“Texas heart. German soul.” The motto of Fredericksburg sums up a visit to this Hill Country town. For over 160 years, residents of Fredericksburg have been mixing German heritage with Texan hospitality. The result is an inviting combination of architecture, shopping, arts, museums, wineries, breweries, golf, peach orchards, historical sites, live music, culinary delights, and more.

Although travel is not currently recommended, we hope this article inspires your future experiences.

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History

On March 8, 1846, the first group of German settlers arriving in Fredericksburg were 120 men, women, and children being led by John O. Meusebach. A thriving town was the dream of the early settlers but life was hard. They worked diligently to cultivate crops, build houses, ward of disease, and survive.

As the first pioneers arrived, each family was given a 100-foot by 200-foot “Townlot” and a 10-acre “Outlot”. The outlots were used by the families as small farms.

John Meusebach was a former Baron from Dillenburg, Nassau, Germany. Upon arrival in Fredericksburg, he dropped his title of Baron. One year after settling, Mr. Meusebach signed the Meusebach-Comanche Treaty, which is still honoured today.

What to See

Fredericksburg’s Magic Mile Historic Downtown Shopping District

Fredericksburg is one of the more touristy destinations in Hill Country. On average, 1.5 million travellers visit this vibrant town each year. On the main street you will find anything you can possibly want from restaurants, Biergarten’s, eclectic stores, Texas’ oldest brewery, candy stores, and German bakeries.

Marktplatz

The Marktplatz is a nice place to take a break from the busy streets of Fredericksburg. There is an old waterwheel instilling an old-world charm to the gardens. A covered play space for children is also available.

The Vereins Kirche is a unique octagon-shaped building located in Marktplatz. The building is owned by Gillespie County Historical Society and displays various historical and archeological artifacts, including a mammoth tusk found north of Fredericksburg. The building is a replica of the original Vereins Kirche that served as the town’s first church, school, and public meeting place. Admission is free but donations are appreciated.

The Farmer’s Market is in the Marktplatz every Thursday, rain or shine, from mid-April to late-August from 4-7 p.m.

The National Museum of Pacific War

The National Museum of the Pacific War has earned nation-wide recognition as one of the best military and history museums in the USA. Experience the stories of honour and sacrifice demonstrated by Americans during World War II both indoor and outdoor the museum.

Formerly known as the Nimitz Museum (in honour of Fredericksburg’s native son) Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, the museum reveres more than 100,000 Americans who gave their lives in the war against Japan. The museum also gives tribute to the eight million Americans who served in World War II.

The museum is open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Admission is free for World War II veterans.

The Memorial Wall

“They fought together as brothers in arms; they died together and now they sleep side by side. To them we have a solemn obligation—the obligations to ensure that their sacrifice will help make this a better and safer world in which to live.” The words of Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz are inscribed in the dedication plaque on the Memorial Wall to honour World War II veterans who have served their country. They are his words from the day he accepted the surrender document in Tokyo Bay.

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Visiting the wall is a sobering experience as a reminder to those who have died for the freedoms we enjoy today. Not only are the war dead honoured but living soldiers as well. Plaques can also be dedicated to ships or units who served in the Pacific during World War II. More than 2,000 plaques line the century-old limestone walls surrounding the Museum’s Memorial Courtyard. It is a quiet place where families can come to revere their loved ones.

Take note of the Veteran’s Walk of Honour as you walk the courtyard. Engraved brick name pavers are below your feet to remember those who served in the Armed Forces of the United States as well as those who laboured at home or in the workplace.

Japanese Garden of Peace

Dedicated by Admiral Nimitz’s former enemies, the Japanese Garden of Peace is a sanctuary away from the bustling streets of Fredericksburg. Enter the gardens by walking past the memorial wall at the National Museum of the Pacific War. The peaceful gardens are a living monument to friendship and a gift from the Japanese to the Americans.

Avenue of the Presidents

Of interest is the Avenue of the Presidents. Much is to be learned about the people who have been bestowed with the duty of President of the United States. Here, all the Presidents who have fought in wars or served in the military have a large commemorative stone.

Where to Eat

Ausländer Restaurant & Biergarten

You won’t go hungry in Fredericksburg. 75 restaurants wait to serve you. How do you choose? It’s a German town, so why not try a German restaurant. One of the most popular restaurants in Fredericksburg, the Ausländer, is a casual favourite Biergarten experience on the main street. You’ll feel like you stepped into Germany when you enter the front door. Dig into authentic German cuisine from a restaurant who has served the community over the last 30 years. Note, they are closed on Wednesdays.

Otto’s German Bistro

If you want to wander off the main drag for a bite to eat. Check out Otto’s. Delicious aromas of comfort food will lead the way to 316 East Austin Street. The eccentric little bistro on a sleepy side street offers German food fused with Texan and Italian cuisine. There is a lovely outdoor patio where small locals may entertain you. Do note, Otto’s is not a budget restaurant.

Activities Near Fredericksburg

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Challenge your hiking skills on Texas’ largest granite monolith. Hiking, rock climbing, camping, or making your way to the top of the enormous, pink granite dome are options for your visit. During the day, the top of the dome offers stunning 360-degree views of Texas Hill Country. At night, Enchanted Rock is one of the best places to view the starry heavens.

Small-town Travel Tip: The park is less crowded during the week. Peak season is September to June but can reach capacity at any time of the year. When parking lots are full, the park will close for three hours. Flashing signs on approaching roads will let you know if the park is closed. Take lots of water with you because it will be hot at the top of the dome.

Other “need to know” tips: Bathrooms are located onsite but beware they are like saunas in the summer. Dogs are not allowed on the dome but they are permitted on walking trails. Keep your eyes peeled for roadrunners! They birds are speedy so your fingers need to be quick. Entrance fees to the park are $7 per person age 12 and older.

Fredericksburg Wine Road 290

The #2 wine destination in America, Fredericksburg Wine Road 290, is a scenic drive laden with vineyards. The perfect wine getaway boasts 17 wineries minutes apart on US 290. Enjoy a landscape with rolling hills and winding rivers in the heart of Texas as you explore the Wine Road. Each estate is a unique experience so make sure to try more than one. For a downloadable map visit wineroad290.com.

Fredericksburg: Celebrating German Tradition in Texas

German traditions are plenty in Texas Hill Country. Whether you want to stop at one of the numerous old-school, fresh peach stands lining the roads or pop into a German bakery, or pay homage to war veterans, you will find it in Fredericksburg. Sit down with the locals and visitors and enjoy a beverage in a Biergarten to celebrate German tradition in Texas.

All pictures in this post are taken by Charlotte, yours truly, as always, unless otherwise stated.