia
11. Jimmy’s The Greek Restaurant
Location: 3401 Lafayette Blvd, Fredericksburg, VA 22408
The first hidden gem restaurant in Fredericksburg, VA, is Jimmy’s The Greek Restaurant. As the name suggests, this is a Greek restaurant that often goes unnoticed despite offering one of the best Greek meals in the city.
As you enter the restaurant, you’ll get a very classical, cozy vibe, which makes eating inside pretty comfy. The walls are filled with different showpieces and paintings, while different small lanterns on top of the tables also make the overall ambiance worth noticing. On the seating option, you’ll see classical American restaurant-type seating with wooden chairs and sofa options.
On the menu, you’ll get a range of different American and Greek food options, which include crab cake, chipped beef, souvlaki sandwich, Greek burger, Greek salad, lamb chops, different platter options, and a range of seafood options like fillet, oysters, shrimps, salmon, and different seafood combinations.
12. Casey’s
Location: 622 Kenmore Ave, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Next on this list is Casey’s, an American restaurant that is ideal not only for dinner but also for breakfast and lunch. As you enter the restaurant, you will see the open spaces inside with classic American restaurant vibes all around. The seating options inside are comfortable, with both sofa and wooden chairs available. On top of that, a small lantern on top of each table also made the overall interior praiseworthy.
If we talk about the menu, here you will see a wide range of items, which include biscuits and gravy, Brussels sprouts, chicken wings, sausage gravy, shrimp, crab, different varieties of noodles, burgers, and many others.
13. Osan Japanese Restaurant
Location: 707 Caroline St, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
The next underrated restaurant that you should definitely visit in Fredericksburg, VA, is Osan Japanese Restaurant. This restaurant offers one of the best Japanese foods in the town, and if you like Japanese food items, then it’s a must-visit.
The interior of this restaurant has the touch of both American and Japanese traditions, with modern styling and open spaces that make the experience of eating here one of a kind. On the walls, you will see different paintings, small lighting, and lanterns that perfectly match the vibe.
Now, as for the menu, you are going to have a range of options, which include sushi, sashimi, veg tempura, tuna and beef tataki, tekkadon, tuna, salmon, chicken katsuretsu, and a wide range of soups, salads, and roll options which are accompanied by dessert and different drinks.
14. Mellow Mushroom
Location: 609 William St, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
Those who like pizza the most (just like me) are in for a proper treat with this addition. The Mellow Mushroom is a place you just can not miss whenever you are in Fredericksburg, VA.
Starting from the ambiance and interior, this place gave the feeling of eating at a luxury restaurant with an energizing ambiance, which is rare. Walls are filled with different artwork, and when it comes to seating, there are both chair and sofa options. There is also an option to eat outside the restaurant, as there is a seating area in front.
On the menu, the options are limited since it’s a pizza restaurant, but you will get a wide range of flavors to choose from when it comes to choosing pizza flavor. Apart from that, they also serve different hoagies and sandwiches along with different drinks and desserts.
15. Bangkok Cafe
Location: 825 Caroline St, Fredericksburg, VA 22401
The last hidden gem place in this list is Bangkok Cafe, which is especially a must-visit restaurant in Fredericksburg, VA, for those who like Asian food, particularly Thai food. The ambiance inside is quite simple, like most local restaurants, with lots of open space, which is a plus point, especially for those who like open space and not a congested area.
On the menu, you are going to see lots and lots of Thai options, like pad ka pow, pad ka nuts, Thai rama, Thai curry, duck, red curry, green curry, different noodles and rice options, calamari, sushi, rolls, tofu, fish, chicken wings, salads, soups, which also got the accompany of a wide range of desserts.
FAQ’s
1. What is special about Fredericksburg, Virginia?
The most special thing about Fredericksburg, Virginia, is the historical places you will see there. From George Washington’s boyhood home to battlefields that shaped America, you will see various historical landmarks that hold important value.
2. Is Fredericksburg worth visiting?
Absolutely, Fredericksburg is 100% worth visiting, especially if you’re someone who appreciates American history and small-town charm.
3. Why do people like Fredericksburg, VA?
The historical context you will find by visiting different historical landmarks in Frederiksburg is something you won’t find in many other cities, which is among the biggest reasons why people like Frederiksburg.
4. What is the best month to go to Fredericksburg?
October is hands-down the best month to visit Fredericksburg.
