History | Shopping | Dining | How to Get There | Things To Remember
Halfway between Washington, D.C. and Richmond, VA, just downstream from
the fall of the Rappahannock River, lies Fredericksburg, VA. Fredericksburg's
rich history and restored 18th and 19th Century buildings make it a popular
spot for tourists and history buffs alike. Frequently visited by notable
people during the Revolutionary War (George Washington, James Monroe,
George Mason, and Thomas Jefferson) and the background for many battles
during the Civil War, Fredericksburg blends the best of the past, present
and future.
For the history lover, there are many places to explore the past. The Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop provides a look at 18th Century medicine. The James Monroe Museum and Memorial Library is at the sight of James Monroe's Law Office and also some of the Monroes' personal belongings. The Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park encompasses four important battles of the Civil War.
Shoppers will delight in the variety of shops that Fredericksburg has to offer. In historic Fredericksburg, there are many antique and specialty shops that may catch your eye. Or, take the FRED bus to the Spotsylvania Mall or Central Park, Fredericksburg's answer to Potomac Mills. For more information on the Fredericksburg Regional Transit call (540) 372-1222.
When you are done sightseeing and shopping, no doubt you'll be hungry. From fine dining to delis, coffee to tea, French cuisine to Italian, Fredericksburg boasts a wide variety of dining choices. The settings are almost as diverse. There are river views, train views, historic views. Check some of the websites listed below for all of your dining options.
Aside from what to see and what to do, you still have one difficult choice. Do you go for the day or overnight? VRE's trains run South to Fredericksburg in the evenings and North in the mornings. So why not stay overnight? You can choose from the historic charm of quaint bed and breakfasts or from one of the national hotel chains.
For a day trip, you will need to purchase a 10-trip ticket to have access to Amtrak trains. There are several Amtrak trains that run South in the mornings and North in the evenings.
For more information on what Fredericksburg has to offer, visit some of the following websites:
www.ego.net/us/va/fb/
www.fredericksburg.com/
www.rappahannock-web.com/fred/
www.VisitFred.com