There are so many great places in Texas to stop for a long weekend, an overnight visit, or an extended stay. Too many to count, really. But Fredericksburg is one of those towns that is a must-visit on any Texan's list of travels.
Located about 80 miles west of Austin sits the town known for hosting great bachelorette parties and romantic weekends, mostly thanks to Wine Road 290. There are 15 Texas wineries along the famed highway, and Fredericksburg alone has 45 wineries — it's the No. 2 wine destination in all of America.
Where to wine
A favorite is Fat Ass Ranch Winery, which usually has live music, a taco truck, and offers frozen sangria and peach sweet tea (infused with wine). If you’re a red wine drinker, check out the Texas Red, which is a blend of six Texas grapes. (If you do a tasting, it’s on both the standard and dry tasting menu, so you won’t miss it.) The winery has a fun outdoor area with adorable seating and horseshoes to keep you entertained.
Another great winery is Hilmy, which is considered a working farm. They give much bigger tasting pours than most other wineries and are extremely informative, not only on wine but also with tips on where to hang out while in town. If you’re new to wine, this is an incredibly educational tasting, just ask for Ace.
But it's not just about wine. With places like Hye and unique varieties like a whiskey Chardonnay at Six Cellar Shooters, there's truly something for everyone. If you’re still not sold, check out the Texas Hill Country Beer Trail, which is packed with independent breweries (more than 20) offering unique tasting rooms, sample flights, and growlers to take home.
Let them do the driving
If you plan to hit up the wineries farther away, use caution driving. Majesty Wine Tours is a locally owned and operated service that will take you and your group to a few of the best wineries, get you there safely, provide insight into the area, and even give you a snack during your afternoon. Scout out a few of your favorites, then come back the next day for more.
Luckenbach is an absolute must while in the area. Missing this spot would be like traveling all the way to Paris for the first time and not stopping for a quick glance at the Eiffel Tower. The dance hall/bar/general store has live music daily, and you never know who’ll show up. (Pro tip: They don’t have Uber in Fredericksburg, but Majesty Tours will get you there and back for $15 per person.)
Where to stay
Fredericksburg is home to more than 900 guesthouses and bed-and-breakfasts. B&B complexes have become popular in the area, and some of the most popular include Sugarberry Inn, Hoffman Haus, Splendid Inn, Blacksmith Quarters, Cotton Gin Village, and Magnolia House (named one of the best in the country). The 1894 Private Pullman Palace Car is definitely a unique place to stay too.
If you’re looking for something slightly more traditional, check out the Inn on Barons Creek, which is just blocks from Main Street, so you can easily park your car and walk around. The inn also has a spa; a heated pool; and a full breakfast bar, complimentary for guests.
Get outdoors
A huge attraction while in the area is Enchanted Rock. Theshort but magnificent trek provides some of the most beautiful views of the Texas Hill Country. Take your camera. Also check out Lyndon B. Johnson’s State Park, offering a variety of activities (hint: pack a picnic!). You can fish or wade in the Pedernales River, go on a hike, or take a guided tour.
A weekend in Fredericksburg will re-ignite the passion you have for all things Texas, guaranteed.
There are 15 Texas wineries along Wine Road 290.
