Explore the Charm and History of Fredericksburg, Virginia

by Caroline Welch

Set beside the flowing Rappahannock River, Fredericksburg, Virginia, is a town that offers

visitors a rich history, beautiful scenery and diverse culture. Known for its pivotal role in

the American Civil War, this historic town is filled with vibrant restaurants, charming shops

and delicious food.

For history buffs, Fredericksburg offers many memorable locations to visit. According to

Battlefield Tours of Fredericksburg, the city has five Civil War Battlefields within the 20 square

miles of the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park.

Visitors should be sure to stop and explore Ellwood, a former plantation that was used as a Civil

War headquarters and hospital. The National Park Service reports that Ellwood’s cemetery

contains Confederate Gen. Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson's arm, which was lost during the Battle

of Chancellorsville.

As for shopping, Fredericksburg has a variety of options, including both chain stores at

Spotsylvania Towne Centre and quaint shops lined along the streets of Fredericksburg’s Historic

District. In the district, visitors can browse the Made in Virginia shop and Riverby Books, a

bookshop whose selection of used books gives guests the opportunity to find rare and exclusive

books.

Fredericksburg has a multitude of restaurants to sample as well. Foode, located in the Historic

District, is a local favorite. According to Foode Fredericksburg, the restaurant is a former

national bank building. The bank’s remarkable vault has been transformed and renovated, allowing

patrons to request to be seated inside the vault for their meal.

According to Fredericksburg.com, the Historic District of Fredericksburg hosts an annual

monthly First Friday event where shops, galleries and restaurants stay open late to allow patrons

to enjoy good food, gorgeous art and the history of the area. Jessica Beckett, a restaurant owner

who participates in First Friday says "the event offers something for everyone."

With a variety of attractions, Fredericksburg, Virginia, offers something for every type of

traveler. Whether you are drawn to explore American history or wish to partake in great food and

shopping, Fredericksburg combines the past and the present to become a memorable destination

for all ages.

The Welch Writing Corner