Fredericksburg Virginia is rich with American history and only an hour south of Washington DC. For those interested in American culture without having to venture too far from their home base, Fredericksburg makes for a great stopover.
Fredericksburg boasts a variety of historic sites, charming shops, and chef-owned restaurants to keep visitors busy. Whether you're searching for an idyllic retreat or an energetic place to visit, Fredericksburg has it all!
If you're searching for a historic landmark to explore while visiting Fredericksburg, Chatham Manor should not be missed. This Georgian house, part of Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania National Military Park, was constructed between 1768 and 1771 by William Fitzhugh on a bluff overlooking the Rappahannock River.
As you gaze upon Fredericksburg and its picturesque views of the Rappahannock River, it's not hard to understand why Washington and others were drawn here. At that time, it had several buildings such as a dairy, stables, an icehouse, a mill, a racetrack for thoroughbred horses, a fish hatchery, a workhouse, plus living quarters for hundreds of slaves.
During the Civil War, this house served as a hospital. Union forces captured it and converted it into their headquarters and field hospital. Thousands of soldiers were brought to this manor for treatment during the battle; Clara Barton attended to those wounded while Walt Whitman visited to find his younger brother who had been wounded in battle.
Today, Chatham Manor is a popular tourist attraction that's open to the public free of charge and provides stunning views. In springtime, you can enjoy blooming flowers and in autumn you can spot hundreds of monarch butterflies fluttering around. Although its interior may not be particularly impressive, visiting its gorgeous gardens and panoramic vistas makes it worth your while.
This museum, situated on the site of James Monroe's law office, houses one of the world's largest collections of James Monroe artifacts and documents. Opened in 1928 by descendants of Monroe, it is now a National Historic Landmark administered by the University of Mary Washington.
At the start of his career, Monroe practiced law in Fredericksburg and served as a delegate to both the Virginia legislature and Congress. Additionally, he attended the Annapolis Convention - one of the precursors to the Constitutional Convention - which marked his political activism.
After being elected to the United States Senate in 1790, Monroe returned home to New York City. Throughout his career, he held various state and national offices, including two terms as president of the United States.
The James Monroe Library is an incredible learning resource about President Monroe's life and times. You can view his desk where he signed the Monroe Doctrine, his wife's jewels, and gowns, plus many other personal items belonging to him and his family.
You can also explore the Memorial Garden, filled with Monroe's beloved roses. It provides a tranquil and serene respite after exploring the James Monroe Museum.
Fredericksburg is a bustling center of culture and history, featuring several historic houses to explore. These include Mary Washington House, Rising Sun Tavern, Hugh Mercer Apothecary Shop, and St. James' House.
Fredericksburg is a historic town that's steeped in the American Revolution and home to several Civil War battle sites. Additionally, Fredericksburg boasts several historic museums like James Monroe Museum and Mary Washington House.
The James Monroe Museum is open to the public and features both permanent and changing exhibits that explore the life and legacy of America's fifth President. Housed inside what used to be Monroe's law office, this museum houses America's largest collection of artifacts and documents related to his life.
Established in 1927 by Monroe descendants, this national historic landmark continues to evolve through acquisitions over time. Administered by the University of Mary Washington, it is a nationally significant landmark.
Visitors to the Monroe Museum can take guided tours through five galleries that showcase items from Monroe's collection. Highlights include the desk on which Monroe wrote his 1823 address to Congress - part of which became known as the Monroe Doctrine - and jewelry and personal effects belonging to Monroe's wife Elizabeth.
For anyone passionate about American history, The James Monroe Museum and Memorial Library should not be missed. As a National Historic Landmark, it's free to enter year-round for members of the Friends of the James Monroe Museum. Families will love this destination too as there are plenty of attractions and activities for everyone to enjoy.
Mary Washington House, named for George Washington's mother, is a historic house museum located in Fredericksburg Virginia. During her last 17 years here, she resided in this white frame home near Charles and Lewis Streets - close to Betty Washington Lewis' house (Kenmore Plantation) as well as her younger son Charles Washington.
In 1772, George Washington purchased this house for his mother from Michael Robinson for 275 pounds. Though simple in design, it was later expanded by William Washington, her son.
Today, Preservation Virginia has preserved and operated as a historic house museum within its walls. The residence boasts an impressive collection of antique furnishings - some with Washington family connections.
The property is renowned for its stunning gardens. These include flower beds encircled with boxwood and a spacious lawn screened from the central area by an attractively designed well house.
Visitors to Mary Washington House and its gardens can take self-guided tours. Additionally, they will get to view replica buildings such as kitchen buildings and well house.
Visits to the property provide visitors with an opportunity to inspect how the house was restored and gain insight into Mary Ball Washington's life. Several monuments and public buildings throughout Virginia honor her memory.
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The Shannon Air Museum is an excellent spot to spend an afternoon learning about aviation's history. Situated near Fredericksburg, Virginia, it features many fascinating exhibits.
The museum boasts an impressive collection of rare aircraft, including an SR-71 spy plane designed and constructed for a secret project by the National Security Agency (NSA).
Vaultee V-1AD, one of the world's earliest jets, was made famous in 1927's silent movie "Wings".
If you are traveling with a group, consider booking a trolley tour. These excursions can be organized for larger groups and provide an informative way to see around the city and learn about its historic sites.
After you finish exploring Fredericksburg's historical sights, stop in Eileen's Bakery and Cafe for a delicious breakfast or lunch. This restaurant uses fresh, local ingredients in its dishes.
Aside from breakfast and lunch, the bakery also serves sweet treats like croissants and pastries. They provide a selection of items suitable for vegans, and vegetarians, as well as gluten-free diets.
Finally, for an unforgettable ending to your day, stop by 6 Bears & A Goat Brewing Company for a refreshing beer. They offer an impressive selection of beers on tap as well as rotating seasonal ales.
Alum Springs Park is a must-see while in Fredericksburg. It's the perfect spot for hiking, picnicking, and taking leisurely walks with family or friends.
This historic sandstone cliff was formed millions of years ago when water from the western mountains ran toward the Atlantic Ocean. The stone is renowned for its stunning pattern created by water flowing from mountains into the sea.
Alum Spring Park is home to Bacchus Vineyards, a winery open to the public with tastings, classes for both beginners and experts alike, and more.
Are you interested in learning the art of wine-making? Check out this 9-week course that covers all the fundamentals, from grape care to packaging. It's a great opportunity to gain knowledge about this fascinating craft while enjoying yourself at the nearby winery - plus, you can pick up your bottle for personal use or glass to drink right from the tap!
In 1965, historian and teacher Robert A. Hodge spearheaded the campaign to save the property from development and transform it into a public park.
This park boasts many historic landmarks, from the mill pond to the railroad railbed. During the Civil War, locals sought refuge in its cliffs and trails during bombardments for protection.
Another interesting fact is that the Alum Spring property served as both a prison during the Revolutionary War, and then as a hospital after Cornwallis' surrender. For years, people believed the alum to be an effective healing spring due to its impregnation into the earth surrounding the spring.