Story and photos by Scott Kendall (unless otherwise indicated)
Fredericksburg is one of the most popular of the Texas Hill Country towns. Located less than two hours west of Austin, this bucolic town was first settled by German immigrants in 1846. In addition to its German heritage, Fredericksburg is well known for its wineries, peaches, wildflowers, antique shops, and the world class National Museum of the Pacific War. And just north of Fredericksburg is the magical Enchanted Rock, another one of Mother Nature’s spectacular landscapes.
Wineries in Fredericksburg and the Texas Hill Country
With dozens of wineries in the Texas Hill Country, Fredericksburg and the area is one of the most popular wine regions in the country. Wineries like Becker Vineyards, Messina Hof, Pedernales Cellars, William Chris, Grapecreek Vineyards, and so many more attract people by the thousands. Guests can visit the wineries themselves, take a tour, do a wine tasting, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes. Many wineries also have tasting rooms conveniently located in the downtown area of Fredericksburg.
Fresh Fredericksburg Peaches
Famous for its fresh peaches and peach preserves, Fredericksburg produces almost half of the Texas peach crop. Pick them fresh from the tree, or visit one of the many stores and roadside markets that carry everything peachy. Peach pie, peach cobbler, peach preserves, and, of course, peach ice cream!
Wildseed Farms
Wildseed Farms is the largest working wildseed farm in the United States. In addition to a wide selection of wildflower seeds, this beautiful sanctuary in the Texas Hill Country is filled with plants, garden decorations, pots, and other beautiful gifts for home and garden. Walk through the beautiful grounds, including acres of wildflowers blooming with all colors of the rainbow! Wildseed Farms even has a restaurant, brewhouse, and winery, so make plans to stay and enjoy this wonderful haven just minutes from Fredericksburg in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.
LavenderFest at Becker Vineyards near Fredericksburg
Becker Vineyards is one of the oldest and most respected wineries in the Texas Hill Country. It is also home to LavenderFest, a festive celebration of all things lavender. Perfumes, soaps, candles, potpourri, candy, and other lavender scented and flavored items abound at LavenderFest. You can even get some lavender plants to take home and plant in your own garden. Food trucks, arts and crafts, live music, and wine tasting make for a lovely day in the Texas Hill Country.
Wildflowers in Fredericksburg
Wildflowers are everywhere in the Texas Hill Country. Bluebonnets, Indian Paintbrushes, Irises, Poppies, and other colorful flowers blanket the hill country landscape. Tourists flock to various wildflower havens throughout the Texas Hill Country during springtime and summer (April and May for best viewing). One of the most popular routes for viewing colorful wildflowers in the hill country is Willow City Loop, just north of Fredericksburg.
National Museum of the Pacific War
History buffs will have a heyday at the National Museum of the Pacific War in Fredericksburg. This world class museum features outstanding exhibits that give visitors a true feel for many of the major campaigns fought in the Pacific. Maps, images, planes, weapons, anecdotes, and more make the wars come alive. The outdoor Japanese Gardens and the wall of heroes is especially poignant.
Garrison Brothers Distillery in Hye
In the tiny town of Hye, just minutes east of Fredericksburg on Highway 290, you’ll find Garrison Brothers Distillery, makers of fine Texas Bourbon Whiskey. Tour the distillery and the gorgeous grounds to find out how the proud distillers at Garrison Brothers make their award winning Cowboy Bourbon and other fine spirits.
Enchanted Rock near Fredericksburg
Enchanted Rock was thought to have spiritual powers by early natives to the area. One of the largest granite rock domes in North America, Enchanted Rock rises towards the heavens, calling the spirits from the past and present. The park is one of the most popular in the area, and is a great place for camping, hiking, exploring, and relaxing in this outdoor paradise.
Fabulous Food in Fredericksburg
You’ll never go hungry with all the great choices to eat in Fredericksburg. The Cabernet Grill, Hondo’s on Main Street, Vaudeville, The Club at Baron’s Creekside, Otto’s, Andy’s, and so many more wonderful restaurants offer variety and quality. Home Texas cooking, BBQ, Mexican, German, are all just down the street.
